Clemson Gymnastics roared to victory with a convincing win over Pitt, demonstrating their mettle and setting the tone for a promising season ahead. This groundbreaking performance also saw two of the team’s shining stars, Trinity Brown and Lilly Lippeatt, being recognized for their exceptional performances.
A Historic ACC Victory
The Tigers displayed stellar teamwork and finesse, culminating in a decisive 196.200-194.775 victory over Pitt. This win was not just another addition to the victory column but marked Clemson’s first-ever ACC triumph, etching a significant milestone in the program’s history.
“I felt like we kind of bookend that meet,” said Coach Amy Smith. We started stronger and more settled on vaults and struggled a little on bars and beam, then finished very strong on floor.”
Spotlight on Trinity Brown and Lilly Lippeatt
Following this landmark victory, two Tigers, Trinity Brown, and Lilly Lippeatt, were lauded with ACC Specialist and Newcomer of the Week honors respectively. This acknowledgment from the league office underscores their pivotal contributions to the team’s success.
Trinity Brown’s Groundbreaking Performance
Trinity Brown, who participated in three events during the Sunday meet, set the stage for the team’s strong performance. She delivered a career-best performance with a score of 9.900 in the anchor spot on the vault. This remarkable feat not only secured her first event win of the season but also led Clemson to its highest team vault total so far.
Lilly Lippeatt’s Stellar Freshman Season
Lilly Lippeatt continued to impress in her freshman season, scoring a 9.800 or better in all the three events she competed in. The redshirt freshman from Mason, Ohio, turned in season-highs on beam (9.850) and floor (9.875) and recorded a 9.800 on bars. Her consistent performances have been instrumental in bolstering the team’s overall performance.
ACC Rankings and Upcoming Matches
Following these standout performances, Brown and Lippeatt now hold impressive rankings within the ACC. Brown is currently ranked #2 in the ACC on vault and #10 on floor, while Lippeatt holds the #2 spot in the ACC on bars, and the #4 spot both on beam and on floor.
The Tigers are gearing up for their first road contest of the season, which will see them face off against the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Friday, January 26. As the Tigers prepare to take on the Tar Heels, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling display of gymnastic prowess from this promising team.
With standout performances from Trinity Brown and Lilly Lippeatt, the team has set a high bar for the season. As they continue their journey, the Clemson Tigers promise more exciting matches and spectacular performances that will captivate their audience and inspire budding gymnasts.
