Although they have not competed as a team since March of last year, the Illinois State gymnastics team is looking forward to their first meet of the season on Saturday, January 8, at 7 p.m. in Horton Field House. The Birds, who will host both Illinois and Central Michigan, are anticipating a different start to the 2005 campaign.
The Redbirds faced the Fighting Illini in three meets last year, with Illinois coming out on top in each competition. Additionally, the Redbirds fell on the road to Central Michigan in the second meet of the season, 193.975-188.625.
Head coach Kristin Montero is excited to get the season underway and start things off a bit differently.
There has been a general feeling of excitement from the whole team, said Montero. I know we are all ready to get started. We are feeling more confident in ourselves and our routines; and the girls are really looking forward to showing the opposing teams and fans the improvements they have made in the off-season.
While posting a 4-21 overall record in 2004, the Redbirds did not capture a victory until February 7, 2004, with a win over Northern Illinois (192.275-191.600).
Montero believes that this first meet will set the tone for the remainder of the season.
We hope to start off strong in this first meeting with Illinois and Central Michigan, Montero said. After a solid performance, we will be able to build some momentum and keep improving along the way.
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