In 1990 Amanda qualified for the Junior Olympic Nationals. In 1991 she came in third for her age level at an elite meet, that qualified her for her first U.S. Championships. In 1992 Amanda was required to compete at the senior level. She competed in the U.S. Championships and placed fifth. So the next big meet she had was the Olympic Trials. At Olympic Trials, She came in seventh, she thought she would be a part of the U.S. team because seven girls qualified. But she was bumped off the team. In the 1993 U.S. Championships Amanda finished fourth. And of course the wonderful team gold medal.