Displaying items by tag: capsule previews

 1.  Florida Gators

2.  OU Sooners

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Rhonda Faehn
Assistants: Adrian Burde, Robert Ladanyi
Returning Starters (6):  Claire Boyce (So), Bridgette Caquatto (Jr), Bianca Dancose-Giambattisto (Jr), Kytra Hunter (Sr), Bridget Sloan (Jr), Rachel Spicer (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Morgan Frazier (Jr), Jamie Shisler (Sr),  Kiersten Wang (Sr)
Graduated (3):  Mackenzie Caquatto, Alaina Johnson, Lauren Rose
Other Losses (1):  Sophia Colussi-Pelaez (TR/Oregon St)
Newcomers (4):  Kennedy Baker, Ericha Fassbender, Grace McLaughlin, Alex McMurtry
Quick Assessment:  The Florida Gators topped the Preseason Coaches' Poll, despite the loss of standouts Alaina Johnson and Mackenzie Caquatto.  The pair accounted for 7 of the Gators 24 routines, most in the bottom half (higher scoring) of the lineup.  For many teams, this could be a rebuilding year.  The Gators lost four athletes from last year's squad, but gain five.  The strength of this powerful class has the potential to help propel the Gators to a tri-peat.  But the core of this squad is two former NCAA AA champions, Kytra Hunter and Bridget Sloan.  No team has quite the one-two punch this pairs affords.  They'll be capably supported by vets Bridgette Caquatto and Rachel Spicer, each three event gymnasts last season.  The frosh, though, bring firepower of their own.  Baker is a former Senior National Team member with huge skills, while McMurtry was a dominant force in the L10 ranks who had the skills to easily go elite.  Both also have tremendous power and high level skills on vault and floor, an area in which the Gators have fallen behind as of late.  Joining them are former Senior National Team member Grace McLaughlin and former elite Ericha Fassbender, with the latter coming off a strong season as a L10. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Assistants: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Returning Starters (8):   Erica Brewer (Sr), Chayse Capps (So), Rebecca Clark (Sr), Maile'ana Kanewa (Jr), Kara Lovan (So), Keeley Kmieciak (Jr), Haley Scaman (Jr), McKenzie Woffard (So)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Reagan Hemry (So), Charity Jones (So), Hunter Price (Jr), Haley Sorensen (Sr)
Graduated (5):  Lara Albright, Lauren Alexander, Madison Mooring, Taylor Spears, Hayden Ward
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (5):  Ali Jackson, Natalie Brown, Stefani Catour, Samantha Craus, Brenna Dowell
Quick Assessment:  Last season, the OU Sooners completed their rise and claimed a share of the podium.  The Sooners did it by combining their well known high levels of execution on bars and beam with some newly recruited power in the leg events.  And this season, they'll be one of the top favorites to take the title once again.  The Sooners did experience the loss of five athletes, but these five only accounted for six routines in the Super Six Finals.  Their leadership, consistency and polish will be missed.  Leading the way for the Sooners will be a quartet of top returners:  the dynamic Erica Brewer, the stylish Chayse Capps, the consistent Kara Lovan, and the powerful Hayley Scaman.  But OU has more than just those four -- the rest of the returners could form a team that could challenge on its own.  To that core, Coach KJ Kindler adds five frosh, headlined by US National Team member Brenna Dowell, standout L10 Ali Jackson, and former elite Stefani Catour.  Those three add even more power, especially on FX and VT.  Some question marks had arisen regarding Dowell following her injury last season, but she seems to be ready to excel.       

3.  LSU Tigers

4.  Alabama Crimson Tide

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 13/24
Head Coach:  Dana Duckworth
Associate Head Coach:  Brian Raschilla
Assistant:  Bill Lorenz
Returning Starters (6):  Katie Bailey (So), Lauren Beers (Jr), Kaitlyn Clark (Sr), Lora Leigh Frost (Sr), Amanda Jetter (So), Aja Monet-Sims
Other/Injured Returners (6):  Hunter Dennis (Sr), Keely McNeer (So), Dominique Pegg (So), Mary Lillian Sanders (So), Carley Sims (Jr), Kayla Williams (I/Sr)
Graduated (5):   Sarah DeMeo, Ria Dormier, Lindsey Fowler, Kim Jacob, Diandra Milliner
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (5):  Mackenzie Brannan, Nickie Guerrero, Jennie Loeb, Mackenzie Valentin (So, TR/Arizona), Kiana Winston
Quick Assessment:  Bama is facing some daunting losses headed into this season, not to mention the loss of their iconic Head Coach Sarah Patterson.  Former assistant and Bama star Data Duckworth is picking up the reigns of the tradition, but is doing so without three huge stars, including NCAA AA champ Kim Jacob.  Jacobs plus Sarah Demeo and Diandra Milliner combined for nearly half of Bama's routines in the Super Six last season, most in the latter half of the lineup.   The six core returnees are led by Katie Bailey, Lauren Beers, Kaitlyn Clark and Aja Monet-Sims.  In addition to that quartet, the Tide hope to get the services of former World Champion Kayla Wiliams and Canadian Olympian Dominique Pegg.  The Coaches' have placed Bama fourth in the Preseason poll, in recognition of all the elite level talent on the team.  These veterans will supplemented by a strong class, including former elite Mackenzie Brannan, L10 standout Nickie Guerrero and elite Kiana Winston, who is still coming back from injuries.  For Bama, how high they rise will depend on the overall health of their stars and how much the newcomers to the lineup can step up their contributions.  

5.  UCLA Bruins

6.  Utah Utes

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Valerie Kondos Field
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Waller
Assistant: Randy Lane
Returning Starters (7):  Sadiqua Bynum (Sr), Sophina DeJesus (Jr), Ellette Craddock (Jr), Danusia Francis (Jr), Hallie Mossett (So), Jennifer Pinches (So), Sam Peszek (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (5): Angi Cipra (I/So), Michaela Gerber (So), Christine "Peng Peng" Lee (I/So), Jessy MacArthur (So), Alex Waller (So)
Graduated (3):  Olivia Courtney, Dana McDonald, Syndey Sawa
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (8):  Rechelle Dennis, Karli Dugas, Napualani Hall, JaNay Honest, LaNiesha-Jopre Irvin, Sonya Meraz, Melissa Metcalf, Jordan Williams (GS/I, TR/Arizona)
Quick Assessment:  UCLA finished last season with a fifth place finish in the packed evening sesson of the NCAA semi-finals.  They finished just 0.125 out of a spot in the Super Six, despite a season marred with injuries and inconsistency.  The Bruins find themselves in fifth place in the Preseason Poll, elevated by the decision of Sam Peszek to return for a fifth season.  She'll be needed, as the Bruins will sorely miss the services of Oliva Courtney and Sydney Sawa.  Peszek's and Pinches' decision to return for this season is perhaps Coach Valerie Kondos-Field's biggest "recruiting" coup of the off-season.  The Bruins will also expect big scores from Brit Danusia Francis and increased contributions from sophomore Hallie Mossett, a former elite.  Also returning from an extended series of injuries is Christine Peng-Peng, a talented Canadian whose true potential has been limited by extensive injuries.  Headlining the large incoming are former elites Pua Hall and Melissa Metcalf, complete with big skills like Double Arabians and solid execution..  In addition, Rachelle Dennis, JaNay Honest and LaNiesha-Jopre Irvin are all coming off solid senior years as L10s and will provide much needed depth, especially on vault.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coaches: Greg and Megan Marsden
Assistant: Tom Farden
Returning Starters (7):  Georgia Dabritz (Sr), Kailah Delaney (Jr), Breanna Hughes (Jr), Corrie Lothrop (Sr), Baely Rowe (So),  Becky Tutka (Sr), Tori Wilson (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Haley Lange (So), Kassandra Lopez (Jr)
Graduated (4):  Nansy Damianova, Lia Del Priore, Hailey Hansen, Mary Beth Lofgren
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (4):   Kari Lee, TIffani Lewis, Samantha Partyka, Maddy Stover
Quick Assessment: The Utes find themselves sixth in the Preseason Poll, despite the loss of eight routines and four graduated seniors.  And, the Pac 12 Coaches' have dubbed the Utes the Preseason favorite to win the Conference title, ahead of the Bruins.  The Utes, in fact, finished fourth in their session of the NCAA Semi-Finals, just behind NU.  This season, they'll look to not only make it back to the Super Six, but to close the gap on the top three.  This will be the season to do it.  They'll be lead by seniors Georgia Dabritz, Corrie Lothrop and Tori Wilson.  All three could be AAers, if they can make the lineup in each event.  These veterans will be joined by Kailah Delaney, a strong vaulter, and an improved Breanna Hughes and Baely Rowe.  Unfortunately, senior Becky Tutka has been slowed by injuries but junior Kassandra Lopez is on the way back from injury.  Pushing all this experience will be four standout frosh:  Kari Lee, Tiffani Lewis, Samantha Partyka and Maddy Stover.  They'll provide not only depth, but possibly could provide top level scores, especially on BB.  In particular, Lee and Stover have the execution, flexibility and grace that can produce the top level scores that the Utes will need to make it back to the Super Six.  The balance beam and maturation of the frosh will tell how far Utah might rise.    

