U NIVERSITY OF I LLINOIS 07WOMEN S GYMNASTICS TABLE OF CONTENTS FIGHTING ILLINI QUICK FACTS Location................Urbana-Champaign, Ill. Enrollment...........................38,000 Nickname.......................Fighting Illini Colors.......................Orange and Blue Conference..........................Big Ten President.....................B. Joseph White Chancellor.................Dr. Richard Herman Athletic Director.................Ron Guenther Home Gym..........................Huff Hall Seating Capacity.......................3,800 Head Coach......................Bob Starkell Years at Illinois................8th season Alma Mater..........Wisconsin-Oshkosh 92 Record at Illinois...................60-67 Overall Record.....................Same ATHLETIC PUBLIC RELATIONS Associate Head Coach............Kim Landrus Alma Mater......(Iowa State, 97), 5th season Assistant Coach..................Amy Kruse Alma Mater........(Nebraska 02), 1st season Volunteer Assistant................Sara Dumich Alma Mater.........(Illinois, 05), 1st season Gymnastics Address........1700 S. Fourth Street......................Champaign, IL 61820 Gymnastics Office...............217-333-1683 2006 Record...........................10-4 2006 Big Ten Finish..............7th (192.500) 2006 Regional Finish...........4th (193.125) 2006 Final Rank (RQS)...........25 (194.060) Letterwinners Returning / Lost.............9/2 Newcomers...............................4 2006 Captains..... Cara Pomeroy, Melissa Singer,............................Danye Botterman First Year of Women s Gymnastics........1974 Gymnastics Contact / Graduate Assistant..........Anastasia Harold E-mail Address...........................aharold2@uiuc.edu Office Phone................................217-244-5045 Cell Phone..................................217-493-9216 Assistant Gymnastics Contact..........................Joe Baker E-mail Address...........................jabaker2@uiuc.edu Sports Information Director..........................Kent Brown Associate Director................................Cassie Arner Assistant Directors..........Derrick Burson, Victor Cortez, Mike Koon,..........................Derek Neal, Heidi Norsen, Melissa Waller Graduate Assistant..................................Ben Taylor Intern.........................................Kevin Martinez Office Manager.................................Jen Funderburk Office Phone / Fax..................217-333-1391 / 217-333-5540 Website.................................www.fightingillini.com Mailing Address............Bielfeldt Athletic Administration Building......................1700 South Fourth St., Champaign, IL 61820 Season Preview........................................2-3 COACHING STAFF Head Coach Bob Starkell................................6-7 Associate Head Coach Kim Landrus..........................8 Assistant Coach Amy Kruse................................8 Volunteer Assistant Coach Sara Dumich......................9 Student Assistant Coach Emily Earle.........................9 Support Staff...........................................9 MEET THE FIGHTING ILLINI 2007 Roster...........................................12 The Illini by Class.......................................13 Danye Botterman.......................................14 Cara Pomeroy..........................................15 Melissa Singer.........................................16 Michelle McGrady.......................................17 Krystal Melcarek........................................18 Marijka Botterman......................................19 Julie Crall.............................................20 Kim Kruk..............................................21 Ursula Orozco..........................................22 Lindsey Smith..........................................23 Nicole Cowart..........................................24 Lori Hamilton..........................................24 Sarah Schmidt.........................................25 Laura Woolf...........................................25 Illini Outside the Gym.................................26-27 GYMNASTICS FACILITIES Huff Hall..............................................30 Kenney Gym...........................................31 Irwin Academic Center................................ 32-33 2007 OPPONENTS Opponent Information.................................36-37 THE RECORD BOOK 2006 Season In Review................................40-41 The Big Ten Conference...............................42-43 NCAA Championships....................................43 Illinois Honor Roll....................................44-45 Individual Records......................................46 Team Records..........................................47 All-Time Letterwinners...................................48 Media Information......................................49 THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS University of Illinois..................................52-53 The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics...................54-55 Academic Services...................................56-57 Champaign-Urbana.....................................58 Campus Life...........................................59 Athletic Excellence in 2005-06..........................60-61 UI Traditions........................................ 62-63 Notable Alumni......................................64-65 University Administration.................................66 Athletic Director Ron Guenther.............................67 The 2007 Fighting Illini..................................68 CREDITS: The 2007 Illinois Women s Gymnastics media guide is a publication of the Athletic Public Relations Office written to assist the media in their coverage of Illinois athletics. The guide was written and edited by Anastasia Harold and Derek Neal with assistance from Joe Baker. Designed by Victor Cortez, Melissa Waller and Heidi Norsen. Photos by Mark Jones, Mark Cowan, Tom Schaefges and Jama Gibson. The guide was printed by Crouse Printing, Champaign, Ill. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 1
2007 SEASON PREVIEW 2007 SEASON PREVIEW In 2006, the Illinois women s gymnastics team continued to show that it is an up-and-coming program on the national scene. The Fighting Illini qualified for the NCAA South Central Regional Championship for the third straight season and finished fourth, equaling the best regional finish in school history. Illinois finished 25th in the final NCAA rankings, marking the second time in the last three years that the Orange and Blue ended the season inside the top-25. Now, with 21 of 24 routines returning and the addition of a talented freshman class that includes Nicole Cowart, who comes to Illinois as one of the most decorated recruits in recent history, the Illini have set their sights even higher in 2007. We feel that as a group, we can contend for a Big Ten title and start making strides toward making it to the NCAA finals, said coach Bob Starkell, who is entering his eighth season at the helm of the Illini. It will really depend on how well our balance beam team develops, and how consistent our vault and uneven bars can be throughout the season. This year s talented freshman class of Cowart, Sarah Schmidt, Lori Hamilton and Laura Woolf joins five sophomores on the roster, making the Illini a young team on paper, but one that certainly isn t short on experience. Sophomores Julie Crall, Marijka Botterman, Kim Kruk and Lindsey Smith gained a wealth of experience as freshmen and will be counted on more heavily with a year of collegiate competition under their belts. Last year was more or less a developmental year for us because we had so many freshmen, Starkell said. I think we have an advantage now because the freshmen are sophomores. Since we are bringing in another talented freshman group, I think our aspirations and goals are a little higher than last year. Despite all the young talent, the 2007 Fighting Illini will only go as far as their upperclassmen leaders take them. Senior tri-captains Danye Botterman, Cara Pomeroy, and Melissa Singer are not only talented in the gym, but their leadership is immeasurable. Juniors Michelle McGrady and Krystal Melcarek, also showed flashes of brilliance last season and are ready to step up as consistent forces in the line-up. With the combination of the tremendous leadership and the talent level of the last two recruiting classes, 2007 is shaping up to be a special year for the Fighting Illini. We ve made some great strides during preseason, and I think we re a very strong team on all four events. We are looking for 2007 to be one of the best seasons at Illinois in a long time. SENIORS Cara Pomeroy is the anchor of the squad, and is looking to wrap up her stellar career with a bang. During her freshman season, she scored a perfect 10 on bars at the South Central Regional meet to become the first Illini to advance to the NCAA Championships in 17 years. She is hungry to return, this time with all of her teammates at her side. A back-to-back first team All-Big Ten selection and the winner of 31 career event titles entering 2007, Pomeroy will likely head the bars and beam line-ups this year, and may crack the floor line-up as well. Being a senior and a captain, we are looking for Cara to have her best year yet, while also being a key leader for the younger members of the team, Starkell said. Cara s strengths are definitely bars and beam, but last year she was able to give us a lift on floor exercise as well. I m confident she will be able to provide big numbers on those three events and help us reach our postseason goals. The eldest Botterman sister, Danye, has been a huge contributor for the Illini since the start of her freshman season. She was just hitting her stride last season when she dislocated her foot and had to miss the last three meets of the season. She will miss the beginning of this season after having off-season surgery, but will be expected to step in on vault, bars and floor when she returns in February. Senior tri-captains Danye Botterman, Cara Pomeroy and Melissa Singer. Danye is still coming off an injury from last year, so performance-wise, we re not exactly sure where she s going to be, Starkell said. But if we can get her on any event, it s going to help us out quite a bit, particularly on vault. Mainly a vault specialist for most of her career, senior, Melissa Singer, stepped up big last season when the injury bug hit the Illini late in the season. Singer entered into the beam and floor lineups, in addition to her normal vaulting, and counted toward the team score on all three events at both Big Tens and Regionals. She grabbed co-most Valuable Gymnast by her teammates, along with Pomeroy after the season, rewarding her ability to come through when it was needed most. I think Melissa will provide more leadership than anything, Starkell said. In the past, she has been a key performer on vault as the lead-off competitor. Last season, she really came through for us when we needed her on beam and floor. She certainly gives us quality depth on all three events she competes. JUNIORS The junior duo of Michelle McGrady and Krystal Melcarek made huge strides in 2006, and there s no reason to believe that improvement won t continue in 2007. McGrady was off to a fantastic start last season, winning seven event titles on vault and floor in the first eight meets, before missing the last five meets due to injury. Melcarek won two event titles on bars and also stepped in on floor exercise in six meets. Both gymnasts worked hard on upgrades in the off-season and could crack the lineup in even more events this season. Michelle s attributes are mostly with the power events, especially on floor and vault, Starkell said. She s been spending quite a bit of preseason upgrading her bars, so hopefully she will be able to jump in and lead on those three events. Krystal, meanwhile, has been one of our most consistent bar performers over the last two seasons. This year, she s been training for the all-around and could possibly make the line-up on floor exercise and balance beam. SOPHOMORES This year s sophomore class comes into the season with loads of experience. Marijka Botterman, Julie Crall and Kim Kruk each competed in the all-around as freshmen, while Lindsey Smith and Ursula Orozco are expected to step in and contribute on multiple events this year. 2 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
