Arkansas Gymnastics Aims to Shatter NCAA Attendance Record: A Sign of Growing Popularity
The University of Arkansas gymnastics team is preparing for a historic home meet on March 6th, with a goal to break the NCAA gymnastics attendance record currently held by the University of Utah (16,019, set in 2015). This push to “Pack The Palace” – Bud Walton Arena – isn’t just about a single event; it reflects a broader trend of increasing fan engagement and the rising profile of collegiate gymnastics.
Bud Walton Arena: A Unique Venue Driving Growth
Bud Walton Arena’s substantial capacity (over 19,000) provides a unique opportunity for record-breaking attendance. The venue has already proven to be a strong home advantage for the Gymbacks, with over 7,000 fans attending nine meets since 2022 and exceeding 10,000 attendees twice. In 2025, the team averaged 7,915 fans per meet, ranking among the top 10 nationally. Five of the program’s ten highest home scores have been achieved at Bud Walton Arena, including a program record of 198.100 set in 2024.
The Momentum Behind Collegiate Gymnastics
The increasing attendance figures at Arkansas align with a national trend. The sport has seen a surge in popularity, fueled by increased media coverage and the compelling narratives of student-athletes. The defending national champion Oklahoma Sooners coming to town adds to the excitement, as does the meet being designated Senior Night and a “White Out” event.
Beyond Attendance: A Look at Program Success
Arkansas’ success isn’t limited to fan turnout. The program has consistently improved, with recent victories including an upset win over No. 6 Georgia in February. This on-field success is a key driver of fan interest, and attendance. The team’s move to Bud Walton Arena as its permanent home has clearly contributed to this positive momentum.
The Role of Social Media and Fan Engagement
Arkansas Gymnastics actively engages with fans through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram (@RazorbackGym), fostering a strong community and promoting events. This digital outreach is crucial for building excitement and driving attendance. Coach Jordyn Wieber emphasizes the importance of the fan base, stating that Bud Walton Arena is “quickly becoming one of the best environments in college gymnastics.”
Ticket Information and How to Support the Gymbacks
Tickets for the “Pack The Palace” meet on March 6th are available online or by phone through the Razorback Ticket Center, starting at $12 for youth and $17 for adults. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more by calling (800) 982-4647.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Bud Walton Arena located?
A: Bud Walton Arena is located on the University of Arkansas campus.
Q: What is the current NCAA gymnastics attendance record?
A: The current record is 16,019, set at the University of Utah in 2015.
Q: How can I find more information about Arkansas Gymnastics?
A: Visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com or follow the team on social media (Facebook: Arkansas Razorback Gymnastics, Twitter & Instagram: @RazorbackGym).
Q: What makes Bud Walton Arena a unique venue for gymnastics?
A: Its large capacity, exceeding 19,000, allows for the potential to break attendance records and creates a vibrant atmosphere.
Did you know? The Oklahoma Sooners won the 2025 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics National Championships, scoring 198.0125 points.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to the “Pack The Palace” meet to secure the best seats and experience the full energy of the crowd!
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