7.  Georgia Gym Dogs

8.  Michigan Wolverines

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Head Coach: Danna Durante
Assistants: Jay Hogue, Philip Ogletree
Returning Starters (8):  Mary Beth Box (Jr), Ashlynn Broussard (So), Kiera Brown (So), Chelsea Davis (Sr), Brandie Jay (Jr), Lauren Johnson (So/I), Morgan Reynolds (So), Brittany Rogers (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Demetria Hunte (Sr), Whitney Kirby (Sr), Sarah Persinger (Sr), Beth Roberts (So), Rachel Schick (So)
Graduated (3):  Lindsey Cheek, Kaylan Earls, Cat Hires
Other Losses (1):  Anysia Unick (I/R)
Newcomers (5):  Jasmine Arnold, Viviana Babalis, GiGi Marino, Hayley Sanders, Natalie Vaculik
Quick Assessment:  The Georgia Gym Dogs overcame the loss of some key veterans and not only qualified for the Super Six, but finished fifth.  Once again, the Gym Dogs find themselves without some key departed veterans and are looking forward to the challenge of making it back to Super Six.  In particular, UGA's Lindsey Cheek and Kaylan Earls were key athletes that consistently delivered 9.9+ routines near the end of the UGA lineups.  Coach Danna Durante's Gym Dogs have previuosly defied expectations and overcome graduation losses to finish among the leaders  To stay at that level, they'll need some big scores from senior bar ace Chelsea Davis and juniors Brandie Jay and Brittany Rogers.  Rogers competed injured at the end of last season; they look to get her back in more events.  Also giving the squad a boost will be the return of Sarah Persinger.  The sophomores will also look to make a step forward and take on starring roles, especially Ashlyn Broussard, Kiera Brown and Morgan Reynolds.  UGA will also look to its large frosh class to step in immediately, as they'll provide both depth and some potentially high scoring routines.  In particular, Canadian Natalie Vaculik has elite level polish and some top level skills.  Similarly, Vivi Babalis shines on beam and floor, while GiGi Marino tumbles some top skills on Floor (double layout, pike full-in).

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 13/24
Head Coach: Bev Plocki
Assistants: Dave Kuzara, Scott Sherman
Returning Starters (5):  Nicole Artz (So), Briley Casanova (Jr), Talia Chiarelli (So), Sachi Sugiyama (Sr), Lindsay Williams (So)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Annette Miele (Sr), Brooke Parker (Sr), Austin Sheppard (I/Jr)
Graduated (5): Teresa Arthur, Natalie Beilstein, Shelby Gies, Joanna Sampson, Reema Zhakharia
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (6):  Brianna Brown, Nichelle Christopherson, Ilana Gordon, Cailee Hills, Lauren Marinez (I), India McPeak
Quick Assessment:   Michigan starts the season having lost nearly half of their routines from last year's NCAA Semi-Finals appearance and return just five starters from that lineup.  What's more, these departed athletes, especially Natalie Beilstein and Joanna Sampson, consistently produced some of the top scores in the NCAA.  The loss of so much scoring potential, experience and leadership provides a big opportunity for the new team to step up.   Leading the way will be senior AAer Sachi Sugiyama and sophomore Nicole Artz.  They provide AA potential and important scores late in the lineup.  Also looking strong in the preseason is sophomore Talia Chiarelli and junior Briley Casanova.  However, a big variable for the Wolverines will be junior Austin Sheppard.  She broke her ankle prior to Regionals, and she can play an important role for this year's squad.  This year, the Wolverines will need to have even bigger contributions from their frosh.  Leading the way is Brianna Brown, a former elite who is coming off a strong year as a L10.  She'll be potential AAer in her first year.  However, another potential key gymnast, Lauren Marinez is injured while both Cailee Hills and India McPeak are working their way back from injury.  Injuries and depth are the key issues here and will tell the tale of how far Michigan can rise this year. 

9.  Nebraska Cornhuskers

10.  Stanford Cardinal

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning:  18/24
Head Coach: Dan Kendig
Assistants:  Heather Brink, Dan Miller
Returning Starters (7):  Hollie Blanske (Jr), Jessie DeZiel (Sr), Amanda Lauer (Jr), Jennifer Lauer (Sr), Jennie Laeng (So), Ariel Martin (So), Desire Stephens (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Ashley Lambert (So), Madison McConkey (Jr)
Graduated (2):  Jamie Schleppenbach, Emily Wong
Other Losses (1):  Sean Tafuri (signee)
Newcomers (3):  Danielle Breen, Kamerin Moore, Grace Williams
Quick Assessment:  Nebraska's season finished on a high note with a sixth place finish in the Super Six.  They overachieved once again, taking a small squad and working themselves into some of the best gymnastics of their careers.  Gone from that squad are just two gymnasts representing six routines, but Emily Wong was usually good for a 9.9+ on each event.  On a naturally less-deep squad, this would have a big impact.  But for the Huskers, things are looking bright.  Back to lead the team are potential AAers Hollie Blanske, Jessie DeZiel and Jennie Laeng.  They will be capably supported by a wide range of specialists, including Ariel Martin and Jennifer Lauer.  This forms a strong and experienced core.  Supplementing that core is perhaps Nebraska's finest recruiting class in years.  All three are coming off of strong Level 10 club seasons, and look set to contribute immediately.  Former elite Grace Williams leads the way, and she is a three time JO L10 National AA champ.  Clubmate Kamerin Moore is a former elite who won a National UB title at the JO level in 2014.  Breen is yet another potential AAer, and she made the Level 10 JO National team in 2014.  Given the NU's coaching staff's penchant for getting the most out of their athletes, starting with this much talent could lead to great things in the future.  These three, while not throwing some of the big skills of other former elites, excel with their grace and execution.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 20/24
Head Coach: Kristen Smyth
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Swircek
Assistant:  Tabitha Yim
Returning Starters (9):  Melissa Chuang (Jr), Rachel Daum (So), Jenna Frowein (Jr), Danielle McNair (So), Nicolette McNair (So), Taylor Rice (Jr), Samantha Shapiro (Sr), Kristina Vaculik (Sr), Rebecca Wing (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (5): Carinne Gale (So), Pauline Hanset (Jr/I), Ivana Hong (Sr/I), Sophia Lee (So/I), Haley Spector (So)
Graduated (3):  Shona Morgan, Amanda Spinner, Lucy Meyer
Other Losses (1):  Alex Archer (I)
Newcomers (1):  Elizabeth Price
Quick Assessment:   Stanford finished 4th in their session of the NCAAs, 0.5 points out of a spot in the Super Six.  They lose just three gymnasts representing four routines from that starting lineup. However, two of those routines were the critical leadoff and anchor routines on beam.  The squad in 2014 depended quite a bit on an inexperienced Frosh class.  A year later, these gymnasts, now sophomores, could take an even bigger role on this squad.  The returning squad does boast plenty of upperclassman leadership and experience.  They are led by senior and Canadian Olympian Kristina Vaculik, one of the top returning AAers in the NCAA.  Joining her is junior Taylor Rice and senior specialist Samantha Shapiro.  They form a key core at the center of the team.  Three of the sophomores had big debut seasons:  Rachel Daum, Danielle McNair and Nicolette McNair.  Any of the three could step forward into a starring role this season. There is also a lot of potential in athletes that were injured in 2014, in particular former elites Ivana Hong and Sophia Lee.  And it goes without saying that the Cardinal will look immediately to US National Team member and Olympic alternate Elizabeth Price as an immediate AA force.  She'll be more than enough to replace the lost routines.  However, it will be the return of Hong and the further development of the sophomores that will tell the tale of how far this team can rise. 

