Here are the first 12 teams in our Capsule Previews of our Top 25, based on the 2021 Preseason Coaches' Poll. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Routines Gone: 1 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 1 FX
Head Coach: Jenny Rowland
Assistants: Adrian Burde, Owen Field
Returning Starters (8):  Alyssa Baumann (Sr), Leah Clapper (Jr), Nya Reed (Jr), Payton Richards (So), Savannah Schoenherr (Jr), Megan Skaggs (Sr), Halley Taylor (Jr), Trinity Thomas (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Jazmyn Foberg (Sr), Sydney Johnson-Scharpf (Jr)
Graduated (4):  Sierra Alexander, Maegan Chant (I), Rachel Gowey, Amelia Hundley
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (4):  Chloi Clark, Gabrielle Gallentine, Ellie Lazzari, Alex Magee

Quick Assessment:  Florida claimed the top spot in the WCGA Coaches' Preseason Poll, gathering the same number of first place nods as OU, but outpointing them on the rest of the ballots.  The Gators finished 2020's abbreviated season in 2nd place.  They lose a pair of key leaders and potential AAers in Hundley and Gowey, both two-time NCAA All-Americans.  They also lose a big vault from specialist Sierra Alexander as well as Canadian Maegan Chant, whose career was hampered by injury. 

Leading the way for the Gators in 2021 will be 2020 SEC Gymnast of the year, Trinity Thomas, now a junior and a 10-time All-American.  She'll be an early favorite for the NCAA AA title, as the top returning athlete (by NQS ranking).  She's also the top returner on FX, tied for #1 on UB, #2 on BB and #5 on VT.  She'll be capably supported by senior All-American Alyssa Baumann, junior All-American Savannah Schoenherr, and NCGA All-American Megan Skaggs.  Baumann has been featured on all four events during the Fall training and looks to be healthy and in top form.  Sophomore Payton Richards hit 39.5 in the AA as a frosh, and should only get better with another year of experience.  The Gators could also see a boost from a healthier Jazmyn Foberg and Sydney Johnson-Scharpf, with the latter also looking especially strong this Fall.  Junior Nya Reed also provides a lot of potential scoring power on VT (Yurchenko 1 1/2) and FX (double layout) and looks ready to go on both events.  

Florida welcomes a quartet of frosh, led by Ellie Lazzari and Gabrielle Gallentine, both former junior international elite gymnasts.  Of the two, Lazzari (Legacy Elite) looks set to make an immediate impact, based on preseason training.  In 2019, she won the AA, BB and FX at the Level 10 Nationals.  Gallentine is a former 2017 Level 10 National Team member who, like other Everest-trained athletes, excels on UB.  In 2020, competing as a L10, she broke 38.0 in the AA twice, and posted a 9.9 on UB.  She is also capable of a triple full and double Arabian on FX.  Clark is L10 from Gymtegrity who excels on the leg events.  She tied for 4th on VT and placed 26th AA at the 2019 Level 10 Nationals.  The fourth frosh, Magee, is a local L10 from Orlando Metro.

Florida is an early favorite for the title, with a strong and experienced core that will be supplemented by the frosh, led by Lazzari.  The key for the Gators will be avoiding injuries and managing the health of their stars.  It's been a problem the last several years that at times has eaten into the depth of the UF lineups.  It is particularly important this season as a COVID-19 infection could quickly take out multiple athletes, as many athletes tend to room together.   Stars like Thomas and Baumann will lead the way, but to hold off OU and the rest of the contenders the Gators will need six strong routines per event. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 1 BB, 2 FX
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Assistants: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Returning Starters (10):  Jordan Draper (Sr), Jenna Dunn (So), Emily LaPinta (Jr), Evy Schoepfer (Sr), Ragan Smith (So), Allie Stern (Jr), Karrie Thomas (Sr), Olivia Trautman (Jr), Anastasia Webb (Sr), Carly Woodard (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Vanessa Deniz (So), Erin Hutchison (So)
Graduated (3):  Jade Degouveia, Maggie Nichols, Breahanna Showers (I)
Other Losses (1):  Brooke Weins (So/?)
Newcomers (9):  Audrey Davis, Julianne Fehring, Danae Fletcher (January 2021), Bell Johnson, Katherine Levasseur, Audrey Lynn, Sheridan Ramsey, Quinn Smith, Meilin Sullivan (I)

Quick Assessment:  OU finished 2020 once again at the top of the rankings, and just missed out on the top spot in this year's Preseason Coaches' Poll, matching the Gators with the number of first place votes.  They say goodbye to a trio of seniors, headlined by two-time NCAA AA champ Maggie Nichols.  Nichols worked through persistent knee injury issues to be a formidable and consistent force for the Sooners.  The leadership, grace, ability and courage she demonstrated will be hard to replace.  All-American Degouveia had a standout senior season, becoming a 9.975 threat in three events.  They also graduated All-American Showers, an AAer who missed the 2020 season, and whose career had been limited due to numerous injuries. 

Leading the Sooners in 2021 will be senior Webb and sophomore Smith.  All-American Webb is their top returning AAer, and the #2 returning AAer in the country (based on NQS finish).  She has gone 9.95 or higher on all four events, including a 10.0 on BB and is the country's top returning vaulter.  Former US National champ Ragan Smith could surpass Webb this season, after having posted a 39.65 in last year's abbreviated campaign.  Vault was her weakest apparatus last season, and it is where she will have to battle for the lineup.  Junior Olivia Trautman could also emerge as an AA force, and the All-American has posted 10s on VT and FX.  Those three will be capably supported by a range of specialists, including All-Americans Stern (VT), Thomas (UB) and Woodard (BB).  Sophomore Deniz will also look to expand her impact this season, after a strong preseason and a good start last season. 

