With eight incoming freshmen, six home meets and another tough schedule, the Auburn gymnastics team has an exciting year ahead.
“We basically have a brand new team this year,” said Rachelle Thompson, assistant head coach. “I am looking forward to watching the freshmen move into the next level.”
Auburn’s recently announced schedule includes meets against SEC teams Alabama, Florida, LSU and Georgia, as well as non-conference opponents Iowa State, Michigan State and Ohio State.
“All meets are tough, especially with the SEC,” Rachelle Thompson said. “The SEC is the powerhouse of gymnastics.”
The Tigers travel to Athens to face four-time defending national champion, Georgia, Feb. 6.
“Since I am from Georgia, I always want to do well,” said senior Lindsey Puckett. “This year I think we will give them a run for their money.”
Both meets against Alabama will be Pink meets to support breast cancer awareness. The first is at Auburn, Jan. 9, and the second is at Alabama, Feb. 27.
“People who don’t usually come to meets, come to support breast cancer awareness,” said Jeff Thompson, head coach. “We hope to get these people hooked, and they will keep coming back throughout the season.”
Auburn gymnastics has not beat rival Alabama since 1979.
“Although our goal every year is to beat Alabama, it’s just another meet,” Rachelle Thompson said. “We prepare the same way we do every other time.”
“The team knows about rivalry, we don’t have to remind them,” Jeff Thompson said. “Having two meets every year gives us an extra chance to win.”
The first meet of the season is at Illinois-Chicago, Jan. 4, where Auburn has a winning record.
“It is easier to have an away meet first,” said AJ Mills, senior. “We are able to work the kinks out before we get in front of a home crowd.”
The Tigers have home meets against Arkansas Feb. 13 and the following week against Kentucky.
“Arkansas and Kentucky are basically the same team as us,” Jeff Thompson said. “Provided that we bring our best, these should be good meets for us.”
For the three seniors on the team, this season will give them memories they won’t forget.
“Since I began at Auburn, my goal has been to be an All-American,” Puckett said. “I want to enjoy my last season and have no regrets. This is my last chance to make my mark in Auburn gymnastics.”
According to Jeff Thompson, the team has an open gym year round where it is able to work on its own. Official practice begins Sept. 18 with its first assignment.
“I have been working on bars, trying to change it up a little,” Mills said. “I have also been upgrading my beam and floor.”
The SEC Championship this season will be held in Nashville, March 21.
