TUCSON, Ariz. — Arizona Gymnastics head coach John Court today proudly announced the two members of the GymCats 2021 signing class.

Alysen Fears and Emily Mueller, two standout prep gymnasts, are expected to arrive on campus next fall and join the GymCats talented roster of student-athletes.

"We are thrilled to welcome Alysen, Emily, and their families into our program," Court said. "Their level of commitment to academics, the sport of gymnastics, and being a part of the growth of our team was very clear in the recruiting process. They want to be part of something special and make a difference during their time as Wildcats, and we can't wait to welcome then to campus in the fall."



Fears joins the Wildcats after prepping at Vista Murrieta High School in California. She trained at SCEGA Gymnastics for 14 years under coach Kathy Strate.

"I chose to attend the University of Arizona because overall I felt like it was the best fit for me," Fears said. "I love the family feel I got from the gymnastics team and the coaches — everyone was so welcoming. I also absolutely loved the campus and weather after visiting for the first time, it just felt like home. The University of Arizona had everything that I wanted and needed when looking for the next step in furthering my academics and gymnastics career."

Fears was a four-time national qualifier and a two-time California State Champion in floor in 2017 and 2018. She also earned State Championships in bars in 2016 and all-around in 2017.

"Alysen has been one the most successful athletes on the west coast and has competed at the highest levels in the JO program," Court said. "She has a great gymnastics IQ and should challenge for all-around titles during her career at Arizona."



Mueller brings her talents to Tucson from Green Hope High School in Cary, North Carolina. She trained at Superior Gymnastics for eight years and Sonshine Gymnastics for one year under the guidance of coaches Justin Reynolds, Krystal Kramer, and Milan and Heidi Stanovich.

"I chose the University of Arizona because of the amazing coaching staff that has been so supportive throughout my recruiting process," Mueller said. "Also, the beautiful campus and overall atmosphere of the school were great. I would like to thank my parents, family, coaches, and teammates for everything they have done for me throughout my entire gymnastics career! I would not be where I am today without all of their love and support."

Mueller earned a North Carolina State Vault Championship in 2018, was a Region 8 Regional Qualifier in 2018 and 2019, and picked up Eastern National Qualifier status in 2018. She sports Level 10 career-high marks of 9.75 on vault, 9.525 on bars, 9.5 on beam, 9.525 on floor, and 38.025 in the all-around.

"Emily's commitment shows that, as a program, we will cross the country to get the best student-athletes," Court said. "She is very coachable and is an all-around athlete. She will be able to challenge for playing time on all events with her powerful and artistic skill sets."