Ball State Gymnastics Breaks Records with Perfect 10s and Program-High Team Score
Record-Breaking Performance at Farm Bureau Expo Center
On January 20, 2024, Ball State University’s gymnastics team etched their name in history at the Farm Bureau Expo Center in Lebanon, Tennessee. The Cardinals soared to new heights, achieving three perfect 10s and setting a new program record for the highest team score of 198.025.
Perfect 10s and Consistent High Scores
The evening showcased exceptional routines, resulting in a staggering 22 scores of 9.800 or higher, including 12 at 9.900 or above. This impressive display of skill and precision secured the highest team score in the nation for the current season and set a new Mid-American Conference record for the seven-team era.
Beam and Floor Routines Set the Stage
The Cardinals commenced the meet on beam, exhibiting remarkable balance and control. Five gymnasts earned scores of 9.800 or higher, contributing to a robust team score of 49.250, the fourth-highest beam score in program history. Seasoned seniors led the way with impressive 9.875 performances.
The team’s momentum carried over to the floor exercise, where Ruthberg ignited the crowd with a scintillating 9.900 routine. The energy escalated as senior tied the program record with an extraordinary 9.950 score. Combined with 9.925s from graduate student, junior, and sophomore, the Cardinals achieved a program-record floor score of 49.625.
Perfect 10s on Vault and Bars
Ball State’s success continued on the vault, where Middleton followed two 9.800s with a career-best 9.950. This set the stage for Pfister, who landed the first perfect 10 of her career and the second in program history. The rotation concluded with a 9.825 from Henry, resulting in a program-record team vault score of 49.375.
The Cardinals saved their best for last, delivering a historic performance on the uneven bars. The team earned the highest event score in program history, a record-shattering 49.775. This included the first bars 10s in program history from both Middleton and Teter, along with 9.925s from Ruthberg, Henry, and freshman.
All-Around Performance and Team Success
Middleton’s all-around performance was exceptional, earning a program-record score of 39.750. Her scores included a perfect 10 on bars, 9.950 on vault, 9.925 on floor, and 9.875 on beam. Teter’s all-around score of 39.575 was the second-best in program history, followed by Henry’s third-best score of 39.450 and Ruthberg’s sixth-best score of 39.375.
The Cardinals’ collective effort resulted in head-to-head wins over Kent State (197.725), Southeast Missouri (197.050), and Wisconsin-Whitewater (194.450).
Coach Saleem’s Excitement and Appreciation
Head coach Saleem expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments and highlighted their ability to perform under pressure. He praised the gymnasts’ focus on landings, handstands, and the details that contribute to their success. Saleem also acknowledged the significance of the Cardinals’ achievements, including the program-record team score and the individual perfect 10s.
Upcoming Meet and Ticket Information
The Ball State gymnastics team aims to replicate their impressive performance on Monday, January 22, as they host Bowling Green for Squishmallows Night in Worthen Arena. The meet commences at 7 p.m., and tickets can be purchased by calling 1.888.BSU.TICKET or visiting https://BallStateSports.com/GymnasticsTickets.