2007 SEASON PREVIEW 2007 SEASON PREVIEW Crall started off slowly in her freshman campaign, but finished with a flourish, taking fifth in the all-around at the NCAA South Central Regional meet and narrowly missing advancing to the NCAA Championships. She was named second team All-Big Ten after tying for third on beam at the conference championships, and earned the University of Illinois Female Newcomer of the Year accolade. She has had a great preseason and is looking to pick up where she left off last season. Julie had a very successful freshman season, Starkell said. Her main strengths were floor exercise and balance beam, but I see her starting out doing the allaround in our first meet this year and hopefully continuing where she left off a year ago. Julie is strong and elegant, and is going to be a key factor as to how far we can go this year. Botterman and Kruk also will be in the mix on all four events, and could see time as all-arounders once again. Botterman should make the most noise on vault and bars, while Kruk can be equally solid on each event. Marijka really does not have a weak event, but her biggest impact events will be the vault and the uneven bars, Starkell said. Kim also has four solid events, and hopefully she will be able to continue the success she had at the end of last season. Smith was rock solid on vault all of last season and is looking to contribute on more events this year, especially floor exercise and balance beam. Orozco competed in exhibitions several times in 2006, but has worked hard upgrading her routines and is poised to crack the vault, beam or floor lineup as a sophomore. Lindsey was one of our main competitors on the vault in 2006, but we d like to use her a little bit more on the other events this year, Starkell said. One of her key events in preseason has been floor exercise, and she also will provide depth on balance beam. Ursula had limited opportunities to compete last year but has spent a lot of time and effort upgrading her routines in the preseason. She has a chance to make the lineup on both floor exercise and balance beam this year, while adding depth to our vault team. FRESHMEN There is another talented crop of freshmen suiting up for the Illini in 2007, led by Indianapolis, Ind. native Nicole Cowart, who finished third in the allaround in her age group at the 2006 Junior Olympic Championships. Cowart, along with Sarah Schmidt, a 2005 J.O. Nationals qualifier and 2006 Wisconsin state floor exercise champion, is expected to make an immediate impact for the up-and-coming Illini. Nicole is going to come in and compete all-around right away, Starkell said. She is strong on all four events and doesn t really have a weakness. Coming out of preseason, I see her potentially being our top all-arounder. Sarah, meanwhile, already has big skills and has spent a lot of time trying to perfect those skills. She has been a pleasant surprise since she first set foot in Kenney Gym. HEAD COACH BOB STARKELL S EVENT-BY-EVENT BREAKDOWN: VAULT Until last year, vault was one of the events that we struggled on, but we ve been spending a lot of time and effort to get stronger on it. Last year was the best vault team we ve had since I ve been at Illinois, and we return everyone from that line-up. Our top vaulters from 2006, Marijka and Danye Botterman, Michelle McGrady, Lindsey Smith, Julie Crall, Melissa Singer and Kim Kruk are all back and improved, plus we get to add Nicole Cowart into the mix. Hopefully this group, with a bit more experience, can start our meets off strong. UNEVEN BARS Bars should be a definite strength for us this year. We lost Emily Earle, however, everyone else from last season s line-up returns. We ve also added some talented freshmen with good uneven bar skills. It s such a luxury to have someone like Cara Pomeroy anchoring our line-up, as you know she ll consistently put up a big score. Freshmen, Nicole Cowart and Sarah Schmidt, should give us solid options on the event along with our returnees from last season, Krystal Melcarek, Danye and Marijka Botterman and Julie Crall. BALANCE BEAM Beam will be the one event that will decide our season because it becomes an issue of consistency. We have some very strong competitors with Cara Pomeroy and Julie Crall returning as our top two beam workers from a year ago. Marijka Botterman and Michelle McGrady, both solid competitors last season, will return for the 2007 season. If we can get that core group to consistently perform, we should have a very good season. FLOOR EXERCISE Floor exercise is our deepest event. In the past, Michelle McGrady and Danye Botterman have been excellent floor performers, but I anticipate our freshmen and sophomores to step up and join those two as consistent performers on the event. Sarah Schmidt and Nicole Cowart have done well in the preseason, and I expect great performances from them right from the start. Julie Crall, Cara Pomeroy, Kim Kruk, Marijka Botterman, Lindsey Smith, Ursula Orozco and Krystal Melcarek all gained experience on floor last season and will vie for spots in the line-up. Canadian Lori Hamilton comes in with extensive big meet experience and an instant-impact bar routine, but has been slowed in the preseason by a back injury. While Illinois native, Laura Woolf, is expected to add strength to all events. Lori came in with a stress fracture in her back, but she s been progressively getting better, Starkell said. She s missed some practice time, but hopefully by the first month of competition we can get her on her strongest event, which I believe is the uneven bars. When she gets healthy and strong enough, she will be able to provide some quality routines on the other events as well. Laura, on the other hand, has really shown the most progress on the balance beam this preseason, but will add depth on the other events as well. The 2007 Fighting Illini 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 3
HEAD COACH BOB STARKELL................6-7 ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH KIM LANDRUS.........8 ASSISTANT COACH AMY KRUSE................8 VOLUNTEER ASSISTANT COACH SARA DUMICH....9 STUDENT ASSISTANT COACH EMILY EARLE.......9 SUPPORT STAFF............................9
THE COACHING STAFF BOB STARKELL HEAD COACH // EIGHTH SEASON Bob Starkell begins his eighth year at the helm of the Fighting Illini women's gymnastics program, and his 14th year overall at the University of Illinois. Since he took over for former head coach Lynn Brueckman in 2000, Starkell's squads have posted nine of the top 10 team scores in school history, including the school record of 196.300. In 2006, the Illinois program continued its path as a rising program. The Illini finished the season with a national ranking of No. 25, and advanced to the NCAA South Central Regional for the third straight season, and finished in fourth, equaling the best UI regional finish in school history. The Illini also posted a 10-4 record in the regular season. Cara Pomeroy was named first team All-Big Ten for the second straight year, becoming the first Illini to accomplish that feat in 16 years. In 2005, Starkell led his squad to an NCAA final ranking of 27th. Starkell was honored as the 2005 Big Ten and South Central Regional Coach of the Year after guiding his squad to the NCAA Regional for the second straight year and coaching three All-Big Ten selections. 2004 was equally successful as his squad finished 22nd in the nation and two of his gymnasts advanced to the NCAA National Championships. Under Starkell, Illinois has had 10 All- Americans, 32 Scholastic All-Americans and 58 Academic All-Big Ten selections. Prior to being named the head coach, Starkell served as an assistant for the Illini for six years. He was named the 1998 Central Regional Assistant Coach of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches for Women. Before Illinois, Starkell served as an assistant coach for Wisconsin- Oshkosh while finishing his bachelor's degree, and then became the head coach for the men's and women's gymnastics teams in 1993. He coached the Lady Titans to a conference championship and a second-place finish at the NCAA Division II Championships in 1993. For his efforts, he was named the Wisconsin Women's Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Coach of the Year. Additionally, Starkell coached many individuals who earned high accolades. He trained a Division II All-American on the floor exercise and vault and Division III champions on vault, floor and beam. 6 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE COACHING STAFF HEAD COACH BOB STARKELL Starkell also has had great success with the men's squads. Before becoming the head coach for both Oshkosh programs, Starkell served two years as the men's assistant coach. He coached five All-Americans and produced four Division II individual champions, one each on the vault, pommel horse, still rings and floor. One of his gymnasts also became a member of the 1992 U.S. National Team. In addition to his collegiate coaching, Starkell has gained experience coaching at various gymnastics schools and camps. He trained young athletes at the Oshkosh Gymnastics Club and coached for five years at the International Gymnastics School in Pennsylvania. Starkell also worked at the International Gymnastics School summer camp and was the director of the Wisconsin-Oshkosh summer camp. Prior to coming to Illinois, Starkell spent seven years