The University of Utah's gymnastics squad, the Red Rocks, announced the appointment of its team captains for the 2026 season. Makenna Smith, Avery Neff, and Sarah Krump are ready to take the helm. Head coach Carly Dockendorf highlighted the individual strengths the trio brings to the table. "We're incredibly fortunate to have these three outstanding women help lead our program this upcoming season," said Dockendorf, noting the balance and power they contribute to the team's leadership, according to UtahUtes.com.
Senior Makenna Smith, now rounding off her college gymnastics career, has proven to be a force since day one, becoming a 10-time All-American with a record of 34 event victories. Smith's college journey impressively includes hitting 171 out of 172 career routines and setting soaring career-best scores. In her role as Utah Athletics SAAC President and a voice on the Big 12 Conference Student-Athlete Board, Smith is well set to further flex her leadership muscles for her final season. Dockendorf emphasized Smith's leadership growth. "Makenna has gained invaluable leadership experience through her involvement with the Big 12 and our campus SAAC, and we're excited for her to bring those skills into our team environment," Dockendorf told UtahUtes.com.
Avery Neff, the No. 1 recruit from the 2024 cycle, made a splash despite an early injury, quickly earning four All-American nods and regional titles in her first year with the Red Rocks. Having already posted career highs across the board, Neff was voted Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and served as the Big 12 champion on beam, a testament to her incredible freshman year performance and determination.
Joining Smith and Neff is Sarah Krump, who stepped onto the team in 2023 as a walk-on and is now stepping into her final season on a high, being awarded a scholarship for her sterling effort and team contributions. Krump's responsiveness in high-pressure moments has been crucial for the team's success, with noteworthy performances against competitors like Utah State and BYU. "All three lead by example, and we're confident they'll continue using their voices to elevate and empower this program in every way," Dockendorf shared with UtahUtes.com.
