Sun Feb 08 06:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Flippin’ Birds Soar to Season-High But Fall Short Against BYU

The Story:
On February 6, 2026, the Southern Utah University (SUU) gymnastics team, known as the Flippin’ Birds, hosted in-state rival Brigham Young University (BYU) at the America First Event Center in Cedar City. SUU achieved a season-high score of 196.000, but it wasn’t enough to defeat BYU, who secured a winning score of 196.975, also a season-best. The evening, which included Alumni Night and a banner raising to commemorate the team’s third consecutive MPSF championship, saw individual successes with Niya Randolph winning the all-around title (39.300) and Kayla Pardue taking the top spot on vault (9.925).

Despite the loss, the meet was a celebratory event for the program, acknowledging both its recent achievements and its strong connection with past team members. However, Coach Scotty Bauman noted the team’s inconsistency and need for improvement as they move forward into Pac-12 competition.

Key Points:

  • SUU Gymnastics recorded a season-high score of 196.000 against BYU on February 6, 2026.
  • BYU secured a victory with a score of 196.975, also their season-best.
  • Niya Randolph won the all-around title with a score of 39.300.
  • Kayla Pardue earned the top spot on the vault with a score of 9.925.
  • The meet included a banner raising to honor SUU’s three consecutive MPSF championships.
  • It was also Alumni Night, with nearly 50 former gymnasts in attendance.
  • SUU’s next competition is a quad meet hosted by Utah State on February 9, 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • SUU Gymnastics is showing improvement, indicated by the season-high score.
  • Consistency remains a challenge, as highlighted by the head coach’s comments and the team’s uneven performance across events.
  • The program is actively celebrating its past successes and fostering a strong alumni network.
  • The team is looking to carry momentum into the Pac-12 while acknowledging the need for refinement.
  • Individual performances by Randolph and Pardue highlight the talent within the SUU gymnastics program.

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