Rutgers gymnastics is celebrating a landmark achievement with two of its standout athletes earning prestigious all-Big Ten honors. Senior Gabrielle Dildy and graduate student Emily Leese have been recognized for their exceptional performances this season, marking a significant moment for the Scarlet Knights.
Gabrielle Dildy has etched her name in the Rutgers history books by becoming the first Scarlet Knight to make the all-Big Ten first team since 2023. She's only the third gymnast from Rutgers to ever achieve this honor.
Dildy's all-around prowess was on full display this season, as she competed in all four events for the first time, setting or matching career highs in three of them. Her remarkable all-around score of 39.525 at the Rutgers March Quad is now the second highest in the program's history.
Dildy's consistency on vault, bars, and floor has been nothing short of inspiring.
Emily Leese's journey back from an Achilles injury has been equally impressive. She made her mark by breaking her own program record on vault with a stunning 9.950 at the Pink Invitational, while also matching her career high on floor with a 9.925. Her outstanding performances earned her the Big Ten Specialist of the Week honors, and she was also recognized with the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award.
This season has been a testament to Rutgers gymnastics' resilience and talent, especially after last year's challenges. Despite the turmoil surrounding their former head coach, Umme Salim-Beasley, the team secured a spot in the NCAA regional championships for the first time since 2014. Now under the leadership of Anastasia Candia, who took over during the previous season's suspension, the Scarlet Knights are poised to build on their recent success and aim for consecutive appearances in the regionals.
The achievements of Dildy and Leese highlight not only their individual talents but also the growing strength of Rutgers gymnastics as they continue to rise in the competitive landscape of collegiate gymnastics.