The Georgia Gym Dogs held their first annual Pumpkin Peek at the Suzanne Yoculan Gymnastics Center on Saturday, October 25. Head coach Danne Durante wanted to get her 11 underclassman, along with upperclassman who haven't competed since April, in front of a crowd early before the official season begins in January.

This showcase also gives fans a more intimate experience compared to attending a gymnastics meet along with thousands of other fans. "We want to give our fans an inside peek into what we are doing right now," Durante said. "Our fans don't just want to see the team on the videoboard or competing on the floor, but they want to feel a connection with them, and the Pumpkin Peek is an opportunity for them to do that."

There were five freshman for the Gym Dogs who saw their first action in front of a crowd as a Gym Dog; Jasmine Arnold, ViVi Babalis, GiGi Marino, Hayley Sanders and Natalie Vaculik. 

Video by YouTube user egrimsley

The Gym Dogs featured parts of routines, skill combinations, and single skills to fans. The fans were also treated to some fun with face painting, costume contests, and photo booth. After the Gym Dogs performance they followed up with a social hour for their fans. Former Head Coach Suzanne Yoculan MC'd the event which was great for Durante to be able to focus on coaching. 

Highlights: 
Mary Beth Box will continue the moonwalk tradition on beam, Brandie Jay debuted a new vault (half on front pike off), GiGi Marino and Ashlyn Broussard both performed a beautiful double layouts on floor. Chelsea Davis looks stunning as always on bars entering her senior year. Freshman Natalie Vaculik performed a double pike dismount on beam. 

The Gym Dogs will host another event for their fans prior to the start of their season, with their annual sneak peek on Decemeber 14th in Stegeman Coliseum. 


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