Flippin’ Birds Achieve Season-High Score Against No. 23 BYU

In an exhilarating match on February 7, 2026, the Southern Utah University (SUU) gymnastics team faced off against BYU, achieving a remarkable season-high score of 196.000. However, it fell short against BYU’s impressive total of 196.975.

Key Performers in the Competition

Niya Randolph excelled, securing the all-around title with a score of 39.300. Kayla Pardue stood out on the vault, achieving a score of 9.925.

Performance Breakdown by Rotation

• Vault: SUU began with a score of 48.775. Despite a rocky start from the first three vaulters, the rotation lit up when Pardue scored 9.925. The following scores were:
  • Elliot Bringhurst: 9.700
  • Mackenzie Kelly: 9.625
  • Vinciane Le Pen: 9.575
  • Niya Randolph: 9.825
  • Berlin Hall: 9.700
• Bars: In the second rotation on the uneven bars, SUU recorded a score of 49.100. Key performers included:
  • Alex Routsis: 9.825
  • Mia Hampton: 9.800
  • Ariel Collum: 9.800
  • Maria Ferguson: 9.850
  • Niya Randolph: 9.825
  • Kendall McGuire: 9.725
• Beam: The team scored 48.975 on the balance beam. Notable scores included:
  • Mia Hampton: 9.675
  • Maria Ferguson: 9.025
  • Elliot Bringhurst: 9.850
  • Rylee Miller: 9.700
  • Niya Randolph: 9.875
  • Emma Nipper: 9.875
• Floor: Concluding the evening, SUU excelled on the floor with a score of 49.150. Key performances were from:
  • Berlin Hall: 9.825
  • Rylee Miller: 9.825
  • Sage Paladino: 9.825
  • Carilia Martinez: 9.825
  • Mia Hampton: 9.850
  • Niya Randolph: 9.775

Coach’s Insights and Team Spirit

Following the competition, head coach Scotty Bauman noted the team’s potential despite the loss. He expressed hope for improvement, stating that the team must refine their routines. Bauman emphasized the importance of recognizing their capabilities and addressing the inconsistencies.

A Night of Celebration

Notably, the event doubled as a celebration for the 2025 MPSF championship-winning team, marking the third consecutive title for the SUU gymnastics program. Additionally, the evening honored alumni, with nearly 50 former gymnasts attending to reconnect.

What’s Next for the Flippin’ Birds

The Flippin’ Birds are set for a quick turnaround, as they will compete in a quad meet hosted by Utah State on February 9. This event will feature Southern Utah against the Aggies, Sacramento State, and Alaska Anchorage, starting at 6:30 p.m. MT. The competition will be available for streaming via the Mountain West Network.