at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, both as a student-athlete and a coach. He competed for the Titans gymnastics team for four years, completing his eligibility in 1990 and earning a B.S. in physical education in 1992. At Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Starkell placed among the top-10 in the floor exercise at the national championships in 1989 and 90, earning All-America honors in 89. Starkell qualified for the NCAA Division III championships in the all-around, while his team qualified for the finals each year he competed. Starkell, originally from California, attended high school in Fond du Lac, Wis. During high school, he trained for the Junior National Gymnastics Championships, in which he participated in from 1982-86. THE STARKELL FILE PERSONAL Originally from California Attended high school in Fond du Lac, Wis Attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and graduated in 1990 with a B.S. in physical education...he and his wife, Lynnette, have two daughters, Haley (7) and Claire (4), and reside in Champaign. Coach Bob Starkell with his wife Lynnette and their two daughters, Haley (7) and Claire (4). COACHING EXPERIENCE Head Coach, University of Illinois - 2000-present Assistant Coach, University of Illinois - 1994-99 Head Coach, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh -1993 (men and women) Assistant Coach, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh - 1991-92 (men and women) HONORS/AWARDS Big Ten Conference Coach of the Year - 2005 South Central Region Coach of the Year - 2005 Central Region Assistant Coach of the Year 1998 RECORD AT ILLINOIS Year Duals Big Ten Regional 2006 10-4 7th 4th 2005 17-5 5th 6th 2004 10-7 6th 5th 2003 7-12 6th -- 2002 6-16 6th -- 2001 3-13 7th -- 2000 7-10 T-5th -- Total 60-67 -- -- 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 7
THE COACHING STAFF KIM LANDRUS ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH // FIFTH SEASON Kim Landrus, formerly Kim Mazza, is in her fifth year as a coach for the Illini, and her first year as an associate head coach after being promoted in the fall of 2006. Landrus came to the University of Illinois in September 2002, and now serves as recruiting coordinator, in addition to her previous duties. Landrus primarily coaches the balance beam, while assisting on floor exercise as well. Additionally, Landrus works with Amy Kruse to choreograph both floor and beam routines, structures day-to-day practices and monitors the conditioning program for the gymnasts. Outside of the gym, she plays a vital role in both on-and-off campus recruiting. Landrus has had much success during her four-year tenure as an assistant coach for the Illini. During her stint, she has led the Illini to three straight NCAA Regional appearances for the first time in 16 years from 2004-06. She also garnered the NCAA South Central Regional Assistant Coach of the Year in 2005, and helped qualify two University of Illinois individuals to the NCAA Championships in 2004, something that hadn t been done in 17 years. In 2005 and 2006, she was instrumental in bringing in two of the top recruiting classes in Illinois history. Prior to the 2002-03 season, Landrus spent two years as an assistant coach for Iowa State University. At Iowa State, her beam team finished in the top- 10 nationally in 2002 with a season-high ranking of fourth. Before her coaching career, Landrus was one of the most decorated gymnasts in Cyclone history. She was ISU's first-ever national qualifier in 1997, a twotime All Big-12 conference pick, the school's Most Valuable Gymnast in 1996 and 97, and she recorded the first 10.0 in school history with a AMY KRUSE ASSISTANT COACH // FIRST SEASON Amy Kruse begins her first year as an assistant coach for the Illini. Kruse will have coaching responsibilities on all four events; however, her primary responsibilities will be working on floor exercise, choreography, music selection and compilation. Outside the gym, she will play a key role in recruiting and alumni relations. Kruse came to Illinois from the Phoenix Gymnastics Academy (PGA) where she coached all levels (up to Level 10) with her main focus on beam and floor. Prior to PGA, Kruse worked at Nebraska School of Gymnastics from 2001-03, assisting on all events. A native of Phoenix, Ariz., Kruse was a four-year letterwinner at the University of Nebraska from 1998-2001. She was a second team All- American on floor exercise and Nebraska's Most Improved Gymnast in 2000. Throughout her memorable four-year career, Kruse helped the perfect performance on the floor exercise at the 1997 Big 12 Championships. The four-year letterwinner was named ISU's Woman Athlete of the Year in 1997. In addition to her stellar athletic career, Landrus also excelled in the classroom. She was a four-time academic all-conference selection, a twotime GTE/CoSIDA Academic All-American and was in the top two percent of her class when she earned a Bachelor of Science in finance in 1997. Landrus received the Big 12 Postgraduate Scholarship and the NCAA Women's Enhancement Program Postgraduate Scholarship after earning her undergraduate degree. From 1998-2000, Landrus earned an MBA degree, while serving as a graduate assistant in compliance for the university. She also was the Iowa State gymnastics meet director, and coached at Cardinal Gymnastics Academy in Ames, Iowa. She completed her master's degree in business administration in May 2000. Landrus, and her husband Steve, who wed in May of 2006, reside in Champaign. Huskers advance to the Super Six team finals three times, while earning career highs of 39.25 in the all-around, 9.85 on vault, 9.825 on bars, 9.925 on beam and a 9.95 on floor. She was a member of the Commissioner's Honor Roll and was named to the Academic All-Big 12 Team. After exhausting her eligibility, Kruse served both as a student assistant and volunteer coach for the Huskers. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from Nebraska in 2002. Kruse resides in Champaign with her husband, Colby, and two daughters, Londyn (7 months), and Jayda (2). 8 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
SARA DUMICH VOLUNTEER ASSISTANT COACH // FIRST SEASON Sara Dumich enters her first year as a volunteer assistant coach in the Illinois gymnastics program. She previously performed for the Orange and Blue as a student-athlete from 2002-05. Since finishing her gymnastics career in 2005, Dumich has been working towards a master s in exercise physiology with an emphasis in exercise immunology and has been coaching the Flippin Illini club gymnastics team. A native of Champaign, Ill., she came to UI in 2002 and gained a spot as a walk-on freshman before opting to redshirt her first season. Early in her sophomore year, she quickly became a regular in the floor lineup, establishing her career-best performance at Michigan State with a 9.850. She also was named the 2003 Most Improved Gymnast. Dumich enjoyed continued success her junior year as the lead-off floor exercise competitor, earning a season-high of 9.825 vs. Iowa State. She also competed on beam, with a career-best 9.750. She was named to the Academic All-Big Ten team four times and graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology in 2005. SUPPORT STAFF THE COACHING STAFF EMILY EARLE STUDENT ASSISTANT COACH // FIRST SEASON After four years competing for the Fighting Illini, Emily Earle now joins the coaching staff as a student assistant coach. Earle was a four year letterwinner for the Orange and Blue from 2003-06, competing on bars and vault. She won one event title in 2006, winning the uneven bars with a season-high of 9.725 at Illinois-Chicago. She set her career-high of 9.750 on two occasions, at Missouri in 2005 and at Ohio State in 2004. Outside of the gym Earle excelled in the classroom as well. She earned the top grade point average among all senior female student-athletes in 2006 and was a fourtime George Huff Award recipient, three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection and three-time NAGCGC/W Scholastic All-American. In addition, she won the team s scholar-athlete award for having the highest GPA in 2003 and 2006. The St. Petersburg, Fla. native, is currently finishing her bachelor s degree in kinesiology and pre-medicine. Kathy Hug Assistant Athletic Director Holly Stalcup Event Management Joe Cross Academic Counselor Angie Miller Athletic Trainer Rick Raven Equipment Manager Lenny Willis Director of Athletic Facilities Sara Rhodes Office Manager Ellie Zabielski Marketing & Promotions 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 9
2007 ROSTER.................................12 THE ILLINI BY CLASS............................13 DANYE BOTTERMAN............................14 CARA POMEROY...............................15 MELISSA SINGER...............................16 MICHELLE MCGRADY...........................17 KRYSTAL MELCAREK............................18 MARIJKA BOTTERMAN...........................19 JULIE CRALL..................................20 KIM KRUK....................................21 URSULA OROZCO...............................22 LINDSEY SMITH................................23 NICOLE COWART...............................24 LORI HAMILTON................................24 SARAH SCHMIDT...............................25 LAURA WOOLF.................................25 ILLINI OUTSIDE THE GYM......................26-27
THE FIGHTING ILLINI THE 2007 FIGHTING ILLINI: (L-R) Front Row: Lindsey Smith, Julie Crall, Marijka Botterman, Krystal Melcarek Second Row: Sarah Schmidt, Melissa Singer, Danye Botterman, Nicole Cowart, Laura Woolf Back Row: Michelle McGrady, Ursula Orozco, Cara Pomeroy, Kim Kruk, Lori Hamilton 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS ROSTER NAME YR. HT. EVENT(S) HOMETOWN/HIGH SCHOOL CLUB TEAM Danye Botterman Sr. 5-3 AA New Lenox, Ill./Chicago Christian Gym-Kinetics Marijka Botterman So. 5-3 AA New Lenox, Ill./Lincoln-Way Central Gym-Kinetics Nicole Cowart Fr. 5-2 AA Greenwood, Ind./Center Grove Wright's Gymnastics Julie Crall So. 5-2 AA Cincinnati, Ohio/Ursuline Academy Queen City Gymnastics Lori Hamilton Fr. 5-2 AA Mississauga, Ontario/Lorne Park Gymnastics Mississauga Kim Kruk So. 5-2 AA Carol Stream, Ill./Bartlett Illinois Gymnastics Institute Michelle McGrady Jr. 5-5 AA Buffalo Grove, Ill./Stevenson American Academy Krystal Melcarek Jr. 5-3 AA Mukwonago, Wis./Mukwonago Salto Gymnastics Ursula Orozco So. 5-1 VT, BB, FX Des Plaines, Ill./Maine East Elk Grove Gymnastics Cara Pomeroy Sr. 5-8 AA Ottawa, Ontario/Nepean Ottawa Gymnastics Sarah Schmidt Fr. 5-2 AA Hartland, Wis./Arrowhead Midwest Twisters Melissa Singer Sr. 5-4 VT, BB, FX Buffalo Grove, Ill./Stevenson American Academy Lindsey Smith So. 5-0 AA Collinsville, Ill./Metro-East Lutheran World Class Gymnastics Laura Woolf Fr. 5-2 AA Deerfield, Ill./Deerfield Buffalo Grove Gymnastics Center 12 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE FIGHTING ILLINI SENIORS Cara Pomeroy, Melissa Singer, Danye Botterman JUNIORS Michelle McGrady, Krystal Melcarek SOPHOMORES Lindsey Smith, Marijka Botterman, Julie Crall, Kim Kruk, Ursula Orozco FRESHMEN Lori Hamilton, Sarah Schmidt, Nicole Cowart, Laura Woolf 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 13
