re: Gym: National Championship | OU wins | LSU Finishes 4th with a 197.5250

Anyone know why Jeffrey’s technique is such deep landings? On every apparatus? I think that’s what will really hold her back - the rest of her form and technique is exquisite.

I really am so proud of this team and everything they fought for. As I have said in the recruiting thread, I gave them no shot to make it here, or even the semifinals, after kiya went out. And then everything else on top of it. That being said, next year we could really do it with all the 2024 contenders leaving, Trinity going, etc. in my opinion, here is what needs to happen:

Vault: we can, at most, have one YF, everything else must be a 10.0 start; I think once KJ heals, they need to work on the double and push that hard. Same for Bryce.

Bars: Even if Alyona comes back, Jay needs to keep her out of the bars lineup. I know it’s hard but having that as the fifth score will never compete. We need to focus on form for dismounts - please find Aleah something easier to stick because that routine is otherwise amazing. Work with Cowan on that DLO because it is beautiful and imminently stickable.

Beam: this is where we need the most work and fully half of that beam lineup needs to be out next year. Sierra is an alternate at best, because, while I do love her consistency, the leaps are killer. Same with Elena; and Alyona is all over the place. I think with a healthy Kiya and Annie maybe some of that will work itself out, but otherwise we need to go back to the drawing board on almost everything. And if haleigh doesn’t need that standing front tuck for start value, then, for the love of all things, take it out, at least for the post season.

Floor:

Here, let’s continue to polish Chase, and give more people opportunities earlier. I hesitate to say it, but I would consider removing Sierra if we have someone more polished for the leadoff. All the other top teams are leading off with an exquisite 9.9 - that’s what we need to find.

But I am so incredibly impressed by this team and how far they made it. I think a team with a healthy Aleah, Haleigh, and Kiya, and some other key players, has a real shot next year!