Gymnastics has officially begun practice for 2021 season

PROVO, Utah – The BYU gymnastics team held its first official practice of the 2021 season on Thursday in their training facility in the Smith Fieldhouse.

Despite the Cougars' 2020 season ending early due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BYU finished as the No. 16 team in the nation, earning the program's highest final national ranking in 15 years. The Cougars were also named the Mountain Rim Gymnastics Conference champions after earning the highest regular-season NQS score in the conference. BYU head coach Guard Young is hopeful for the future of his team.

The 2021 roster features four new freshman: Sydney Benson, Anna Bramblett, Sophia McClelland and Lauren Ono. The additions bring Young's roster to 26 gymnasts.

Seniors Abby Boden Stainton and Abbey Miner Alder have been named 2021 captains. Stainton made her all-around debut last season and earned a career-high 39.175 twice. She was also named to the All-MRGC First Team on the uneven bars. Alder posted multiple career-highs in her junior year, including a 9.950 on beam against Southern Utah. She was named to the vault, beam, floor and all-around teams for the MRGC.

For news on the 2021 gymnastics season as it becomes available, visit BYUCougars.com.