11.  Oregon State Beavers

12.  Auburn Tigers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 19/24
Head Coach: Tanya Chaplin
Associate Head Coach:  Mike Chaplin
Assistant:  Brian Amato
Returning Starters (10):  Erika Aufiero (Jr), Maddie Gardiner (So), Megan Jimenez (So), Taylor Keeker (Sr), Kaytianna McMillan (So), Katelyn Ohlrich (Jr), Kailie Ponto (Sr), Chelsea Tang (Jr), Nicole Turner (Jr), Cerise Witherby (Jr),
Other/Injured Returners (1):  Taylor Ricci (So)
Graduated (3):  Kelsey Blalock, Hannah Casey, Brittany Harris
Other Losses (2):  Kana Kobayashi (R/I), Jaime Wright (R/I)
Newcomers (5):  Silvia Colussi-Pelaez (So, TR/Florida), Dani Dessaints, Shireen Khamedoost, Risa Perez (Jr, TR/ASU), Jamie Rademacher (Jr, TR/EMU)
Quick Assessment:   The Beavers finished third in their Regional, edged from a spot at Nationals by host PSU.  A few untimely injuries limited the Beavers from their full potential at the end of the season, in particular on vault.  Leading the way in 2015 are AAers Maddie Gardiner and Chelsea Tang, who both have NCAA experience.  Junior Erika Aufiero, the ace on UB, leads a wide range of specialists on this large squad.  Oregon State will also look for expanded contributions from Kaytianna McMillan, a potential AAer who was limited by injury last season.  They'll also welcome five newcomers, three of whom come with experience as transfers.  Silvia Colussi-Pelaez is an elite with World Championships experience who coould blossom in Corvallis.  Former ASU star Risa Perez is a standout on FX, where her personality and dance skills shine.  Vault was a weakness last year, and this is where having a healthy squad and some more dynamic vaulting will help.  Because of the depth of the NCAA and the parity enhanced by the code, the Beavers will be in the thick of a battle to earn one of the remaining spots at Nationals.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Head Coach: Jeff Graba
Assistants: Kurt Hettinger, Jenny Rowland
Starting Routines Returning: 24/24
Returning Starters (9):  Caitlin Atkinson (Jr), Lexus Demers (Jr), Kullen Hlawek (So), Caryn Kadous (Sr), Kait Kluz (Jr), Kelsey Kopec (Jr), MJ Rott (So), Megan Walker (Sr), Brittany Webster (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Meggie Lim (So), Lucia Scaglione (So), Kelsey Thomasson (Sr)
Graduated (1):   Nicole Galluzo
Other Losses (2):  Kara Koster (Jr/?), Miranda Telmanik (So/?)
Newcomers (6):  Brooke Bray, Kennedy Finnister (I), Sarah Garcia, Blake Jones, Abby Milliet, Cara Stricklin
Quick Assessment:  Auburn had a strong 2014 campaign, marred at the end by an injury to star AAer Bri Guy (dual Achilles' tears, a very tough injury) and to the other star AAer, Caitlin Atkinson (could not compete FX at Regionals).  In part due to this, AU struggled at Regionals, placing fifth after a poor performance on the UB.  Hopes are high for the squad in 2015, with the Coaches' giving them the nod for 12th place in the Preseason rankings.  They'll be led again by Atkinson, fully recovered and once again a force.  She'll be capably supported by last year's top frosh, the powerful MJ Rott, and elegant senior Megan Walker, a key end of the lineup gymnast on UB and BB.  A wide range of specialists will provide depth and top level skills, particularly on FX, where gymnasts like Lexus Demers and Brittany Webster give the squad big E skills like pike full-ins.  The big question for the Tigers is how quickly can Guy come back from such a serious injury.  She's already tumbling and vaulting, albeit not yet at the level of her considerable talent.  Instead, the Tigers can look to a boost from a large frosh class, headlined by elite Abby Milliet.  Milliet could be a difference maker, if she is able to compete to the best of her abilities.  Getting to Nationals is becoming tougher and tougher, and AU is on the hot seat.   

 1.  Florida Gators

2.  Alabama Crimson Tide

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Rhonda Faehn
Assistants: Adrian Burde, Robert Ladanyi
Returning Starters (8):  Bridgette Caquatto (So), Mackenzie Caquatto (Sr), Bianca Dancose-Giambattisto (So), Kytra Hunter (Jr), Alaina Johnson (Sr), Jamie Shisler (Jr), Bridget Sloan (So), Rachel Spicer (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Morgan Frazier (So), Lauren Rose (Sr), Kiersten Wang (Jr)
Graduated (4):  Ashanee Dickerson, Marissa King, Dali Lemezan, Randy Stageberg
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (2):  Claire Boyce, Sophia Colussi-Pelaez
Quick Assessment:  The defending Champions are looking to begin a Gator Dynasty by successfully defending their title in April.  They'll be led by NCAA Champion Sloan, who is looking better than ever in Fall training.   Her biggest rival may be across the gym:  2012 AA champ Hunter.  Add in 2013 NCAA UB champion Johnson and you have at as potent and experienced 1-2-3 punch as any in the country.   What's more, five time All American Mackenzie Caquatto is looking stronger than ever on all four events in pre-season training.  The loss of Dickerson and King is huge, especially in the leg events.  Aside from Hunter, this 2014 Florida squad is typified by style and quality of execution, rather than big tumbling skills and "beyond 10.0" vaults.  The two frosh extend this trend, with elite polish and long lines.  This squad may not throw as many FIG "E" level skills as others, but what they do compete, they compete with exceptional grace and execution.  

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Sarah & David Patterson
Assistants: Dana Duckworth, Brian Raschilla
Returning Starters (7):  Lauren Beers (So), Kaitlyn Clark (Jr), Sarah DeMeo (Sr), Lora Leigh Frost (Jr), Kim Jacob (Sr), Diandra Milliner (Sr),  Kayla Williams (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Hunter Dennis (Jr), Ria Domier (Sr), Lindsey Fowler (Sr), Carley Sims (so)
Graduated (4):  Becca Alexin, Marissa Gutierrez, Ashley Priess, Ashley Sledge
Other Losses (2):  Olivia Carisella (Sr), Brooke Parker (TR, Michigan)
Newcomers (6):  Katie Bailey, Amanda Jetter, Keely McNeer, Dominique Pegg, Mary Lillian Sanders, Aja Sims
Quick Assessment:  Bama will surely miss a strong senior class, led by Priess and Sledge.  The talent, experience and leadership of a such a strong class of athletes is difficult to instantly replace.  However, Bama's stellar incoming class could quickly make this squad deeper and stronger than last year.  The Tide will be led this season by DeMeo, Jacob and Milliner.  All three seniors are looking strong in preseason training, and look to be set for strong final campaigns.  Returnees Clark, Williams and Beers also look stronger than last season, making the core of the squad solid.  The big question that remains is how quickly will the frosh adjust to collegiate life and competition, and who among the returnees and newcomers will step up to deliver the 9.9+ scores of the departing class.  Will it be Aja Sims or Jetter, or will Williams have a breakout season?  With a large and talented squad, it could be any number of athletes.  One thing you can be certain of, however, is that Bama will deliver.

3.  OU Sooners

4.  UCLA Bruins

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 12/24
Head Coach: Valerie Kondos Field
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Waller
Assistant: Randy Lane
Returning Starters (5):  Sadiqua Bynum (Jr), Olivia Courtney (Sr), Sophina DeJesus (So), Danusia Francis (So), Sydney Sawa (Sr/I)
Other/Injured Returners (5): Ellette Craddock (RS So), Mattie Larson (Jr), Christine "Peng Peng" Lee (I/RS Fr), Dana McDonald (Jr), Samantha Peszek (RS Jr/I)
Graduated (5):  Kaelie Baer, Monique de la Torre, Alyssa Pritchett, Lichelle Wong, Vanessa Zamarripa
Other Losses (1):  Asi Peko
Newcomers (6):  Angi Cipra, Mikaela Gerber, Jessy MacArthur, Hallie Mossett, Jennifer Pinches, Alex Waller
Quick Assessment:  UCLA has the largest lost routines from departed gymnasts of any team in the Top 25.  Half of their routines are missing, and they won't have the benefit of hosting Nationals this season. Plus, it's hard to replace the leadership and scoring potential of a Zamarripa.  Fortunately, the Bruins will look to the return of Peszek to help propel the team back to Nationals.  Oliva Courtney and Danusia Francis will need to be right there with Peszek, to help stabilize the bottom half of the Bruin lineups.  Coach Kondos will also need bigger and more consistent contributions from a heathier squad of returnees, like Sawa and DeJesus, to give the frosh some time to adapt.  The frosh could deliver that impact, in particular Gerber, Mossett and Cipra.  With Lee out with an injury and Pinches working her way back into form, the Bruins will be looking for a number of step-up performances this season.    