To that experienced core, OU adds no less than nine newcomers.  The class is headlined by former senior international elite Davis, who has been excelling during the preseason and in 2020 on UB and BB.  The WOGA athlete placed 14th AA at the 2018 US Championships.  They also add some talented L10s, including Fehring, Fletcher, Levasseur, Smith and Sullivan.  Two-time L10 National Team member Fehring (LaFleur's) won VT and placed 3rd AA, 6th(t) on BB and 7th on UB at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  She also won FX (triple full) and was runnerup on VT and UB(t) in 2018, to go along with a 3rd place AA in 2017.  Fletcher is expected to join the team early, in January.  The 2019 L10 National Team member from MG Elite was the L10 FX co-champ in 2019.   Levasseur (Mavericks) placed 16th AA at the 2019 L10 Nationals and 3rd on VT ('20 Yurchenko 1 1/2).  She also tied for 7th AA at the 2018 Nationals.  Former L10 AA (2017) champ Quinn Smith, from the Arizona Sunrays, won the VT title in 2018 with a Yurchenko 1 1/2, defending her title from 2017. She also was 2nd on FX and 9th AA in 2018.  She came back strong during the club season in 2020, hitting 38.6 in the AA.  Sullivan unfortunately will reportedly miss the season due to long-term complications resulting from a case of COVID-19.  The Fuzion-trained athlete was 5th on UB at the 2019 L10 Nationals, and tied for 5th on FX (triple full) and placed 8th AA in 2018.  The Sooners also add local product Johnson (Bart Conner), a three-time National qualifier who placed 15th AA at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  Clubmate Lynn trains a pike front-half on VT and is looking excellent in hitting the upgrade in Fall training while Ramsey (Aim High), who trains a full-in on FX and also trains a Yurchenko 1 1/2, complete the class.     

The Sooners will have the challenge of integrating a large but talented class of newcomers.  Although they have 7 big routines to replace, they certainly have the potential to eventually replace those scores with such a large and talented incoming class.  The 2020 Sooners had an edge on VT on the rest of the country, and that looks to continue in 2021 with this class, with more than six 10.0 Start Value vaults to choose from.  The only thing lacking at this point is meet experience, and so we'll likely see the Sooners grow throughout the season as the frosh gain experience.   

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 21/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 0 BB, 1 FX
Head Coach: Jay Clark
Assistants: Ashleigh Gnat, Bob Moore
Returning Starters (10):  Reagan Campbell (Sr), Rebecca D'Antonio (Jr), Bridget Dean (Sr), Christina Desiderio (Sr), Sami Durante (Sr), Courtney Goodrich (So), Kiya Johnson (So), Maddie Rau (So), Kai Rivers (So/I), Alyona Shchennikova (So)
Other/Injured Returners (5):   Sarah Edwards (Sr/I), Olivia Gunter (Sr/I), Lexie Nibbs (So), Kamryn Ryan (So), Caitlin Smith (So/I)
Graduated (2):   Kennedi Edney (I), Ruby Harrold
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (5):  Elena Arenas, Sierra Ballard, Chase Brock, Haleigh Bryant, Olivia Dunne

Quick Assessment:   LSU finished 2020 in sixth position, but the coaches' poll has elevated the Tigers to the 3rd position, based on the strength of the returners and a strong frosh class.  The Tigers lose two graduated seniors in Edney and Harrold.  Former two-time NCAA VT champ Edney suffered through some injury issues in 2020, which limited her impact and held back the Tigers from a stronger finish.  The All-American was a potent force in the AA, when she was fully healthy.  Harrold, in contrast, had her best season in 2020.  The All-American won 8 event titles in 2020, and excelled on three events.  LSU will also be missing the services of sophomore Kai Rivers, a potential 3 event star, who tore her Achilles' in the fall. 

The 2021 Tigers will be led by sophomore standout Kiya Johnson.  As a frosh, she made an immediate impact, achieving WCGA All-American status on VT, FX and the AA.  The SEC Freshman of the Year was also the Region 1 Gymnast of the Year.  Supporting the young star will be seniors Reagan Campbell, Bridget Dean, Christina Desiderio and Sami Durante.  Campbell was the BB anchor and a two-time NCGA All-American.  BB leadoff Desiderio is also another key performer, especially on FX, but missed the start of last season with an injury.  Durante bumped up her contributions to three events at the end of last season, but shines brightest on UB and BB.  Also key for the Tigers will be the further development of sophomore Shchennikova, who is training AA for the 2021 campaign, after being limited to mostly UB during the truncated season (due to an Achilles' injury the prior sping).  She's even showed a strong Yurchenko 1 1/2 on VT in training, the same VT as classmate Ryan.  Senior Gunter is also looking stronger, with a solid performance at the Gym 101 exhibition. 

The big story for LSU is a strong incoming class of five, led by former junior international elite Arenas, Level 10 standout Bryant, and senior international elite Dunne.  Bryant (Everest) is a two-time Nastia Liukin Cup champion and three time Level 10 National Team member.  She's won L10 National titles in the AA (2018), VT (3x), FX (2x) and UB.  She also competes big skills like a superb pike front half on VT (almost in a layout position) and a clean and high double front on FX.  Dunne (ENA Paramus) is a former junior National Team member and 4x US Championships qualifier who was 18th AA in the Senior division in 2018.  This past season, she was 11th at the Nastia Liukin Cup.  Arenas trained at Georgia Elite and competed at the 2017 P&G Championships.  In 2019, she placed 8th AA at the Level 10 Nationals and prior to that tied for 12th AA in 2018.  Level 10s Ballard and Brock complete the class.  Ballard is the niece of LSU Head Coach Clark and trained in-state at North Shore.  She's a two-time L10 National qualifier and boasts a double layout or double Arabian on FX and a potential Yurchenko 1 1/2 on VT.  She also has shown well on BB during the preseason.  Brock, a L10 from Gymnastix, is a 3 time L10 National qualifier who placed 6th on UB and 8th on VT in 2018.  She has competed a Yurchenko 1 1/2 and a rare full-out on FX.  

