Symphonies do not perform by themselves.
Behind every marked note, harmonized chorus and intentional vibrato stands a confident conductor.
And with her own symphony to guide, junior Katelyn Rosen’s role as the leadoff gymnast is no different.
Leadoffs are intentionally placed at the start of lineups to spark momentum, setting the tone with confidence and energy.
Consistently leading the Bruins on beam and floor this season is five-time United States Championships qualifier Rosen, who holds the keys to igniting sparks for her fellow Bruins.
“It feels like a natural spot for me as somebody who has a lot of energy when they compete,” Rosen said. “No matter how I feel, you’re going to look at my face, and you’re just going to see pure confidence.”
The Boerne, Texas, local said assuming the role was not one she was assigned or recruited for by coaches or staff but rather one she stepped forward to claim for herself.
Coach Janelle McDonald added that Rosen has smoothly transitioned into the leadoff role.
“Some people are not comfortable with it, but I think somebody with Katelyn’s spirit – wanting to make sure that she sets a great tone for the team – that’s something that she took on, and she really embraces,” McDonald said. “To have those kinds of strong leadoffs – like Kate (Katelyn Rosen) and like Emily (alumnus Emily Lee) – was they have to really own that moment.”
Just as conductors are students before they assume leadership, Rosen attributes her inspiration to Lee, a three-time U.S. National Team member who served as the squad’s leadoff gymnast during the 2025 season.
The junior said she frequently took note of Lee’s habit of centering herself before leading off each event, especially on beam.
Inspired by her observations, Rosen added that she continues to value the importance of leading preparation with a grounded and confident mindset.
“I think that’s exactly what you want for the first person going up as far as my mindset,” Rosen said. “I’m not concerned about scores. I’m not concerned about what the other team is doing.”
The junior’s highest marks this season include two 9.900s on beam scored Jan. 17 against Nebraska and Feb. 7 against No. 15 Minnesota, as well as a 9.925 on floor posted Jan. 30 against Washington.
With a commitment to her role as the event leadoff for her team and dedication to improving her bars performance, it is no surprise that Rosen said performing in all-arounds is not her top priority, fulfilling that dedication toward team betterment.
“I know that might be kind of shocking to hear,” Rosen said. “I don’t really feel this great need to compete in the all-around because this team has so much depth, and I personally care a lot more about putting up the highest team score possible than just competing in the all-around to say, ‘I did it.'”
The team’s momentum isn’t just triggered by Rosen’s role but also through send-offs.
From intimate team chant traditions to stadium-wide podium introductions filled with smoke machines and family and fans cheering for each gymnast, the team not only enters with style but also with support and confidence.
“Starting with either Joe (UCLA mascot Joe Bruin) doing the ‘Hey Bruins’ or an eight-clap, that energy is continuous throughout the meet,” said sophomore Riley Jenkins. “That’s honestly why I think we are so successful sometimes because we start our energy, and it doesn’t stop for hours afterwards.”
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