In a thrilling collegiate gymnastics matchup at Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa, the Iowa State Cyclones faced off against the Arizona State Sun Devils on January 31, 2025. The atmosphere was electric as the two teams battled it out in the first home Big 12 meet of the season, with Arizona State ultimately emerging victorious with a final score of 195.950-195.825.
Performance Highlights:
The Cyclones kicked off the meet on a high note, showcasing their strength on the vault with a collective score of 48.675. This event has been a standout for Iowa State throughout the season, setting the tone for what promised to be an impressive performance.
Transitioning to the uneven bars, the Cyclones faced stiff competition from Arizona State but held their own with a score of 48.975. Despite the challenge, Iowa State’s determination and resilience were evident, proving that they were more than ready for tough competition.
Moving on to the balance beam, Iowa State continued to impress with a score of 48.850. As the season progresses, the team is honing their skills and routines, solidifying their performance on this apparatus.
Closing out the night with the floor exercise, the Cyclones delivered their best collective score of the evening at 49.325. This strong finish showcased their versatility and determination, with top team event scores at both the beginning and end of the meet.
Individual Standouts:
Several Cyclones shone in their individual performances, with freshman Haylee Hardin leading the pack on the vault with a score of 9.8. Seniors Noelle Adams and Josie Bergstrom Te-Slaa tied for second place with a score of 9.775, alongside an Arizona State gymnast.
Freshman Frederique Sgarbossa impressed on the uneven bars, earning a stellar score of 9.9. Lauren Thomas and Josie Bergstrom Te-Slaa also made their mark on the balance beam, securing top-five finishes with scores of 9.850 and 9.825, respectively.
Haylee Hardin once again stole the show on floor exercise, clinching first place individually with a remarkable score of 9.950. Her stellar performance underscored her talent and dedication to the sport, setting her apart as a standout performer for the Cyclones.
Freshman Dominance:
Hardin and Sgarbossa, both freshmen, demonstrated their skill and determination on the competition floor, proving that age is no barrier to excellence. Their standout performances on Friday night highlighted their crucial roles within the team, as they continue to push themselves to new heights throughout the season.
As these talented newcomers carve out essential roles within the team, their growth and development are evident, contributing to the overall success of the Cyclones. Despite the challenges of a tough loss, the team remains resilient and focused on producing near-perfect routines that shine.
Looking Ahead:
While the loss to Arizona State was a tough blow, the Cyclones view it as a valuable learning experience as they prepare to face off against the Mountaineers in Morgantown, West Virginia, on February 9 at 1 p.m. The team’s resilience and determination are sure to propel them to new heights as they continue to strive for excellence in the season ahead.