LSU will look to improve upon last year's sixth place finish with a team that is potentially deeper than 2020.  While they'll miss the big scores from Edney and Harrold, they have plenty of candidates for replacements, led by Bryant and Dunne.  They could also get a boost from a much stronger Shchennikova, who has taken advantage of the extra long break to complete her recovery.  The squad will need some time to mature and get used to competition, as the nerves were sometimes on display at the recent Gym 101 exhibition. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule     Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 3 UB, 0 BB, 2 FX
Head Coach: Tom Farden
Assistant:  Carly Dockendorf, Garrett Griffeth
Returning Starters (8):  Alexia Burch (Sr), Cammy Hall (Jr), Emilie LeBlanc (Sr), Maile O'Keefe (So), Abby Paulson (So), Adrienne Randall (Jr), Cristal Isa (Jr), Sydney Soloski (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Jillian Hoffmann (So/I), Jaedyn Rucker (So/I)
Graduated (2):  Missy Reinstadtler, Kim Tessen
Other Losses (2):   Deanne Soza (Fr/R), Hunter Dula (Sr/I/R)
Newcomers (3):  Jaylene Gilstrap, Alani Sabado, Lucy Stanhope

Quick Assessment:  Utah loses 7 routines from their last competition in 2020.  Reinstadler's elegant presentation and long lines will be sorely missed in the Ute lineups, as will her potential AAer capabilities.  Tessen shone brightest on UB and VT (with a 10 this past season), but also hit career highs on FX this past season.

The 2021 Utes feature a solid returning core of key athletes, including a number of potential AAers, including Burch, Isa, Randall, O'Keefe and Paulson.  Isa was the only one to compete AA as part of the regular lineups at the Red Rocks Preview, but she shines brightest on UB and BB.  She is tied with her teammate Paulson as the #5 returning beamer in the country (based on NQS).  Senior Burch showed much improvement last season, and was a regular on VT and BB.  Randall has been primarily a BB and FX gymnast, but could also step forward this season on other events.  O'Keefe was a standout on BB but also competed AA four times last season.  The aforementioned Paulson was a NCGA All-American on BB and competed on everything but VT last season.  Senior All-American Soloski is a standout on FX, where she is tied for the #5 returning athlete (based on NQS), but also has competed on VT and BB.  Hall adds an important 10.0 VT and big tumbling, while LeBlanc really shone on UB and BB.  The Utes also look to get a boost from the return of Rucker, who is training on all four events and showed a full-in on FX at the Red Rocks preview.   

The Utes welcome a strong class of three, including former international elite Jaylene Gilstrap (Metroplex), L10 standout Sabado (SCEGA), and former British National team member Stanhope.  Stanhope is a potential clear early standout, showing AA potential with a Yurchenko 1 1/2 VT, full-in on FX, Bharwaj on UB and full-twisting back handsprings on BB.  Gilstrap was a rising elite star and P&G Championship qualifier who suffered some injuries and dropped back to L10 last season.  She's known for her beautiful lines and execution and achieved a high level of success under the L10 code, which should translate well into the NCAA.  Sabado, who graduated early to join the Utes this season, was a L10 National Team member in 2019 and a 3-time JO National qualifier.  She finished 3rd AA, 3rd(t) on UB, 5th(t) on VT, 6th on BB and 8th(t) on FX (double Arabian) at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  The Utes unfortunately lost one of their standout recruits, former elite Soza, who retired early during the preseason.   

The Utes finished 4th last season, the same as their preseason rank.  The Utes have plenty of upside potential this season, with two departed athletes being replaced by three promising frosh and the return of Rucker.   Stanhope and Rucker look to inject some big skills in the Ute VT and FX lineups, an area where the Utes might lag the top teams a bit.  The Utes also had some depth issues last year on UB, and things are already looking stronger with the addition of the frosh and Rucker.  With their strength on BB and some added depth and power, the Utes could find themselves challenging the leaders. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 21/24
Routines Gone: 0 VT, 0 UB, 2 BB, 1 FX
Head Coach: Bev Plocki
Assistant: Scott Sherman
Returning Starters (8):  Abby Brenner (Jr), Sierra Brooks (So), Lauren Farley (Sr), Abby Heiskell (Jr), Nicoletta Koulos (So), Maddie Mariani (Jr), Gabby Wilson (So), Natalie Wojcik (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Anna Dayton (Sr), Abigail Gaies (So), Anne Maxim (Sr/I)
Graduated (3):  Lexi Funk, Maggie O'Hara (GR/T/Arkansas), Maddy Osman (I)
Other Losses (1):  Sam Javanbakht (Sr/?), 
Newcomers (4):  Carly Bauman, Reyna Guggino, Naomi Morrison, Jenna Mulligan

Quick Assessment:  Michigan is slotted in fifth in the preseason rankings, the same as their 2020 finish.  There is plenty of upside here, with four gymnast departing but that represent just three lineup routines.  Funk was a key member of the Wolverine lineups for four years, often competing AA as an underclassman and earning All American honors on BB in 2019.  O'Hara and Osman were limited by injury throughout their careers, although O'Hara came back to have a solid season on UB and BB   Osman competed on up to three events, winning All-American honors on BB in 2019. 

The core of the Wolverine lineup returns, led by 2019 NCAA BB champ Wojcik and super sophs Brooks and Wilson.  Wojcik's beautiful lines and execution are complemented by some surprising power (Yurchenko 1 1/2, full-in on FX).  She's one of the top 10 returning AAers in the NCAA, along with teammate Brooks.  Brooks will only get better as a sophomore, a top AAer whose best events are VT (Yurchenko 1 1/2) and UB (full twisting double layout).  Wilson is another powerhouse, but has the potential to be another star AAer as well.   Junior Brenner was a NCGA All-American on VT, with another steady Yurchenko 1 1/2.  She's also the #4 returning vaulter (by NQS finish) in the country.   Along with Heiskell, Mariani and Farley, the Wolverines have a solid and deep core of returning talent.  Sophomore Koulos is looking improved in preseason training, and could increase her contributions in 2021.  Senior Maxim also returns with another potential 10.0 start value vault and a clean UB set.  Any of those five could easily pick up the slack of the departed seniors.  

