Red Rocks Triumph Over Big Ten Rivals in Season Opener, Despite Missed Chances

The Utah Red Rocks opened their 2026 season with a commendable performance against two Big Ten rivals on Friday night. Competing at the Huntsman Center, they achieved a meet-winning score of 196.625. Their performance, while strong, revealed areas for improvement as they look ahead to the challenges of the season.

Red Rocks’ Strong Start Despite Missed Chances

The meet featured the No. 5 Red Rocks defeating No. 15 Minnesota and No. 22 Iowa. Minnesota scored 195.475, followed by Iowa with 194.825. Utah’s senior gymnast Makenna Smith expressed mixed feelings about the performance. “This was a really great stepping stone,” she noted. Smith acknowledged both the highs and the learning opportunities from the competition.

Performance Insights

Utah head coach Carly Dockendorf shared her insights about the team’s performance. She noted some uncharacteristic mistakes and emphasized the need for focus as they approach tougher competitions. The upcoming Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad will involve much stronger teams, including No. 1 Oklahoma and No. 2 LSU.

• Red Rocks score: 196.625
• Opponent scores:
  • Minnesota: 195.475
  • Iowa: 194.825
• Next meet: Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad

Highlight Performances

The night showcased various notable performances. Sophomore Avery Neff, despite some uncharacteristic moments, showed determination to improve. Dockendorf believes Neff will address her challenges in the upcoming meet.

Junior gymnast Ella Zirbes made a remarkable debut, claiming victory in the all-around with a score of 39.350. She also achieved a beam score of 9.875 in her first-ever competition on that apparatus, showcasing her potential.

• Ella Zirbes’ achievements:
  • All-around score: 39.350
  • Beam score: 9.875

Freshman Contributions

Freshmen Bailey Stroud and Abby Ryssman also made their mark, being prominently featured in multiple events. Coach Dockendorf expressed confidence in their capabilities and sees them as integral to the team’s lineup moving forward.

• Key performances from freshmen:
  • Bailey Stroud and Abigail Ryssman both participated in three events.
  • Dockendorf praises their readiness for upcoming competitions.

Detailed Team Scores

As the Red Rocks move forward, they will focus on enhancing their performances and minimizing errors. With a promising start, they are prepared for the challenges ahead in their quest for success this season.