Beth Larson, a former Redbird gymnast, will be the new head gymnastics coach at Illinois State University, replacing her mentor Jill Hollembeak.
A 2000 graduate, Larson has spent the last year working as a graduate assistant at Northern Illinois University in the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education while pursuing her masters degree.
I am very thrilled to be back; this is home for me, Larson said. I feel honored to continue the spirit, leadership, and enthusiasm for Illinois State gymnastics. I am ready to jump into Jills shoes and take off and running again.
Associate Athletic Director Linda Herman thinks Larson can continue Illinois States gymnastics success.
Beth is a quality person, full of passion and loyalty, Herman said. I think Beth brings a good perspective to the program as a former Redbird and is anxious to continue the success of the gymnastics program with a spark similar to Hollembeaks.
As a gymnast at Illinois State, Larson was a standout both on the floor and in the classroom. She was a four-year letterwinner on the gymnastics team and served as team captain during the 1999-2000 season. She also received the R.E.D.B.I.R.D. gymnastics award from 1997-2000. Larson qualified as an individual for the NCAA Regionals in 1999 and was named Most Valuable Player from 1998-2000.
As a scholar, Larson was named to the Golden Key National Honor Society, Whos Who Among Colleges and Universities and Red Tassel of Mortar Board. She also served as a Student Ambassador, L.I.F.E. Club President and Treasurer as well as the Student Athlete Advisory Council Secretary/Treasurer.
A native of Cherry Valley, Ill., Larsons appointment is effective August 16. Larson will join swimming and divings
Steve Paska, womens golfs
Ray Kralis, and softballs
Melinda Fischer as one of four current head coaches who were student-athletes at Illinois State.
Larson inherits a nationally ranked team with thirteen returning members. Hollembeak, who coached the team to the NCAA Regionals, has accepted a position in the Karin L. Bone Athletics Study Center as Assistant Director and Tutor Coordinator, while pursuing her graduate degree.