Michigan adds another top class, led by L10 standouts Bauman and Morrison (Arizona Dynamics).  Morrison, originally an Oregon State commit, placed 5th AA, 2nd on FX and 4th(t) on VT (Yurchenko 1 1/2) at the 2019 JO Nationals.  She had an exceptional 2020 club season, winning all four meets, including a 39.05 in the AA.  In the recent intrasquad, she competed on all four events.  Bauman was the L10 National AA co-champ in 2018, where she also won the BB and tied for 1st on UB.  She finished 12th in 2019, with a 2nd on BB and 4th on UB.  Although her best events are BB and UB, she also vaults a pike Omelianchik (10.0 Start Value).  The Michigan newcomers are rounded by L10s Guggino (Tampa Bay) and Mulligan (Gymnastics Unlimited).  Guggino showed promise at the recent intrasquad on BB and FX, and has shown a strong improvement trend in club.   Mulligan tied for 5th on FX and 8th on BB and the 2018 L10 Nationals, and competed both at the recent intrasquad.    

Michigan has a high potential to make a run at the top four, with a strong set of returnees led by NCAA title contender Wojcik.  Along with Brooks and Wilson, the Wolverines have plenty of scoring potential lower in the lineup.  Michigan also can match or exceed OU's firepower on VT, with a full complement of 10.0 start value vaults in the stable.  For Michigan, the keys will be getting the consistency and scoring potential of the first part of the lineups on the other events to match.  Morrison and Bauman will help in this regard, with Brenner, Heiskell and Mariani also being key. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Routines Gone:  3 VT, 3 UB, 0 BB, 2 FX
Head Coach:  Dana Duckworth
Assistants:  Bill Lorenz, Ryan Roberts
Returning Starters (7):  Luisa Blanco (So), Ella Burgess (So/I), Makarri Doggette (So), Emily Gaskins (Jr), Lexi Graber (Sr), Alonza Klopfer (Sr), Shallon Olsen (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Jensie Givens (Jr), Griffin James (Jr/I), Sania Mitchell (Jr), Mati Waligora (So)
Graduated (4):   Wynter Childers, Madison Desch, Kylie Dickson, Shea Mahoney
Other Losses (2):  Emma DeSantis (So/?), Macy Orosco (So/TR/Pitt)
Newcomers (5):  Shania Adams, Sarah Duhe, Cam Machado, Isabella Martin, Kaylee Quinn (Jr/TR/Nebraska)

Quick Assessment:  Alabama loses eight routines and six athletes from 2020, including key contributions and leadership from grads Childers, Desch, Dickson and Mahoney.  Mahoney was a key gymnast on up to three events, but was especially strong on UB.  Desch, a former World Championship Gold medalist, had some of her strongest contributions as a senior, competing on up to three events .  Childers was slowed by injury last season but competed as an AAer earlier in her career.  Unfortunately, Bama will be missing the services of sophomore Burgess after a preseason Achilles' injury.   

In 2020, the Tide will be led by senior Graber, junior Olsen and sophomores Blanco and Doggette.  Graber, a 2018 Regional AA and VT champ, was Bama's top AAer last season.  Her VT (Yurchenko 1 1/2) and FX (full-in) are her best events, and she's gone 39.65 in the AA.  Blanco appears to be training all four events, as another potential AAer.  Her beautiful lines and execution made her a fan favorite on BB and FX last season.  Doggette is also another potential AAer, although some injury issues limited her on the leg events last season.  She'll be a key gymnast to get healthy and competing up to her full potential.  World Championship medalist Olsen has been training in Canada in preparation for the Olympics, and appears to be in top form as she returns to campus.  She's primarily contributed on everything but UB, but is ready if needed to be an AAer.  Several other gymnasts will be counted on to step up, especially as Bama works through some injury recoveries.  Givens and Dickson are key UB workers while Klopfer emerged last season as a steady BB worker and FX backup.  Former elite Gaskins has plenty of upside beyond UB and BB, and sophomore Waligora was a top L10 before coming to Tuscaloosa. 

Bama's incoming class is headlined by Senior National Team member Adams (Buckeye).  A five-time US Championships qualifier, she was 3rd AA and 1st on UB at the 2019 American Classic.  She'll have an immediate impact on the Tide on all four events, although she is strongest on UB and BB.  Bama also welcomes former jr. international elite Machado (First State) and L10 Isabella Martin (The Klub/Paramount Elite).  Machado qualified to the 2016 P&G Championships and returned to tie for 10th on UB and place 17th AA at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  She also tied for 13th AA and 7th on BB in 2018.  Martin is graduating early to join the Tide in January.  She placed 8th AA and tied for 4th on BB at the 2018 L10 Nationals.  The Tide also add Duhe (Elwood), a L10 Regional qualifier who shines on VT (Yurchenko 1 1/2), as well as NU transfer Quinn.  Quinn was a L10 standout who has been limited by injury, but if she is able to recover fully has big skills on VT and FX.    

Bama finished 8th last season, so the 6th place Preseason pick will require some key pieces to come together.  The Tide have a strong returning core, with the potential from big scores from the likes of Graber, Blanco and Olsen.  Getting standouts like Doggette and Waligora healthy and in top form, along with the quick adjustment of Adams to NCAA competition could make the difference for the Tide.  There are a lot of teams gunning for a spot in the top eight, and Bama will need to have their stars healthy and in top form to make their best showing. 

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule     Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 11/24
Routines Gone:  3 VT, 3 UB, 3 BB, 4 FX
Head Coach: Chris Waller
Associate Head Coach:  Kristina Comforte
Assistant:  Dom Palange
Returning Starters (8):  Nia Dennis (Sr), Norah Flatley (Jr), Margzetta Frazier (Jr), Savannah Kooyman (Sr), Kendal Poston (Sr), Samantha Sakti (Jr), Nicki Shapiro (RS Sr), Sekai Wright (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (7):  Emma Andres (So), Paige Hogan (So), Chloe Lashbrooke (So), Kalyany Steele (So), Sara Taubman (Jr), Pauline Tratz (Sr), Lilia Waller (Sr)
Graduated (8):  Anna Glenn (I), Grace Glenn, Felicia Hano, Madison Kocian, Gracie Kramer, Kyla Ross, Mercedez Sanchez (GR/TR/SJSU), Macy Toronjo
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (4):  Chae Campbell, Frida Esparza, Brooklyn Moors (taking RS season), Sara Ulias

Quick Assessment:  The Bruins find themselves knocked down several notches from last year's #3 finish.  UCLA has experienced some big losses to graduation, led by superstars Ross and Kocian.  Ross and Kocian ended their storied careers as the only two gymnasts to win Olympic, World and NCAA team titles.  Ross was on track to having a remarkable senior season, after having scored 10s on every event during her career.  Kocian overcame persistent injury issues to contribute on three events.  Hano was also a key member of the lineups, and competed AA as a senior.  Grace Glenn marked her first 10 on BB this past season, and Kramer received one of her own on FX.  The Bruins are losing a lot of "end of the lineup" routines and a lot of leadership and depth.