THE FIGHTING ILLINI DANYE BOTTERMAN 5-3 // SR. // NEW LENOX, ILL. // CHICAGO CHRISTIAN // CLUB: GYM-KINETICS 2006 JUNIOR: Recorded three individual titles (vault-2, floor-1)...competed on vault and bars every meet before getting injured and missing the final three meets...best performance of the season came on March 11 vs. Michigan State where she recorded two event titles (vault-9.750, floor-9.825) and a second-place finish on bars (9.800)...Hit 23- of-24 routines in 2006, and has hit 90-of-94 (.957) routines in the first three years of her career (34-of-36 Vault, 30-of-30 Bars, 26-of-28 Floor). 2005 SOPHOMORE: Competed on vault and bars in all 13 meets for the Illini...Hit 36-of -37 routines (.973), including 12-of-13 on vault, 13-of-13 on bars and 11-of-11 floor exercises...captured the vault title against Northern Illinois and the Japan All-Stars with a score of 9.750...Won first place on vault at the State of Illinois Classic with a seasonhigh mark of 9.850...Placed second on vault at the Cardinal Classic (9.800)...Tied for third on vault against Denver (9.825). 2004 FRESHMAN: Stepped in and became Illinois' No. 1 vaulter...competed in every meet on vault and floor, and was inserted into the uneven bars line-up for the final seven meets...hit 31-of-33 overall routines (.939), including 12-of-13 on vault, 12-of-13 on floor and 7-of-7 on bars...scored a 9.800 or better on vault in 10-of-13 meets...won five event titles on the season, all on vault, and had 11 top-three finishes... Won vault at her first three collegiate meets at NIU (9.850), at UIC (9.850) and vs. Michigan State (9.825)...Also won vault vs. Ball State (9.850) and Illinois State (9.800)...Established season and career-highs of 9.875 on vault vs. Iowa State, 9.850 on bars at the South Central Regional and 9.875 on floor twice at Ohio State and at the State of Illinois Classic. DANYE S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.875 (vs. Iowa State, 2/14/04) BARS: 9.850 (at NCAA South Central Regional, 4/3/04) FLOOR: 9.875 (twice, last at State of Illinois Classic, 3/13/04) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Vault: 9 Floor: 1 Total: 10 HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Qualified for Level 10 Nationals in 2002 and was the Level 10 State floor and vault champion in 2001...Level 9 National vault champion in 2001...Coached by Glen Willmeng and Dana Edeus. PERSONAL: Daughter of Hank and Laurie Botterman...Has two sisters, Marijka, who is a sophomore on the Illinois gymnastics team and Kylee, who is a senior at Lincoln-Way Central High School...Credits her family and coaches most for influencing her gymnastics career...majoring in speech communications...loves shopping as well as wakeboarding and snowboarding. COACH STARKELL ON BOTTERMAN: Danye is approaching her senior year with high hopes. She is a dynamic gymnast and is very competitive in nature. Each year, Danye has proven to be a strong competitor on vault, uneven bars and the floor exercise. This year should be no exception. THE BOTTERMAN FILE Nickname: Danye or Botter Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Cubs Favorite Movie/TV Shows: Pirates of the Caribbean Favorite Musical Artist: Kelly Clarkson Favorite place in the world: My room Favorite Activity Outside of Gymnastics: Shopping Three words that describe me: Competitive, stubborn, crazy Most Inspirational Person: My mom, Laurie I can t go a day without: A nap Least favorite sport: Golf Age I started gymnastics: 5 Something no one knows about me: I have a 205-pound dog! In 10 years I will be: Continuing to cheer on the Illini! What I do before a meet: Listen to my ipod What makes Illini gymnastics unique: The friendship & team unity 14 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
CARA POMEROY 5-8 // SR. // OTTAWA, ONTARIO // NEPEAN // CLUB: OTTAWA GYMNASTICS THE FIGHTING ILLINI 2006 JUNIOR: Junior co-captain Big Ten Gymnast of the Week (2/8) after recording two first-place finishes at the Illinois State meet Named to the first team All-Big Ten, while placing third on beam at the conference championships Hit 33-of-34 routines on the season Has hit 37 consecutive bar routines entering 2007, dating back to her freshman year Recorded 10 individual event titles on the season (bars-6, beam-4) Was a double-winner twice, winning bars and beam at NIU and Iowa...Tied her career high on beam with a 9.900 at UIC to win the event Recorded personal best on floor of 9.775 to place third against Missouri Nominated for Illinois Female Athlete of the Year Was a co-winner of the team awards for Most Outstanding Gymnast, Most Valuable Gymnast, and Most Consistent Beam...Inducted into Chi Alpha Sigma Student-Athlete Honor Society..Academic All-Big Ten, Illinois Scholastic All-State, and George Huff Award recipient. 2005 SOPHOMORE: Named first team All-Big Ten Competed on bars and beam in all 13 meets for the Illini Hit 25-of-26 routines (.962), including 13-of-13 on bars and 12-of-13 on beam Scored a 9.900 or better on bars in six meets Won 11 event titles on the season, three on beam and eight on bars Named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week on March 1 after placing first on both bars (9.950) and beam (9.850) at the Texas Women's Quad Won the team's Most Outstanding Gymnast award Academic All-Big Ten selection and George Huff Award recipient...named a Scholastic All-American by the NACGC/W. 2004 FRESHMAN: Competed at the NCAA Championships on uneven bars, earning a solid 9.800...She and teammate Ashley Williams were the first U of I gymnasts to compete at NCAAs in 17 years...scored the first perfect 10.0 in Illinois history to win bars at the South Central Regional Championships and became U of I's first Regional Champion since 1977...Tied for fifth on beam at Regionals with a 9.875...Shared the team's Most Outstanding Gymnast award with Ashley Williams...Named second team All-Big Ten...Competed on bars and beam in every meet...hit 24-of-27 routines (.888), including 13-of-14 on bars...scored at least a 9.850 on bars in 10 of the last 12 meets, including five scores of 9.900 or better...won 10 event titles, most on the team, including seven on bars and three on beam...won both events in the same meet on two occasions, vs. Michigan State (9.900 UB and 9.875 BB) and at the State of Illinois Classic (9.925 UB and 9.850 BB)...Won beam in her first collegiate meet with a 9.750 at NIU...Earned beam season and career high of 9.900 at Ohio State to finish second...george Huff Award recipient...a Scholastic All-American by the NACGC/W. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Competed at the Canada Winter Games in 2003, and captained the Ontario Team which won the gold medal during team competition...three-time Canadian National Uneven Bars Champion...Finished fourth in the all-around, second on bars and beam and fourth on floor at 2003 Nationals...Best all-around finish at Nationals was a second-place showing in the National Open category in 2001...Competed in the Canadian National Championships every year since 1996...Coached by Tobie Gorman and Lori Ierullo. CARA S CAREER HIGHS BARS: 10.000 (NCAA South Central Regional, 4/3/04) BEAM: 9.900 (twice, last at UIC, 2/25/06) FLOOR: 9.775 (vs. Missouri, 2/11/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Bars: 21 Beam: 10 Total: 31 PERSONAL: Daughter of Steve and Jill Pomeroy...Has one brother and one sister...both parents ran track and field at the University of British Columbia...Majoring in kinesiology Credits her family as having the biggest influence on her athletic career...five-time honor roll student in high school. COACH STARKELL ON POMEROY: Proven to be one of Illinois most accomplished gymnasts, Cara has her heart set on the team making it to Nationals. Last year was an exceptional year for her as she competed on three events and anchored the squad on bars and beam. This year, look for Cara to contend for a Big Ten title on both these events. Besides excelling on the competition floor, our young team will look to her strong leadership and guidance throughout the season. THE POMEROY FILE Nickname: Pommie Favorite Sports Team: Ottawa Senators Favorite TV Show: The O.C. Favorite Actress: Dakota Fanning Favorite Musical Artist: Kelly Clarkson Favorite Food: Chocolate Worst Habit: Falling asleep during movies Favorite sport besides gymnastics: Beach volleyball Age I started gymnastics: 3 Something no one knows about me: I know how to ride a unicycle. Three words that describe me: Motivated, Canadian, caring What makes Illini gymnastics so unique?: We are all best friends and are always together. Our closeness really allows us to succeed in the gym. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 15
THE FIGHTING ILLINI MELISSA SINGER 5-4 // SR. // BUFFALO GROVE, ILL. // STEVENSON // CLUB: AMERICAN ACADEMY Scholastic All-American by the NACGC/W. 2006 JUNIOR: Competed on vault in every meet for the Illini Tied her personal-best score of 9.750 on vault vs. Missouri Competed on floor for the final three meets and scored a 9.700 at the State of Illinois Classic to finish fifth One week later, set a new career high of 9.725 at Big Tens Competed on beam in five meets, earning a career high 9.650 at the Big Ten Championships Hit 35-of-36 vaults through her first three seasons Chi Alpha Sigma National Student-Athlete Honor Society member Academic All-Big Ten selection, Illinois Scholastic All-State and George Huff Award recipient Named Illinois Gymnastics Co-Most Valuable Gymnast and was nominated for Big Ten Sportsmanship Award. 