Coaches' Corner: Coach McPheters at the University of Alaska

College gymnastics recruiting is about more than routines and results. Finding the right program fit means identifying athletes who align with a team's culture, values, and vision. For the University of Alaska Anchorage, that fit starts with connection, communication, and a willingness to embrace a unique experience.   In this edition of Coaches' Corner, we talk with the Alaska Anchorage coaching staff to discuss their recruiting process, what they look for in prospective student-athletes, the transition from club to college gymnastics, and what makes the Seawolves' program unlike any other in the country.   Recruiting & Evaluation:   For Alaska Anchorage, the recruiting process begins with building a relationship.   “The most common start to our recruiting process is an initial intro email from prospective student-athletes,” the coaching staff shared. “Then, we utilize Google Meet a lot when recruiting due to the location of our university.”   Those early conversations are focused on getting to know the athlete beyond gymnastics. Coaches want to understand who recruits are as people before diving into their athletic careers.   “We start off with questions to get to know the athlete outside the gym first and then get into some gymnastics questions next,” they explained.   After that initial conversation, the relationship continues through consistent communication, including updates on gymnastics progress, life events, and future goals. With permission from the recruit, the coaching staff will also connect with their club coach to gain additional insight into the athlete's training, development, and approach to the sport.   Ultimately, the goal is finding a match where both the athlete and program can thrive.   “It's really important that we protect the culture this team has built, so it needs to be a good fit for both parties personally, academically, and athletically,” the staff said.   For Alaska Anchorage, recruiting is about finding athletes who can see themselves building a future in the program.   “When we commit a student-athlete, we want them here for their entire college career and degree(s). We want them to thrive and grow in an environment that fits their needs and values.”   While skills and results are important, the coaching staff also evaluates how athletes perform in different environments.   “We do look at practice versus competition when recruiting to see if they are similar or if one is stronger than the other.”   The program typically looks for strong all-around athletes who can contribute across multiple events.   The Next Level   The transition from club gymnastics to NCAA gymnastics comes with challenges, and Alaska Anchorage understands that every athlete's adjustment process is different.   One unique challenge for their program is adapting to different equipment.   “Since we have many student-athletes coming from different locations and countries, it's the adjustment to our equipment,” the coaching staff explained. “If someone is used to training on Spieth, transitioning to AAI can be a big task.”   Athletes also have to adjust to the structure of collegiate gymnastics, including NCAA training limitations.   “When some athletes train more than 20 hours per week in club gymnastics, transitioning to the hours we are allowed to train can feel like a lot less gymnastics and practice, which can be hard on the student-athlete.”   The athletes who adjust most successfully are often those who take an active role in learning and embracing the program.   “The ones who adjust faster seem to be the ones that really try to immerse themselves into our team right from commitment,” the staff said.   That includes asking questions, learning the team's practice and conditioning structure, communicating with coaches and teammates, and preparing themselves for the transition before they even arrive on campus.   Advice for Future College Gymnasts   When it comes to the recruiting process, Alaska Anchorage emphasizes communication above all.   “Start emailing the colleges as soon as you can and as often as you can. The more you're in the college coaches' inbox, the better!”   One mistake the coaching staff frequently sees is a lack of personalization in communication.   “When I can tell that the initial email sent to me from a recruit was sent via BCC, it's tough when you get an email addressed to you as the wrong name or wrong university.”   Taking the time to show genuine interest can make a major difference.   For athletes with similar skill levels and scores, the deciding factor often comes down to personality and connection.   “For us, it's the personality fit aspect that works in Alaska, but also those that show true interest in our program,” the staff shared.   Academics also play an important role in the evaluation process.   “We look at their academic performance and interests, as we truly want to prepare them for life after gymnastics.”   One small detail that can make a big impression? Showing appreciation and following up.   “We do notice the personality pretty quickly. A simple follow-up thank you will go a long way.”   A Unique Team Built Around Culture   What makes Alaska Anchorage different from many programs is the diversity and experiences that come from bringing together athletes from around the world.   “Our culture is so unique just by having individuals from all over the world,” the coaching staff said.   That culture is built around the program's five Seawolf Standards:   Own Your Impact — Taking ownership of words, actions, and growth while supporting teammates and leading through consistency.   Speak Brave, Speak Positive — Communicating with honesty, empathy, and positivity while creating an environment where everyone feels supported.   Trust the Pack — Building a culture of respect, acceptance, and belonging where every voice matters.   Rise Every Rep — Pursuing continuous improvement through resilience, effort, and embracing challenges.   Legacy In Action — Taking pride in the program and leaving it stronger for future generations.   The athletes who thrive at Alaska Anchorage are those who embrace independence, adventure, and new experiences.   “We look for independent student-athletes that like an adventure and what Alaska has to offer: hiking, camping, snow activities, and more,” the coaching staff explained.   The location itself is also a major part of the program's identity.   “Our location makes us unique in itself. When we travel for meets, we fly all over, and our athletes get to experience many places in the world that they have never been to. We get to share those experiences together as a family.”   Closing Thoughts   For athletes and families navigating the recruiting process, Alaska Anchorage's message is simple: be proactive, be genuine, and communicate often.   “If you are truly interested in a program, make sure to over-communicate and reach out frequently, even if responses are slow!”   College gymnastics is about finding the right home, and for the Seawolves, that home is built on connection, culture, and a shared commitment to growth both inside and outside the gym.

College gymnastics recruiting is about more than routines and results. Finding the right program fit means identifying athletes who align with a team's culture, values, and vision. For the University of Alaska Anchorage, that fit starts with connection, communication, and a willingness to embrace a unique experience.

Access all of Prep Gymnastics

Continue reading this article and more.

Coaches’ Corner: Coach McPheters at the University of Alaska

Access all of Prep Gymnastics

The August Recruit Report: Class of 2030 Prospects

Built for the Moment: Region 8’s Beam Superstars

The August Recruit Report: Class of 2029 Floor Lineup

Twisting Talent

The August Recruit Report: Class of 2029 Beam Prospects