UCLA Gymnastics Prepares for NCAA California Regional Second Round After Two-Week Break
The UCLA gymnastics team is gearing up for the NCAA California Regional Second Round on Friday, and they are more than ready to bring their competitive energy to the competition. After a two-week break that included spring break, the Bruins are rested and focused on the task at hand.
The team has been keeping their competitive spirit alive by challenging each other in various ways, including intense volleyball warm-ups. Freshman Katelyn Rosen shared that these challenges have helped the team stay sharp and maintain their intensity as they head into the regional competition.
UCLA, seeded 11th, will face off against Denver, Arizona State, and Washington in the first session of the California Regional Second Round at Cal’s Haas Pavilion. The top two finishers from each session will move on to the regional finals, which are set for April 7.
The Bruins will kick off the meet with the floor exercise, a change from their usual routine of finishing on floor. Despite the change, the team is embracing the challenge and looking to carry their momentum from the Pac-12 Championships, where they finished second with a score of 197.875.
Selena Harris, who recently earned Pac-12 gymnast of the year recognition, has been a standout performer for UCLA this season with four perfect 10s under her belt. Senior Chae Campbell and Nya Reed were also named All-Pac-12 First Team on vault and floor, respectively.
With a focus on accountability and attention to detail, the Bruins are ready to compete for their 25th NCAA regional title. Coach Janelle McDonald emphasized the importance of a team effort both in and out of the gym to achieve their goals.
As they head into the win-or-go-home stakes of the NCAA postseason, UCLA is confident in their preparation and the leadership of their upperclassmen. The team is focused on doing what they love and giving it their all in the regional competition.
Fans can catch the action on ESPN+ as UCLA takes on their regional rivals in Berkeley on Friday at 1 p.m. It’s sure to be an exciting competition as the Bruins look to continue their success and advance to the regional finals.