2005 SOPHOMORE: Competed on vault in all 13 meets for the Illini Hit 12-of-13 vaults and counted toward the team score in 10 meets Recorded a personal best in vault with a score of 9.750 at Illinois State...Competed once on floor, scoring a 9.000 vs. Denver Academic All-Big Ten selection and George Huff Award recipient...named a Scholastic All-American by the NACGC/W. 2004 FRESHMAN: Won the team's Most Improved Gymnast Award...Was a model of consistency for the Illini vault team...hit 13-of-13 vaults and counted toward the team score in every meet...hit her season and career-high of 9.725 on two occasions, in the season opener at NIU and also vs. Iowa State...George Huff Award recipient...named a MELISSA S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.750 (three times, last vs. Missouri, 2/11/06) BEAM: 9.650 (at Big Ten Championships, 3/25/06) FLOOR: 9.725 (at Big Ten Championships, 3/25/06) HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Named the 2003 IHSA Outstanding Senior Gymnast after leading Stevenson to its third-consecutive state title...ihsa state finalist all four years, finishing fourth in the all-around in 2002 and fifth in 2003...Finished fourth on beam and sixth on vault while competing for Team Illinois at the 2003 High School National Meet...Coached by Leonard Isaacs and Judy Harwood. PERSONAL: Daughter of Allen and Sharon Singer...Has one sister...credits her sister, Jenna, for getting her interested in gymnastics...national Honor Society member...won Scholar-Athlete Award in the winter of 2003...Majoring in kinesiology Made high honor roll every semester of high school. COACH STARKELL ON SINGER: Mel has proven that she is an excellent leader inside and outside the gym. Look for this year to be her best as she always carries herself to the highest of standards. Over the past three years, Mel has been a rock for us on vault as the lead-off competitor. She has been monumental in helping this become our most improved event since her arrival. As one of the captains of this Fighting Illini squad, I see her continuing to lead on vault and also be a viable competitor on balance beam and the floor exercise. THE SINGER FILE Nickname: Mel, MJ Favorite Athlete: Michael Jordan Favorite Movie: Remember the Titans and Happy Gilmore Favorite Actor: Will Ferrell Favorite Food: Chicken Parmigiana Favorite Musical Artist: Michael Jackson Age I started gymnastics: 5 I collect: Teddy Bears My best memory as an Illini is: Hanging out with teammates Three words that describe me: Determined, ambitious, motivated I chose Illinois because: It's the greatest place in the whole world. My favorite thing about Coach Bob: He is always very positive and encouraging. To prepare for a meet: I visualize my routines and get really pumped and excited. What makes Illini gymnastics so unique? We are a family of best friends who share a passion for gymnastics, a love for our school and a motivation to achieve our goals together. 16 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
MICHELLE MCGRADY 5-5 // JR. // BUFFALO GROVE, ILL. // STEVENSON // CLUB: AMERICAN ACADEMY THE FIGHTING ILLINI 2006 SOPHOMORE: Competed on vault, beam and floor in the first eight meets of the season before being sidelined with a stress fracture in her leg Had seven event titles on the season, four on vault and three on floor Was a double-winner three times, winning vault and floor in three consecutive meets (vs. Maryland, at NIU and vs. Illinois State) Set career-highs on all three events she competed on: vault (9.875 vs. Maryland) beam (9.775 at UIC) and floor (9.850 at NIU) George Huff Award winner, Academic All-Big Ten selection and Illinois Scholastic All-State selection. 2005 FRESHMAN: Competed on vault in eight meets for the Illini and counted towards the team score seven times Recorded a season and career-high of 9.800 on vault at the Texas Women's Quad meet...george Huff Award recipient. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Five-time Level 10 regional qualifier...the 2004 balance beam champion, as well as fourth place in both the all-around and uneven bars at the IHSA meet...finished third in the all-around, second on balance beam and uneven bars and fourth on vault at the 2004 USAG state meet...finished second in the state on uneven bars and floor exercise at the 2003 IHSA meet. PERSONAL: Daughter of Michael and Diane McGrady...Majoring in accountancy...biggest thrill in sports is winning as a team, because it makes everyone feel they contributed something valuable...feels her mom most influenced her athletic career because she got her into the sport and provides support and encouragement. MICHELLE S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.875 (vs. Maryland, 1/21/06) BEAM: 9.775 (at UIC, 2/25/06) FLOOR: 9.850 (at NIU, 1/29/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Vault: 4 Floor: 3 Total: 7 COACH STARKELL ON MCGRADY: Even with a shortened competitive season last year, Michelle has shown she can excel on vault and floor. Her power gives her the extra edge when competing, and we see these events to be her strengths for the upcoming season. Michelle s consistent style should make her a key factor on balance beam as well. THE MCGRADY FILE Nickname: Mich Favorite Athlete: Mark Prior Favorite TV Show: The Real World Favorite Actress: Kate Hudson Favorite Singer: Kelly Clarkson Favorite Food: Italian Beef Favorite activity outside of gymnastics: Shopping I can t go a day without: A nap My least favorite sport: Soccer My favorite sport besides gymnastics: Tennis Age I started gymnastics: 3 Three words that describe me: Rambunctious, entertaining, motivated Before a meet I: Listen to music to pump me up I chose Illinois because: It is a great academic institution and has a lot to offer its student-athletes What makes Illini gymnastics unique? The loving and supportive girls! The most inspirational person in my life is: My mom, Diane 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 17
THE FIGHTING ILLINI KRYSTAL MELCAREK 5-3 // JR. // MUKWONAGO, WIS. // MUKWONAGO // CLUB: SALTO GYMNASTICS 2006 SOPHOMORE: Competed on bars for the Illini in every meet and competed on floor six times Recorded the first individual title of her career at Illinois-Chicago on bars (9.725) At the State of Illinois Classic, tied a season best of 9.750 to win bars Hit 17- of-18 routines on the season. 2005 FRESHMAN: Competed on vault, bars and floor for the Illini Hit 12-of-12 bar routines and counted toward the team score in all 12 meets Placed second on bars with a personal-best 9.775 at the Illinois Quad Recorded two third-place finishes on bars against Denver (9.725) and at Michigan State (9.750) Scored a career-best 9.875 at the Texas Women s Quad meet...recorded career bests on vault (9.650) against Denver and on floor (9.700) at the Texas Women s Quad...Rewarded with the team's Most Improved Gymnast Award. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: National qualifier three years in-a-row...in 2003, named team captain and helped her team receive the sportsmanship award...first place in uneven bars at regionals in 2002...Four-time high school academic All-American. PERSONAL: Daughter of James and Debra Melcarek...Majoring in kinesiology...favorite athlete is Brett Favre because he is confident, aggressive, a team player and a leader...hobbies include swimming, shopping and listening to music...biggest thrill in sports is the feeling of butterflies and getting pumped up for a competition. KRYSTAL S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.650 (vs. Denver, 1/29/05) BARS: 9.875 (at Texas Women s Quad, 2/26/05) FLOOR: 9.750 (twice, last at NIU, 1/29/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Bars: 2 COACH STARKELL ON MELCAREK: Krystal has shown that she is a consistent competitor. Over the past two years, Krystal has been a key factor in the bar line-up, hitting nearly every routine. Last year, she saw significant time on uneven bars and the floor exercise. She will once again be a vital contributor on bars, and is capable of being an all-arounder with added difficulty on beam and floor. THE MELCAREK FILE Nickname: Krys or Krystalle Favorite Athlete: Brett Favre Favorite TV Show: The O.C. Favorite Actor/Actress: Johnny Depp, Dakota Fanning Least Favorite Sport: Golf Worst Habit: Worrying I collect: Hotel room keys Age I started gymnastics: 3 Three words that describe me: Dependable, sincere, peppy The most influential person in my life: My dad, James I can t go a day without: Smiling What makes Illini gymnastics unique? Our strong friendship and our drive to be the best Words I live by: Live with no regrets, love with all your heart, and laugh with all you ve got. 18 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
MARIJKA BOTTERMAN 5-3 // SO. // NEW LENOX, ILL. // LINCOLN-WAY CENTRAL // CLUB: GYM-KINETICS THE FIGHTING ILLINI 2006 FRESHMAN: Placed sixth on vault at the Big Ten Championships with a score of 9.775 Competed on vault, bars and beam in every meet, and competed in the all-around eight times Recorded five individual titles (vault-2, bars-1, all-around-2) Put up personal-best scores to win vault (9.875) and beam (9.825) at Illinois-Chicago, leading Illinois to victory Won all-around titles at Ohio State (38.700) and vs. Michigan State (38.850), a career high, and also posted a career-high of 9.775 on bars George Huff Award recipient. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Four-time Junior Olympic National qualifier...placed first with the Region V team at the 2005 National Championships...2005 fifth-place Regional finish...the 2005 state champion on beam (9.45)...Placed second on bars, floor and the all-around and third on vault at the 2005 state championships...coached by Glen Willmeng, Jim Fedrickson and Dana Edeus Competed for Gym-Kinetics gymnastics club. PERSONAL: Daughter of Hank and Laurie Botterman Older sister, Danye, is a senior on the Fighting Illini Women's Gymnastics team and younger sister, Kylee, is a senior at Lincoln- Way Central High School Says she chose Illinois because she loved the girls and coaches and it felt like a family away from home, even though home is so close Enrolled in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences High honor roll student. COACH STARKELL ON BOTTERMAN: As a freshman, Marijka gained valuable competitive experience on all four events. In the off-season, she continued to make great strides that have benefited her thus far. Her power on vault should enable her to be one of the key forces in the Big Ten. Marijka really doesn t have a weak event, and we are expecting a strong all-around showing from her this year. MARIJKA S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.875 (at UIC, 2/25/06) BARS: 9.775 (vs. Michigan State, 3/11/06) BEAM: 9.825 (at UIC, 2/25/06) FLOOR: 9.775 (at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) ALL-AROUND: 38.850 (vs. Michigan State, 3/11/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Vault: 2 Bars: 1 All-Around: 2 Total: 5 THE BOTTERMAN FILE Favorite TV Show: Prison Break Favorite Musical Artist: O.A.R. Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Cubs Favorite Type of Music: Country Can t Go a Day Without: Music Age I started gymnastics: 4 I ve Always Dreamed of: Skydiving Favorite Athlete: David Beckham Favorite Illini Athlete: My sister, Danye My least favorite sport: Fishing One thing I ve always wanted to do: Skydiving (but I ll never do it) 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 19
