Iowa State Falls Short Against LSU in Season Opener
Iowa State University’s gymnastics team faced a tough challenge in their season opener against defending champions LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Tigers secured a victory with a final score of 197.300-194.100, marking their 13th win out of 14 meetings against the Cyclones.
Despite the loss, Iowa State’s performance showcased their potential for a successful season. Going against a formidable opponent like LSU, ranked second in the WCGA and fresh off a National Championship, Iowa State’s 32nd place ranking in the preseason poll didn’t deter their competitive spirit.
Standout Performances
The Cyclones opened the meet on uneven bars, where freshman Frederique Sgarbossa impressed with a score of 9.800, tying for fifth place with two LSU gymnasts. The momentum carried on to the vault event, with sophomore Noelle Adams and senior Josie Bergstrom-Te Slaa leading the team with scores of 9.850 each, securing a tie for third place.
In the floor exercise, senior Rachel Wilke showcased her skills with a score of 9.875, putting her in a three-way tie with LSU gymnasts. The night concluded with the balance beam event, where fifth-year senior Lauren Thomas shone with a score of 9.800, securing a fifth-place finish.
All-Around Dominance
Notable performances came from Adams and Bergstrom-Te Slaa, both named to the Big 12 Preseason Team. These talented gymnasts excelled in all-around events, setting high expectations for their season ahead. Adams displayed her prowess with impressive scores in vault and floor exercise, tying for fourth place with an LSU gymnast with a total score of 29.475.
Bergstrom-Te Slaa, a consistent performer for Iowa State, showcased her skills with a score of 9.850 on vault, setting the tone for the team’s performance. With both athletes looking to play pivotal roles throughout the season, their strong start bodes well for Iowa State’s future.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback against LSU, the Cyclones remain determined to bounce back in their next meet. They will host Brown and Iowa for the Iowa State Tri-Meet on January 10 at Hilton Coliseum at 6:30 p.m. The team’s resilience and talent will surely be on display as they strive for success in the upcoming competitions.
In the face of adversity, Iowa State’s gymnastics team continues to show resilience and determination. As they prepare for their next meet, their unwavering spirit and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly propel them to greater heights in the season ahead.
