Ball State Gymnastics Soars: McMahon and Szymanski Tie Program Record, Team Shows Resilience
KALAMAZOO, Michigan – The Ball State gymnastics team demonstrated impressive skill and determination at Western Michigan on Sunday, despite a narrow 195.825 to 195.575 loss. Juniors Delaney McMahon and Ashley Szymanski stole the show, each earning a remarkable 9.925 on the balance beam – a score that ties the Ball State individual program record.
Record-Breaking Performances on Beam
The Cardinals finished strong, with McMahon and Szymanski’s back-to-back scores electrifying the competition. This marks the second time in her career that McMahon has achieved a 9.925 on beam, while Szymanski reached the milestone for the first time. The team’s beam performance overall was exceptional, totaling a 49.250 – the fifth-best team score in program history.
Cardinals Claim Multiple Event Titles
Beyond the beam success, Ball State gymnasts showcased their talent across multiple events. Senior Mary Rose Bellan secured a win on bars with a score of 9.800. Seniors Zoe Middleton and freshman Carley Stalder tied for the vault title, both achieving scores of 9.850. Middleton continued her strong performance, claiming her fifth all-around victory of the season with a score of 39.225.
Team Effort and Consistent Scoring
Head Coach Joanna Saleem praised the team’s ability to stay focused and competitive throughout the meet. “The team stayed in the meet until the very end,” Saleem said. “I am proud of their ability to stay present and work together to block out distractions.” The Cardinals demonstrated consistency, tallying 10 scores of 9.800 or higher throughout the afternoon, resulting in their second-highest team score of the season.
Rotation Highlights
- Bars (48.450): Bellan led with 9.800, followed by Middleton and Karli Mercer (9.725 each). Ava Molina added a 9.675.
- Vault (49.025): Middleton and Stalder tied for first with 9.850s. Bellan achieved a career-high 9.800, while Ava Thurston and Mercer contributed scores of 9.775 and 9.750, respectively.
- Floor (48.850): Middleton led with 9.825, followed by Molina (9.800), Alauna Simms and Lindsay Girard (9.750 each), and Avery Kantor (9.725).
- Beam (49.250): McMahon and Szymanski tied the program record with 9.925s. Middleton scored 9.825, Stalder 9.800, and Lindsay Fuller 9.775.
Looking Ahead
The Ball State gymnastics team will continue their season on Friday, February 27th, at 7 p.m. At the Pittsburgh Quad, competing against Temple and Towson alongside the host Panthers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of a 9.925 score in gymnastics?
A: A 9.925 is an exceptionally high score in collegiate gymnastics, often indicating a near-perfect routine. It’s a score that gymnasts strive for and is a testament to their skill and precision.
Q: Who is Delaney McMahon?
A: Delaney McMahon is a junior gymnast at Ball State University, specializing in the all-around. She tied the program record on beam with a score of 9.925.
Q: Who is Joanna Saleem?
A: Joanna Saleem is the Head Coach of the Ball State University gymnastics team.
Q: What is the MAC in relation to Ball State gymnastics?
A: MAC stands for the Mid-American Conference, the athletic conference Ball State University competes in.
Pro Tip: Following Ball State Gymnastics on their official website (https://ballstatesports.com/sports/womens-gymnastics) is the best way to stay up-to-date on schedules, results, and team news.
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