In a standout moment for Rutgers gymnastics, Emily Dildy and Emily Leese have both been recognized with prestigious All-Big Ten honors. This marks a significant achievement for the Scarlet Knights, as Dildy becomes the first to snag a First Team nod since Hannah Joyner in 2023, joining the elite company of Joyner and Belle Huang.
Dildy's accolade comes after a phenomenal all-around season where she competed in all four events for the first time. She set or matched career highs in three of those events, showcasing her versatility and skill.
Her all-around score of 39.525 at the Rutgers March Quad is now the second highest in the program's history. With standout performances on vault (9.900), bars (9.925), and floor (9.950), Dildy has truly made her mark.
Leese, on the other hand, made a remarkable comeback after missing the previous season due to an Achilles injury. Her determination paid off in a record-setting finale as a Scarlet Knight.
At the Pink Invitational, she shattered her own program record on vault with a 9.950 and matched her career high on floor with a 9.925. This performance not only earned her a spot on the Second Team but also the Big Ten Specialist of the Week honors.
Additionally, Leese was recognized with the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award, highlighting her exemplary character and dedication.
The dynamic duo of Dildy and Leese brings Rutgers its first pair of all-conference honorees since Joyner and Huang in 2022, underscoring a bright future for the program.