Iowa State (0-1, 0-0 Big 12) is set to compete in the Border Battle meet Saturday in Iowa City, hosted by the University of Iowa. After taking a tough fall against the Missouri Tigers in their first meet of the season, losing 196.850 to 191.325, the Cyclones are looking to bounce back this weekend and secure victories over their opponents, including Iowa, Illinois State and the University of Illinois.
The Border Battle provides Iowa State with an early-season opportunity to regain momentum and build confidence against a competitive field.
In the 2025 season, Iowa State lost to the Hawkeyes at the annual Cy-Hawk meet, 197.025 to 195.650. Despite the loss, the Cyclones kept the score close throughout the meet, demonstrating their ability to compete with Iowa on the road. This season, Iowa State has some key returners, including junior all-around Noelle Adams and sophomore all-around Frederique Sgarbossa.
These athletes played a significant role in the close score of last year’s meet and will once again be expected to lead the Cyclones across all four events. Their past experiences in the Cy-Hawk rivalry could help boost the Cyclones’ chances.
“Opening weekend against Mizzou was a tough one, and was not the way we wanted to open the 2026 season,” Iowa State head coach Ashley Miles Greig said. “I am excited for the team to come out this weekend and show who they really are.”
Greig emphasized the importance of focusing on improvement and consistency as the season progresses, particularly with such an early test on the road.
The season opener against Missouri did not start the Cyclones off on the right foot, but multiple standout gymnasts showed a glimpse of the team’s potential. Sophomore all-around Haylee Hardin tallied a 9.9 on the floor, the highest score of any Cyclone during the meet.
Junior all-around Ella Schell displayed confidence and power as she led off three events and posted a floor score of 9.875. Sophomore all-around Aubree Guinee also contributed with a solid 9.775 on vault, setting a foundation Iowa State hopes to build upon in Iowa City.
The University of Iowa enters the meet with a 0-2 record after losses to No. 16 Minnesota and No. 5 Utah. Despite those losses, the Hawkeyes remain a formidable opponent. Fifth-year senior JerQuavia Henderson tied for second on the floor in Iowa’s most recent meet. At the same time, sophomore Aurélie Tran placed third in the all-around, showcasing depth and experience in Iowa’s lineup.
The Border Battle will mark Illinois State University’s opening weekend, as the Redbirds welcome three new gymnasts to their roster: senior Courtney Woods, freshman Kamryn Banach and freshman Mia Foy. The meet will serve as an opportunity for Illinois State to showcase its new talent and set the tone for the upcoming season.
The University of Illinois will also open its season at the Border Battle. Gymnasts to watch include freshman Ava Banks, sophomore Chloe Cho and senior Megan Sapp as the Illini begin their 2026 campaign.
The Cyclones will take on the Border Battle at 4 p.m. Saturday. The meet will be available to watch on the Big Ten+ Network and StatBroadcast.