5.  LSU Tigers

6.  Utah Utes

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 21/24
Head Coach: D-D Breaux
Assistants: Jay Clark, Bob Moore
Returning Starters (9):  Rheagan Courville (Jr), Kaleigh Dickson (Sr), Lloimincia Hall (Jr), Jessie Jordan (Jr), Maliah Mathis (Sr), Sarie Morrison (Sr), Britney Ranzy (Jr), Jessica Savona (So), Randii Wyrick (So)
Other/Injured Returners (4): Casey Duvall (Sr), Lainie Fleming (Sr), Mckenzie Fox (Sr), Michelle Gauthier (So)
Graduated (2):  Ericka Garcia, Britney Taylor
Other Losses (1):   Randi Lau
Newcomers (4):  Sydney Ewing, Ashleigh Gnat, Shonacee Oliva, Shae Zamardi
Quick Assessment:  LSU returned to the Super Six in powerful fashion last season, and will look to continue their rise to National Title contenders this season.  They will be led once again by Courville and Hall, with strong contributions from a strong supporting cast, especially Jordan, Morrison, Wyrick and Savona.  What's scary for the rest of the NCAA is that the young Tiger squad loses just three routines from 2013.  They could easily find those missing routines among the returnees, but they add a strong quartet of incoming athletes, led by Gnat.  Gnat competed some very high level skills as a Level 10, including a nice double twisting layout Yurchenko.  With the confidence and consistency building forward from last season, LSU may be ready to challenge the leaders for that National Title.  With experience, standout stars, high levels of difficulty and depth, the Tigers will be a force to be reckoned with this season. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 24/24
Head Coaches: Greg and Megan Marsden
Assistant: Tom Farden
Returning Starters (9):  Georgia Dabritz (Jr), Nansy Damianova (Sr), Lia Del Priore (Sr), Hailey Hansen (Sr), Breanna Hughes (So), Mary Beth Lofgren (Sr), Kassandra Lopez (Jr), Becky Tutka (Jr), Tori Wilson (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Kailah Delaney (Jr), Haley Lange (So), Corrie Lothrop (RS Sr/I)
Graduated (0):  N/A
Other Losses (1):  Taylor Allexx (So)
Newcomers (1):  Baely Rowe
Quick Assessment: The Utes found themselves in unfamiliar territory at the end of the season last year, sitting outside of the Super Six.  Ending in 9th was a reflection of the youth and inexperience of the squad.  The upside of that learning experience is that the Utes are now the only squad in the Top 25 to return their entire starting lineup.  What's more, they welcome back Lothrop, a top AA force in the past.  Lothrop will especially help lend stability to the BB lineup, where the Utes struggled at times.  The mew Utes have emerged as a bit of a power team, showing big E skills on Floor and strong vaulting.  However, it will come down to consistency on BB and eliminating small mistakes on the UB, as the Utes look to challenge for a spot in the Super Six once again.  To this end, Dabritz and Wilson lead the way, with capable support from Lofgren and Damianova.  The latter looks especially strong in training.

7.  Michigan Wolverines

8.  Georgia Gym Dogs

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coach: Bev Plocki
Assistants: Dave Kuzara, Scott Sherman
Returning Starters (8):  Natalie Beilstein (RS Sr), Briley Casanova (So), Shelby Gies (Sr), Annette Miele (Jr), Joanna Sampson (Sr), Austin Sheppard (So), Sachi Sugiyama (Jr), Reema Zhakharia (Sr),
Other/Injured Returners (2): , Teresa Arthur (Sr), Lindsay Williams (So)
Graduated (2):  Britnee Martinez, Katie Zurales
Other Losses (2): Stephanie Colbert (R/assistant), Morgan Smith (?)
Newcomers (3):  Nicole Artz, Talia Chiarelli, Brooke Parker (JR/TR Bama)
Quick Assessment:   Michigan loses some key leadership and scoring potential in Martinez and especially Zurales, a key AAer.  Last year's squad missed the Super Six, but with a strong returning core and some talented newcomers, the Wolverines will be looking to make that next step up.  Leading the way is Joanna Sampson, who emerged as one of the NCAA's top AA contenders.  Beilstein and Sugiyama are also right in there, while a much improved Sheppard looks ready to make a big impact this season.  Leading the way for the newcomers, at least in training. is Artz.  With a high level of fitness and a corresponding a high skill level, she looks ready to contribute in any number of events.  With some of the best vaulting and hardest tumbling in the NCAA, Michigan's fortunes may rest on how well they handle the pressures of the beam this season.  This is where the loss of Zurales and Martinez hurts the most and where the newcomers and returnees alike will need to step up.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coach: Danna Durante
Assistants: Jay Hogue, Philip Ogletree
Returning Starters (7):  Lindsay Cheek (Sr), Chelsea Davis (Jr), Kaylan Earls (Sr), Cat Hires (Sr), Brandie Jay (So), Sarah Persinger (Jr), Brittany Rogers (So)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Mary Beth Box (So), Demetria Hunte (Jr), Whitney Kirby (Jr), Anysia Unick (So)
Graduated (4):  Katie Breazeal, Noel Couch, Christa Tanella, Shayla Worley
Other Losses (2):  Bekah Bennetts, Camille Pfister
Newcomers (6):  Ashlyn Broussard, Kiera Brown, Lauren Johnson, Morgan Reynolds, Beth Roberts, Rachel Schick
Quick Assessment:  The new UGA coaching staff got their squad back into the Super Six last season.  The next step in their progression is to make the GymDogs a contender once again for the National title, but just making the Super Six will be tough as it is.  Gone from last year's squad are some key athletes like Couch and Worley.  Replacing Senior leadership is never easy.  But with six newcomers, the staff has many options to work with.  But the veterans form the heart of any team, and the GymDogs will be counting on Cheek, Earls and Hires to provide senior leadership while getting big contributions from Jay and Rogers.  With a full off-season of training and the distractions of the Olympics behind her, Rogers is poised for a big year.  Leading the newcomers in preseason training appears to be Broussard, a talented athlete with big skills.  Brownis also showing well, while some question marks remain around Schick. 

9.  Stanford Cardinal

10.  Nebraska Cornhuskers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Head Coach: Kristen Smyth
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Swircek
Assistant:  Tabitha Yim
Returning Starters (9):  Alex Archer (Jr), Melissa Chuang (So), Ivana Hong (Jr), Shona Morgan (Sr), Taylor Rice (So), Samantha Shapiro (Jr), Amanda Spinner (Sr), Kristina Vaculik (RS Jr), Rebecca Wing (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Jenna Frowein (So), Pauline Hanset (Jr), Lucy Meyer (Sr)
Graduated (2):  Nicole Dayton, Ashley Morgan
Other Losses (1): Maggie Teets (So)
Newcomers (6):  Rachel Daum, Carinne Gale, Sophia Lee, Danielle McNair, Nicolette McNair, Haley Spector
Quick Assessment:   Stanford fought through a tough Regional meet and produced their best meet of the season in qualifying for the National meet.  Their struggles and subsequent 12th place finish at Nationals do not reflect on the full potential of the squad.  However, gone from that squad are six routines, including AAer Morgan.  The Cardinal will look to healthy, full seasons from the likes of AAers Hong and Vaculik, while Spinner, Shapiro and Wing will lend high scores in their specialties.  Of the returnees, Rice looks to be especially improved in early training.  While the core of veterans is in place, what is really exciting at the Farm is the addition of the strongest incoming classes in the NCAA.  Nicolette McNair will look to step in immediately as an AAer, while we'll see how quickly Lee can regain her elite form.  Daum and Danielle McNair are also coming off strong L10 seasons.  The talent is there, and we'll see how far they can take it this season.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning:  15/24
Head Coach: Dan Kendig
Assistants:  Heather Brink, Dan Miller
Returning Starters (5):  Hollie Blanske (So), Jessie DeZiel (Jr), Jennifer Lauer (Jr), Desire Stephens (Jr), Emily Wong (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Jordyn Beck (I/RS Fr), Amanda Lauer (So), Ariel Martin (I/RS Fr), Madison McConkey (So), Jamie Schleppenbach (Sr/I)
Graduated (3):  Janelle Giblin, Brittany Skinner, Kassandra Nathe
Other Losses (1):  Kailyn Hawkins (Jr)
Newcomers (2):  Jennie Laeng, Ashley Lambert
Quick Assessment:   Nebraska's season ended abruptly at Regionals with a subpar effort that began on their opening event.  At the start of last season, Coach Kendig voiced concerns with depth, and that proved to be prophetic, as three individuals advanced for the Huskers.  The Huskers also suffered a number of injuries during the year, further reducing their ranks.  This season, depth is once again a concern with just two newcomers.  However, both are expected to contribute strongly this season and work their way into the lineups immediately.  In addition to the two frosh, NU also welcomes back some injured athletes from last season, including potential standout Martin and veteran Schleppenbach, a potential AAer.  While depth remains an issue, the bottom half of the lineup is strong with AAers DeZiel and Wong leading the way.  Also ready for an expanded role is Blanske, who has had an additional year to come back from an injury she suffered prior to the start of the last school year.     