THE FIGHTING ILLINI JULIE CRALL 5-2 // SO. // CINCINNATI, OHIO // URSULINE ACADEMY // CLUB: QUEEN CITY GYMNASTICS 2006 FRESHMAN: Named to the All-Big Ten second team Tied for third on beam with teammate Cara Pomeroy at the Big Ten Championships (9.825) Finished fifth in the allaround at the NCAA South Central Regional meet with a career-high 38.950 Recorded an individual event title vs. Missouri on beam with a score of 9.875 Set a career high with a 9.825 on floor against Missouri Won the second event title of her career at the State of Illinois Classic on beam, tying her personal-best score of 9.875 Recorded seven secondplace finishes on the season Recorded a 9.875 on beam vs. Missouri, and at UIC Competed in the all-around in the last four meets, recording a second-place finish vs. Michigan State with a 38.525 Posted personal-bests on vault, bars and the all-around at the NCAA South Central Regional Won the 2006 Illinois Athletics Female Newcomer of the Year Award and shared the team s Most Outstanding Gymnast Award with Cara Pomeroy...Illinois Scholastic All-State Award and George Huff Award recipient. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: A two-time Junior Olympic National qualifier and five-time Level 10 Regional qualifier...took second place in the all-around, bars and beam at the 2005 state championships...finished fifth on beam and sixth on floor (9.45) at the 2004 Regional Championships...2004 state champion on floor exercise Placed third in the all-around at the 2003 Regional meet Finished sixth on the floor exercise and eighth on the balance beam at Nationals in 2002 Coached by Trevor and Jennifer O'Hara and Jenny Cox Competed for Queen City Gymnastics club. PERSONAL: Daughter of Rick and Kathy Crall Says she chose Illinois because the girls felt like they were my sisters, the coaches were friendly and welcoming and the whole atmosphere felt like home Majoring in business administration A four-year honor roll student in high school. COACH STARKELL ON CRALL: Coming off an exceptional freshman year, Julie has made great improvements for this season. Julie has a presence and style that will impress judges. Finishing last year with her strongest all-around performance at the NCAA Regional Championships, I believe she won t miss a beat coming into her first competition. JULIE S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.775 (at NCAA South Central Regional, 4/8/06) BARS: 9.675 (at NCAA South Central Regional, 4/8/06) BEAM: 9.875 (three times, last at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) FLOOR: 9.825 (vs. Missouri, 2/11/06) ALL-AROUND: 38.950 (at NCAA South Central Regional, 4/8/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Beam: 2 THE CRALL FILE Favorite Athlete: Ken Griffey Jr. Favorite Team: Cincinnati Bengals Favorite Illini Athlete: Kyle Hudson Favorite Type of Music: Everything Favorite Food: Peanut Butter Favorite Movie: Wedding Crashers Favorite TV Show: Project Runway Favorite Actor: Vince Vaughn Worst Habit: Losing my driver s liscense Age I started gymnastics: 3 Three words that describe me: Energetic, hard-working, easy-going Words to live by: Live with no regrets 20 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
KIM KRUK 5-2 // SO. // CAROL STREAM, ILL. // BARTLETT // CLUB: ILLINOIS GYMNASTICS INSTITUTE 2006 FRESHMAN: Competed in the all-around 12 times for the Illini, scoring an Illinois season-high 39.075 at the State of Illinois Classic Recorded six individual titles (bars-1, floor- 2, all-around- 3) Recorded four personal bests and three event titles at Illinois- Chicago (bars, floor and all-around) Had a career meet at the State of Illinois Classic posting four personal bests on vault (9.750), beam (9.750), floor (9.850) and the all-around (39.075), taking home the individual floor and all-around titles George Huff Award recipient. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Two-time national qualifier...11th-place all-around and third place on vault (tie) at the 2005 National Championships...Member of the 2005 first-place Region V team...finished third on vault and bars, fourth on beam and third all-around at the 2005 Regional Championships...2005 state champion on vault, bars, floor and the all-around and placed third on beam...placed third on beam and the all-around and fifth on bars and floor at the 2004 Junior Olympic Nationals...Competed for Illinois Gymnastics Institute...Coached by Todd Gardiner, Kurt Aichele and Sharon Barbato. PERSONAL: Daughter of Zbigniew and Gisele Kruk Says she chose Illinois because she loved the team and Illinois has such a strong reputation for outstanding academics and taking care of their student-athletes Major is undecided A four-year honor roll student at Bartlett High School. COACH STARKELL ON KRUK: Kim s first year was definitely a learning experience that will help her this year. Since she competed in the all-around as a freshman, she should be a seasoned competitor on all four events throughout her sophomore year. Kim s strongest event was floor exercise, but with a good preseason, her other three events should be just as solid. THE FIGHTING ILLINI KIM S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.750 (at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) BARS: 9.775 (vs. Ilinois State, 2/4/06) BEAM: 9.750 (at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) FLOOR: 9.850 (at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) ALL-AROUND: 39.075 (at State of Illinois Classic, 3/18/06) INDIVIDUAL TITLES Bars: 1 Floor: 2 All-Around: 3 Total: 6 THE KRUK FILE Favorite Athlete: Derrek Lee Favorite Team: Chicago Cubs Favorite TV Show: Grey s Anatomy Favorite Actress: Rachel McAdams Favorite Place in the World: Kenney Gym Worst Habit: Losing everything I Have Always Wanted to: Go skydiving Favorite Food: Pizza Three words that describe me: Spunky, determined, outgoing Age I started gymnastics: 7 Words to live by: Be who you are and say what you want, because those who mind don t matter and those who matter don t mind. -Dr. Suess 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 21
THE FIGHTING ILLINI URSULA OROZCO 5-1 // SO. // DES PLAINES, ILL. // MAINE EAST // CLUB: ELK GROVE GYMNASTICS 2006 FRESHMAN: Exhibitioned on three occasions (at Iowa, at Ohio State, vs. Michigan State) Earned Most Improved Gymnast award for the team. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: All-conference all four years of her career at Maine East Earned All-America status her first three years Named All- America and elite All-America her senior year Honored as Senior Gymnast of the Year State contender all four years Broke high school floor (9.65) and all-around (36.75) records...competed for Elk Grove Gymnastics Coached by Glen Marks, Lynette Milstead and Betty Axelson. PERSONAL: Daughter of Guillermo and Roge Orozco Says she chose Illinois because of the irreplaceable bond between all Illini gymnasts Major is undecided Says that the most inspirational person in her life is her mother Roge. COACH STARKELL ON OROZCO: Being a back-up for much of last year s season, Ursula could see competitive time on balance beam and floor exercise this year. Her nice lines and showmanship are two traits that we would love to have on the competition floor. With her continued work on upgrading her vault, she could break into the line up later this season. THE OROZCO FILE Favorite Athlete: Muhammad Ali Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Cubs Favorite Place in the World: Home Favorite Food: Pokey stix Favorite Actress: Tea Leoni Favorite Musical Artist: Frank Sinatra Favorite TV Show: Grey s Anatomy I ve Always Wanted To: Travel the world Most Inspirational Person: My mother, Roge I can t go a day without: My cell phone Worst Habit: Forgetting Age I started gymnastics: 4 Three words that describe me: Outgoing, supportive, funny 22 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
LINDSEY SMITH 5-0 // SO. // COLLINSVILLE, ILL. // METRO-EAST LUTHERAN // CLUB: WORLD CLASS GYMNASTICS THE FIGHTING ILLINI 2006 FRESHMAN: Competed on vault in every meet for the Illini Placed second on vault vs. Michigan State with a score of 9.725 Posted her personal-best vault score of 9.800 at the South Central Regional to finish ninth overall Also competed on floor in two meets George Huff Award recipient. HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Four-time Regional qualifier...finished third on vault and fourth on floor at the 2005 Regional Championships...Placed second on vault and beam at the 2005 state championships Eighth-place finish on vault and floor at the 2004 Regional Championships...2002 all-around champion at USAIGC Nationals Finished first on balance beam at the 2001 USAG Regional meet Competed for World Class Gymnastics...Coached by Patrick Hulliung and Donna Berutti. PERSONAL: Daughter of Gary and Loretta Smith Says she chose Illinois because it's close to home and because of the opportunity to get a quality education and be a part of a great gymnastics team A four-year honor roll student in high school National Honor Society Member Salutatorian of Metro-East Lutheran High School Majoring in chemistry A Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering award winner. COACH STARKELL ON SMITH: Lindsey has probably shown the most improvement of any team member from last year. In 2006, she was an instrumental competitor on vault. This year, the coaching staff believes she will be a key factor on floor, in addition to contributing on the balance beam. Lindsey is a very strong and powerful athlete, which will give her a great advantage this season. LINDSEY S CAREER HIGHS VAULT: 9.800 (at NCAA South Central Regional, 4/8/06) FLOOR: 8.975 (at Florida, 1/6/06) THE SMITH FILE Favorite Athlete: Shaun McDonald Favorite Sports Team: St. Louis Rams Favorite TV Show: Project Runway Favorite Type of Music: Country Favorite Musical Artist: Rascal Flatts Favorite Food: Chicken Least Favorite Sport: Soccer I can t go a day without: My hair straightener Favorite Place in the World: The beach Worst Habit: Worrying Age I started gymnastics: 9 Three words that describe me: Unique, organized, loving Most inspirational people: My parents 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 23