Coach Waller welcomes a strong set of returners, led by elites Dennis, Flatley, and Frazier.  Fan fav Flatley, a NCGA All-American, had a standout year last season, competing on up to three events.  She's a potential AAer, as she has appeared in her rookie season.  Dennis is also another potential AAer, but injury problems limited her contributions last season to mostly VT and FX.  Her shoulder injury status could be a difference maker.  Likewise, Frazier saw action mostly on UB last year after starting the year as an AAer.  She's the #5 returning gymnast (by NQS) on the UB.  Her return to the AA will be key to keeping the Bruins in the top pack.  The Bruins also get back the services of German elite Tratz, who was also hampered by injury last season.  She's back training the AA, but has contributed mostly on FX and VT in past seasons.  Senior Poston is a key vaulter but has also contributed on BB.  BB is where Shapiro shines, as does junior Sakti.  Sakti was an AAer as a frosh at W&M, and her FX has strong potential for UCLA.  Wright is powerful vaulter capable of a Yurchenko double twist and fully healthy we could see her on more events.  

The delay in the Tokyo Olympics has hit the Bruin incoming class hard.  A number of elite athletes set to start this season are now deferring entry (Jordan Chiles, Emma Malabuyo, Ana Pandarariu) or redshirting the season to focus on training (Moors).  All is not lost as UCLA welcomes Mexican National team member Esparza, top L10 and former jr. international elite Campbell (Metroplex) and L10 Ulias (Paramount Elite).  Esparza's best events are UB and BB, but she is also a potential AAer, having finished 32nd at the 2018 World's and having competed as a US sr. international elite for Head Over Heels.  Campbell is a two-time Level 10 National Team member who was 9th AA at the 2020 Nastia Liukin Cup.  In 2019, she was 2nd(t) on FX, 3rd(t) on BB and 3rd AA at the L10 Nationals.  Ulias is a L10 Regional qualifier whose best Regional finishes have come on UB.

UCLA faces some major challenges with the loss of the experience and marquee scoring power of the departed stars.  That's a lot of potential 10s missing from the lineups, and the Preseason Poll acknowledges that, dropping the Bruins to the #7 slot.  Injuries and the resulting depth issues have been a problem in the past, and the deferring recruits won't help in that respect.  The Bruins will need their stars healthy and in peak form, as well as getting strong contributions from Campbell and Esparza.  There's still a ton of talent on the roster, at times hidden in the shadow of the superstars, and now is their time to step forward and shine.   

Official Web Site:   Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coaches:  Justin Howell and Elizabeth Crandall-Howell
Assistant Coach:  Janelle McDonald
Starting Routines Returning: 22/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 0 UB, 0 BB, 1 FX
Returning Starters (8):  Maya Bordas (Jr), Milan Clausi (Jr), Neveah DeSouza (So), Kyana George (Sr), Maya Green (So), Grace Quinn (Jr), Nina Schank (Sr), Emi Watterson (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (6):  Talitha Jones (Jr/I), Alma Kuc (Sr/I), Natalie Sadighi (So), Victoria Salem (Sr), Abi Solari (Jr), Ashton Woodbury (So/I)
Graduated (1):  Rachael Mastrangelo
Other Losses (1):  Maleah Pearson (Sr)
Newcomers (6):  Elise Byun, Cosette Carranza, Blake Gozashti, Andi Li, Gabby Perea, Kennedy Quay

Quick Assessment:   Cal loses just one senior from their active roster.  Mastrangelo came back from an injury early in her career to compete upgraded sets on VT and FX as a senior.  The Coaches' Poll recognizes these minimal losses and have elevated the Bears one rank from their #9 2020 finish.  

This season, Cal will be paced a strong core experienced athletes, led by Bordas, Clausi, DeSouza and George.  Senior George was a top AAer for Cal in 2020, and top returning scoring on FX, VT and BB.  Bordas had a strong 2020, with the AAer becoming the top returning scorer on UB and showing an upgraded full-in on FX.  Classmate Clausi continued her strength on three events, but was even better on 2020, with an (often stuck) Yurchenko 1 1/2 on VT.  Sophomore DeSouza also quickly impacted with consistent routines on all four events, including some standout BB (triple series) and UB routines, and a dependable Yurchenko 1 1/2.  Senior Nina Schank is another potential AAer, if needed, but it's on UB where she shines.  Classmate Watterson is another UB ace, and a 9.95+ threat every time she mounts the apparatus.  She also contributed BB last season.  Quinn showed marked improvement in 2020, winning a spot in the FX rotation and competing on all four events.  Several other Cal athletes who have battled injuries in the past could conceivably step up this season.  Jones was a steady competitor on up to three events before tearing her ACL.  Solari has struggled with injury during her first two seasons but the former UK elite has shown a pike front 1/2 on VT and double Arabian on FX in training this fall.  Kuc has been a regular on UB but an injury ended her season early.

