No. 23 Maryland gymnastics scores a 196.450 in defeat of Rutgers, improves to 2-0

No. 23 Maryland Gymnastics (2-0, 1-0 Big Ten) started the season off strong in its victory over West Chester, tying the program’s highest-ever score in an opening meet. 

One week later, the Terps kept it rolling, extending their season record to 2-0 while notching a victory in the conference win column, as they took down Big Ten foe Rutgers at Xfinity Center, 196.450-195.550.

Despite below freezing temperatures and snow coating the College Park area, the competition remained on. It was an important meet all-around, as pride night was celebrated by both teams, who donned rainbow leotards. 

The Terps started off as they always do, on the vault. Freshman Natalie Martin continued her impressive debut season, leading the squad in scoring with a 9.850. Graduate student Emma Silberman was not far behind, securing a 9.825. The two gymnasts led the meet in all-around scoring, the latter coming in first. 

On uneven bars, the Terps stayed mostly consistent with their scoring. Junior Rhea LeBlanc led the way with a 9.850, followed by Silberman once again. Junior transfer Hailey Merchant struggled a little bit, finishing with a 9.325. 

The team found its stride in the second half of events, beginning with the balance beam. Four of the six competing gymnasts finished with a 9.825 or higher. Those same four gymnasts were also the four highest scorers of the rotation amongst both teams. Junior Josephine Kogler continued to show her excellence. 

However, the Terps saved their best for last. Five out of six competing gymnasts scored a 9.800 or higher on floor. Junior Alexa Rothenbuescher and sophomore Maddie Komoroski shined, earning a 9.925 and a 9.900 respectively. Silberman struggled a little bit, finishing with a 9.075, but it would not matter. The Terps had already secured the win.

A point of emphasis for the team last year was starting hot and staying hot through all four rotations, something they struggled with. There were no struggles with it tonight. Their excellence from start to finish spells good things for the program for when the Big Ten championship and regionals arrive in less than two months. 

Until then, the Terps will have their work cut out for them. They’ll hit the road and take on the Minnesota Golden Gophers next Saturday at 5 p.m.