THE FIGHTING ILLINI NICOLE COWART 5-2 // FR. // GREENWOOD, IND. // CENTER GROVE // CLUB: WRIGHT S GYMNASTICS HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Six time National Qualifier...Two-time Junior Olympic Team member...two-time Region Five all-star team member...2006 third place all-around, and runner-up on beam at Nationals...2006 Region Five all-around champion and runner-up on bars and third on vault and floor...2006 Indiana State Champion...2005...Placed eighth on vault and beam at Nationals...2005 Regional allaround, floor, beam and bars champion...in 2004 placed fourth on all-around and vault at Nationals...2004 National Team member and ninth place on floor. PERSONAL: Daughter of Paula Cowart Jenne Says she chose Illinois because there is no comparison to the academics at the University of Illinois and I found a team that will love me for me and will share the triumphs and wins we earn together as gymnasts Majoring in business. THE COWART FILE Favorite Athlete: Jermaine O Neal Favorite Sports Team: Indianapolis Colts Least Favorite Sport: Curling Favorite TV Show: Family Guy Most Inspirational Person: My mom Favorite Food: Pasta Age I started gymnastics: 6 Three words that describe me: Loud, curious, adventurous What makes Illini gymnastics so unique? The team is so amazing and close! LORI HAMILTON 5-2 // FR. // MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO // LORNE PARK // CLUB: GYMNASTICS MISSISSAUGA HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Four time National Qualifier...Member of the 2005 and 2003 firstplace team at Eastern Canadians...Fifth-place finisher in the all-around, third on floor and seventh on bars at 2005 Canadian Nationals... Placed second on bars at 2005 Eastern Canadians...Two time Provincial Tour Selection...Finished second on bars and beam and fourth in the all-around at the 2004 Tour Selection...Team Champion and third place finisher on bars and seventh-place finisher in the all-around at the 2003 Canada Winter Games...2003 Eastern Canadian floor exercise champion...2001 Elite Canada sixth-place finisher on bars and seventh-place finisher in the all-around...2000 Novice Nationals team champion and third place finisher in the all-around. COACH STARKELL ON COWART: Nicole comes in as one of the most heralded recruits in Illinois history. She had a fabulous high school career in which her club coaches did an excellent job preparing her for college gymnastics. Nicole has no weak event and should be a steady all-arounder for the Illini. Already we can tell she is a fierce competitor and will demand success from not only herself but her teammates as well. COACH STARKELL ON HAMILTON: Coming from Canada, Lori has extensive competitive experience in big meets. She will most likely prove to be an important element in our uneven bars and balance beam line-ups. As more time passes, she could be an important back-up on the floor exercise. PERSONAL: Daughter of Ian Hamilton and Cheryl Leggat-Hamilton Says she chose Illinois because it was the perfect combination of academic and athletic excellence. The team was so close-knit and welcoming and they made me feel at home...majoring in business. THE HAMILTON FILE Favorite Athlete: Saku Koivu Favorite Sports Team: Montreal Canadiens Favorite Actress: Alexis Bledel Favorite TV Show: Gilmore Girls Favorite Food: Cereal Favorite Place in the World: Hawaii Favorite Type of Music: Oldies Favorite Musical Artists: The Temptations & Tim McGraw Age I started gymnastics: 3 24 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
SARAH SCHMIDT 5-2 // FR. // HARTLAND, WIS. // ARROWHEAD // CLUB: MIDWEST TWISTERS THE FIGHTING ILLINI HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: 2005 National Qualifier...Three-time National Qualifier Alternate (2003, 04 and 06)...Placed fourth on floor at 2006 Regionals...2006 Level 10 Wisconsin State floor exercise champion, second place finisher on bars and in the all-around, and third place finisher on vault...2004 Region Four National alternate...2003 Junior Olympic National Qualifier. PERSONAL: Daughter of Roger and Kim Schmidt...Says she chose Illinois because it has a great kinesiology program and because the team made me feel welcomed...majoring in kinesiology. THE SCHMIDT FILE Favorite Athlete: Brett Favre Favorite Sports Team: Green Bay Packers Least Favorite Sport: Soccer Favorite TV Show: Friends Most Inspirational People: Friends and family Favorite Food: Pasta Can t Go a Day Without: Milk Age I started gymnastics: 4 Three words that describe me: Funny, easy-going, caring What makes Illini gymnastics so unique? The closeness of the team COACH STARKELL ON SCHMIDT: Since Sarah s arrival on campus, we have been pleasantly surprised with her progress. She has tremendous skills on all four events, and the ability to become an all-around competitor. Look for Sarah to have an immediate impact on nearly every event. She has a presence about her that will lead her to excel in NCAA competition. LAURA WOOLF 5-2 // FR. // DEERFIELD, ILL. // DEERFIELD // CLUB: BUFFALO GROVE GYMNASTICS CENTER HIGH SCHOOL/CLUB: Two time Junior Olympic qualifier...four-year Level 10 Region Five qualifier...2006 State qualifier, placing eighth on floor...ninth place on bars at 2003 Regionals...2003 Third-place finisher on bars and sixth-place on all-around at the Illinois state competition...2002 Level 10 National Qualifier, placing ninth on bars...placed fifth on bars and fifth in the all-around at the 2002 Illinois state competition. COACH STARKELL ON WOOLF: Laura joins the Illini with Orange and Blue in her blood. From very early on in the recruiting process, Laura knew that Illinois was where her heart was. She has been making strides on every event and has gradually increased her difficulty throughout the fall. With continued hard work, she should be able to provide depth for the Illini on all four events. PERSONAL: Daughter of Micheal and Victoria Woolf...Says the most inspirational person in her life is her grandmother...says she chose Illinois because of the girls on the team...majoring in psychology. THE WOOLF FILE Favorite Athlete: Brian Urlacher Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Bears Favorite Actor: Matthew McConaughey Favorite TV Show: Will and Grace Favorite Food: Cookies Favorite Place in the World: Scottsdale, Ariz. Favorite Type of Music: Anything Favorite Activity Outside of Gymnastics: Tennis Can t Go a Day Without: My cell phone Age I started gymnastics: 5 Least Favorite Sport: Soccer 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 25
THE FIGHTING ILLINI OUTSIDE THE GYM 26 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE FIGHTING ILLINI OUTSIDE THE GYM 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 27
HUFF HALL..............................30 KENNEY GYM.............................31 IRWIN ACADEMIC CENTER................32-33
GYMNASTICS FACILITIES HUFF HALL Huff Hall is a versatile, multi-use facility that serves as the home for the Illini men and women's gymnastics, wrestling and volleyball squads. It has a seating capacity of 3,800 for gymnastics meets. Huff Hall, the longtime home of the Illinois State High School Association state basketball tournament, is known for creating the circus-like atmosphere that fostered the term March Madness. This historical building on the U of I campus continues to make lasting memories in the hearts of all Fighting Illini fans. Illinois athletics enjoy a proud tradition in Huff Hall. Huff served as host for the 1991, 1995 and 2003 Big Ten Women s Gymnastics Championships and the 1992, 1995 and 2004 Big Ten Men s Gymnastics Championships, in addition to being the site of the 1993 and 1999 NCAA Men s Gymnastics East Regional. It also was the site of a 1994 NCAA first-round volleyball match, a 1995 NCAA second-round volleyball match, the first and second rounds of the 1997 NCAA Women s Basketball Tournament and the first and second rounds of the 1998, 2001, and 2003 NCAA Volleyball Tournaments. Huff Hall is named for longtime Illinois athletic director and coach George Huff. Huff was the Illinois athletic director from 1901 to 1935, during a time in which Fighting Illini athletic programs enjoyed unparalleled success. Huff was the driving force behind the construction of Memorial Stadium. He also served as football coach from 1895 to 1899, and baseball skipper from 1896 to 1919. Known by many of his close friends and business associates as G, Huff served as manager of the Boston Red Sox in 1907. Today, the University of Illinois honors Huff s hard work and success with the George Huff Award. Every year, this award is given to studentathletes who earn a 3.0 GPA for a full academic year and a varsity letter. Huff Hall contains two volleyball practice courts and the volleyball game facility, as well as four basketball courts and a main court. In addition, the building contains spacious locker and squad rooms, which were completely renovated in 2004. The building also houses a weight room, equipment rooms, locker rooms, a training room, a pool, a wrestling room and one squash court, as well as many offices and classrooms. In 2004, Huff received several enhancements with the renovation of its training room and weight room. Within the last decade, Illinois has made multiple improvements to Huff Hall with the addition of a new scoreboard, a new sound system, new bleachers and new lighting. 30 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
GYMNASTICS FACILITIES KENNEY GYM Historical Kenney Gym, one of the university s oldest and most revered buildings, houses a unique training atmosphere and represents nearly a century of exercise tradition at the University of Illinois. The upper level of Kenney Gym houses the Illinois gymnastics workout facilities. In this extensive facility, both the men and women s gymnastics teams practice in a harmonious environment. Kenney Gym accommodates Illinois gymnasts with its large variety of FIG specification equipment. Women s equipment includes four balance beams, two sets of ELITE uneven bars, two vaulting horses, a Palmer spring floor and a 40-foot long Tumbltrak. The historic building also features a weight room, running track, swimming pool, locker and shower facilities and basketball and volleyball courts. Named after former wrestling coach H.E. Kenney, Kenney Gym has long been a focus of innovative techniques and equipment in gymnastics training. The world s first foam-lined, in-ground pit, developed for added safety in the instruction of tumbling and vaulting, was built here in 1963. Since then, another pit has been installed for vaulting, tumbling, high bar and beam work. The Kenney Gym pit structure provides dismounting capabilities for most men and women s apparatus events, as well as tumbling and vaulting. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 31
THE COACHING STAFF IRWIN ACADEMIC CENTER Top: The Irwin Academic Center is a facility dedicated to the academic endeavors of Illinois student-athletes. It houses the entire academic staff, computer labs and study lounges; Above: Irwin Academic Center provides a relaxed study atmosphere for studentathetes; Above Right: A study lounge in the front room of the Irwin Academic Center; Right: Irwin computer lab. 32 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE COACHING STAFF IRWIN ACADEMIC CENTER EXPANSION TOM MICHAEL DIRECTOR OF ACADEMIC SERVICES In 1998, the Irwin Academic Services Center was opened for use to the student-athletes at the University of Illinois. In a very short time, the 8,000 square foot building had reached its capacity for use. What a great problem to have. Not having enough room for our student-athletes to work in an environment that is supportive to getting their studies completed. The solution became clear that expanding the Irwin Center was now a necessity! The studentathletes have found the Irwin Center to be a common meeting place on campus. Expanding the building at its current location was very important in order to maintain the centralized feeling that the student-athletes have come to appreciate. In the fall of 2006, the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics broke ground on the expansion of the Irwin Academic Services Center. With the great continued support from the Irwin Family Foundation, this project is going to assist student-athletes in many academic areas. The expansion of the Irwin Center will add 11,400 square feet, allowing more opportunities for the student-athletes to achieve their academic goals. Student resource areas comprised of a presentation room, a new general study area, individual tutoring and study rooms, and a computer lab will allow this all to happen. Student-athletes will have more access to computers, better environments to meet with tutors with less distraction, and the opportunity to have more space to concentrate on academic endeavors. Everyone is excited about this project and watching the progress to completion as we continue to provide resources for our student-athletes to be successful in their careers at the University of Illinois. THE EXPANSION OF THE IRWIN CENTER WILL ADD 11,400 SQUARE FEET, ALLOWING MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE STUDENT- ATHLETES TO ACHIEVE THEIR ACADEMIC GOALS. BASEMENT LEVEL FIRST FLOOR SECOND FLOOR THIRD FLOOR 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 33
