News Summary
Morgan State University has made history with its acrobatics and tumbling team becoming the first HBCU to offer Division I acrobatics and tumbling. The team, led by coach Regina Smith, captivated audiences with a viral performance executed by Rayla Buckner and Lauren Perkins. Their routine gained millions of views on social media, significantly increasing the team’s visibility and following. As they prepare for their upcoming meets, the team aims for a season record of 5-3, symbolizing a pivotal moment for diversity and representation in sports.
Baltimore Makes History with Morgan State University’s Acrobatics and Tumbling Team
In a stunning display of athleticism and teamwork, the acrobatic and tumbling team at Morgan State University has made a mark in sports history. The team, which is breaking ground as the first historically Black college and university (HBCU) to offer Division I acrobatics and tumbling, recently captivated fans with a jaw-dropping stunt that has taken social media by storm.
The Dynamic Duo: Buckner and Perkins Shine
Team members Rayla Buckner and Lauren Perkins executed a stunning two-feet split with a straddle hold, achieving a significant milestone in their sport. Initially, Buckner felt apprehensive about their routine, doubting its efficacy. However, under the guidance of their head coach Regina Smith, they began intense preparation in January, leading up to their first meet.
Their teamwork and hard work paid off when they performed the routine for the first time competitively on February 2, 2025. The moment was nothing short of historic for Morgan State University and its community, showcasing the advancement of diversity within sports that are generally less represented in Black institutions.
Viral Fame and Team Growth
Shortly after the routine aired, a video of their performance went viral on TikTok, garnering over one million likes and amassing more than three million views. This newfound fame brought attention not only to their talents but to the team as a whole, pulling in a surge of social media followers. The team’s Instagram account saw its numbers grow from around 2,700 followers to a whopping 9,100 followers post-viral recognition.
This online visibility has played a vital role in raising awareness about the team, urging students and fans to come out and support them during their meets. The team’s upcoming home meet against Long Island University is eagerly anticipated, set for Saturday at 2:00 PM as they seek to improve their current record of 0-2.
Strength, Trust, and Resilience
For Buckner and Perkins, executing the stunt involved rigorous training focused on building strength and flexibility. Buckner worked on strengthening her hip flexors, while Perkins underwent hamstring therapy to prepare. Their success personifies the critical trust required between partners in acrobatics and tumbling, where both physical prowess and confidence play a significant role.
Alongside this, the determination of junior A’Lycia Moore shines through as she shares her journey back to the mat after recovering from a torn Achilles. Her focus on mental strength is a reminder that resilience is key to overcoming challenges, a sentiment shared among her teammates.
A Broader Narrative of Black Girl Magic
Head coach Regina Smith emphasizes that this achievement goes beyond just athletic excellence. It’s about paving the way for future generations and demonstrating the essence of “Black girl magic.” The team’s aim is to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in a sport that still remains predominantly white, striving for not just participation but recognition and success in the acrobatics and tumbling community.
The Road Ahead
As Morgan State University looks ahead, the team aspires to end the season on a high note, aiming for a record of 5-3. With determination and a supportive community behind them, the acrobatics and tumbling team is set to make waves in the upcoming meets. The focus is not just on records and wins but on being trailblazers, representing the intersection of talent and diversity in sports.
Mark your calendars for the weekend, because Baltimore’s own Morgan State University is ready to dazzle you with their remarkable talents and relentless spirit. It’s a historic time, and you won’t want to miss it!
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Additional Resources
- The Baltimore Banner
- Wikipedia: Acrobatics and Tumbling
- CBS News
- Google Search: Morgan State University Acrobatics and Tumbling
- WMAR 2 News
- Google Scholar: Acrobatics and Tumbling Morgan State University
- Go Blue Hose
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Acrobatics
- Morgan State Bears
- Google News: Morgan State Acrobatics and Tumbling