11.  Arkansas GymBacks

12.  Oregon State Beavers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Mark and Rene Cook
Assistant: Samantha Cortez
Returning Starters (7):  Sydnie Dillard (So), Heather Elswick (So), Erin Freier (So), Keara Glover (So), Katherine Grable (Sr), Shelby Salmon (Sr), Bailee Zumwalde (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Stephani Canizaro (Jr), Scarlett Williams (Sr)
Graduated (3):  Amy Borsellino, Kelci Lewis, Jordan Salsberg
Other Losses (1):  Lily Hardin
Newcomers (5):  Emily Bates, Caillee Ellsworth (JR/TR TWU), Samantha Nelson, Paris Ryder, Amanda Wellick
Quick Assessment:  Arkansas will look for a return trip to Nationals, led by star AAer Grable.  Grable is a potential National threat in the AA, with high levels of difficulty and great lines.  Gone from the squad are three key members of Arkansas squads of the past several years.  In particular, Borsellino had really stepped up her game for her final season.  The GymBacks need the rest of the squad to close the gap between Grable and the rest of the team, and take up the slack created by the graduated Seniors.  Having Canizaro and Williams back in the lineups will help, but it is the frosh will be expected to step in and fill out major roles this season.  Wellick has been a longtime L10 standout, and Ryder and Nelson are coming off solid JO L10 seasons.  How quickly the frosh adapt will tell how strong the Arkansas squad will be come Nationals time. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Head Coach: Tanya Chaplin
Associate Head Coach:  Mike Chaplin
Assistant:  Brian Amato
Returning Starters (7):  Erika Aufiero (So), Kelsey Blalock (RS Sr), Hannah Casey (Sr), Brittany Harris (Sr), Katelyn Ohlrich (Jr), Chelsea Tang (Jr), Cerise Witherby (Jr),
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Taylor Keeker (Jr), Kailie Ponto (Jr), Nicole Turner (So), Jaime Wright (So)
Graduated (4):  Hailey Gaspar, Mel Jones, Stephanie McGregor, Makayla Stambaugh
Other Losses (2):  Sarah Cerami, Sarah Marquez (I)
Newcomers (5):  Maddie Gardiner, Megan Jimenez, Kana Kobayashi, Kaytianna McMillan, Taylor Ricci
Quick Assessment:   The Beavers picked the wrong meet for an uncharacteristic meltdown, suffering numerous falls on UB to fall out of contention for a Nationals berth last season.  The Pac 12 Champions will also be missing standout AAer Stambaugh and fellow All-American Jones.  The loss of such scoring potential and experience will be some large shoes to fill.  Fortunately for the Beavers, they welcome one of their strongest recruiting class in years, led by JO National Champ McMillan and Canadian elite Gardiner.  The core is strong as well, with AAers Harris and Tang and fifth year senior Blalock.  Top sophomore Aufiero also looks strong in preseason training, and other returnees and newcomers will have the opportunity to battle for lineup spots on the large squad.

 1.  Alabama Crimson Tide

2.  UCLA Bruins

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 20/24
Head Coach: Sarah & David Patterson
Assistant: Brian Raschilla
Returning Starters (8):  Kaitlyn Clark (So), Sarah DeMeo (Jr), Marissa Gutierrez (Sr), Kim Jacob (Jr), Diandra Milliner (Jr), Ashley Priess (RS Sr), Ashley Sledge (Sr), Kayla Williams (So)
Other/Injured Returners (7):  Becca Alexin (Sr), Olivia Carisella (Jr), Hunter Dennis (So), Ria Domier (Jr), Lindsey Fowler (Jr), Lora Leigh Frost (So), Brooke Parker (So),
Graduated (2):  Geralan Stack-Easton, Rachel Terry
Other Losses (1):  Hannah Toussaint (Jr)
Newcomers (2):  Lauren Beers, Carley Sims
Quick Assessment: Last season, Bama edged Florida and UCLA to capture their sixth National Championship and their second in a row.  Can they make it a three-peat?  Bama certainly has the tools to do so, returning several stars, including fifth-year senior Ashley Priess.  Bama will miss the top AA and "end of the lineup" scoring potential of Stack-Eaton, but any number of the returnees or newcomers could make up that critical lost routine in each event.  With another year of adjustment under their belt and a strong off-season of training, both Clark and Williams could be poised to step up and make a bigger impact this season. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 13/24
Head Coach: Valerie Kondos Field
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Waller
Assistant: Randy Lane
Returning Starters (6):  Kaelie Baer (Sr), Olivia Courtney (Jr), Monique De La Torre (Sr), Mattie Larson (So), Alyssa Pritchett (RS Sr), Vanessa Zamarripa (RS Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (6): Sadiqua Bynum (So), Ellette Craddock (So), Dana McDonald (So/I), Lichelle Wong (Sr), Samantha Peszek (Jr/I), Sydney Sawa (Jr/I)
Graduated (4):  Tauny Frattone (Sr), Aisha Gerber (Sr), Elyse Hopfner Hibbs (Sr), Tiffany Hyland (Sr)
Other Losses (3): Kassidy Kozai (R/undergrad assistant), Ti Liu, Cassie Whitcomb (R/manager)
Newcomers (4):  Sophina DeJesus, Danusia Francis, Christine "Peng Peng" Lee, Asi Peko
Quick Assessment:  The Bruins host the National Championship meet this April but their hopes for a National Title were dealt a big blow when junior Samantha Peszek tore her Achilles during the preseason.  Her loss, coupled with the loss of Frattone, Gerber and Hopfner-Hibbs means that others will have to step up to fill the gaps immediately.  In particular, the frosh class (which includes Lee, who is still recovering from injury) will have to step up immediately.  

3.  Florida Gators

4.  Oklahoma Sooners

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Assistants: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Returning Starters (6):  Lara Albright (Jr), Erica Brewer (So), Madison Mooring (Jr), Brie Olson (Sr), Haley Sorensen (So), Taylor Spears (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (5):   Lauren Alexander (So), Rebecca Clark (So/I), Kayla Nowak (Sr/I), Lauren Smith (Sr), Hayden Ward (Jr/I
Graduated (4):  Candace Cindell, Megan Ferguson, Natasha Kelley, Sara Stone
Other Losses (0):  N/A
Newcomers (4):  Maile'ana Kanewa, Keeley Kmieciak, Hunter Price, Haley Scaman
Quick Assessment: The Sooners just missed the Super Six finals last season, competing with a squad depleted by injury.  This year, the Sooners lose talented stars Ferguson and Stone, and are once again without the services of the injured Nowak (training accident).  With Ward and Clark working their way back from season-ending injuries, the frosh will be called upon early to contribute.  The Sooner coaching staff has shown the ability to get all of their available athletes contributing at their upmost, so there is little reason not to expect the same this season. 

