As the Oklahoma women's gymnastics team continues its run as the top-ranked program in the nation, head coach KJ Kindler reflects on the strides the team has made both on and off the mat this season.
The Sooners took center stage at the Sprouts Collegiate Quad, an event broadcast live on ABC just days ago. The Sooners won the meet with a score of 197.95. The meet represented more than just another victory — it was an opportunity to showcase the team's poise under pressure to a national audience.
"If you watched the broadcast on ABC, that's what keeps us motivated." Kindler said, "Last year didn't end the way we wanted it to, and no one lets us forget about it."
This year, the Sooners made a notable change at the Lloyd Noble Center by removing the curtain that traditionally covers unused seats during their meets. With a goal of selling more tickets and packing the arena, Oklahoma aims to capitalize on its No. 1 ranking and the momentum of posting the nation's top score. The Sooners are tracking to have a dominant season and hope to see that reflected in the growing support from their fan base.
"You're seeing many female sports really boom in the attendance area," Kindler said. "I can't tell you how amazing that is; it gives me goosebumps every time."
As Oklahoma transitions into the SEC, the expanded seating capacity aligns with the program's commitment to matching the size and fervor seen at other SEC schools. The move is a testament to the program's growing prominence and dedication to fostering a larger, more engaged community of supporters.
"When we go other places in the SEC, it's mind-blowing, the amount of attendance they have," Kindler said. "So for us to provide that same environment for our team is important to be competitive in the SEC."
Adding to the team's accolades, OU freshman Lily Pederson was recently named the SEC Co-Freshman of the Week alongside LSU's Kailin Chio after her performance at the Sprouts Collegiate Quad.
🤸 SEC Freshman of the Week: Jan. 14☝️ Lily Pederson@OU_WGymnastics x #SECGYM pic.twitter.com/g9ajT46KhP
— Southeastern Conference (@SEC) January 14, 2025
"She wants to hear the feedback, she wants to apply it, she wants to see it on video," Kindler said about Pederson.
"I think it's very difficult to go through that transition as a freshman, but she's trusting us one-hundred-percent and it's making a difference."
Pederson has quickly become a vital contributor to the team's success, delivering consistent performances that reflect her skill and composure under pressure. Her ability to rise to the occasion has not only earned her individual praise but has also provided a spark for the Sooners as they start their season.
Next, Oklahoma will be in Norman for its home opener against No. 4 Missouri (3-0) at 7:15 p.m. on Friday at Lloyd Noble Center.
