Anything that keeps Skinner motivated and interested as a college gymnast is an encouraging development for Utah. The intrasquad competition that MaKenna Merrell-Giles and other Utes already are providing in 2018 will drive her and this No. 5-ranked team to bigger things. Having teammates rise to Skinner’s level in her best events, even with the mild disclaimer of a cold and congestion that kept her coughing through the post-meet news conference, is a positive sign.
Skinner shared the all-around victory with Merrell-Giles at 39.475. “When one of her teammates ties her, I do think the friendly rivalry is healthy for the team,” Ute co-coach Tom Farden said.