Maggie Schander Dominates Minnesota State Gymnastics Championships, Maria Hagen Shines on Floor

ST. PAUL, MN – Detroit Lakes senior Maggie Schander delivered a stellar performance at the Minnesota State High School League’s 2026 Girls Gymnastics State Meet Class A Individual and All-Around Championships, securing four gold medals at Roy Wilkins Auditorium on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Mankato West senior Maria Hagen similarly claimed a gold medal in the Floor Exercise.

Schander’s Championship Run

Schander’s impressive showing included victories in the All-Around (38.825), Uneven Bars (9.55), Vault (9.85), and Balance Beam (9.7). She expressed her relief and joy after conquering the Balance Beam, an event she previously found challenging. “I do not like beam,” Schander admitted, but celebrated her success with a cheer, a leap into her coach’s arms, and a raised fist.

This All-Around title marks a significant improvement for Schander, following a runner-up finish the previous year. Her performance on the Floor Exercise, scoring a 9.725, was pivotal in securing the All-Around gold.

Hagen’s Floor Exercise Triumph

Mankato West’s Maria Hagen showcased her skills on the Floor Exercise, earning a gold medal with a score of 9.75. She also finished as the All-Around runner-up with a score of 38.65. Hagen’s achievement represents Mankato West’s first gymnastics state title.

Anderson’s Podium Finishes

Blue Earth Area/United South Central senior Mariah Anderson also made a strong showing, earning a bronze medal in the All-Around with a score of 37.925, as well as silver on beam and bronze on vault and floor. Both Hagen and Anderson were competing at the state level for the first time this season, qualifying as individuals.

Future Collegiate Aspirations

All three gymnasts – Schander, Hagen, and Anderson – are considering collegiate athletics. Anderson is committed to Minnesota State Mankato for softball, even as Hagen is committed to Winona State for gymnastics. Schander has a visit scheduled with Wisconsin-Stout next week and is still undecided about her future in collegiate gymnastics.

Team Spirit and Continued Growth

Despite the individual accolades, Schander emphasized the importance of teamwork. “Ending senior season, I’m not even sad about ending gymnastics. I’m so sad about the team aspect,” she said. “It’s so strong.”