The UCLA Bruins are navigating a significant transition as their gymnastics lineup undergoes notable changes. The recent departure of Selena Harris, one of only two gymnasts from the University to qualify as an individual for the Nationals, left many fans heartbroken. However, amidst this upheaval, they’ve announced the return of another standout gymnast, Chae Campbell. She had earned three All-American honors at the NCAA and decided to return for a fifth year! It brought immense relief and joy to UCLA gymnastics fans, who are now eagerly anticipating another thrilling season with renewed hope and excitement.

In a recent Reddit post from the gymnastics community, netizens speculated about the confirmation of Chae Campbell’s return. Writing, “UCLA confirms Chae 5th year?!?” This was accompanied by a screenshot of UCLA gymnastics’ Instagram reel, captioned, “Keeping the dream alive for five! 😉” The reel was a mix of Campbell’s incredible performances on the mat as a UCLA student and her reminiscing about those wins in front of a trophy cabinet. In the end, she is seen wearing a blue UCLA-embossed tank top, back in her practice gear. Interestingly, the gymnast replied to this viral announcement too. “She’s back,” Chae announced on X.

On the other hand, Selena Harris is currently in the transfer portal. She was the 2024 Pac-12 Gymnast of the Year and a 12-time All-American. However, the exact reasons have not been disclosed as to why she was asked to leave, as head coach Janelle McDonald refused to comment. After UCLA broke the news on their official social media handles, Harris spoke to the Daily Bruin, saying, “Just wanna thank Bruin Nation fans for being the best supporters!” Earlier this year, UCLA failed to reach the finals and fumbled at the NCAA California Regional in Berkeley. But Harris was a consistently strong competitor and will surely continue to make her mark.

She has also removed all traces of UCLA from her X profile. Though her absence will be sorely felt, UCLA now has Campbell’s expertise to fall back on. Chae Campbell has received 7 perfect scores for her Yurchenko full. As well as 2 perfect 10s for her floor routine, showcasing her prowess in the sport. Her career’s highest scores came at 9.950 on bars and 9.925 on beam, which made her a key player to No 10 UCLA’s 3rd-best score of the season at Pauley Pavillion. Additionally, she earned 4 perfect scores, winning the Pac-12 all-around title and finishing tied for the national top rank in vault. No wonder fans are clamoring to show their support for Chae.

Chae Campbell’s return sparks a chain reaction of enthusiasm!

The fans of UCLA gymnastics were overjoyed at the prospect of Chae Campbell’s return. It provided a much-needed boost of morale. Especially after uncertainty and confusion about what their 2024 lineup will look like. Campbell’s consistency over the years has made her a beloved figure. One fan expressed their immense enthusiasm, saying, “I’m so excited for this. Her senior year snuck up on me and at risk of sounding cliché I was not ready for her to be done.” Campbell’s return promises to bring renewed energy and high expectations for UCLA gymnastics.

Another fan seemed to be virtually jumping up and down in joy, highlighting the excitement. This person pointed out that the news was confirmed by Chae Campbell herself. The fan wrote, “YESSSSSSSSS I LOVE IT HERE – she replied to the tweet with ‘She’s back’ so yes, she is officially back.” This underscores the fans’ collective joy and the validation they feel from her personal confirmation.

Since Selena Harris was an integral part of the team and a key player, her absence will be sorely felt. However, this is not cause for concern now as Campbell is ready to lead them to new heights. “Finally some good news for UCLA fans this past few months 😭,” wrote a fan.

Another individual expressed happiness and relief at having Campbell be a rock. “I’m so so happy, I love Chae! And they’re going to need her with Selena transferring :(” More fans speculated about whether another UCLA gymnast, Frida Esparza, will also return.

They supported their speculation by noting that Esparza has shared recent glimpses of her practice sessions. One person commented, “Also curious to see if we also get Frida as she’s been in all the same recent practice footage UCLA have posted along with Chae (but missing the other 5th years and Selena so it appears current).” This observation has led fans to believe that Esparza might be training for a return as well, adding to the excitement and anticipation.

It is promising to be a great year for female gymnastics at the University of California. Despite Harris’ departure, other star gymnasts on the team will surely propel the university’s team to new heights! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.