CEDAR CITY, Utah — The Southern Utah University Flippin' Birds are taking flight once again, and their floor team is ready to dazzle in the upcoming season. After averaging an impressive 49.035 on the floor last year, the Thunderbirds aim to build on their success and soar to even greater heights. Their top-floor performance in 2024, a sizzling 49.300 against BYU, helped seal a memorable win in the America First Event Center. With a dynamic mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the Flippin' Birds' floor lineup is set to make waves.

Head Coach Scotty Bauman Said

"The energy and talent on this floor team are unmatched. With the experience and leadership of our returners and the enthusiasm of our newcomers, I'm confident this group will deliver some of the best performances we've ever seen. They're ready to rise to the occasion and put on a show every meet."

Returning Stars

Taylor Gull 

A cornerstone of the lineup, Gull competed in every meet last season, delivering consistently strong performances. She matched her career-high 9.900 on the floor at Utah State, proving her ability to shine under pressure. Gull has upgraded her floor routine, adding a full twisting double back pass. Named to the All-MPSF Second Team on floor and the MPSF All-Academic Team, Gull brings experience and leadership to the roster in her final season.

Ellie Cacciola  

Cacciola's dynamic routine was on full display last season, as she hit a career-high 9.875 on the floor three times during the final stretch of the regular season. Cacciola upgraded her first pass to a whip immediate double back. A versatile competitor, she's also a Regional Vault titleholder and an All-MPSF Second-Team honoree on floor. Her composure and consistency make her a pivotal part of the lineup.

Niya Randolph  

Exploding onto the scene as a freshman, Randolph delivered one of the best all-around performances in program history, including a jaw-dropping 9.925 on the floor. The sophomore from Las Vegas worked hard this offseason to upgrade her final pass. The 2024 MPSF Gymnast of the Year, Randolph's electrifying routines and record-breaking scores make her a must-watch this season.

Brinlee Christensen  

Christensen's floor routine against BYU last season earned her a career-high 9.875, showcasing her ability to rise to the occasion. During the offseason, Christensen has completely retooled her routine to increase difficulty and performance value. The 2024 MPSF Freshman of the Year and All-MPSF Second-Team honoree on floor, Christensen's new energetic routine will add depth to the Flippin' Birds stacked lineup. 

Alyssa Fernandez  

Fernandez contributed steady performances in her freshman season, scoring a career-high 9.825 on floor at multiple meets. Her polished routines and competitive spirit make her a valuable asset heading into 2025.

New Faces to Watch

Carilia Martinez  

Martinez enters her second season with the T-Birds with an impressive pedigree, including being a Puerto Rican National Team qualifier and a six-time state champion. Though she didn't compete last season, she's poised to bring fresh energy and a dynamic routine to the floor.

Mia Hampton 

Hampton, a four-time national qualifier from Bronco Elite, brings a wealth of competitive experience and strong skills. Since joining the team, Mia has proven to be one of the top floor workers for the upcoming season. Her adaptability could make her a breakout performer.

Mya North 

With six years of Level 10 experience and five regional qualifications, North has the skills and determination to make an impact early in her career for the T-Birds. Her powerful and dynamic routines could quickly make her a fan favorite.

Season Outlook

The Flippin' Birds' floor team is stacked with talent, blending the experience of proven stars and outstanding depth. Last season's average score of 49.035 was impressive, but this team's potential and firepower suggest even higher scores are within reach.

Southern Utah's floor routines are known for their high energy, sky-high tumbling passes, and incredible crowd interaction. With a mix of polished veterans and hungry newcomers, the Flippin' Birds are primed to deliver show-stopping performances week after week. If their 2024 success is any indicator, fans should buckle up for a thrilling season as Southern Utah looks to defend its MPSF title in 2025. 

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