Elite Gymnast Lauren Little to Join UCLA Bruins in 2026
A highly decorated athlete, Lauren Little, is set to bring her talents to the University of California, Los Angeles, joining the Bruins gymnastics team for the 2026 season. The announcement was made today by Janelle McDonald, The R.C. Rothman UCLA Head Gymnastics Coach.
Little’s arrival is expected to significantly bolster UCLA’s already competitive roster. She will enter the program as a junior, bringing a wealth of experience from both collegiate and elite competition.
A Proven Track Record of Excellence
Little, originally from Mooresville, North Carolina, honed her skills at Everest Gymnastics. Her competitive history demonstrates a consistent ability to perform at the highest levels. She secured a bronze medal on uneven bars at the 2022 Winter Cup and a silver medal on vault at the 2018 International Gymnix Challenge Cup.
Her success extends to national-level competitions within the United States. Little participated in the U.S. Championships in 2016, 2017, and 2019, achieving a fifth-place finish on vault in 2016 and a seventh-place showing on uneven bars in 2019. She also consistently competed at the U.S. Classic, with her most recent performance in 2022 resulting in a fifth-place finish on uneven bars, and seventh-place finishes in the all-around and on the balance beam.
Prior to her elite career, Little demonstrated her potential by becoming the 2016 Level 10 national bars champion.
Collegiate Experience and Future Outlook
Little began her collegiate gymnastics career at the University of Alabama before continuing her studies at Mitchell Community College since 2023. Her decision to transfer to UCLA signals a new chapter in her athletic journey.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lauren to the Bruin Family,” McDonald said. “Her world-class gymnastics, beautiful lines and exceptional execution will elevate our team by providing tremendous depth. Most of all, her growth mindset, maturity and determination truly set her apart. We are excited for the impact she will make in our lineups and in our Bruin culture.”
The addition of Little is poised to inject new energy and skill into the UCLA gymnastics program, setting the stage for continued success in the years to come.
