The UCLA women’s gymnastics team acheived one of its
season goals last week when it beat Utah in Salt Lake City. The
Utes can no longer claim the nation’s longest win streak,
which they had maintained for 23 years at the Hunstman Center.
“We really came together in Utah,” said junior
Jeanette Antolin.
“After a rough first rotation on bars, we came back and
knew we were going to win.”
The Bruins were able to earn the rare victory at Utah despite
the absence of head coach Valorie Kondos Field, who was unable to
make the trip due to chronic neck and back injuries. First-year
assistant coach Chris Waller coached the team to the win.
“It was very nice to stay at home with the upmost
confidence that are team was ready to hit,” Kondos Field
said.
The Bruins (2-0) hope to build on their own win streak as they
face off against No. 19 Cal State Fullerton Friday night in
Fullerton.
Confident that she has assembled the best-ever Bruin talent,
Kondos Field has called on some gymnasts to make their season
debuts, including senior Doni Thompson and freshman Holly
Murdock.
“Friday is going to be very exciting,” Kondos Field
said. “We will compete against Fullerton with our B-plus team
and save the A team for our home opener. We are lucky to have the
athletes to do that.”
Following Friday’s meet against the Titans, the
Bruins’ home season will open Sunday afternoon in Pauley
Pavilion. Cal State Fullerton will again compete against the Bruins
as will California and UC Davis in the fifth Bruin Classic.
The Bruins have never lost the Bruin Classic and have won 27
meets in a row at home. At the height of the Bruin program, Kondos
Field realizes her gymnasts’ deep potential.
“On paper we’re looking at having the most talented
gymnastics team in the history of UCLA.”
“After the Utah win, our goal is to remain
undefeated,” Antolin added.
The Bruins’ performance this weekend will certainly
determine the such a statement’s validity.