NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State women's gymnastics team hosts their first home meet of the season against Lindenwood and Ball State on Friday, Jan. 22, in Horton Field House beginning at 7 p.m.
After two meets on the road I think the team is ready to have their first home meet of the season," Illinois State head coach Bob Conkling said. "We are looking to build on our last meet and are focused on consistency on all four events."
Last weekend, the Redbirds competed in a five-team meet against Lindenwood, Oregon State, Bridgeport and Wisconsin-Eau Claire. The Redbirds placed fourth with a score of 190.125, and were led by freshman Meredith LaRoche, who placed fourth in the all-around with a total score of 38.100 to set a new career-best. A score of 9.900 followed on the floor exercise, which tied her for first place.
The team is looking to continue their success they had on the floor last week, as well as continuing to improve in all events. The Redbirds' floor exercise last week was their best of the night. LaRoche led the way and Danci Cha finished in a tie for third place with a 9.875. Marie Priest added a 9.775 and Sarah Fisher and Samantha Ward also contributed in scores of 9.600 each.
"Both Lindenwood and Ball State have had strong meets this season, so we will have to be solid throughout the entire meet to compete for the win," Conkling said.
The Redbird team welcomes all gymnastics club members and its families to the meet this weekend in Horton Field house. Fans are invited to attend an autograph session post meet with the Redbird gymnasts.
Following the meet Friday, the Redbirds will travel to Muncie, Ind., on Sunday, Jan. 24, to face Ball State at 1 p.m. The meet will be streamed live on ESPN3.Â
GoRedbirds.com:Â Your online source for Illinois State Athletics, tickets, Weisbecker Scholarship Fund gifts, multimedia, Redbird merchandise, photos and more.ÂÂÂÂ