5.  Utah Utes

6.  Stanford Cardinal

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Head Coaches: Greg and Megan Marsden
Assistant: Tom Farden
Returning Starters (10):  Georgia Dabritz (So), Nansy Damianova (Jr), Kailah Delaney (So), Lia Del Priore (Jr), Hailey Hansen (Jr), Mary Beth Lofgren (Jr), Kassandra Lopez (So), Corrie Lothrop (Jr), Becky Tutka (So), Tori Wilson (So)
Other/Injured Returners (0):  N/A
Graduated (3):  Cortni Beers, Stephanie McAllister, Kyndal Robarts
Other Losses (2):  Fumina Kobayashi (R), Victoria Shanley (R)
Newcomers (3):  Taylor Allexx, Breanna Hughes, Haley Lange
Quick Assessment: The Utes lose some strong leadership and end of the lineup routines to graduation, from Beers, McAllister, and Robarts .  But a strong core returns, and their sophomore class will have an opportunity to contribute in a greater fashion.  Lothrop and Dabritz will be looked upon as two solid AAers, while the frosh will have to work through some off-season injuries. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Head Coach: Kristen Smyth
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Swircek
Assistant:  Tabitha Yim
Returning Starters (8): Nicole Dayton (Sr), Pauline Hanset (So), Ivana Hong (So), Ashley Morgan (Sr), Shona Morgan (Jr), Samantha Shapiro (So), Amanda Spinner (Jr), Rebecca Wing (So)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Alex Archer (So), Lucy Meyer (Jr), Kristina Vaculik (Jr)
Graduated (3):  Alyssa Brown, Nicole Pechanec, Jenny Peter 
Other Losses (0): NA
Newcomers (4):  Melissa Chuang, Jenna Frowein, Taylor Rice, Maggie Teets
Quick Assessment:   Stanford delivered a peak performance at Nationals, placing in fourth just 0.35 points behind the Crimson Tide.  Ashley Morgan and Hong return to lead the squad as seasoned AAers, while return of Canadian Olympian Kristina Vaculik will be a key to making up some of the routines lost to graduation, while the incoming frosh will bolster the squad's depth. 

7.  Nebraska Cornhuskers

8.  LSU Tigers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning:  20//24
Head Coach: Dan Kendig
Assistants:  Heather Brink, Dan Miller
Returning Starters (6):  Jessie DeZiel (So), Janelle Giblin (Sr), Jennifer Lauer (So), Jamie Schleppenbach (Jr), Brittany Skinner (Sr), Emily Wong (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (4):  Kailyn Hawkins (So), Amanda Lauer (So), Kassandra Nathe (Sr), Desire Stephens (So)
Graduated (2):  Lora Evenstad, Katelyn Busacker
Other Losses (1):  Deanna Barmore (?)
Newcomers (4):  Jordyn Beck, Hollie Blanske, Ariel Martin, Madison McConkey
Quick Assessment:   The 2013 Huskers sport a core group of six returnees, from a small squad of eight that competed so well at the National finals.  This group of well-trained athletes will be led once again by soph sensation DeZiel and ever-improving junior Wong.  The frosh could step in on any number events, although Blanske is just coming back from injury.  NU will also get a boost from the return of Nathe, who has battled injuries the last two years. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 22/24
Head Coach: D-D Breaux
Assistants: Jay Clark, Bob Moore
Returning Starters (10):  Rheagan Courville (So), Kaleigh Dickson (Jr), Mckenzie Fox (Jr), Ericka Garcia (Sr/I),  Lloimincia Hall (So), Jessie Jordan (So), Randi Lau (So), Maliah Mathis (Jr), Sarie Morrison (Jr), Britney Taylor (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2): Casey Duvall (Jr), Lainie Fleming (Jr)
Graduated (1):  Ashley Lee
Other Losses (2):   Janelle Garcia (?), Shelby Prunty (?)
Newcomers (4):  Michelle Gauthier, Britney Ranzy (So/TR/Oregon State), Jessica Savona, Randii Wyrick
Quick Assessment:  LSU returns 22 of 24 routines from last year's young squad, powered by last year's underclassmen.  With another year of adjustment and another year of experience, things are looking bright for the Tigers.  On top of that, add in four talented newcomers, including a former L10 JO National AA champ and two elites, and you have the potential to rise even higher this season. 

9.  Oregon State Beavers

10.  Michigan Wolverines

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Tanya Chaplin
Associate Head Coach:  Mike Chaplin
Assistant:  John Carney
Returning Starters (6):  Kelsey Blalock (Sr), Hannah Casey (Jr), Brittany Harris (Jr), Mel Jones (Sr), Makayla Stambaugh (Sr), Chelsea Tang (So)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Taylor Keeker (So), Katelyn Ohlrich (So), Kailie Ponto (So), Stephanie McGregor (Sr/I), Cerise Witherby (So)
Graduated (2):  Leslie Mak, Olivia Vivian
Other Losses (1):  Stefanie Daley (TR/USU)
Newcomers (6):  Erika Aufiero, Sarah Cerami, Hailey Gaspar (Sr/TR from Boise St), Sarah Marquez, Nicole Turner, Jaime Wright
Quick Assessment:   The Beavers lose two important end of the lineup performers in Mak and Vivian.  They'll look to towards the return of McGregor and the contributions from six newcomers this season, especially Gaspar, who excels on vault and has collegiate experience with the Broncos.  Blalock, Harris, Jones and Stambaugh will form the core of the returnees, as the Beavers look to return to Nationals.  The sophomore class could also make a bigger impact this season, now that they've had a season to adjust

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 24/24
Head Coach: Bev Plocki
Assistants: Scott Sherman, Shannon Welker
Returning Starters (8): Stephanie Colbert (Jr), Shelby Gies (Jr), Britnee Martinez (Sr), Annette Miele (So), Joanna Sampson (Jr), Sachi Sugiyama (So), Reema Zhakharia (Jr), Katie Zurales (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2): , Teresa Arthur (Jr), Natalie Beilstein (I/Sr)
Graduated (0):  N/A
Other Losses (1): Kristin Nagle (R)
Newcomers (4):  Briley Casanova, Austin Shephard, Morgan Smith, Lindsay Smith
Quick Assessment: The Wolverines just missed Nationals last season, placing third, just .125 behind Oregon State.  The Coaches have elevated the Wolverines back into the top 10 in the Preseason Poll, likely based on the return of Beilstein and a frosh class loaded with three former elites.  How fast those frosh adjust may determine just how high the Wolverines can rise this season.  Shephard in particular, is coming off a very strong year competing for Hungary while Casanova and Smith both successfully dropped down to L10 last season. 

11.  Georgia GymDogs

12.  Arkansas GymBacks

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Danna Durante
Assistants: Jay Hogue, Philip Ogletree
Returning Starters (8):  Lindsay Cheek (Jr), Noel Couch (Sr), Chelsea Davis (So), Kaylan Earls (Jr), Cat Hires (Jr), Sarah Persinger (So), Christa Tanella (Sr), Shayla Worley (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (5): Bekah Bennetts (Jr), Kati Breazeal (Sr), Demetria Hunte (So), Whitney Kirby (So), Camille Pfister (So)
Graduated (3):  Mariel Box, Kat Ding, Gina Nuccio
Other Losses (1):  Laura Moffatt (?)
Newcomers (4):  Mary Beth Box, Brandie Jay, Brittany Rogers, Anysia Unick
Quick Assessment: Georgia gains a new coaching staff this season, and they are bringing a new approach to the program.  Last season the squad ended one step away from the Super Six, after some problems on beam.  This is an area where Durante excels, and where we could see some immediate impact.  Some step-up efforts and improved consistency will be needed to make up for the loss of Ding and Nuccio.  The GymDogs will also be looking for some quick adjustment from the frosh, especially elite standouts Jay and Rogers.   

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Head Coach: Mark and Rene Cook
Assistant: Samantha Cortez
Returning Starters (7):  Amy Borsellino (Sr), Stephani Canizaro (So), Katherine Grable (Jr), Kelci Lewis (Sr), Shelby Salmon (Jr), Scarlett Williams (Jr), Bailee Zumwalde (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (1):  Jordan Salsberg (Sr)
Graduated (3):  Mariah Howdeshell, Jamie Pisani, Ginny Salvatore
Other Losses (2):  Sammy Kobas (So), Amanda Siebert (?)
Newcomers (5):  Sydnie Dillard, Heather Elswick, Erin Freier, Keara Glover, Lily Hardin
Quick Assessment:  Arkansas made the Super Six last season, powered by the one-two punch of Grable and Pisani.  Pisani is gone, but the GymBacks welcome back Salsberg and five frosh.  Although the Coaches' Poll knocked the squad back all the way to 12th, Arkansas is still capable of much more.  Much of the success of the squad this season will hinge on the health of Borsellino and Grable.  The loss of the 9.9+ scores of Pisani hurts, but is not a knockout punch for this squad. 

