Gymnastics | 1/9/2026 12:16:00 PM

DENTON, Texas (Jan. 9, 2026) – By definition, a match is a tool used to light a fire. When a match strikes against rough surface, it creates a flame which can burn into a roaring blaze.

A single small action impacts a bigger, situation-altering event.

In the same way, the 2026 Texas Woman's gymnastics team aims to strike tiny moments throughout the season to ignite the flame and achieve their ultimate goal. From each skill in each routine, to energy on the side, to each positive, uplifting word or thought, all of those small moments contribute to building the flame that will be the successes of the 2026 Pioneers.

"This year's team is extremely special because we've gone beyond just the physical work and placed a strong emphasis on the mental and competitive side of gymnastics," senior Brooke Ferrari said. "We've focused on shaping who we want to be on the competition floor: how we show up, how we compete, and how we stay locked in under pressure. We understand what it takes to achieve the outcomes we want, and we're confident and united in who we are as a team."

For senior Kami Zarlengo, part of success is truly enjoying every single moment – the good, the bad and everything in-between.

"If I could pass on wisdom to a freshman or future Pioneer, it would be to enjoy and soak up every moment of the four years that you get," Zarlengo said. "They go by so quickly. These are some of the best years of your life, and there are so many memories to be made and so many people to meet. Your team is full of your best friends! Enjoy the hard days, because that is what makes the good ones and the opportunities to compete so worth it!"

Senior Ruby Goad said she wants fans to know that this 2026 team is ready for the hard challenges, because a match cannot produce a flame unless it meets a rough surface. In a similar way, the Pioneers are prepared to face the hard to bring their absolute best.

"Something I want fans to know about this team is how resilient and adaptable we are," Goad said. "We are not afraid to get grimy, embrace the challenge, and do whatever it takes to compete at the highest level. Our mission as a team this season goes beyond simply qualifying for NCAA Regionals. It's about showing up as the competitors we know we are and dominating every opportunity we're given."

On their way to their goal of owning every opportunity to qualify for NCAA Regionals, the Pioneers have a strong slate of top opponents.

"We have a great schedule this year, and I'm looking forward to every home meet this season," Ferrari said. "I'm especially excited for senior night, not only for the recognition of all the hard work we've poured into this program, but also because it will be an incredibly exciting meet against a highly competitive team. I can't wait to battle it out and have a loud, fun and energetic atmosphere to celebrate senior night!"

The three 2026 seniors are looking forward to embracing all their final moments of collegiate gymnastics.

"Senior year is exciting to get to celebrate not just my four years here at TWU, but the 20 years I have been doing this sport," Zarlengo said. "This sport has shaped me into the person I am today. It's so much bigger than just a chance to compete. I look forward to celebrating my senior year by being grateful for gymnastics and everyone who has helped me get to where I am today!"

While celebration is a focus for all three seniors, Goad said this season is about fully embracing every moment and surrendering the results.

"I am incredibly excited to let go of the "what ifs" and truly enjoy every moment, knowing that this year is all I have. Being a senior is special, because it allows you to look back on all the work, growth and preparation you've put in throughout your career and finally embrace the opportunity to compete freely. If I could tell my younger self anything, it would be to stop worrying about results and accolades and to fully surrender everything to God. I would remind her that perfection is not what leads to success, and that true joy and gratitude can take you much farther than you ever expect."

This season, the 2026 TWU gymnastics team chose strike as their team motto, and it can be viewed on all social posts as a hashtag throughout the season. The full embodiment of the meaning for each gymnast will not be revealed until the conclusion of the season; nevertheless, the Pioneers are ready to start the season off with strike, embracing every moment, as they work to compete at a high level and achieve their ultimate goals.