New training, more depth makes for 'stronger' Utah gymnastics team

SALT LAKE CITY — It takes a lot, physically and mentally, to prepare for an upcoming gymnastics season, especially when you’re one of the best in the country.

But working hard is in Utah gymnastics’ DNA.

The sixth-ranked women’s gymnastics team is coming off a heartbreaking finish last season. Uncharacteristic mistakes on beam, including falls from the first two gymnasts in the lineup, knocked the Red Rocks out of the competition and unable to compete in the Super Six. They finished ninth among 12 teams in the semifinals.

It stung at the time, but the team now looks at it as a learning experience. The Red Rocks were inexperienced with a young roster and were led by new coaches after Greg…