The Bears welcome six frosh, led by two of the nation's top recruits in L10 Li and former senior international elite Perea, both from Legacy Elite.  Li, younger sister of UCLA and elite standout Anna, placed 3rd AA at the 2020 Nastia Liukin Cup.  She's a former Level 10 National AA champ (2018), a two time runnerup (2019, 2016) and former L10 UB and FX champ (2018).  She's amassed no less than 13 top 4 finishes at L10 Nationals over five years and three top 4 finishes at the Nastia Liukin Cup, including the 2016 title.  This track record of top finishes over so many seasons is a high indicator for future success in college.  Perea is a former National Team member and junior national UB champ (2016) who finished 15th AA as a senior at the 2019 US Championships.  In 2020, she dropped down to L10 and placed 6th AA at the Nastia Liukin Cup.  She's been looking strong in preseason training, and looks ready to compete a rare full twisting standing back tuck on BB.  She has beautiful lines and toepoint that play well on UB and BB, but also has a full-in and an expressive style on FX.  Also looking to make an impact are Carranza (Texas Dreams) and Quay (SCEGA).  Carranza was a L10 National Team member back in 2016 with a 2nd place finish at Nationals but competed on a limited basis until the 2019 season.  Quay placed 6th AA at the 2018 L10 Nationals (tied for 2nd on VT) and 5th AA (2nd on VT and FX) in 2017.  She returned to competition on three events in 2020, posting a 9.8 on the UB.  They'll be complemented by local L10s Byun (Airborne) and Gozashti (Gymnastics Zone).  Byun is a two-time L10 National qualifier who placed 1st on UB and 3rd AA at the 2019 Region I L10 Regionals.  Gozashti is a L10 Regional qualifier who put together a strong season in 2020, including two event wins on VT (Yurchenko Layout Full). 

Cal returns an experienced and talented core complemented by two of the top incoming frosh in the NCAA.  One could easily argue they deserve a higher preseason rank, although there are some remaining questions about injuries and depth.  Relative to the top rank of teams, they've lacked some difficulty and power on VT and FX in the past, but the returning athletes plus the frosh could definitely help close the gap on those events.  Relative to other teams, UB could be a huge highlight and advantage.  A series of strong recruiting classes is starting to pay dividends, and we'll see if that continues in 2021.   

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coach: Melissa Kutcher-Rinehart
Assistants: Linas Gaveika, Jimmy Pratt
Starting Routines Returning: 17/23
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 1 UB, 2 BB, 2 FX
Returning Starters (7):  Emily Glynn (Sr), Amoree Lockhart (So), Natalie Morton (Jr). Alexandra Ruiz (Jr), Callie Schlottmann (So), Akoray "AK" Subject (So), Alexis Vasquez (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Lynnzee Brown (Sr/I), Victoria Fitts (So), Mia Sundstrom (Sr/I)
Graduated (1):  Maddie Karr
Other Losses (1):  Emma Brown (So/TR/LIU)
Newcomers (5):  Rose Casali, Jessica Hutchinson, Isabel Mabanta, Rylie Mundell, Abbie Thompson

Quick Assessment:  Denver finished the 2020 season in 7th place, despite losing some key gymnasts to injury like Brown and Sundstrom.  The Pioneers lose superstar Karr to graduation, and her 9.95+ potential on all four events will be sorely missed.  She won no less than 106(!) event titles during her storied career.  That type of dependability and leadership is hard to replicate.  They also lost sophomore Emma Brown, who transferred to the new program at LIU. 

The big news for the Pioneers is that AA star Lynnzee Brown is back and already showing her superb Yurchenko 1 1/2 on VT in preseason training.  She'll be needed on all four events, and a rapid recovery is good news.  She is the #4 returning AAer from last season (based on NQS), despite her shortened season.  Senior Sundstrom is also fully back and looking better than ever, and forms a second AAer to support Brown.  Classmate Glynn was a standout on three events for the Pioneers.  During preseason training, Glynn has been showing improved dynamics on her layout Tsuk full vault (10.0 SV) and continued strong execution overall.  Junior Vasquez has been an amazing BBer and anchors the event with 10.0 potential.  She competed on VT last season but has been training other events as well this preseason.  Classmate Ruiz is another AA option for DU, with steady performance across all four events, but her highest marks have come on BB and FX.  Sophomores Lockhart and Subject both competed three to four events as frosh.  True to Pioneer history, they could continue their improvement as they move into their second seasons. 

Denver's frosh class represent not only an injection of talent but much needed depth across all four events.  DU has run lean the last several seasons, often using only five athletes per event.  Five frosh, in addition to the 10 returners, give the Pioneers more depth than they've had in quite some time.  Casali, a L10 from Southeastern, placed 5th on UB and 6th AA at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  She was also 4th on VT and 30th(t) AA at the 2018 Nationals.  Hutchinson is the daughter of former Bulgarian great Silvia Mitova and competed for Hungary at the 2016 Europeans, the same year she won L10 National titles on VT and FX.  More recently, following some knee problems, she tied for 17th AA and 10th on FX at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  She's coming off a strong 2020, with a 38.65 season high AA.  Mabanta is a former sr. elite from Denton.  In 2018, she won the BB title, placed 3rd(t) on VT and 18th AA at the L10 Nationals.  In 2020, she won her session at the Metroplex Challenge .  Mundell has been a top L10 from IGI for several seasons, qualifying to four Nastia Liukin Cups, including placing 7th AA in 2020.  She was a L10 National Team member in 2019, placing 4th AA and tying for 6th on VT and FX.  She was 2nd on BB at the 2018 L10 Nationals and tied for the UB title at L10 Nationals in 2017.  The fifth frosh is Thompson, a L10 National Team members (2018) from Orlando Metro.  She's coming off a strong 2020, winning AA titles at five invitationals and posting a 39.225, showing a triple twist dismount on FX and 2 1/2 off BB.  In 2019, she was 6th AA, 4th(t) on FX and 6th(t) on BB at the L10 Nationals.  In 2018, she won the National BB title (side aerial to back layout stepout) and placed 4th AA.  

Denver's story is not about how 2020 finished but about big expectations for 2021.  With the return of Brown and Sundstrom and standouts like Vasquez and Glynn, the Pioneers have a strong base upon which to build.  On top of that, they've added five strong frosh that provide much needed depth on the leg events and some potential standout routines to the mix.  Although the Pioneers usually start strong, the large number of frosh and the return of Brown means that the Pioneers could build momentum throughout this season.      

