Auburn gymnastics earned a 196.7-196.25 victory over No. 17 Arkansas on Friday at Neville Arena, delivering an impressive performance across all events.
Freshman Katelyn Jong, who scored 39.475 in the all-around, expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance and her own contribution.
"It’s exciting to see how hard work pays off, and it feels great to trust the coaches and their guidance," Jong said. "I’m really happy with the outcome for both myself and the team."
The Tigers secured individual event titles in three categories and shared the floor title in a five-way tie with Arkansas.
"Competing at home is always a special experience," said Auburn head coach Jeff Graba. "We’re fortunate to perform in front of such passionate fans. We have a deep roster, and it’s rewarding to see different gymnasts step up when given the opportunity."
Jong’s roommate and fellow freshman, Marissa Neal, also shone, earning the beam title and sharing the floor title with Jong and teammate Sophia Groth.
"The crowd’s energy was incredible," Neal said. "They were so supportive, and I could really feel the love and excitement right from the start."
Paige Zancan led Auburn in the opening rotation, matching her career-high with a stunning vault score of 9.9, securing the event title.
"She puts in so much effort," Graba noted. "It’s amazing to see how far she’s come with that vault."
Following Zancan’s performance, Sara Hubbard contributed a solid 9.825, and Jong anchored the vault rotation with a career-high 9.875. Sarah Zois started the Tigers’ vault lineup with a 9.8, and Sydney Schumaker matched that score, giving Auburn a slight 49.2-48.925 lead heading into the second rotation.
On bars, Alex Irvine led off with a strong 9.8, and Emma Grace Boyd followed with a 9.825. Bryn Bartman scored a 9.775, while Olivia Greaves stuck her landing to earn a 9.875. Jong then anchored with a jaw-dropping 9.9, capturing the event title.
"Jong is incredibly coachable and always brings positive energy," Graba said. "She’s so committed to her technique, and it’s been a pleasure to see her excel."
With a total score of 49.175 on bars, Auburn extended its lead over Arkansas, who scored 49.075 on vault. The Tigers went into the midway point with a solid 98.350 after the first two rotations.
Zancan made her 2025 beam debut with a score of 9.75, followed by Groth’s 9.85. Jong continued her strong performance, posting a 9.85 as well. Neal sealed the beam title with a nearly perfect 9.925, while Gabby McLaughlin capped the rotation with a 9.85. This gave Auburn a team score of 49.225, its highest of the meet.
With a comfortable lead of 147.6-147.025 going into the final rotation, Auburn closed out the meet on floor with more dazzling routines, especially from the first four gymnasts in the lineup.
Neal started with a 9.85, adding to her stellar performance earlier in the meet.
"It was an amazing experience," Neal said. "I just wanted to have fun and make the most of it."
Greaves followed with a 9.8, and Groth’s energetic routine earned her a 9.85, punctuated by a perfect finish to Abba’s "Dancing Queen." Jong wrapped up her all-around performance with a 9.85, and McLaughlin anchored the rotation with a 9.75. Auburn finished with 49.1 on floor.
"This was a dream come true," Jong said. "I’ve been looking forward to competing here, and it feels amazing to finally do it."
Auburn will stay at home next Friday, hosting Oregon State in a late match at Neville Arena, set to begin at 8:30 p.m. CT and broadcast on ESPN2.
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Grace is a Sophomore majoring in Speech Language Hearing Sciences. She joined the Plainsman in the spring of 2024.
