Challenging Weekend Ahead for UNC Gymnastics
The University of North Carolina gymnastics team is gearing up for a big weekend. They’ll be competing at the Purple & Gold Podium Challenge in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, alongside powerhouse teams like LSU, Alabama, and Arizona. Competition kicks off Sunday at 4 p.m. ET.
This event draws some of the best gymnasts in the nation. Expect to see several athletes ranked in the top 10 for each event in the NCAA.
Carolina has faced Alabama multiple times recently. Last season, they went head-to-head three times, including two regular-season meets and the Tuscaloosa Regional. Unfortunately, Alabama bested UNC in each encounter. When the Tar Heels met Arizona and LSU in 2024, they faced similar difficulties, losing both matchups.
Despite the stiff competition, Carolina’s standout athletes will lead the charge. JoJo Valahovic has consistently impressed on vault. She’s currently tied for seventh in the NCAA and leads the ACC with six scores of 9.900 or higher. Meanwhile, Gwen Fink is shining in the all-around category, ranking 20th nationally and second in the ACC with a score of 39.290.
Recent Highlights
- Carolina achieved its highest team score this season at Cal with 196.750.
- Paige Prejean hit a personal best of 9.900 on bars at the same meet.
- Valahovic earned the ACC Specialist of the Week title twice this season, marking her as a rising star.
- Fink has continued her strong performances, including a career-high 9.950 on the beam at a recent event.
Overall, UNC is ranked 17th in the nation and 4th in the ACC as they head into week eight of the season. They’ve ranked in the top 25 for all five events: vault, all-around, beam, floor, and bars.
Growing Excitement in the Gymnastics Community
Social media has buzzed with excitement around this weekend’s challenge. Fans are rallying behind their teams, sharing predictions and celebrating athlete achievements. Hashtags like #NCAAGym and #TarHeelPride have been trending, showing how much support there is for collegiate gymnastics.
The future looks bright for the Tar Heels, with young talents like Sydney Seabrooks making waves. She ranks fifth nationally on floor, showing that Carolina gymnastics has a solid foundation for years to come.
Stay informed by following UNC Gymnastics on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
