UCLA Gymnastics Freshmen Gain Insights from Jordan Chiles and Their Competitive Experience

UCLA Freshman Nola Matthews Faces Competition Jitters in College Gymnastics Debut

UCLA freshman Nola Matthews experienced a mix of nerves and excitement during her first collegiate gymnastics meet, but she is eager to focus on her training and competition routines. “How I practice is the standard that I want,” Matthews remarked, adding that she is now focused on translating that level into her performances.

The UCLA women’s gymnastics team featured four freshmen, including Matthews, Tiana Sumanasekera, Ashlee Sullivan, and Jordis Eichman, who competed against Washington, California, and Oregon State on Saturday. Following their impressive showing, the Bruins celebrated three victories and earned recognition in the Big Ten Conference weekly awards, including the Freshman of the Week honor for Sumanasekera, who secured second place on both the balance beam and floor exercise.

Coach Janelle McDonald praised her freshman class, noting their extensive experience as elite athletes. “I think it really is going to bode well for them for their longevity and their NCAA career,” she said. McDonald highlighted the growth displayed by her team, stating that while the freshmen initially arrived as high school teenagers, they transformed into capable competitors during their debut.

“I’m excited to see them continue to grow throughout the season and really on what they’re capable of doing out on the competition floor,” McDonald added.

With their latest win, the Bruins have been crowned the No. 1 team in the country. However, Matthews emphasized staying focused and not getting caught up in external pressures. "We’re only going to be focused on what we’re doing, staying in that bubble, staying together, staying as one team,” she explained.

Initially, some nerves were apparent among the freshmen, which affected their performance. McDonald had anticipated this, but was particularly impressed with how they adjusted throughout the meet. “Being resilient through those moments and really being able to turn the page and focus on what’s next is just so crucial to being a successful team,” she said.

Veteran gymnast Jordan Chiles and other returning members provided invaluable leadership during the competition. McDonald expressed appreciation for their support, stating, “I just thought Jordan did that phenomenally and our returners did as well."

For Matthews, the guidance from her teammates has been essential. “They’ve really taken all of us under their wing, and they’ve been there for us, especially when we’re having bad days,” she remarked.

As the Bruins aim to uphold their top ranking, McDonald underscored the importance of focusing on controllable factors. "You can’t always control your scores, you can’t always control your ranking, but you can always control how you show up in each moment and how you prepare for those opportunities," she said.

Looking ahead, the next meet will see UCLA face off against Oklahoma, Utah, and Louisiana State on national television. Matthews acknowledged the pressure of being the leading program, but reaffirmed the team’s commitment to their hard work. “We all just have to keep our heads down, keep doing what we’ve been doing," she stated. "We’ve been working so hard this preseason and I feel like we’re in a really good spot.”