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 20/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 1 UB, 1 BB, 1 FX
Head Coach: Courtney Kupets Carter
Assistants: Josh Overton, Jason Vonk
Returning Starters (10):  Rachel Baumann (Jr), Haley de Jong (So), Loulie Hattaway (SO), Soraya Hawthorne (So), Rachael Lukacs (Jr), Mikayla Magee (Jr), Marissa Oakley (Sr), Alyssa Perez-Lugones (Jr), Megan Roberts (Jr), Abbey Ward (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Sterlyn Austin (Jr), Amanda Cashman (So/I), Emily Schild (Sr)
Graduated (2):  Rachel Dickson (I), Sabrina Vega
Other Losses (0):  N/A 
Newcomers (3):  Nhyla Bryant, Katie Finnegan, Victoria Nguyen

Quick Assessment:   Georgia enters the 2021 season with the #10 Preseason rank, an improvement over their 12th place finish in 2020.  Gone from that squad were star AAers Dickson and Vega.  All-American and former World Championship Gold Medalist Vega competed on up to four events as a senior for UGA, but was a key anchor on BB and FX, with the potential for a 10 on both events.  NCAA All-American Dickson was a key AAer before suffering a season ending injury in January 2020.  She was a key scorer on all four events, but especially valuable on VT and UB.  Although the Gym Dogs only technically lose the 2020 routines from Vega, in reality their scoring potential had been already hit severely by the loss of Dickson.

UGA enters 2020 with a large group of ten returning starters plus three other returnees.  Seniors Oakley and Schild are two former elites that have struggled with injury throughout their career.  Although we say it too often, their health during the long season could really improve the Gym Dogs prospects.  The junior class will be key across the lineups, impacting the team scoring potential and leading with experience on all four events.  WCGA All American Lukacs excels with a double twisting Yurchenko and double layout on FX but also competed AA eight times last season, while Baumann has competed on up to three events, with her best efforts coming on BB (side aerial to back layout).  Classmate Roberts rebounded from injury as a frosh to compete three events as a sophomore.  Another junior, Magee, shines on BB (triple flight) and VT but also is a strong FX worker.  Finally, Perez-Lugones broke through last season and impressed as the lead-off on FX.  The sophomore class will also look to step up contributions in 2021.  de Jong competed last esason primarily on UB and BB, but is capable of an AA impact.  Hawthorne shone on the leg events, VT and FX, but also competed BB.  The return of Cashman from an Achilles' injury could provide a boost, although traditionally we usually see others with the same injury return first on UB and BB. 

The Gym Dogs welcome three frosh, as they seek to replace the scoring power of the two departed stars.  Leading the way is former senior international elite Nguyen.  She was both a junior and senior National Team member who placed 6th on VT and UB at the 2019 American Classic.  She's known for her beautiful flexibility and presentation, especially on BB, where she has the potential to fully replace Vega's scoring potential.  Georgia will also depend on immediate contributions from Finnegan (Apex), who has graduated early to join this class.  In 2019, she placed 6th AA and 3rd on UB (stalder to Pak, Van Leeuwen, full-in dismount) at the L10 Nationals.  She was also 7th AA and 3rd(t) on FX in 2018.  The third frosh is Bryant, from the Raleigh School of Gymnastics.  She placed 9th(t) on FX and 37th(t) AA at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  Her best events are VT and FX, with plenty of amplitude and power that provide margin to upgrade in the future.

With the loss of the two stars, UGA will need some of the returnees to step up and fill the scoring gap of the end of the lineup routines that will be missing in 2021.  They'll get a boost from the addition of the frosh, especially Nguyen and Finnegan.  Nguyen in particular has a lot of upside, if she can follow the career arc piloted by Vega.  However, the Gym Dogs will also need to avoid any of the injury issues that have depleted their lineups in the past, especially on the UB, which happens to be the weakest apparatus of some of the roster.  The latter event is where Finnegan, Nguyen and Schild could really elevate the Gym Dog scoring potential.       

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coach:  Jenny Hansen
Associate Head Coach:  Rich Stenger
Assistant:  Geralen Stack-Eaton
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Routines Gone:  1 VT, 2 UB, 1 BB, 2 FX
Returning Starters (8):   Mary Korlin-Down (RS Sr), Ona Loper (Sr), Lexi Montgomery (Sr), Maddie Quarles (RS So), Lexy Ramler (Sr), Halle Remlinger (So), Tiarre Sales (Jr), Hannah Willmarth (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Maya Albertin (So), Kate Grotenhuis (So/I), Mallory LeNeave (So), Abbie Nylin (Jr), Ali Sonier (Jr)
Graduated (4):  Casey Betts, Ivy Lu, Kristin Quaglia, Paige Williams
Other Losses (3):  Carson Cronin (Jr/?), Kaitlyn Higgins (Jr/TR/NU), Andrea Stancik (So/?)
Newcomers (6):  Erin Fortman, Gianna Gerdes, Mya Hooten, Katie Horak, Emily Koch, Ella Sirjord

Quick Assessment:   Minnesota finished 10th in the rankings last season, and find themselves down one spot in the Coaches' Preseason rankings.  They lose six routines from seven departed gymnasts.  Foremost in those losses are the routines from former stars Lu and Williams. Lu was a 10.0 threat on both events.  Her grace and execution helped elevate the Gophers back on the national radar. Williams competed as an AAer earlier in her career, and was a key end of the lineup performer on FX.  Quaglia was a dependable depth performer on VT and UB, while Betts battled injury as an underclassman but contributed as a senior on up to two events.

The Gophers will be led, once again, by Loper and Ramler, who are now both seniors.  The two stars have been a potent one-two punch since their freshman seasons.  Ramler's beautiful lines, toepoint and execution have made her a fan favorite.  She's a 10.0 threat on multiple events, and was the #1 gymnast on BB last season (by NQS) and is the #2 returning gymnast on the UB.  Loper's lines and crisp execution also bring in some big scores, especially on VT with her Yurchenko 1 1/2.  Junior Sales is another key potential AAer, known not just for her BB work but for an UB set that ends with a full twisting double layout.  Sophomore Remlinger was the top rookie, with powerful VT and FX sets that could see upgrades this season.  A big variable this season will be the health and readiness of Quarles.  The former DU transfer lent her Yurchenko 1 1/2 to the lineups last season but she is capable of being an AA star.  Korlin-Downs is returning for her sixth season as a key BB specialist.  The Gophers will also look to get juniors Nylin and Sonier back into the lineup.  Sonier, in particular, was a steady performer on up to three events last season.  Both were looking strong in recent practice footage, with Nylin hitting a triple series on BB.   

