The No. 14 Auburn gymnastics team is gearing up for an exciting challenge as they head back to Baton Rouge this Friday for the Podium Challenge at the Raising Cane’s River Center. Scheduled to commence at 6 p.m. CT, the Tigers will face formidable opponents in No. 3 LSU, George Washington, and Texas Woman’s University.
Auburn head coach Jeff Graba expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming meet, highlighting its significance as a precursor to the postseason.
"This is a great opportunity for us to get a taste of the postseason," Graba stated. "The meet is on the podium, which means it's elevated just like SECs and nationals. We're going against great competition, so this is another chance for our team to improve their NQS."
The Tigers will commence their rotations with the bars event, boasting a lineup rich in experience. Fifth-year athletes Aria Brusch and Cassie Stevens lead the charge, supported by seniors Olivia Hollingsworth and Gabby McLaughlin, along with junior Sophia Groth. Notably, Stevens, Hollingsworth, and Groth have each earned three scores of 9.9 or higher this season.
Transitioning to beam in the second rotation, Auburn showcases its prowess in the event, ranking ninth nationally with a 49.345 NQS. The lineup features a mix of seasoned veterans including Brusch, Stevens, Hollingsworth, McLaughlin, and Groth, alongside emerging talents like freshman Paige Zancan.
As the competition progresses to the floor exercise, the Tigers hold a solid standing nationally with a 49.395 NQS, ranking 16th. Once again, familiar faces such as Brusch, Groth, McLaughlin, Stevens, and Hollingsworth lead the charge, supported by rising stars like sophomore Hannah Hagle and junior Sara Hubbard.
Wrapping up the evening on vault, Auburn aims to finish strong with Stevens leading the charge. Stevens boasts a 9.9 NQS, ranking tied for 15th nationally. The team's depth and consistency are evident as they feature a mix of experienced vaulters and promising newcomers, including Zancan, who recently earned a spot in the lineup with an impressive 9.9 score at Georgia.
Looking ahead, the Tigers anticipate their final meet of the regular season in Nashville next week at the inaugural Kidney Care Women’s Gymnastics Championship. Scheduled for March 16 at 7:15 p.m. CT in the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, Auburn will take on Kentucky, Ohio State, and Fisk in what promises to be another thrilling competition.
As the Tigers continue their pursuit of excellence on the gymnastics floor, their dedication, talent, and camaraderie position them as formidable contenders in both the upcoming Podium Challenge and the subsequent championship meet in Nashville.
