Former Florida standout brings elite floor talent, national-level credentials, and championship ambitions as she begins her Auburn journey under the bright lights of Neville Arena.
AUBURN, Ala. | As the countdown to the 2026 Auburn gymnastics season begins, fans are getting their first look at the program’s newest addition: transfer junior Kaylee Bluffstone, a Tampa native whose athletic résumé and championship mindset have the Tigers buzzing. Bluffstone joins Auburn after two seasons at Florida, bringing high-level SEC experience and a personal best of 9.875 on floor—a score she hit twice as a freshman.
Bluffstone, a kinesiology major pursuing a nursing career, arrives at Auburn with a powerful combination of athletic skill, personal faith, and a team-first attitude—making her a strong cultural fit for a program aiming to return to national prominence.
A Proven Competitor with National Pedigree
Before stepping onto the collegiate stage, Bluffstone trained at LaFleur’s Tampa, earning top-tier finishes at the 2023 U.S. Development Program National Championships, where she placed third on vault and fourth on floor. At the 2022 national meet, she again delivered fourth-place finishes on both vault and floor—showing the consistency and high ceiling Auburn coaches covet.
In Florida, Bluffstone competed primarily on the floor, scoring 9.85 or higher three times and gaining experience in high-pressure SEC environments. Now, she aims to expand her competition range to beam, floor, and bars with Auburn.
Why Auburn? 'The Second I Stepped on Campus, It Felt Like Home’
Bluffstone’s path to Auburn began years earlier when she attended youth gymnastics camps on the Plains. But it was her official visit that sealed the deal.
“The second I stepped on campus, it felt so homey,” Bluffstone said. “The team and coaches were immediately so welcoming and inviting.”
Her excitement for Auburn traditions shines through—especially the beloved Swag Surf moment at Neville Arena.
“It sends chills every time. I can’t wait to be part of it as an Auburn Tiger.”
Faith, Family, and Motivation
When asked who motivates her on difficult days, Bluffstone gives all credit to her faith and her younger self:
“God. He wouldn’t put me where I am unless He knows I can overcome those battles. Also, little me—I have to make her proud.”
She names Trinity Thomas, one of the greatest gymnasts in NCAA history, as her role model—not just for her athletic dominance but for her humility and strength in faith.
Life Beyond Gymnastics
Outside the gym, Bluffstone enjoys shopping, beach days, cooking, baking, and spending time with friends and family. Her favorite home-cooked meal? A fat, juicy steak with garlic red potatoes.
Bluffstone hopes to one day become a pediatric nurse, blending her kinesiology studies with her love for helping children.
Fun Facts: Bars Are Scary, Leotards Must Fit, and Teleportation Would Help
In a lighthearted, rapid-fire session:
- Event she’d eliminate: Bars — “I am absolutely terrified of Bars.”
- Gymnastics pet peeve: Loose leotards — “Extra fabric in the back drives me crazy.”
- Dream childhood job: Teacher or college gymnastics coach.
- Preferred superpower: Teleportation — “So I could get places faster!”
Goals for the 2026 Season
Bluffstone’s focus is crystal clear as she launches her Auburn journey:
“I’m looking forward to competing with my best friends and winning championships. I want to compete in all three events I train.”
Her arrival adds depth, talent, and fresh energy to an Auburn roster determined to climb the SEC and national standings.
With her faith-driven mindset, championship experience, and infectious excitement for all things Auburn, Kaylee Bluffstone is poised to become a standout name to watch heading into 2026.
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-- By Masakela Rawls
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