BREAKING: Red Rocks Stars Avery Neff and Zoe Johnson Test Positive for COVID-19, Will Miss NCAA Semifinals
April 13, 2025 | Salt Lake City, UT — In a major blow to the University of Utah’s gymnastics team, standout freshmen Avery Neff and Zoe Johnson have tested positive for COVID-19, the program announced early Sunday morning.
The news comes just days before the Red Rocks were set to compete in the NCAA Championship semifinals in Fort Worth, Texas.
“After routine testing following symptoms reported by both athletes, Avery and Zoe have tested positive for COVID-19 and will not travel with the team to Fort Worth,” the university’s statement read. “Our focus is on their recovery and the health and safety of the entire team.”
Neff, the No. 1 overall recruit in the 2024 class, and Johnson, known for her explosive vaults, have been key contributors throughout Utah’s dominant postseason run. Neff recently claimed her first all-around title at the Salt Lake City Regional, while Johnson anchored the vault rotation with a career-high 9.925.
Their absence is a significant setback for the Red Rocks, who were widely seen as strong contenders for a national title.
“We’re heartbroken for Avery and Zoe,” said head coach Carly Dockendorf. “They’ve poured everything into this season. While we’ll miss them on the floor, they’re still part of this team, and we’ll compete for them.”
Both athletes are reportedly experiencing mild symptoms and are isolating in accordance with university and NCAA protocols.
The Red Rocks will turn to senior leadership and rising stars like Clara Raposo and Jaylene Gilstrap to step up in the duo’s absence. The team is scheduled to compete in Semifinal II on Thursday.