 1.  UCLA Bruins

2.  Alabama Crimson Tide

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coach: Valerie Kondos Field
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Waller
Assistant: Randy Lane
Returning Starters (7):  Olivia Courtney (So), Monique De La Torre (Jr), Tauny Frattone (Sr), Aisha Gerber (Sr), Elyse Hopfner Hibbs (Sr), Samantha Peszek (So), Sydney Sawa (So/I)
Other/Injured Returners (6): Kaelie Baer (Sr), Tiffany Hyland (Sr), Kassidy Kozai (So), Alyssa Pritchett (Sr), Lichelle Wong (Jr), Vanessa Zamarripa (RS Jr/I)
Graduated (5):  Talia Kushynski, Brittani McCullough, Mizuki Sato, Allison Taylor, Niki Tom
Other Losses (2): Danielle Greig, Courtney Shannon
Newcomers (6):  Sadiqua Bynum (Fr), Ellette Craddock (Fr), Mattie Larson (Fr), Ti Liu (Fr), Dana McDonald (Fr), Cassie Whitcomb (Fr)
Quick Assessment:  The Bruins lose five gymnasts but only six routines, with four of those coming from graduated AA star and former National FX champ McCullough.  But, Hopfner-Hibbs and NCAA BB champ Peszek both return to lead the way.  The Bruins also return star Vanessa Zamarripa, who should fill the graduation losses immediately.  With added depth from elite frosh Larson and Whitcomb, the Bruins are set to challenge to recapture the title. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 20/24
Head Coach: Sarah & David Patterson
Assistant: Brian Raschilla
Returning Starters (8): Becca Alexin (Jr), Sarah DeMeo (So), Marissa Gutierrez (Jr), Kim Jacob (So), Diandra Milliner (So), Ashley Priess (Sr), Geralan Stack-Easton (Sr), Ashley Sledge (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (5):  Olivia Carisella (So), Ria Domier (So), Lindsey Fowler (So), Rachel Terry (Sr), Hannah Toussaint (So)
Graduated (3): Alyssa Chapman, Kayla Hoffman, Megan Mashburn
Other Losses (1):  Jordan Moore (So/R)
Newcomers (4):  Kaitlyn Clark (Fr), Lora Leigh Frost (Fr), Brooke Parker (Fr), Kayla Williams (Fr)
Quick Assessment: Last season Bama captured the title despite sizeable graduation losses and a large contingent of talented, but inexperienced frosh.  This season, they enter the campaign missing the four routines from star Kayla Hoffman.  But with three elites, including a former World Champion, the Tide are well equipped to defend the title.  Priess, Stack-Eaton and Sledge lead a large contingent of AA options for the Tide.

3.  Florida Gators

4.  Oklahoma Sooners

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 21/24
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Assistants: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Returning Starters (8): Megan Ferguson (Sr), Natasha Kelley (Jr), Madison Mooring (So), Kayla Nowak (Jr), Brie Olson (Jr), Taylor Spears (So), Hayden Ward (So), Sara Stone (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (1): Candace Cindell (Sr)
Graduated (2): Natalie Ratcliff (Sr), Melanie Root (Sr),
Other Losses (2):  Hope Bruce (So/?), Nitya Ramaswami (Jr/?)
Newcomers (6):  Lara Albright (So/TR from UW), Erica Brewer (Fr), Rebecca Clark (Fr), Jaclyn Shelfton (Fr; starts in December), Lauren Smith (So/TR from Texas Tech), Haley Sorensen (Fr)
Quick Assessment: The Sooners started the 2011 season without 9 routines from some key "end of the lineup" stars; but those losses quickly proved to be a nonissue as the vets stepped up while the new frosh added instant depth.  This season, the losses are comparatively minor, although perhaps the losses on vault may be an area of concern.  With another year of experience, the Sooners should be tough once again, proving the value of hard work and good coaching.  The veterans will lead the way, with Brewer the early frosh standout in the released workout videos.

5.  Utah Utes

6.  Nebraska Cornhuskers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 18/24
Head Coaches: Greg and Megan Marsden
Assistant: Tom Farden
Returning Starters (7): Cortni Beers (Sr), Nansy Damianova (So), Lia Del Priore (So), Mary Beth Lofgren (So), Corrie Lothrop (So), Stephanie McAllister (Sr), Victoria Shanley (So/I)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Hailey Hansen (So), Fumina Kobayashi (Jr), Kyndal Robarts (RS Sr)
Graduated (2):  Jacquelyn Johnson, Gael Mackie
Other Losses (1):  Alyssa Gale (So/R/I)
Newcomers (5):  Georgia Dabritz (Fr), Kailah Delaney (Fr), Kassandra Lopez (Fr), Becky Tutka (Fr), Tori Wilson (Fr)
Quick Assessment: The Utes lost half their lineup and four All-Americans in 2010, but a team that had to depend heavily on frosh came through with another Super Six showing in 2011.  This season, another set of five talented frosh could push the Utes to the next level, and possibly challenge for the title.  Preseason training looks to be going well, with no major injuries and the potential for a much stronger tumbling team than we've seen in the past.  However, it is not 100% guaranteed that a strong fall will translate into a strong competitive season. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Head Coach: Dan Kendig
Assistants:  Heather Brink, Dan Miller
Returning Starters (6):  Lora Evenstad (Sr), Janelle Giblin (Jr), Kassandra Nathe (Jr), Jamie Schleppenbach (So), Brittany Skinner (Jr), Emily Wong (So)
Other/Injured Returners (1):  Deanna Barmore (So)
Graduated (4):  Erin Davis, Brittnee Habbib, Maria Scaffidi, Maddie Steinhauer
Other Losses (1):  Kaitlyn Reid (Sr)
Newcomers (6):  Katelyn Busacker (SR TR/Ball State), Jessie DeZiel (Fr), Kailyn Hawkins (Fr/I), Amanda Lauer (Fr), Jennifer Lauer (Fr), Desire Stephens (Fr)
Quick Assessment:  A measure of coaching excellence is how many assistants get lured away to head up other programs.  Such is the case with Nebraska, as hard work and good coaching pushed them to the Super Six once again.  Gone this season are numerous veterans (9 routines) and both assistants.  Leading the way among the incoming frosh is future superstar Jessie DeZiel, an elite and member of the Gold Medal Pan Am Games US team.  Coach Kendig is already citing depth as a possible issue, despite a strong top six lineup on each even

7.  Oregon State Beavers

8.  Stanford Cardinal

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 19/24
Head Coach: Tanya Chaplin
Associate Head Coach:  Mike Chaplin
Assistant:  John Carney
Returning Starters (6):  Kelsey Blalock (Jr), Brittany Harris (So), Mel Jones (Jr), Leslie Mak (Sr), Makayla Stambaugh (Jr), Olivia Vivian (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (2):  Hannah Casey (So), Stephanie McGregor (Sr/I)
Graduated (2):  Becky Colvin, Jennifer Kesler
Other Losses (3):  Leilani Alferos (Jr/TR/Cal), Britney Ranzy (So/TR/LSU), Amanda Schulberg (So/R/I)
Newcomers (6):  Stefanie Daley (Fr), Taylor Keeker (Fr), Katelyn Ohlrich (Fr), Kailie Ponto (Fr), Chelsea Tang (Fr), Cerise Witherby (Fr)
Quick Assessment:   Some unexpected off-season losses have left the Beavers with only nine (original) scholarship athletes (like the Gators).  However, the core set of returners led by Mak, Stambaugh and Vivian should provide enough firepower for the Beavers to challenge for a return trip to Nationals.  The frosh will be expected to step in immediately and fill some gaps in the depth chart, especially if injuries occur.

