In a thrilling conclusion to the regular season, the University of Oklahoma’s women’s gymnastics team secured a share of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular-season title with a 198.475-197.975 victory over the University of Georgia. This win not only marked a season-high team score for the Sooners but also highlighted the emergence of freshman standout Addison Fatta, whose exceptional performance earned her the SEC Co-Freshman of the Week honor.
A Star Emerges: Addison Fatta’s Remarkable Performance
Addison Fatta, hailing from Wrightsville, Pennsylvania, delivered a career-best all-around score of 39.650 during the meet against Georgia, surpassing her previous high of 39.525. This outstanding achievement places her among the elite freshmen in the nation, as she becomes one of only two first-year gymnasts to score 39.600 or higher in the all-around this season.
Fatta’s performance was characterized by personal bests across multiple events:
- Vault: She achieved a career-high 9.900, contributing significantly to the team’s season-best vault score of 49.625.
- Beam: Matching her personal best, Fatta earned a 9.925, aiding the Sooners in reaching a season-high beam score of 49.675.
- Floor Exercise: She dazzled with a 9.950, setting a new personal record and showcasing her growing confidence and skill.
These stellar performances across all apparatuses underscore Fatta’s versatility and her vital role in the team’s success.
Sooners Clinch a Share of the SEC Title
The victory over Georgia was pivotal, as it secured the Sooners a share of the SEC regular-season title alongside Louisiana State University (LSU), with both teams finishing the conference schedule with identical 7-1 records. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as it comes in Oklahoma’s inaugural season in the SEC, reflecting the team’s seamless transition and dominance in one of the nation’s most competitive gymnastics conferences.
Team Highlights and Individual Achievements
The meet against Georgia was a showcase of collective excellence and individual brilliance:
- All-Around Excellence: Freshman Faith Torrez and senior Jordan Bowers both achieved all-around scores of 39.750, sharing the all-around title for the meet.
- Event Titles: Torrez also claimed the beam title with a near-perfect 9.975, while teammates Lily Pederson and Keira Wells shared the vault title, each scoring 9.950.
The team’s overall score of 198.475 not only marked a season high but also demonstrated their peak form heading into the postseason.
Looking Ahead: SEC Championships
With the regular season concluded, the Sooners now set their sights on the SEC Championships, scheduled for Saturday, March 22, in Birmingham, Alabama. As the No. 1 seed, Oklahoma will compete in the evening session against LSU, Florida, and Missouri. The championship will be broadcast on the SEC Network at 7 p.m. CT.
Fatta’s emergence as a key contributor adds a new dimension to the Sooners’ lineup, bolstering their prospects as they aim for conference and national titles. Her rapid development and consistent excellence embody the team’s depth and resilience, qualities that will be crucial in the high-stakes environment of the SEC Championships and beyond.