Gymdogs Head to Ohio For The ISLA HBCU Classic

Fisk looks to continue to break records in historic meet.

February 16, 2025

By Naimah Muhammad - Fisk Gymnastics, and Fisk Scoop

Pre-Meet Notes: Wilberforce University – February 16, 2025

Meet 8: Fisk University Lady Bulldogs, Greenville (IL) University at Wilberforce University

Date/Time: Sunday February 16, 2025, 2 p.m. (CST)

Watch: HBCU+

WILBERFORCE, Ohio (February 15, 2025) - The Fisk University Bulldog Gymnastics Team (Gymdogs) hit the road again, heading to Wilberforce University in Ohio to compete against the fellow HBCU team the Wilberforce Bulldogs and guest team, Greenville University, at the inaugural HBCU Classic.

The Gymdogs are coming off an electric meet. Last week, they posted the team's highest score in program history, 193.650, and several season-highs and career-bests, including a perfect 10.0 from Morgan Price on the bars, making her the first HBCU gymnast to get a perfect score. Other bests came from Liberty Mora on the beam, scoring a 9.9, and Zyia Coleman with a 9.675 on the bars.

This marks another historic meet for HBCU gymnastics, with both HBCUs in attendance, battling for the title of "Top Dog".

The competition begins today, Sunday, February 16th, at 2 pm CST/3 pm EST and will be streamed on HBCU+.

Setting the Stage for a Landmark Event

The HBCU Classic is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of the rich history and growing prominence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the realm of gymnastics. This inaugural event draws together fierce competitors and passionate supporters, all of whom are dedicated to highlighting the talents, perseverance, and achievements of HBCU athletes.

Journey to the HBCU Classic

The Gymdogs' journey to the HBCU Classic has been paved with dedication, hard work, and a series of impressive performances. The recent meet, where they registered their highest score in program history, has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling and competitive event. The team's score of 193.650 is not just a number; it is a testament to the Bulldogs' relentless drive to excel and push the boundaries of what is possible in collegiate gymnastics.

Morgan Price's Historic Perfect 10

One of the standout moments of the previous meet was Price's perfect 10.0 on the bars. This historic achievement has placed Price in the annals of HBCU gymnastics history as the first gymnast from an HBCU to achieve a perfect score. Price's performance was a blend of grace, precision, and sheer determination, and it serves as an inspiration to her teammates and up-and-coming gymnasts across the country.

Season-Highs and Career-Bests

The Bulldogs' success was not limited to Price's perfect score. Mora's performance on the beam, where she scored a 9.9, was a display of elegant artistry and technical skill. Similarly, Coleman's 9.675 on the bars showcased her strength and consistency. These remarkable scores reflect the individual talents within the team and the collective effort that has brought the Bulldogs to this point.

The Significance of the HBCU Classic

Sanctioned by Brown Girls Do Gymnastics, the HBCU Classic is a groundbreaking event that brings together two HBCUs, Wilberforce University and the Bulldogs, to compete on a national stage. This meet is not just about winning; it is about celebrating the legacy of HBCUs and the role they play in nurturing and promoting the talents of Black athletes.

A Platform for Talent and Excellence

The HBCU Classic provides a platform for gymnasts from HBCUs to showcase their talents and compete at the highest level. It is an opportunity for these athletes to gain recognition and support, and it highlights the importance of providing resources and opportunities for underrepresented communities in sports.

Building a Tradition

As the inaugural event, the HBCU Classic sets the foundation for what will hopefully become an annual tradition. The competition fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among HBCUs, and it serves as a reminder of the rich history and contributions of these institutions to the world of gymnastics and beyond.

Looking Ahead

As Fisk prepares to take the stage at the HBCU Classic, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of their supporters and the legacy of those who came before them. The competition is a chance to make history once again, to break new records, and to inspire future generations of gymnasts.

The anticipation is palpable as the Gymdogs, Wilberforce, and Greenville University prepare to compete. The energy and excitement surrounding the event are a testament to the significance of the HBCU Classic, not just as a competition, but as a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the power of community.