Oregon Acrobatics and Tumbling Earns Season-Opening Win
The Oregon Acrobatics and Tumbling team kicked off their 2026 season with a strong win, defeating Missouri State 267.325 to 242.880. It’s the second year in a row that the Ducks have triumphed in their opening meet under head coach Taylor Susnara.
“Our goals were simple: perform well in the team events and keep the energy high,” Susnara shared, highlighting the team’s positive spirit throughout the competition.
Oregon took the lead early, showcasing their strength in the pyramid event, where they scored an impressive 9.950. This marks a continuation of their success, as the Ducks excelled in this area last season, earning an individual title at the 2025 NCATA Championships.
In the opening events, Oregon scored 9.850 in both the compulsory pyramid and toss heats, giving them a solid lead after the first round. Continuing to build that momentum, they maintained strong scores in acro, lifting their total to 65.100.
The athletes showed remarkable teamwork, particularly in the pyramid event. Selah Bell, Charlotte Lippa, Blessyn McMorris, and Ashlyn Parlett achieved a near-perfect 9.950 in the open pyramid. “We had some big highs today, especially in the pyramid,” Susnara noted. “But we know there are areas we can improve, and we’re ready to tackle those.”
The toss event was another highlight, with scores consistently above nine. Notably, sophomore Morgan Willingham contributed to a solid 9.800 in the six-element tumbling pass. The Ducks dominated this event, outscoring Missouri State 71.700 to 55.425.
Heading into the team event, Oregon had built a comfortable lead, achieving a cumulative score of 89.100 and sealing their victory by 25 points. “I’m incredibly proud of our athletes, particularly those who competed for the first time today,” Susnara said.
Looking ahead, the Ducks will host Quinnipiac University at Matthew Knight Arena for their first home meet on February 21 at 1 p.m. It promises to be an exciting matchup as they aim to build on this successful start.
Why This Matters
Acrobatics and tumbling is growing in popularity, reflecting a broader trend in women’s sports. According to recent data from the NCAA, participation in women’s sports increased by 13% from 2009 to 2019 and continues to climb. This sport showcases athleticism, teamwork, and creativity, drawing new fans and athletes alike.
As the Ducks move through their season, they not only compete but contribute to a growing legacy in collegiate athletics, inspiring young athletes to pursue their passion.
For more insights on the latest in women’s sports, you can check the NCAA’s official site here.
