DAVIS, California — The Flippin' Birds were on the mat again for another conference meet in California. Southern Utah squared off with UC Davis for the second time this season, taking down the Aggies 196.650-196.200 on their home turf. The win brings the Thunderbirds' record to 11-4 with a 4-0 mark against conference opponents. The score sets a new season high for the Flippin' Birds who have excelled on the road this season.
Southern Utah had some breakout performances including an incredible 39.450 all-around winning performance by sophomore Niya Randolph. The mark is a new individual season-high and team high for the year. Randolph scored a top finish on the bars with a 9.925. Freshman Mia Hampton competed in the all-around for the second time this season, setting a new personal best with 39.250 to take third place. Senior Ellie Cacciola won the vault title with an impressive 9.900.
Head Coach Scotty Bauman Said
"This team just keeps getting better. Hitting a season high on the road and staying undefeated in conference is huge. Niya (Randolph) was lights out, Mia (Hampton) keeps making big strides, and Ellie (Cacciola) was rock solid. I love the fight and energy they are bringing every week."
Meet Recap
Bars (49.275)
Southern Utah kicked off the meet on bars with a slightly adjusted lineup. Niya Randolph led off with an incredible 9.925, setting a new season high. Senior Isabella Neff followed with a 9.800, while freshman Mia Hampton delivered a poised routine for a 9.825. Sophomore Maria Ferguson showcased an outstanding performance, electrifying the crowd with a 9.900. Sophomore Alex Routsis added to the team score with a 9.825. Sophomore Kendall McGuire made her first appearance in the bars lineup this year and contributed a strong 9.800, giving the Flippin' Birds a 49.275 for the rotation and a season high for the event.
Vault (49.125)
Transitioning to vault for their second rotation, senior Ellie Cacciola set the standard with a powerful 9.900. Sophomore Mackenzie Kelly followed with a crisp 9.800, while freshman Mia Hampton added a polished 9.800. Sophomore Niya Randolph secured a steady 9.825, and sophomore Brinlee Christensen kept the momentum going with a 9.800. Senior Taylor Gull wrapped up the rotation, making her season debut on vault with a 9.600. The team held a total of 98.400 after two rotations.
Floor (49.250)
The Flippin' Birds took the floor for their third rotation, maintaining a half point lead over the Aggies. Hampton ignited the energy with an exuberant 9.850. Sophomore Alyssa Fernandez followed with a confident 9.775, matching her season best, while Christensen contributed a solid routine earning a 9.800. Randolph thrilled the audience with a lively 9.875. Cacciola showcased a dynamic routine, earning a 9.850. Senior Taylor Gull closed the event with a radiant 9.875 in the anchor position. The T-Birds entered the final rotation with an overall score of 147.650.
Beam (49.000)
The Thunderbirds moved to beam for their last event. Randolph started strong with a composed 9.750, laying a solid foundation. Hampton came next with a 9.775, while sophomore Elliot Bringhurst secured a 9.725 with her routine. Cacciola displayed determination, earning a 9.850. Sophomore Rylee Miller added a reliable 9.825, before Ferguson wrapped up the meet with a 9.125, bringing the T-Birds to a final score of 196.650.
Next Up
The Thunderbirds will return to Cedar City for senior night on Friday, March 7, at 6:30 p.m. MT. The Flippin' Birds will welcome the Boisie State Broncos to the America First Event Center for the final home meet of the season. The meet will be broadcast on overnight.com and live stats are available on virti.us.
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