Riley McCusker Officially Announces Return for Fifth Year with Florida Gators, Bringing Elite Experience Back to SEC Powerhouse

Riley McCusker, the standout Florida Gators gymnast and 2025 SEC uneven bars co‑champion, officially announced today that she is coming back for a fifth and final collegiate season with the University of Florida gymnastics program. After missing nearly all of her junior season due to a significant ankle injury that required surgery, McCusker has elected to use that remaining year of eligibility to compete in the 2026 season alongside the Gators.

Her Instagram announcement earlier today generated enthusiastic responses from fans, teammates, and the gymnastics community at large. Known for her clean, high‑scoring routines, McCusker will once again anchor Florida’s uneven bars lineup, a role she has already excelled in during her collegiate career.

In her return from injury at the 2025 SEC Championships, McCusker delivered a perfect 10.0 on the uneven bars, anchoring a Florida team bar score of 49.850—the highest team bar score in NCAA history That milestone capped a season that saw her contribute regularly in the lineup, often scoring 9.9 or above on bars and occasionally stepping in on beam when needed.

Before joining the Gators, McCusker had already accrued an impressive elite resume: she was a six‑time member of the U.S. national team, part of the 2018 World Championship gold‑medal team, and captured multiple medals at the 2019 Pan American Games—including gold on uneven bars and in the team event.

Her collegiate track record is equally remarkable. She earned All‑America honors in 2023, was a three‑time WCGA Scholastic All‑American and SEC Academic Honor Roll athlete, and consistently posted top scores on bars and beam—including multiple season‑highs of 9.95.After deferring enrollment originally due to the pandemic and Olympic aspirations, McCusker has steadily built her role at Florida into one of leadership, reliability, and excellence.

With her fifth year confirmed, McCusker will join an increasingly deep Florida roster projected to contend at the highest levels in 2026. Rumors and roster projections suggest strong incoming freshmen and transfers such as eMjae Frazier may also bolster the lineup, making Florida a top national championship contender.

Her decision to return not only strengthens the Gators’ on‑equipment depth—it also brings critical veteran leadership. McCusker’s presence on the team has been praised for elevating training standards, offering mentorship to younger gymnasts, and anchoring high‑pressure routines in conference and national competitions.

In her own words following the SEC title, McCusker reflected on reaching her lifelong dream: “I honestly couldn’t believe it… It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to get a 10 in NCAA, so I’m just so excited.” That excitement will now extend into 2026, as she continues pursuing her athletic and academic goals in Gainesville.

Analysts and fans alike are eager to see how McCusker integrates into next year’s team after a season of recovery and reinvention. With her return official, Florida gymnastics has not only regained an elite specialist but also reaffirmed its ambition for championship hardware. Coaches, teammates, and supporters are ready to rally behind her final run in the blue and orange.

As the 2026 season approaches, anticipation will build around McCusker’s routines, degree completion, and her ultimate farewell tour in the NCAA arena.