Talladega University
The 1st HBCU gymnastics team win in history – the Lady Tornadoes take first against Centenary and Alaska year of 2024
In a groundbreaking moment for both collegiate sports and gymnastics history, the Talladega University Lady Tornadoes etched their names into the annals of sports achievement as the first-ever Historically Black College and University (HBCU) gymnastics team to clinch victory in an NCAA team competition. This historic triumph unfolded at the Centenary College Gymnastics competition in Shreveport, LA, on Friday, Feb. 9, 2024.
Under the guidance of Coach Aja Sims-Fletcher, who assumed her role at TU in February 2023, the Lady Tornadoes displayed not only their exceptional talent but also their unwavering determination across all apparatuses: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercises. Sims-Fletcher, a seasoned coach with a championship pedigree in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and a wealth of coaching experience spanning various levels, from collegiate to club and high school, fostered a sense of unity and purpose among her athletes.
The competition witnessed stellar performances from standout athletes like Kyrstin Johnson, who soared to the top of the all-around competition with an impressive score of 38.95. Johnson’s stellar performance was complemented by equally commendable showings from her teammates, Alexa Chuy, who secured a score of 38.275, and Kiora Peart-Williams, who contributed with a score of 37.375. Together, they showcased the depth of talent within the Lady Tornadoes’ roster.
With an outstanding overall score of 192.2, Talladega University not only secured victory but also established a new record for HBCU women’s gymnastics, surpassing expectations and setting a new standard of excellence in the sport. Despite stiff competition from Centenary and Alaska, who posted scores of 189.15 and 191.525, respectively, the Tornadoes emerged triumphant, excelling in three out of four events and demonstrating their versatility and skill across all disciplines.
Talladega College, as the second Historically Black College and University in the nation to sponsor collegiate women’s gymnastics, made history with the establishment of its gymnastics team in January. This milestone was achieved through a collaborative effort with Brown Girls Do Gymnastics (BGDG) and the HBCU Gymnastics Alliance, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and opportunities for athletes from underrepresented backgrounds to thrive in the collegiate gymnastics arena.
The Lady Tornadoes’ historic victory is not just a celebration of their individual accomplishments but also a monumental achievement that resonates far beyond the confines of the gymnastics arena. It symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of excellence that defines both HBCU athletics and the broader gymnastics community. Their triumph serves as an inspiration, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of gymnasts to follow in their footsteps.