CEDAR CITY — The Flippin’ Birds are set to take on Big Ten powerhouse Iowa State in Cedar City on Monday.
The Thunderbirds and Cyclones haven’t competed head to head since 2020, when Iowa State came out on top in Cedar City. The Cyclones are a very competitive team fresh off a third-place finish in a quad meet at Utah State on Friday. Iowa State scored 195.950, falling to Boise State and Utah State but defeating Texas.
The Thunderbirds have had an extra couple of days to rest following the long journey to Boise State. The Flippin’ Birds placed second in the tri-meet with a score of 196.250, behind the host team but far in front of Sacramento State.
Southern Utah is still in a position to make the regionals, sitting at #35 in the country.
Meet Information:
- Southern Utah vs Iowa State
- Date: Monday, February 26, 2024
- March In: 7 p.m. MT
- Location: America First Event Center
“It is exciting to host a very well-coached team like Iowa State,” Thunderbirds coach Scotty Bauman said. “We look forward to seeing how our team matches up with a Big XII program that has a history of success and excellent gymnastics.”
Iowa State
The Iowa State Gymnastics team is highly rated in collegiate gymnastics, currently holding a national ranking of 32nd. Their strongest event lies in their dynamic vaults, where they have flown to the 18th spot in the country. Additionally, they showcase their finesse on the bars, securing the 29th position nationally. Their performances on the floor and beam demonstrate their consistency, standing at 30th and 33rd, respectively.
Throughout the season, Iowa State has showcased some impressive scores. In their recent meets, they’ve displayed resilience and determination, achieving notable scores such as 196.650 against Illinois State at home and 195.800 on the road at the Denver tri-meet. Individually, gymnasts like Hannah Loyim, Noelle Adams, Lauren Thomas, and Page Wills shine brightly, consistently delivering stellar performances and contributing significantly to the team’s success. Each of those stars for the Cyclones has delivered high-scoring routines this season and has the potential to swing the team scores with their performances. Look for this Monday’s meet to be a battle as both teams strive to improve their position in the national rankings.
Southern Utah
The Thunderbirds had a historic performance at Utah State in early February, scoring 196.800. (9th best in program history and 2nd best in conference history)
Southern Utah is ranked #28 on the vault, #28 on bars, #39 on beam, and #53 on Floor.
Freshman Niya Randolph scored a 9.900 on the floor at the last home meet, setting a new career high as well as tying a team high for the season.
Southern Utah scored an outstanding 49.125 on the vault and floor, also hitting a 49.175 on the bars at Boise State. The Thunderbirds are finding consistency and hitting their stride in the events.
Freshman Niya Randolph has been named the Gymnast of the Week for the MPSF conference several times for her outstanding consistency in the all-around.
The Flippin’ Birds had 13 athletes from last year’s team move on but have recruited a stellar freshman class.
Southern Utah has three returning gymnasts who finished the season ranked in the top 100 nationally, including Kayla Pardue (#83 Vault), Aubri Schwartze (#96 Floor), and Ellie Cacciola (#51 Beam).
Currently, the Thunderbirds have four gymnasts ranked in the top 100 nationally across various events.
The Thunderbirds are coached by Scott Bauman, who was named the MRGC Coach of the Year in 2023. Associate Head Coach Jamie Wysong was also named the Assistant Coach of the Year for the conference.
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