WACO, Texas - Baylor's Acrobatics & Tumbling team signed eight student-athletes to National Letters of Intent this week during the early signing period in November. The freshman class of 2015-2016 is first-year head coach Felecia Mulkey's first signing class.

"I could not be happier with this signing class. Of course we look for talent to fill our roster, but most importantly we look for work ethic, integrity and positivity," Mulkey said. "It takes a special individual to be a Baylor Bear - and I think we found the eight young women who will help take this program to the next level in all aspects."

The eight signees will replace the seven influential seniors the Bears will lose to graduation in May 2015. The signees will join 32 returning athletes for the 2016 team in the fall.

Lauren Blackwell
From Plano, Texas ... Senior at Plano West High School ... Trained in artistic gymnastics at World Olympic Gymnastics Academy ... Was the 2011 western bars champion and 2014 level 10 regional qualifier ... Involved in varsity cheerleader and PALS peer leadership.

"Lauren is a very talented athlete but her work ethic impressed us the most. She works tirelessly to improve existing skills while mastering new skills. She will be a valuable piece to our roster moving forward".


Bailey Hollier
From Flower Mound, Texas ... Senior at Flower Mound High School ... Trained in artistic gymnastics at Texas Dreams ... Placed 2nd at AA level 8 regionals ... Competes in competitive cheer at Excite Gym ... Was voted MVP and most dedicated athlete.

"Bailey's tumbling technique is impeccable. She will prove to be an asset in all areas and particularly in the tumbling events".


Gisella Mendoza (Gigi)
From Seal Beach, Calif. ... Senior at Mater Dei High School ... Trains at CheerForce and competes for Mater Dei High School ... Two-time first team all-league athlete in gymnastics, a two-time All-American and two-time UCA high school national champion.

"Gigi is a talented all around athlete but her strength will show itself in the Acro, Pyramid and Toss events".


Allison Steele (Allie)
From Highlands Ranch, Colo. ... Senior at Mountain Vista High School ... Trains at Cheer Central Suns and competes for Mountain Vista High School ... Member of National Honor Society.

"You will see Allie at the top and base positions in Acro and Pyramid. She also has a strong foundation of tumbling that could allow her to be a standout in that area as well".


Paige Grunewald
From Broomfield, Colo. ... Senior at Broomfield High School ... Trains at Cheer Central Suns ... Competes for Broomfield High School where she was part of the 2013-14 state championship team ... Also participates on the swim team and track team ... Was voted weight lifter of the year by her peers.

"Paige is a powerful athlete with a strong `go get'em' mindset. She will be versatile and valuable in many different events".


Ceara Grey
From Birmingham, Ala. ... Senior at Clay-Chalkville High School ... Trains at Ace All-Stars of Alabama ... Member of Key Club and National Honor Society.

"Ceara's physical strength will be very visible in the Acro, Toss and Pyramid events. Her attitude and work ethic will be a positive force within our program from day one".


Ashley Echelberger
From Georgetown, Texas ... Senior at Georgetown High School ... Currently trains at Cheer Athletics.

"Ashley brings a variety of powerful tumbling passes as well as technique and air awareness that will make her valuable in the Acro, Toss and Pyramid events"


Makenah Cotner
From Katy, Texas ... Senior at Seven Lakes High School ... Trained at Champions Gymnastics Academy for 13 years ... Now competes with Prodigy All stars.

"Makenah is a very versatile athlete. With her tumbling technique and fearlessness, she has the potential to be a powerhouse in many events".