Rome Aerials Gymnastics Continues Momentum at State

Media release from Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation:

After one of the most successful seasons yet, the Rome Floyd Parks & Recreation gymnastics team, the Rome Aerials, continued its momentum with an outstanding showing at the USA Gymnastics Xcel State Championship. All gymnasts qualified to compete at the state meet, and six athletes earned the honor of representing Georgia at the upcoming USAG Region 8 Xcel Championships, which will take place May 1-3. At regionals, they will compete against some of the top gymnasts from eight southeastern states.

Kicking off the State Championship for the Rome Aerials was fifth grader Lilly Bergin of Berry College Elementary and Middle School. Competing in Xcel Gold, Bergin delivered an outstanding performance at the state championship, earning first place all-around, as well as first place on bars and floor.

Seventh grader Rebekah Slocum of Berry College Elementary and Middle School also had a memorable state meet in Xcel Platinum. Slocum earned her all-time high floor score of 9.550 on floor and recorded her highest all-around score to date with a 36.250.

Fellow Xcel Platinum gymnast Rylee Turner who is a seventh grader at Model Middle School had an impressive showing as well, placing second on both vault and floor while finishing fourth overall in the all-around competition.

In the Xcel Diamond division, Rome High School ninth grader Emma Slocum demonstrated determination and resilience. Despite twisting her ankle during warmups, Slocum still managed to place in the top five in four events.

Taylin Lytle, also a ninth grader at Rome High School, turned in an exceptional performance in Xcel Diamond, earning first place on beam, second place on bars, and finishing third overall.

One of the top performances of the season came from Rome High School 11^th grader Taylen Tant in Xcel Diamond. After missing last season completely following surgery for a torn labrum in her hip, Tant returned stronger than ever this year. She posted a personal-record all-around score of 38.000 at the state championship while capturing first place on bars, beam, and in the all-around competition. Tant is also the reigning 2024 Region 8 Xcel Diamond champion. Her remarkable comeback season earned her a spot as one of only eight gymnasts selected to be part of the Georgia State Team at the upcoming Region 8 Championships.

The Rome Aerials’ success at both the state and regional levels reflect the dedication, hard work, and perseverance of the athletes and coaches throughout the season. Their accomplishments continue to highlight the strength of gymnastics in the Rome community and provide a source of pride for Rome Aerials Gymnastics and Rome Floyd Parks & Recreation.

Pictured: Emma Slocum, Taylin Lytle, and Taylen Tant