Minnesota welcomes six frosh for 2021, as they seek to boost their depth and find replacements for the high scoring routines from Lu and Williams.  Hooten, a L10 from Classic Gymnastics, will certainly be that and more on the power events.  She was the L10 National champ on FX (full-in) in 2019.  She was also the runnerup on FX in 2017, and placed 7th AA in 2017 and 8th AA in 2018.  She is also training a Yurchenko 1 1/2 for this season.  Gerdes, a L10 from Gym X-Treme, tied for 10th AA at the 2017 L10 Nationals.  She also won a Regional title on VT and qualified to Nationals in 2018.  In 2020, she a trio of AA titles at various invitationals and hit a new career best 38.275 in the AA.  Fortman, a L10 from Flyaways Gold, was a L10 National qualifier and Region IV FX champ in 2019 with a clean front layout to front double full.  Coming from Revolution, Horak is another 2019 L10 National qualifer.  She was also the Level 9 Western National AA and BB champ in her division in 2018.  This past season, she won a trio of invitational meets and hit a 37.625 AA career high.  Emily Koch, trained as L10 most recently at Legacy Gymnastics.  She tied for 10th on FX (front double full-punch front) at the 2019 L10 Nationals.  She also finished 7th in 2017.  Last but not least, Sirjord, a L10 from Jam Hops, tied for 3rd on BB and 10th on FX (front double full) at the 2019 JO Nationals.     

Minnesota looks to boost their ranking this season and break into the Top 8.  To do that, they'll not only need to keep their three AAers healthy, but find strong routines to replace the other departed stars.  Hooten looks like she'll boost the VT and FX lineups, but a combination of returnees and frosh must step up to elevate the depth chart to the level of the leaders.  Depth on UB is perhaps a concern, with the frosh mostly excelling on the other events.  In contrast, VT looks to be a strength this season.  

Official Web Site:  Link      Schedule      Roster
Head Coach:  Tim Garrison
Associate Head Coach:  Rachel Garrison
Assistant: Chuck Dickerson
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Routines Gone:  2 VT, 2 UB, 2 BB, 2 FX
Returning Starters (8):  Josie Angeny (Jr), Kaitlin DeGuzman (So), Shealyn Luksik (So), Megan Monfredi (Jr), Cally Nixon (Jr), Arianna Patterson (Jr), Ella Warren (Sr), Raena Worley (So)
Other/Injured Returners (7):  Raina Albores (So), Madison Averett (Sr), Anna Haigis (Jr), Mackenzie Harman (Sr), Kassidy Howell (So), Ashlyn Laclair (So), Elyssa Roberts (So)
Graduated (4):   Mollie Korth, Alaina Kwan, Katherine Marianos, Hailey Poland
Other Losses (1):  Allison Snyder (Sr/I/R)
Newcomers (7):  Bailey Bunn, Makenna Clarke (So/TR/Arkansas), Carissa Clay, Hailey Davis, Isabella Magnelli, Gianna Ortiz, Krista Zultevicz (I)

Quick Assessment:   Kentucky finished the 2020 season in 13th position, and rise to 12th in the Preseason poll.  They did, however, lose some key pieces from 2020.  Korth joined the Wildcats in January of her frosh season, after graduating early from high school.  She had an immediate impact as a frosh and didn't slow a bit throughout her four seasons at UK.  She'll be especially missed on VT and FX.  Poland was a key member of the BB and FX lineups, while Kwan provided depth on VT and UB. 

The post-Korth era begins under the leadership of senior Warren, juniors Angeny, Nixon and Patterson, and sophomore Worley.  Warren emerged as a key all-arounder in 2020, hitting 39.375 across the four events.  While known for her beautiful, tight form on BB and FX in prior seasons, her emergence as an AAer really helped UK last season.  Junior Angeny expanded to three events in 2020, but shone brightest on BB with a bhs to two layouts. Nixon expanded her efforts in 2020 as well, adding a beautiful and flighty Yurchenko Layout Full to her precise UB work.  Classmate Patterson continues to impress with a huge pike front 1/2 on VT, and also competed BB and FX last season.  Sophomore Worley could be in store for an even better 2021, with another year of experience benefitting the talented AAer.  The Wildcats could also use broader contributions from DeGuzman, a former elite who has been working back from injury.  Likewise, classmate Albores has the potential to expand beyond FX and UB.  

Kentucky brings aboard no less than seven newcomers as they seek to replace the big missing routines.  Leading the class are Magnelli and Bunn.  Magnelli is a 2020 Nastia Liukin Cup qualifer from ENA Paramus.  She's also a two-time L10 National qualifier who tied for 3rd BB and placed 11th AA in 2018.  She excels on VT and brings another front pike 1/2 to the lineup.  She's complemented by Bunn (Rose's), a 2018 L10 National Team member.  This past season, she won the AA title at four invitationals, including a sweep at the Elevate the Stage meet with a career-high 38.275.  Clay is a three-time L10 Regional qualifier who trained with the Mission Valley YMCA program.  Davis is a two-time L10 National qualifier from New Bern.  This past season, she won her session at the Atlanta Centennial Classic with a 38.125.  Ortiz is a two-time L10 National qualifier from Orlando Metro.  This past season, she posted a 38.325 in the AA.  Zultevicz is a two-time L10 National qualifier (2017, 2019) who tied for 4th on VT in 2017.  Unfortunately, she was reportedly injured during the preseason.  Arkansas transfer Clarke didn't compete as a frosh but is a two-time L10 National qualifier who placed 8th on BB in 2019.  These athletes all seem to have a strong trajectory in 2020, and we'll see if that translates into an immediate impact in 2021.   

Kentucky enters 2021 with a large (22) squad led by some talented and experienced core athletes.  They lose a bit of scoring "punch" from star Korth, but will instead look to a collection of returnees and newcomers to close the gap left by the departed veterans.  Gymnasts like Worley and Warren will need to take their gymnastics up to the next level, while the large squad reinforces the depth behind the leaders.  The Wildcats have shown a good progression of steady improvement, and we should see more of that this season, especially from the underclassmen.    

Teams #13 to #25

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