The Francis Marion University acrobatics and tumbling team will open its 2026 season on Saturday (Feb. 14) afternoon at 2 p.m. as the Patriots host Converse University in the Smith University Center. 

Admission to all home matches is free.

The third-year program, under the direction of head coach Brittany Rueb, returns 11 letterwinners from last season's squad, including All-Conference performer Destiny Keve.  She has added 11 freshmen and two transfers to this year's roster.

"Practice has been going well since we returned from the Christmas break," Rueb said.  "We hit the ground running.  With the addition of two assistant coaches, we have been able to implement and execute higher skills this season.  We will start Saturday with at least a 10-point increase in our scores over last season, and that is not as high as we could have started, but we want to begin with clean routines.  As we accomplish that, the scores will increase even more as implement upgrades during the year.

"Considering that half of the team is new to the program, they have meshed well.  They get along great, are focused on putting energy on the mat and not letting outside distractions creep into their performances.  The group is extremely coachable and love to show up for practice.  This will translate into one of the most active sidelines you will see.

"Destiny's improvement from last season when she earned All-Conference recognition is quite visible.  She has improved her tumbling tremendously, as well as her consistency as a base.  She has also stepped into new roles and performed admirably." Keve is a native of Lake City, S.C., and a product of South Florence High School.

"Returnees Keirstyn Rogers, Janae Carr, and JaLin Nelson will also showcase their improved skills this season.  They also have stepped into new positions, which demonstrates the versatility of the squad.

"Our two transfers – junior Bethany Tymes from Limestone University and Taira Bentley from Presbyterian College – have brought additional energy and skills to our program.  They will be major contributors this season.  Taira is a very talented top and could be one of the most consistent in the conference.

"Newcomer Eilee Gonzales is one our most talented athletes.  Her work ethic and talent are the standard that we want for our program."

"The strengths of this year's squad will be pyramid and acro.  For the first time, we are starting with perfect 10.00 values for our pyramid events, and our acro start values are near perfect with upgrades to come as we go through the season.  We are striving for cleanliness and consistency.  We want to decrease our tiny deductions – the little bobbles – to increase our scores."

The Patriots will compete in a seven-contest schedule, including three home events.  In addition to Saturday, FMU will host King University on Feb. 26 and Coker University and the University of Montevallo for a tri-meet on March 20.   Conference Carolinas Tournament play will begin on April 7 at on-campus sites of the higher seeds. The semifinal and championship rounds will be held in Franklin Springs, Ga., on April 11-12.