Twin triumph as sisters secure gymnastics podium

It’s a twin triumph for gymnastics, as two sisters have secured the top and third national student spots in the UK.

Emily and Abigail Roper, 20, were both celebrating after making the podium at the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Gymnastics Championships.

Emily took home the gold, with Abigail securing bronze over the one-day tournament, which unfolded over the weekend.

Emily said: “I’m really happy with how the tournament went and it’s such a good start to my season!”

Abigail added: “Competing at the BUCS Championships was an amazing experience, and although the competition didn’t go completely to plan, I'm excited for the rest of the season.”

The pair who both study Sport and Exercise Science in the School of Sport, Rehabilitation, and Exercise Sciences have set their sights on competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

They are not the only Performance Sport athletes in Essex going for glory in 2026 with athletes racking up incredible performances.

Tennis ace Ana Guadiana is smashing the season so far – with 13 wins, in 14 matches.

The 23-year-old Sport and Exercise Masters student is loving her time at Essex.

“The season has been going really well, we are undefeated so far, but what I've enjoyed most this year is how close we are as a team,” said the world-ranked player.

“Competing together on court every week has been a great experience, and being part of Essex Performance has pushed me to grow both as a player and as a person.

“I’m really looking forward to finishing the season strong and competing in the playoffs in a few weeks.”

Fellow tennis player Abby Fung has risen to the top of a sport she picked up just over one year ago – claiming a silver medal for pickleball.

Abby, 22, secured the prestigious podium spot in the English Nationals and says she couldn’t have done it without Essex. 

Pictures below by @markelbourneshoots 

Abby, who is studying a Masters in Strength and Conditioning, said: “This season has been amazing so far and representing Essex makes me very proud.

"The team here are incredible and we would never find as much support as the University of Essex provides anywhere else.”

The University of Essex Blades teams are set to top last year’s points in the BUCS competition.

This builds on 2025’s landmark achievement, which saw Essex teams lift three trophies at the flagship Big Wednesday finals, and Essex also retaining a top 30 sport ranking.

Head of Performance Sport, Katherine Brien, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our athletes and everything they’re achieving, both in sport and academically.

“The performances of Emily, Abigail, Ana and Abby reflect the talent, dedication and resilience within our programme, while also highlighting the breadth and strength of sport at Essex.

“We’re truly grateful to have them representing the University and it’s exciting to see them pushing towards even bigger goals.”