Denver Gymnastics Shocks the Competition in NCAA Regional Second Round
SALT LAKE CITY – In an astonishing display of talent and resilience, the unseeded University of Denver (DU) women’s gymnastics team delivered a stunning upset at the NCAA second round meet, overcoming the formidable No. 13 ranked Stanford and tying with the host team, No. 4 Utah. This remarkable performance has secured DU’s spot in the upcoming NCAA Regional Final, set to take place on Saturday.
Unforgettable Performances Lead to Historic Scores
Denver’s gymnasts poured their hearts into the competition, accumulating a season-high score of 197.650, marking the third highest postseason score in the school’s history. This impressive feat now places them alongside Utah, who matched their score, as they both advance to face powerhouse opponents No. 5 UCLA and No. 10 Minnesota.
Coach Melissa Kutcher-Rinehart: A Proud Moment for the Team
In the words of Joy S. Burns Head Women’s Gymnastics Coach, Melissa Kutcher-Rinehart: “I’m so proud of the team. They were firing on all cylinders. They competed with freedom, stayed in the moment and had a focused, relaxed energy. It was a complete performance from start to finish. We’ve known we were capable of this and were just waiting for it to come together. We’re excited to advance to our sixth consecutive regional final on Saturday.”
She emphasized the immense support from the fans, whose energy echoed throughout the arena: “Our fans and supporters were incredible. They were loud and brought energy and enthusiasm, just like they have all season long.”
Key Statistics from a Memorable Meet
- Denver’s robust score of 197.650 stands as the second highest in NCAA Regionals history for the program.
- A historic mark on vault, achieving 49.500.
- Notable top-10 marks on bars (49.400, tied for 8th highest) and beam (49.400, tied for 9th highest).
- Senior Rosie Casali shared the NCAA Regional title on vault with an outstanding score of 9.950, for a well-executed Yurchenko 1.5.
- Sophomore Madison Ulrich shattered her personal best in the all-around with 39.575, landing in third overall.
- DU’s victory over Stanford was just the third in program history, and the tie with Utah marked a historic shift, as it represented their first non-loss to the Utes in 23 attempts.
Flawless Execution Across Routines
The Denver team showcased impeccable skill, hitting all 24 routines with at least 11 scoring above 9.900—a remarkable feat highlighting their consistency and precision.
Bars Recap: A Strong Foundation
Kicking off the competition on the bars, Denver laid a solid foundation, achieving a score of 49.400. Every gymnast surpassed a score of 9.800, with Casali leading the charge at 9.850.
Beam Recap: Maintaining Momentum
Continuing their momentum, the team matched their season-best score of 49.400 on the beam, propelled by three exceptional 9.900 scores, including Cecilia Cooley, who debuted a new triple acro series.
Floor Recap: High Scoring Continues
Denver’s prowess extended to the floor routine, where they secured 49.350—their second-highest score of the year on this apparatus. Cooley ignited excitement with her 9.875, which was reviewed successfully.
Vault Recap: Clinching the Win
In the final rotation, DU’s vault routine secured their victory, marked by Rosie Casali’s stellar 9.950—a score that clinched the competition for Denver.
Final Standings and Podium Finishes
In an impressive showing, Denver athletes also excelled individually, reflecting their hard work and dedication.
Notable Podium Finishes
- All-Around: Madison Ulrich: Third Place – 39.575
- Vault: Rosie Casali: First Place (tie) – 9.950
- Bars: Rylie Mundell, Kiley Rorich, Madison Ulrich: Second Place (tie) – 9.900
- Beam: Cecilia Cooley, Bella Mabanta, Abbie Thompson: Second Place (tie) – 9.900
Looking Ahead: The Regional Final Awaits
With their sights set on glory, the University of Denver will compete in the 2025 NCAA Regional Final on Saturday, April 5, at 5 p.m. MT, vying for a coveted spot in the 2025 NCAA National Championships.
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This is more than just a victory; it’s a statement! The future looks bright for Denver Gymnastics—don’t miss their next leap towards greatness!
