Newman initially competed in gymnastics until age 13 when she fractured her L5 vertebra. This injury led her to take a year off from sports. Encouraged by her parents, she later took up athletics at age 16 while attending high school in London, ON, Canada.

| Season | Event | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Women's Pole Vault | 17 |
Her transition to pole vaulting was suggested by her school English teacher. She began with hurdles but soon found her passion for pole vaulting. Her first meet saw her setting a meet record, which solidified her decision to stick with the sport.
One of Newman's most notable achievements is winning gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, QLD, Australia. She considers this victory a breakthrough moment in her career.
In May 2018, Newman tore her patellar tendon while warming up at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, OR. She opted against surgery to avoid a six-month recovery period. This injury only strengthened her determination to succeed in track and field.
Newman believes that pole vaulting is an imperfect sport where every jump is different. She enjoys striving for perfection despite knowing it is unattainable.
During her time at the University of Miami from 2014 to 2016, Newman received First Team All-American honours twice in 2014. In 2016, she was named a US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association First Team All-American. She also earned Second Team All-American honours in 2013 while at Eastern Michigan University.
Outside of athletics, Newman enjoys watching movies, shopping, getting her nails done, going to the beach, yoga, fashion, interior decorating, and spending time with family and friends.
Newman's cousin Dan has played ice hockey in the National Hockey League for teams including the Edmonton Oilers, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers.
Newman aims to win gold at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Additionally, she is passionate about fashion and interior decorating. She plans to pursue interior decorating as a part-time career by the time she turns 30.
The downtime required after her patellar tendon injury made Newman more determined to succeed in sport. She realised that track and field are essential parts of her life and that pole vaulting is her true passion.
Alysha Newman's journey from gymnastics to pole vaulting showcases her resilience and dedication. Her achievements and future ambitions reflect her commitment to excellence both on and off the track.
Newman initially competed in gymnastics until age 13 when she fractured her L5 vertebra. This injury led her to take a year off from sports. Encouraged by her parents, she later took up athletics at age 16 while attending high school in London, ON, Canada.