Alabama Gymnastics Coach and Captains Preview 2027 Season Prep

We are starting to test how our freshmen step in and learn how to compete when there’s extra eyes and attention on them, said Alabama gymnastics head coach Ashley Johnston, as The Crimson White reported on the team’s opening preseason workout. The Crimson Tide hosted its first open practice at Coleman Coliseum, giving fans an early look at a roster featuring 20 athletes, including nine newcomers.

Building a 20-Athlete Roster With Nine Newcomers

Head coach Ashley Johnston emphasized that the open practice served as a crucial test of adaptability for the incoming talent. With nearly half of the roster consisting of new faces, the coaching staff focused on evaluating how freshmen manage the pressure of external scrutiny before the official competition schedule gets underway.

Navigating Preseason Pressure Under Three Captains

To guide the team through the preseason and into the regular schedule, coaches and players selected three team captains. Junior Ryan Fuller, one of the designated leaders, acknowledged the weight of the responsibility while outlining her personal approach to the challenge.

There is a lot of pressure that comes with leading a team at such a high level. [I’ve] been working on not putting too much pressure on myself.

Ryan Fuller

Fuller noted that she is actively reminding herself to accept mistakes and stay present to support her teammates whenever called upon. The leadership group aims to channel last season’s outcomes into daily determination.

Translating 2026 Adversity Into 2027 Preseason Drive

The Crimson Tide finished the 2026 season with a 16-12 overall record, a performance that the program is using as fuel for the upcoming year. Johnston pointed out that the squad has responded to past adversity with relentless preparation aimed at maximizing their potential.

They’ve been really driven and determined to take whatever that adversity is, put it into play, and actually prepare relentlessly to just become the best version they can possibly be.

Ashley Johnston

Opening Meets and Fan Events in Corvallis and Tuscaloosa

Before the regular season begins, the program will host several fan engagement events, including Ghosts and Goblins on Oct. 22 and an annual Fashion Show on Nov. 20. The Crimson Tide officially opens its 2027 season on Jan. 8 against Oregon State at Gill Coliseum in Corvallis, Oregon, with streaming coverage available on ESPN+. Following the season opener, Alabama returns home to host Auburn at Coleman Coliseum on Jan. 15.