UCLA Gymnastics Poised for Championship Run, Driven by Veteran Leadership and Nation’s Top Freshman Class
LOS ANGELES, CA – UCLA gymnastics, fresh off a narrow second-place finish at the 2025 National Championships to Oklahoma, is setting its sights on a national title in 2026, fueled by a potent combination of experienced leadership and one of the most highly-touted freshman classes in the nation.junior standout Katelyn Rosen shared her optimism for the upcoming season, emphasizing the team’s unwavering drive and the unique dynamic between its veterans and newcomers.
The Bruins’ near-miss in 2025, a result Rosen described as “way worse than finishing third or fourth,” has ignited a fire within the team. “We’re fired up. It’s as simple as that,” Rosen stated. “We could taste it. We truly thought going into the last rotation, it was our time.”
Leading the charge will be senior Jordan Chiles, alongside experienced gymnasts Ciena Alipio and Madisyn Anyimi, who provide crucial knowledge and leadership. Though, it’s the influx of talent from the incoming freshman class that has Rosen notably excited.
“I think we have arguably one of the best freshman classes in history, and I don’t just meen for their talent or their previous success,” Rosen explained. ”I mean who they are as people. They’re such wonderful girls.”
The freshman class boasts a remarkable pedigree, including Tiana Sumanasekera, Nola Matthews, Ashlee Sullivan, and Jordis Eichman, all of whom competed at the 2025 Xfinity U.S. Championships. Rounding out the class are level 10 stars Ava callahan and Kai Mattei. Rosen noted their immediate dedication, stating, “They have a lot of passion and energy, and that’s always super helpful for all of them to come in just ready to work.”
UCLA’s last national championship came in 2018, and Rosen believes this year’s team possesses the motivation and talent to bring the title back to Westwood. The team’s collective disappointment from the 2025 season, coupled with the exceptional abilities of its newest members, positions UCLA as a strong contender for the 2026 crown.
