The Pac-12 women’s gymnastics is experiencing a strategic **conference expansion** with the addition of Southern Utah University (SUU). In a joint announcement on September 4, 2025, the Pac-12 Conference and SUU revealed that the Southern Utah “Flippin’ Birds” women’s gymnastics team will join the conference as an affiliate member, starting with the 2026-27 season. This move coincides with the launch of the “new Pac-12” and significantly elevates SUU’s already successful gymnastics program.
A New Era for Pac-12 Gymnastics
The inclusion of Southern Utah University, located in Cedar City, Utah, creates a four-team Pac-12 women’s gymnastics league alongside Boise State, Oregon State, and Utah State. Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould emphasized the league’s dedication to building on its distinguished history in women’s gymnastics. According to Gould, adding Southern Utah “solidifies the new Pac-12 as a force in the sport.” This strategic decision highlights the conference’s commitment to maintaining a high level of competition and attracting top talent despite recent shifts in collegiate athletics.
SUU’s Ascent to the Pac-12
For Southern Utah, this transition marks a pivotal moment, enabling the Flippin’ Birds to compete at the highest level within one of collegiate gymnastics’ most respected conferences. SUU Head Coach Scotty Bauman believes the team’s consistent success and national recognition earned them this prestigious opportunity. Bauman stated that joining the Pac-12 is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the athletes and coaching staff.
Academic and Athletic Excellence
SUU President Mindy Benson highlighted the university’s pride in its tradition of excellence, noting that the gymnastics team embodies both athletic and academic achievement. The program boasts a perfect 100% NCAA Graduation Success Rate, demonstrating its commitment to the holistic development of its student-athletes. Furthermore, in the 2023-24 academic year, the team achieved the second-highest GPA in the country at an impressive 3.85, showcasing their dedication to academic success alongside their athletic pursuits. This commitment to both academics and athletics makes SUU a valuable addition to the Pac-12 conference.
The Impact of the Flippin’ Birds
The addition of Southern Utah is projected to have a considerable impact on both the university and the Pac-12 conference. Southern Utah, consistently ranked among the Top 25 programs nationally with a five-year average ranking of 24.2, brings a strong and competitive record to the Pac-12. Their proven track record of success will undoubtedly elevate the overall competitiveness of the conference.
Championship Pedigree
The Flippin’ Birds have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the national stage. They have qualified for 13 consecutive NCAA regionals, showcasing their sustained excellence and ability to perform under pressure. Moreover, they have secured three consecutive conference championships, including the 2023 Mountain Rim Gymnastics Conference title and back-to-back Mountain Pacific Sports Federation championships in 2024 and 2025. These achievements highlight their commitment to excellence and their ability to consistently compete at a high level.
Elevating the Pac-12’s Standing
The inclusion of Southern Utah is poised to significantly enhance the Pac-12’s standing in the national gymnastics landscape. With the addition of the Flippin’ Birds, the new Pac-12 women’s gymnastics league is positioned to be a Top 5 conference nationally. This assessment considers the team’s recent performance, historical rankings, and the future conference compositions. This strategic expansion ensures that the Pac-12 remains a premier destination for gymnastics talent, attracting top recruits and maintaining its reputation as a leader in collegiate gymnastics. The addition of SUU is a clear signal that the Pac-12 is committed to remaining a competitive force in the sport, even amidst the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.
Strategic Conference Expansion
The decision to add Southern Utah as an affiliate member reflects a strategic approach to maintaining competitiveness and relevance within the evolving landscape of college sports. By focusing on sports where the conference can remain a national leader, the Pac-12 is positioning itself for long-term success. The addition of a program like Southern Utah, with its proven track record and commitment to excellence, reinforces the Pac-12’s dedication to providing a platform for top-tier athletic competition.
In conclusion, the addition of Southern Utah University’s women’s gymnastics team to the Pac-12 marks a significant and strategic move for both institutions. For Southern Utah, it provides an opportunity to compete at the highest level of collegiate gymnastics, while for the Pac-12, it reinforces its commitment to maintaining a position of prominence in the sport. With a strong competitive record, a commitment to academic excellence, and a history of sustained success, the Flippin’ Birds are poised to make a significant contribution to the Pac-12 conference. This expansion ensures that the Pac-12 remains a premier destination for gymnastics talent and a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.
