The Auburn gymnastics team improved its National Qualifying Score to 197.040 and are ranked No. 14

Auburn Gymnastics Reaches New Heights: Tigers Improve National Qualifying Score to 197.040 and Rise to No. 14 in the Rankings

The Auburn Tigers gymnastics team is experiencing a season to remember. With a surge of consistency and performance across multiple competitions, the team has improved its National Qualifying Score (NQS) to 197.040, placing them in the No. 14 spot in the latest rankings. This impressive feat is a testament to the hard work, determination, and talent of the athletes, coaches, and support staff who have poured their efforts into making the program one of the most competitive in NCAA gymnastics.

For a team like Auburn, which has historically been a major contender in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and at the national level, this recent improvement signifies not only growth within the current season but also the building of a strong foundation for future success. This surge to No. 14 in the rankings signals the Tigers’ readiness to compete with some of the best teams in the nation, and the marks they are setting this season are likely to resonate in the sport for years to come.

In this article, we will explore the significance of Auburn’s improvement in its National Qualifying Score, what the No. 14 ranking means for the program, how the team got here, and what the future holds for the Tigers gymnastics team.

Understanding the National Qualifying Score (NQS)

To appreciate the significance of Auburn’s National Qualifying Score of 197.040, it is essential to first understand what an NQS is and why it is so crucial for NCAA gymnastics programs. The NQS is a composite score used to rank teams for NCAA gymnastics championships. It is calculated by taking a team’s best six regular-season scores, of which at least three must come from away meets, and averaging them out to determine the team’s final score.

This scoring system is designed to reflect the consistency of a team’s performance over the course of the season, and it is vital because it directly influences a team’s eligibility for postseason competition. To make it to the NCAA Gymnastics Championships—and particularly to earn a spot in the NCAA Regionals—teams must have strong NQSs.

For Auburn, improving their NQS to 197.040 indicates that they have been performing at a consistently high level. Their score of 197.040 places them solidly within the top tier of NCAA gymnastics programs, which speaks volumes about the team’s ability to perform under pressure, execute routines, and keep improving throughout the season.

While a score of 197.040 might seem like just a number, it’s a marker of Auburn’s progress and determination. As the program continues to strengthen and refine its routines, this score will only improve, and the team’s aspirations for future championships will become more attainable.

Ranking No. 14: A Significant Milestone for Auburn Gymnastics

Auburn’s rise to No. 14 in the rankings is a major milestone for the program. For years, the Tigers have been a competitive force in the SEC, which is widely regarded as one of the toughest conferences in NCAA gymnastics. The SEC consistently produces some of the top-ranked teams, such as Florida, Alabama, and LSU. So, for Auburn to establish itself as a top-15 team nationally, it speaks to the caliber of athletes, coaching, and program development present in Auburn gymnastics.

The No. 14 ranking is significant for several reasons. First, it places Auburn among the elite teams in the country, indicating that they are a serious contender for postseason success. The team’s performance this season has placed them in a strong position to make a deep run in the NCAA Regionals and potentially qualify for the National Championships. Historically, Auburn has been a mainstay in the top rankings, but the fact that they have surged back to No. 14 after a few years of rebuilding is a clear indication that the team is on an upward trajectory.

Moreover, ranking No. 14 in the country makes Auburn a top contender within the SEC. They now sit among the best teams in one of the nation’s toughest conferences, and their performance could push them toward even greater heights, including qualification for the coveted NCAA Championships. The ranking also brings with it added recognition for the individual athletes who have helped elevate the program, further solidifying their places among the sport’s brightest stars.

A Look at the 2025 Auburn Gymnastics Team: Key Athletes and Standouts

A major part of the Tigers’ improvement in NQS and their rise to No. 14 in the rankings can be attributed to the outstanding individual performances of several key athletes. While gymnastics is, of course, a team sport, standout performances from individuals have played a vital role in elevating Auburn’s collective score.

Suni Lee – The Star Athlete

Perhaps the most notable figure on the Auburn gymnastics roster is Suni Lee, the Olympic gold medalist from the 2020 Tokyo Games. Since joining Auburn, Lee has been a transformative figure for the program. Her expertise, precision, and incredible athleticism have brought a level of attention and acclaim to Auburn gymnastics that few programs ever experience.

Lee’s success is evident in her consistently high individual scores. Her beam and floor exercise routines have been particularly impressive, earning her numerous weekly awards throughout the season. As one of the most recognizable names in collegiate gymnastics, Lee’s presence has helped Auburn become a major contender both within the SEC and on the national stage. Her leadership and work ethic have also been key to raising the overall standard of the team’s performance.

Dyshel Rogers – A Key Contributor

Another athlete who has significantly contributed to Auburn’s success is Dyshel Rogers. Rogers, who has been a consistent performer on bars and floor, has helped elevate Auburn’s overall team score. Her routines have brought a sense of consistency to the Tigers, especially in the highly competitive arena of SEC gymnastics. Rogers is a dynamic presence in the gym, and her performances continue to set the tone for the rest of the team.

Daniella Varela – A Rising Star

Another key figure in Auburn’s rise this season has been Daniella Varela, a sophomore who has shown tremendous growth and potential. Varela has proven herself in several events, particularly vault and bars, where her performances have contributed to Auburn’s strong team score. Her focus and technical ability make her a cornerstone of Auburn’s future success.

Jade Carey – An All-American Talent

Auburn has also seen remarkable performances from Jade Carey, an All-American gymnast with a solid track record at both the collegiate and international levels. Her consistent scores on vault and floor have bolstered Auburn’s team, contributing to their high rankings. Carey’s experience and prowess have had a huge impact on the Tigers’ team dynamic, providing them with a steady hand in key competitions.

Building Toward the Future: Auburn’s Path to the NCAA Championships

Auburn’s rise to No. 14 in the rankings is only the beginning. The team has laid the groundwork for long-term success, and their performance this season suggests that they are ready to compete with the best in the nation. Their goal remains to qualify for the NCAA Gymnastics Championships, and their improvement in the rankings is an essential part of their journey.

To maintain their position among the elite, Auburn will need to continue pushing the envelope in terms of both consistency and difficulty in their routines. While their scores have been strong, the competition is only getting tougher as the season progresses, particularly from teams like Florida, LSU, and Oklahoma—all of whom have a history of dominance at the NCAA level.

One of the most important elements moving forward will be the team’s ability to stay healthy and maintain its momentum. Injuries have been a major hurdle for many gymnastics teams in the past, and Auburn must do everything in its power to keep its top athletes in peak form. Additionally, the Tigers must continue to build depth within their roster, developing younger athletes who can step up when called upon in postseason competition.

For head coach Jeff Graba and his staff, the task will be to keep the athletes focused and determined. Graba has done a tremendous job guiding Auburn through a period of transition, and now, with a highly talented roster, the Tigers are in a position to make a deep run at the NCAA Championships.