Teen Olympians: Amazing Young Hopefuls On Their Way To The 2012 Summer Games

Balancing competitive sports with schoolwork can be a difficult task for even the most organized student (particularly with such early start times in so many high schools). Finding the time to train at an Olympic level -- which often requires a six-day-a-week training schedule -- takes an unbelievably self-disciplined, dedicated and passionate young athlete. Enter gymnasts Aly Raisman and Jordyn Wieber, fencer Lee Kiefer and swimmer Missy Franklin, who, after years of perfecting their sports, have set their sights on the Olympic Trials in late June. And Boxer Claressa Shields can start getting ready for the biggest competition of her career -- she's already qualified for the Olympics Games.

Regardless of whether they make it to London, where the Games begin on July 27, we're inspired by the accomplishments of these five amazing young people. Check out the slideshow below to read their stories and watch them in action.

Will you be tuning in to the Olympic Games this summer? Which athletes are you rooting for? Tell us in the comments below or tweet @HuffPostTeen!