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 12/24
Head Coach: Kristen Smyth
Associate Head Coach:  Chris Swircek
Assistant:  Tabitha Yim
Returning Starters (5): Alyssa Brown (Sr), Nicole Dayton (Jr), Ashley Morgan (Jr), Shona Morgan (So), Nicole Pechanec (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (3):  Lucy Meyer (So), Jenny Peter (Sr), Amanda Spinner (So)
Graduated (3):  Shelly Alexander, Danielle Ikoma, Allyse Ishino
Other Losses (4): Lauren Caldemeyer (So/R), Alexandra Skoly (Sr/?), Kristina Vaculik (So/sitting out a year to train for the Olmpics), Ming Ya Zhou (Jr/R)
Newcomers (5):  Alex Archer (Fr), Pauline Hanset (Fr), Ivana Hong (Fr), Samantha Shapiro (Fr), Rebecca Wing (Fr)
Quick Assessment:  Falls on the BB proved costly last season as the Cardinal missed Nationals.  The squad also struggled in the post season with injuries and a lack of depth, placing 4th in the conference and 4th again at Regionals.  Gone are four major AAers, creating a gap that would hurt any squad.  All is not lost, however, as Stanford welcomes one of the nation's top recruiting classes.  They'll need the newcomers to adjust quickly and become major contributors if the Cardinal are to return to Nationals

9.  Georgia GymDogs

10.  Michigan Wolverines

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: Jay Clark
Assistants: Julie Ballard-Clark, Doug McAvinn
Returning Starters (8):  Mariel Box (Sr), Lindsay Cheek (So), Noel Couch (Jr), Kat Ding (Sr), Cat Hires (So), Gina Nuccio (Sr), Christa Tanella (Jr), Shayla Worley (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (4): Bekah Bennetts (So), Kati Breazeal (Jr), Kaylan Earls (So), Laura Moffatt (So)
Graduated (2):  Hilary Mauro, Cassidy McComb
Other Losses (0): N/A
Newcomers (5):  Chelsea Davis, Demetria Hunte, Whitney Kirby, Sarah Persinger, Camille Pfister
Quick Assessment: Georgia loses two seniors, but they were two important ones:  McComb and Mauro.  Frosh Davis and Persinger are both former elites and L10 standout Earls is coming back from injury.  Health is a big variable in UGA's quest to return back to the Super Six.  Keeping their stars healthy will be key to their success this season, as the talent is certainly there but many of the key players have missed significant competition time in the past with injuries. 

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 11/24
Head Coach: Bev Plocki
Assistants: Scott Sherman, Shannon Welker
Returning Starters (6): Natalie Beilstein (Jr), Shelby Gies (So), Britnee Martinez (Jr), Joanna Sampson (So), Reema Zhakharia (So), Katie Zurales (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3): Teresa Arthur (So), Stephanie Colbert (So), Kristin Nagle (So)
Graduated (5):  Kylee Botterman, Sarah Curtis, Kari Pearce, Jordan Sexton, Trish Wilson
Other Losses (1): Tori Kane (?)
Newcomers (2):  Annette Miele (Fr), Sachi Sugiyama (Fr)
Quick Assessment: The Wolverines return just 11 routines from last year's Super Six squad.  Gone are five seniors, including NCAA AA Champ Kylee Botterman.  With just two incoming frosh and nine returnees, MIchigan will need to stay healthy and have step-up performances from veterans and newcomers alike.  Four of six UB routines are gone, and this event will be the biggest challenge depth-wise, especially if injuries occur.  These graduation losses explain why the Coaches' poll has them down several notches to start the season. 

11.  Arkansas GymBacks

12.  LSU Tigers

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 17/24
Head Coach: D-D Breaux
Assistants: Bob Moore, Philip Ogletree
Returning Starters (7):  Kaleigh Dickson (So), Lainie Fleming (So), Janelle Garcia (Jr), Ashley Lee (Sr), Maliah Mathis (So), Sarie Morrison (So), Shelby Prunty (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (3): Casey Duvall (So), Mckenzie Fox (So), Ericka Garcia (Jr/I)
Graduated (2):  Samantha Engle, Gloria Jackson
Other Losses (2):  Sidney Sanabria-Robles (So/?), Sarah Zoldos (So/?)
Newcomers (5):  Rheagan Courville (Fr), Lloimincia Hall (Fr), Jessie Jordan (Fr), Randi Lau (Fr), Britney Ranzy (So/TR/Oregon State)
Quick Assessment:  LSU fell back in the rankings last season with a number of key injuries and the resulting lack of depth and experience.  Gone is star AAer Samantha Engle, but Coach D-D Breaux welcomes a highly touted class of newcomers.  In-state elite Courville is a standout in difficulty and execution, while elite transfer Ranzy and top L10 Hall bring power, amplitude and big skills.  For the veterans, NCAA qualifier Dickson and Morrison are potential AAers, while Mathis excels on VT and FX.  How quickly the frosh can make an impact will determine LSU's fate.

  1.  UCLA Bruins

2.  Alabama Crimson Tide

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 16/24
Head Coach: Valerie Kondos Field
Assistants: Jim Foody, Chris Waller
Returning Starters (7): Monique De La Torre (So), Tauny Frattone (Jr), Aisha Gerber (Jr), Elyse Hopfner Hibbs (Jr), Brittani McCullough (Sr), Mizuki Sato (Sr), Niki Tom (Sr)
Other/Injured Returners (9): Kaelie Baer (Jr), Danielle Greig (So),Tiffany Hyland (Jr), Talia Kushynski (Sr), Alyssa Pritchett (Jr), Courtney Shannon (So), Allison Taylor (Sr), Lichelle Wong (So), Vanessa Zamarripa (Jr/I)
Graduated (1): Anna Li
Other Losses (2): Marci Bernholtz (Sr/R), Chloe Takayanagi (So/?)
Newcomers (4): Olivia Courtney (Fr), Kassiy Kozai (Fr), Samantha Peszek (Fr), Sydney Sawa (Fr)
Quick Assessment:  The Bruins lose Li to graduation and Zamarripa to a torn Achilles but gain some powerhouses in Courtney, Peszek and Sawa.  They will be the early favorites for a run at defending their title, but got a little more vulnerable with the loss of two athletes capable of posting 9.9+ on each event..    

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 14/24
Head Coach: Sarah & David Patterson
Assistant: Brian Raschilla
Returning Starters (5): Marissa Gutierrez (So), Kayla Hoffman (Sr), Ashley Priess (Jr), Geralan Stack-Easton (Jr), Ashley Sledge (So)
Other/Injured Returners (4): Becca Alexin (So), Alyssa Chapman (Sr), Megan Mashburn (Sr), Rachel Terry (Jr)
Graduated (4): Morgan Dennis, Ricki Lebergern, Casey Overton, Kassi Price
Other Losses (e): Jocelyn Fowler (Jr/?), Mary Hauswirth (So/?), Erika Pearson (Jr/?)
Newcomers (8): Olivia Carisella (Fr), Sarah DeMeo (Fr), Ria Domier (Fr), Lindsey Fowler (Fr), Kim Jacob (Fr), Diandra Milliner (Fr), Jordan Moore (Fr), Hannah Toussaint (Fr)
Quick Assessment: Bama loses some major point scorers at the end of the lineups in Dennis, Lebegern and Price.  Their frosh class is large and deep, and Jacob and DeMeo look the most set in early season training to fill the gaps, while Milliner is set to join in January.

3.  Florida Gators

4.  Oklahoma Sooners

Official Web Site: Link Schedule Roster
Starting Routines Returning: 15/24
Head Coach: KJ Kindler
Assistants: Lou Ball, Tom Haley
Returning Starters (7): Megan Ferguson (Jr), Natasha Kelley (So),Kayla Nowak (So), Brie Olson (So), Natalie Ratcliff (Sr), Melanie Root (Sr), Sara Stone (Jr)
Other/Injured Returners (2): Candace Cindell (Sr), Nitya Ramaswami (So)
Graduated (6): Jacqueline Flanery, Julie Kramer, Mary  Mantle, Kristin Smith, Hollie Vise, Mary Mantle,
Other Losses (1): Bethany Neubauer (So/?)
Newcomers (4): Lauren Alexander (Fr), Hope Bruce (Fr), Taylor Spears (Fr), Hayden Ward (FR/enrolling in December)
Quick Assessment: The Sooners lose some key "end of the lineup" performers in Flanery, Smith and Vise -- the trio posted consistently high scores.  The frosh will need to adapt quickly while others step forward to produce the 9.9+ scores.