As the Florida Gators gymnastics team looks to bounce back from a disappointing season, the excitement around their upcoming roster changes is palpable. After an early exit in the semifinals this year—against national champion Oklahoma and Missouri—the Gators are making significant moves to reinforce their squad for the next season.

Ranked third in the nation, Florida experienced its earliest postseason elimination since 2019, with injuries and inconsistent performances playing a major role in the team’s struggles. The departure of six seniors, including Olympic alternate Leanne Wong, has left a considerable void that head coach Jenny Rowland is determined to fill through the transfer portal.

Adding New Talent

Among the most noteworthy additions is eMjae Frazier, a remarkable talent who transfers from Cal-Berkeley. A 10-time All-American, Frazier’s decision to join the Gators has generated plenty of buzz. Originally from Erial, New Jersey, she shone at the 2023 NCAA Championships, where she was one of only three freshmen to garner multiple All-America honors. In her upcoming season at Florida, she aims to carry this momentum forward.

Frazier brings with her an impressive list of credentials, including a strong performance that saw her achieve perfect 10s on floor and beam during her collegiate career. She also holds the NCAA all-time single-season scoring record, racking up 673.0625 points in 2024—a feat that underscores her exceptional skills. “Her talent and leadership experience will be invaluable as we look to build a stronger team,” Rowland expressed, highlighting the excitement surrounding Frazier’s arrival. The addition of Selena Harris-Miranda, another key gymnast from last season, will complement Frazier’s skills, creating a dynamic all-around lineup.

The New Roster

Florida’s 2026 lineup will see Frazier join a talented group that includes returning athletes like Anya Pilgrim, Ly Bui, and Taylor Clark, alongside expected contributions from the recovering Kayla DiCello and Skye Blakely, both of whom were hampered by injuries last season. Additionally, the Gators will welcome four incoming freshmen: Amelia Disidore, Maddy Dorbin, Jocelyn Sasson, and Jayla Booker. Notably, Sasson and Dorbin are rated as 5-star recruits, promising to bring significant energy and skill to the squad.

The competitive landscape of collegiate gymnastics is as fierce as ever. Florida previously clinched national titles in 2013, 2014, and 2015, and is eager to reclaim its glory amid a challenging environment. As highlighted by College Gym News, the rivalry for dominance has only intensified, with programs like Alabama and Oklahoma setting high bars for performance.

A Bright Future

Frazier, who graduated with a psychology degree in May 2025, isn’t just an athlete; she’s also a seasoned competitor, having represented Team USA at various international events. Her decision to join the Gators was influenced not just by their gymnastics program but also by the school’s academic reputation and community spirit.

As Florida charges into the 2026 season, filled with optimism and fresh talent, the gymnastics community is watching closely. With coach Rowland at the helm and a mix of seasoned competitors and talented newcomers, the Gators are preparing to rise to the challenge and aim for their fourth national championship title. As they say in gymnastics, every great performance starts with a strong foundation, and Florida is now laying the groundwork for future success.