The Arizona GymCats are gearing up for an exciting tri-meet against Texas Woman’s University and Denver. This event will take place on Friday, January 16, at 6 p.m. MST in Kitty Magee Arena. Fans can watch the competition live on FloCollege.
Season Kickoff: Strong Performance Against Washington
Last week, Arizona initiated its season with an impressive victory over Washington. Competing at the McKale Center, the GymCats achieved a score of 195.425, dominating four out of five events during the match.
Current Rankings
Following their season opener, Arizona holds the No. 26 position in the Road to Nationals rankings. Their specific event rankings are as follows:
- Vault: No. 30
- Uneven Bars: No. 40
- Balance Beam: No. 34
- Floor Exercise: No. 11
Team Freshness: Newcomers Join the Roster
This season, the GymCats welcomed six new members to their roster. Notable transfers and freshmen include:
- Sadie Smith, transfer
- Elle Bragga, freshman
- Riley Carman, freshman
- Delaney Mead, freshman
- Hillary Puleo, freshman
- Lily Tisdale, freshman
Returning Talent: Experienced Gymnasts
Arizona proudly brings back 15 athletes from the previous season. Among them are key returners like:
- Elizabeth LaRusso (redshirt senior)
- Gianna Lenczner (senior)
- Sophia Stephens (senior)
- Emma Strom (senior)
Accomplished Coaching Staff
The GymCats’ coaching staff boasts extensive experience. Head coach John Court is in his eighth year and has been with the program for 28 years. Last season, Court was recognized as the Big 12 Coach of the Year. His team includes:
- Kylie Kratchwell, associate head coach (fourth year)
- Shelby Martinez, assistant coach (second year)
Both Kratchwell and Martinez earned recognition as WGCA Regional Assistant Coaches of the Year last season.
Preseason Poll Insights
In the WCGA preseason poll, the GymCats are projected to finish 18th in the nation. Additionally, two athletes secured spots on the Big 12 Preseason Gymnastics Team:
- Abby Martin: Recognized for vault and beam; had a career-high of 9.90 on vault and 9.925 on beam.
- Emma Strom: Selected for the preseason floor team; achieved a career-high of 9.925 on floor.
Both athletes are poised to make significant contributions throughout the season as they participate in upcoming meets, including the anticipated tri-meet against TWU.
