As we enter week two of the 2025 season, we’re in for an exciting season opener for both of these squads! Tonight, the Alabama Crimson Tide will host the North Carolina Tar Heels at Coleman Coliseum. The evening will feature a special tribute to Alabama gymnastics alumna Luisa Blanco, along with a birthday celebration for the Tide’s beloved mascot, Big Al.
Alabama comes into the season having been ranked sixth in the WCGA preseason coaches poll after finishing eighth overall last year. The Crimson Tide were runners-up at the SEC championship and broke the 198 mark three times, fueling their hunger for even more success this year. With talented freshmen Faye Rodio, Ryan Fuller, Paityn Walker, and Kylie Kvamme impressing at the Crimson and White Intrasquad, and veterans Cam Machado and Shania Adams returning for their fifth and final seasons, Alabama is ready to make a statement. However, note that Machado will be out this week due to an unspecified injury, according to head coach Ashley Johnston.
On the other side, North Carolina is looking to bounce back after missing regionals last season. The Tar Heels were ranked No. 36 in the WCGA preseason poll and are in a rebuilding phase following the graduation of four key lineup contributors, including Hallie Thompson and Jamie Shearer. However, they added new talent with four- and three-star recruits TaeLyn Canty, JoJo Valahovic, and Regan McBride, respectively, along with Kentucky transfer Claire Stippich, who will be vital as the team looks to regain momentum.
This will be the first ACC-SEC showdown of the season, and with a mix of fresh faces and high-energy gymnastics, it’s shaping up to be an exciting meet you won’t want to miss!
Rotation 1: Alabama Vault, North Carolina Bars
Rotation 2: Alabama Bars, North Carolina Vault
Rotation 3: Alabama Beam, North Carolina Floor
Rotation 4: Alabama Floor, North Carolina Beam
Final:
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Live blog by Jessica Brock
