The 2025 SEC Gymnastics Championships are all set to get interesting. With the top programs qualifying for the finals, the event in Alabama later this month is expected to be a banger. However, a change of rule has unfortunately put an abrupt end to Arkansas’ SEC hopes. While all nine gymnastics teams rank in the top 25 programs in the country, the number of teams advancing to the next round will be eight! And while the folks at Arkansas tried their best, their road to the SEC is over. But why did it happen?

With the Oklahoma Sooners making their way to the SEC as per the realignment, a rule change was announced. The Southeastern Conference decided to modify the layout of the championship. Back in December 2024, the SEC stated that the new format “will include the top eight teams (determined by NQS), with Seeds 5-8 competing in the afternoon session, and Seeds 1-4 competing in the evening session.” 

Thus, despite having a historic season, with attendance records and multiple attendance records, Arkansas Razorbacks will have to sit out of the competition. In a recent statement, the head coach of Arkansas, Jordyn Wieber, stated that a request was made to join Fisk @ Oregon State. The purpose of this was to take part in the meet and add another score to their NQS.

But much to their misfortune, the plea was reportedly dismissed. In a recent statement from Wieber, the head coach stated how the program had requested a bye rotation. But as the request was not granted, Wieber referred to her state of mind as simply disappointed. She mentions, “I am disappointed for our student-athletes that they will not be given the opportunity to compete this weekend under the same scoring parameters afforded to every other Division I program in the nation.” 

She also went on to state the Razorbacks’ women’s gymnastics team will now focus on competing in the NCAA Regionals. Wieber further opined that it was important to bring this to the limelight. The sole purpose of the same is that upcoming student-athletes are aware and don’t get into a mess. Reacting to the incident, fans showed a lot of support for the Razorbacks’ gymnasts. 

Fans stand behind the Arkansas gymnasts

As soon as the news gained traction, the fans flocked to the comment section to express their opinions. One fan acknowledged Jordyn Wieber’s effort to advocate for her team. They also expressed disappointment over the outcome, recognizing the tough end to the Razorbacks’ season. The fan wrote, “Good for her for trying! I hate this for Arkansas”

Another X user appreciated Wieber’s dedication to her team, highlighting her leadership and willingness to fight for her gymnasts’ opportunities despite the NCAA’s rejection. Their comment read, “Doesn’t hurt to ask. Coach Wieber is always looking out for her girls, staff and fans. She is one of a kind.” One netizen shared their opinion on the issue and criticized the broader system.

They accused sports authorities of not genuinely supporting women in athletics. The fan added, “Where is the support and protecting women in sports crowd?… They do not give a crap about supporting and protecting women in sports. All performative theater” The words from the infuriated fan even pointed out the perceived inconsistency in advocacy 

One Instagram user called out the NCAA directly, arguing that the system failed Arkansas and demanding better treatment for gymnasts. The gymnastics enthusiast commented, “NCAA Gymnastics needs to do better. End of story.” Meanwhile, another user wrote, “I’m sorry you ladies were robbed this season. So many routines that deserved a 10 and y’all got snuffed. Hoping something is done better next year. Until then, keep fighting and being amazing!!” 

The user added how they felt that Arkansas was unfairly scored. They tried to encourage the Razorback gymnasts to stay motivated for future seasons. Thus, it is evident that things are quite complicated with the SEC qualifying scenario. However, it now remains to be seen how things pan out in the future.