For the second time this season, sophomore Brandon Dang claimed Big Ten Specialist of the Week last week. Dang is undefeated in the pommel horse this season and scored a season-high 14.800 against now-No. 4 Michigan (6-3, 1-1) on Feb. 8.
Dang is currently ranked No. 2 in the nation on pommel horse, with a season average of 14.563. Only 0.087 points separate Dang’s average from the top spot held by Air Force’s senior Patrick Hoopes. No. 5 Illinois (2-2, 1-1) also holds the top spot in NCAA team pommel horse rankings, thanks to Dang’s consistency.
In preparation for the Winter Cup, Dang shared what has contributed to his early-season accomplishments and how the Illini plan to reach the team goals they have set.
The right mindset
The sophomore is gunning for his fifth consecutive pommel horse title this weekend. Dang’s stability has made him a reliable high-scorer for head coach Daniel Ribeiro. However, consistency takes practice, and it doesn’t happen overnight.
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Dang said his practice regimen is a huge factor in helping him continue to score high in each meet. Perfecting the small details of his routine also translates to successful competition performances. Since he is a specialist, Dang’s competitive mindset differs from his teammates. Dang said focusing on himself is the key to being prepared.
“Before I go to do my routine, I’ll hone in on myself and what I feel I need to do to be ready,” Dang said. “Then, once I’m done, I can shift my focus to my teammates.”
To end his 2024 campaign, Dang placed third in the pommel horse at the 2024 NCAA championships. Dang wanted more during his sophomore season, though.
Improving his strength and confidence were key changes Dang made during the offseason. Like other college freshmen, Dang experienced nerves his first year. His sophomore season has benefited from having a year under his belt.
“Mentally, I’ve been able to work on the details and the mental cues I have for myself,” Dang said. “Sometimes I’ll tell myself to squeeze tighter on a certain skill or lean a certain way.”
Preparation is key
Leading up to competitions, Dang follows his weekly training schedule to a tee. At the beginning of the week, the little details of his routine are the main focus. Then, Dang runs his routine one to two times in the middle of the week and a final time the day before the competition.
With the physical demands of the pommel horse, Dang adapts his weekly training schedule. Dang does this by spending more time on details and individual skills until his body is ready for more. Doing this allows time for Dang’s body to recover and prevents possible injuries. Dang said he can’t perform to the best of his ability if his body isn’t 100%.
“Recovery makes you feel more normal and natural when you compete,” Dang said. “When something’s hurting, it changes how you perform.”
Team-oriented
Although each gymnastics event is done individually, the team aspect of the sport can’t be overlooked. Dang spoke of the passion that each of his teammates has for gymnastics. This passion has led to a high work ethic in the gym, and the Illini are reaping the benefits.
“It was our meet against Oklahoma,” Dang said, referring to his favorite season memory. “We hit 24 out of our 24 sets, so we hit all our routines, and it was a blast.”
Even when he finishes his performances, Dang doesn’t fail to support his teammates. His positive presence plays a large part in each team’s victory.
“I help my teammates feel good for their routines by carrying their bags around or taking their videos,” Dang said. “When I’m done, I can transition into more of a supporting role.”
Up next
Moving into the back half of the season, Illinois is upgrading its routines. Incorporating new skills will allow Dang and the Illini to put up higher scores going forward. The Illini are looking like a dangerous team to face coming up in March.
Dang will compete at the Winter Cup in Louisville, Kentucky, this weekend alongside his teammates freshmen Ian Sandoval and Hasan Aydogdu and sophomore Preston Ngai. This competition is where the U.S. Gymnastics Senior National team is chosen, and Dang and other Illini have an opportunity to be selected.
