The DIII field always promises a fierce competition. Year after year, athletes continue to surprise audiences with new skills, superb performances, and historic moments, and 2027 will be no different. From powerhouse programs to dark horse individuals, let’s look ahead at a few who are likely to maintain momentum in the coming season
UW-Oshkosh
Oshkosh wrapped the 2026 season claiming its fourth NCGA title in the last five years, establishing itself as a dynasty. With the graduating class, the Titans lose valuable routines from staple contributors like Reanna McGibboney and Amaya McConkay. But the Titan roster is deep and will return many routines in 2027—Hannah Hughes and Ome Ellis should be reliable contributors if they continue on the trajectory established during their respective first seasons. With a slew of underclassman talent, the program’s dynasty status will be left in capable hands.
Erin Roe (Ursinus)
Roe will be a senior in 2027, and is expected to be at her peak. She boasts an all-around high of 38.950, which shattered the previous Ursinus record by three tenths. Roe has steadily improved throughout her career, growing into a leadership role. As a sophomore, she added floor to become the Bears’ sole all-around contributor. In 2026, Roe finished the season ranked No. 1 in the all-around by season average score (SAS), her efforts culminating in a third-place finish both in the all-around and bars at NCGA nationals. The quality of her performance has elevated the Bears’ success, and Roe is likely to return to the top of the podium in 2027.
Kiara Hockman (Brockport)
Brockport has been a steady yet underrated contender in recent years. The Golden Eagles have won six consecutive NCGA East regional titles and rose up to finish third at the 2026 NCGA nationals. Such a consistent program relies on the excellence of individuals like Hockman. Hockman competes vault, beam, and floor, and impressively finished the 2026 season ranked No. 2 by SAS across all three events. This feat is capped off with a pair of regional titles and co-national titles on vault and floor. Hockman enters her senior season with a long resume, and appears to be accelerating towards a historic finish to her career.
Paige Breckwoldt (UW-La Crosse)
Breckwoldt specializes on vault and floor, excelling on both. The senior has improved steadily throughout her career, raising both her high score and SAS by just about a tenth on each event. In 2026, Breckwoldt claimed the co-champion title on vault at NCGA nationals and was a member of the six-way tie for No. 2 on floor. Though the field is tight, Breckwoldt kept in step with the leaders on her events, and the year-to-year improvement highlights her momentum going into her senior season
La Crosse
La Crosse ended the 2026 season as the NCGA national runner-up. Though a step down from its 2025 title, it’s nevertheless an impressive finish. In 2027, the Eagles will return multiple top contributors including Breckwoldt, Claire Robbins, and Madalyn McCormick, plus a panel of specialists. As one of the trio of typical WIAC leaders, the Eagles are familiar with the top. Boosted by strong lineups and a taste of victory, the Eagles have the drive and depth to triumph again in 2027.
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