Sophomores Shine in Win Over Centenary

SHREVEPORT, La. (March 8, 2025) - The transition from freshman to sophomore year often brings a considerable leap in performance, as athletes gain experience and confidence. For sophomores Ciniah Rosby and Sydney Smith, the leap took center stage on Saturday in the Fisk Bulldogs Gymnastics Team's road win over Centenary College (193.025-192.175).  

With star gymnast Morgan Price out, Rosby and Smith stepped up. Rosby and Allie Berkley claimed first and second in both the All-Around and the Vault. Smith achieved her personal best on the Uneven Bars, scoring a remarkable 9.7 to tie Rosby for second place.  Additionally, Liberty Mora tied for first on the Balance Beam with an impressive score of 9.775.

The win was Fisk's sixth in a row, and they have won their last four meets outright. The Bulldogs won all four rotations.

Smith and Rosby Boosts Fisk to Early Lead (48.175)

In the first rotation, the Fisk University Bulldogs started on the Uneven Bars while Centenary College competed on Vault. Smith was the first to compete for the Bulldogs, and her personal best was the catalyst that Fisk needed. Both Smith and Rosby scored an impressive 9.7 on the Uneven Bars, contributing to Fisk's overall score of 48.175. This strong performance set the tone for the rest of the meet and showcased the Bulldogs' dedication and hard work.

Fisk Take Four of the Top Six Spots to Dominate Vault (48.1)

The Bulldogs showcased their depth on the Vault, taking four of the top six spots. Rosby and Berkley tied for first place with 9.7s, while Reese and Reed-Hammon tied for fourth with scores of 9.6, providing the support needed for the team's impressive performance.

Mora Makes Magic with Strong Floor Routine (48.35)

In front of her family who traveled from Texas, Mora was impressive taking second with a 9.725 on Floor. The junior from McKinney, Texas displayed her poise and athleticism with an outstanding routine that captivated the audience. Her performance was characterized by precise tumbling passes and elegant choreography. She received significant support as Rosby (9.7), Reese (9.675), Kaylei McDonald (9.65) and Berkley (9.6) gave Fisk five of the top spots  

Beam Team Finishes Off the Impressive Win (48.4)

In the final rotation, Fisk needed a strong performance on the Balance Beam to take home the top spot. Mora once again came up big, tying for first with a 9.775 score. Rosby and Reed-Hammon were clutch, tying for fourth place with 9.725s. Zyia Coleman, making her season debut on Beam gave the Bulldogs the support they needed, finishing with a 9.6.)

Dog Treats

• Morgan Price represented Fisk in Miss Old Gold and Black Pageant at the 94^th Southern Regional Convention, celebrating 100 years for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Price came out the winner. She competed against schools from Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. In July, she will head to Philadelphia to compete for the national title at the General Convention.
• Ciniah Rosby was named the "Sylvia Beast" recipient of the meet for Fisk University. The award is given to someone who embodies the spirit and characteristics of former Centenary gymnast Sylvia Keiter: impeccable work ethic, selfless team leader, positive, dedicated, unrelenting, and loyal.

 "Beyond gymnastics, Ciniah is an outstanding student, demonstrating the same discipline and commitment in the classroom as she does in the gym," said Fisk Interim Head Coach Nuriya Mack.  "She is respectful, dependable, and carries herself with integrity in everything she does. Though she may not be the loudest in the room, her actions, work ethic, and quiet determination make a lasting impact on those around her."

• In addition to the team's remarkable performances, Naimah Muhammad's participation was particularly noteworthy. Despite dealing with back problems all season, the senior from Rochester, New York, took to the Floor for the final time as a Bulldog. Muhammad, who made history in 2021 as the first HBCU gymnast to perform, has been a vital member of the team. Beyond gymnastics, she has demonstrated a passion for sports broadcasting, conducting interviews and writing stories, and has been a significant asset to Fisk Athletics Media Relations.

"I wish I had about 19 more Naimahs in Media Relations," said Fisk Director of Sports Information Scott Wallace. "She has done so many things behind the scenes. She represents Fisk well. Nothing but big things in her future."

UP NEXT:

The ladies will take some well-deserved time off before finishing the regular eason on March 21 at Oregon State University.