Florida Gymnastics Team Shines in Gainesville Regional, Advances to NCAA Championships

The Florida gymnastics team put on a show-stopping performance at the Gainesville Regional, securing a spot in the NCAA championships with a season-high score of 198.325. The No. 4 Gators will now head to Fort Worth, Texas for the finals, marking their 40th appearance in the event’s 42-year history.

Freshman standout Anya Pilgrim and senior Ellie Lazzari stole the spotlight, tying for the all-around title with impressive scores of 39.65. Teammates Victoria Nguyen and Leanne Wong weren’t far behind, both scoring a 39.60 in the competition.

Coach Jenny Rowland praised her team’s performance, likening it to an intrasquad meet. The Gators will need to bring their A-game to the NCAA championships after finishing as runners-up in the past two years.

With a strong showing from Pilgrim, Lazzari, Wong, and Nguyen, the Gators are poised to challenge the likes of No. 1 ranked Oklahoma, LSU, and Cal. Pilgrim’s rapid development in her first season at UF has been a key factor in the team’s success, while Lazzari’s consistent performance has been a valuable asset.

The Gators showcased their skills across all events at the regional, posting impressive scores on beam, vault, uneven bars, and floor exercise. Lazzari, Wong, and Pilgrim led the team with standout performances in each event.

Rowland expressed her pride in the team’s performance, highlighting their composure and focus throughout the competition. With a strong showing at the regional, the Gators are ready to take on the best in the nation at the NCAA championships and continue their quest for a national title.