The “Beam Queen” has decided she isn’t ready to hang up the leotard just yet. On Tuesday, Arizona senior Elena Deets announced that she is returning to Arizona for her fifth season.
Deets announced her decision via a post shared by Arizona Gymnastics on its socials. “My last four years as an Arizona GymCat have been filled with unforgettable memories. I’m forever grateful for the support I’ve had in Tucson, especially from my family, coaches, and teammates. It’s been the experience of a lifetime…BUT I’M NOT DONE YET.” She added, “With a full heart, I’m excited and blessed to announce I’ll be returning as a GymCat for one more year. This program and these people are something special, and I’m honored to represent the block A one last time. BEAR DOWN!”
Her return to Tucson is an unexpected surprise and big-time boost for the GymCats roster, led by rising seniors Alysen Fears, Elizabeth LaRusso, and Emily Mueller. Arizona also boasts a freshman class that was ranked No. 18 when they signed in November.
Deets has been a key piece of the GymCats’ rotation since the moment she arrived in Tucson. The senior has appeared in 45 meets during her career, including all 14 of Arizona’s meets last season. The three time Pac-12 Winter Academic Honor selection regularly competes on the uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. Deets boasts career highs of 9.900 or higher on all three events, including a 9.975 on balance beam, 9.925 on floor, and 9.900 on the uneven bars. That 9.975 on beam last season against Washington earned her Pac-12 Specialist of the Week.
With Elena Deets returning to Arizona, the Wildcats will have a key piece of senior leadership on the roster to help guide them through the transition to the Big 12.