MISSOURI TIGERS.............................36 LSU TIGERS..................................36 IOWA HAWKEYES..............................36 OHIO STATE BUCKEYES..........................36 MICHIGAN WOLVERINES.........................36 NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS.......................36 MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS......................36 NORTHERN ILLINOIS HUSKIES....................36 IOWA STATE CYCLONES.........................36 ILLINOIS STATE REDBIRDS.......................37 WISCONSIN-LACROSSE EAGLES...................37 AUBURN TIGERS...............................37 DENVER PIONEERS.............................37 ILLINOIS-CHICAGO FLAMES......................37 STATE OF ILLINOIS CLASSIC......................37 BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIPS.......................37 NCAA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS.................37 NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS............37
2007 OPPONENTS 36 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS 2007 OPPONENTS NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS FRIDAY, FEB. 9 // 6:30 P.M. CT // ANN ARBOR, MICH. Location..................................... Lincoln, Neb. Enrollment........................................ 22,000 Conference.................................... Big Twelve Colors.................................. Scarlet and Cream Arena..................... Bob Devaney Sports Center (13,595) Head Coach..................... Dan Kendig (Kentucky, 1979) Record at school/years........................ 311-115-4/13 Associate Head Coach........................ Danna Durante Assistant Coach............................... Tim Garrison 2006 Record..................................... 26-11-1 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)................... Second (196.275) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)..................... Fifth (196.035) 2006 High Score.................................. 196.850 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... 10/1 Newcomers........................................... 2 Women s Gymnastics SID........................ Bonnie Ryan SID E-mail............................. bryan@huskers.com SID Phone/Fax................ (402) 472-2263/(402) 472-2005 Website................................. www.huskers.com IOWA HAWKEYES SATURDAY, JAN. 27 // 7 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location................................... Iowa City, Iowa Enrollment....................................... 29,697 Conference...................................... Big Ten Colors................................. Black and Old Gold Arena........................ Carver-Hawkeye Arena (15,500) Head Coach......................... Larissa Libby (LSU 96) Record at school/years............................ 12-31/2 Assistant Coaches.................. Jeff Richards, Talya Vexler 2006 Record....................................... 4-17 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)..................... Sixth (193.425) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)...................... 39 (193.425) 2006 High Score................................. 194.275 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... 7/3 Newcomers........................................... 5 Women s Gymnastics SID...................... Janey Kiryluik SID E-mail......................... janey-kiryluik@uiowa.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (319) 335-9411/(319) 335-9417 Website........................... www.hawkeyesports.com OHIO STATE BUCKEYES SATURDAY, FEB. 3 // 7 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location...................................Columbus, Ohio Enrollment.......................................58,365 Conference......................................Big Ten Colors...................................Scarlet and Gray Arena..............................St. John Arena (13,000) Head Coach....................Carey Fagan (Penn State, 98) Record at school/years............................14-17/2 Assistant Coaches................William Lorenz, Jay Campbell 2006 Record.........................................8-7 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).....................Fifth (193.525) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS).......................27 (193.795) 2006 High Score..................................194.725 Letterwinners Returning/Lost...........................9/3 Newcomers...........................................4 Women s Gymnastics SID.........................Tim Stried SID E-mail...............................stried.3@osu.edu SID Phone/Fax................(614) 292-0134/(614) 292-8547 Website.........................www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com MICHIGAN WOLVERINES FRIDAY, FEB. 9 // 6:30 P.M. CT // ANN ARBOR, MICH. Location.................................. Ann Arbor, Mich. Enrollment........................................ 37,751 Conference....................................... Big Ten Colors..................................... Maize and Blue Arena............................. Cliff Keen Arena (13,751) Head Coach.................. Beverly Plocki (West Virginia, 87) Record at school/years......................... 321-91-1/17 Assistant Coaches............ Scott Sherman, Louis Robinson Jr. 2006 Record...................................... 15-5-1 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).................... Fourth (194.475) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)........................ 7 (196.000) 2006 High Score.................................. 197.100 Letterwinners Returning/Lost............................ 9/4 Newcomers........................................... 5 Women s Gymnastics SID....................... Richard Retyi SID E-mail............................... rretyi@umich.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (734) 615-0680/(734) 647-1188 Website................................. www.mgoblue.com IOWA STATE CYCLONES SUNDAY, FEB. 25 // 2 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location...................................... Ames, Iowa Enrollment....................................... 25,741 Conference....................................... Big 12 Colors.................................... Cardinal & Gold Arena............................. Hilton Coliseum (14,092) Head Coach........................ Jay Ronayne (UMass 89) Record at school/years......................... First season Assistant Coaches............... TeShawne Jackson, Jay Santos 2006 Record....................................... 24-10 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)..................... First (196.425) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)........................ 6 (196.540) 2006 High Score.................................. 197.275 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... 5/5 Newcomers........................................... 7 Women s Gymnastics SID..................... Tyler Rutherford SID E-mail.............................. tyruth@iastate.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (515) 294-0558/(515) 294-2008 Website................................. www.cyclones.com MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS SATURDAY, FEB. 17 // 6 P.M. CT // EAST LANSING, MICH. Location............................... East Lansing, Mich. Enrollment........................................ 43,836 Conference....................................... Big Ten Colors.................................... Green and White Arena............................ Jenison Field House (5,017) Head Coach.............. Kathie Klages (Central Michigan, 77) Record at school/years........................ 266-131-3/16 Associate Head Coach........................... Randy Lane Assistant Coach................................. Katie Teft 2006 Record........................................ 11-7 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)................... Second (194.975) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 24 (194.180) 2006 High Score.................................. 196.250 Letterwinners Returning/Lost............................ 9/1 Newcomers........................................... 7 Women s Gymnastics SID....................... Emily Feeney SID E-mail....................... emily_feeney@ath.msu.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (517) 355-2271/(517) 353-9636 Website............................. www.msuspartans.com NORTHERN ILLINOIS HUSKIES SUNDAY, FEB. 25 // 2 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location....................................... Dekalb, Ill. Enrollment........................................ 24,820 Conference................................. Mid-American Colors................................. Cardinal and Black Arena........................... Convocation Center (10,000) Head Coach................ Mark Sontag (S.E. Missouri St., 97) Record at school/years............................ 47-81/7 Assistant Coaches................ Andy Morreale, Sam Morreale 2006 Record......................................... 8-2 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)..................... Fifth (191.225) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 50 (192.065) 2006 High Score.................................. 194.800 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... N/A Newcomers........................................... 4 Women s Gymnastics SID......................... Katie Hein SID E-mail................................ khein1@niu.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (815) 753-9538/(815) 753-9540 Website............................... www.niuhuskies.com LSU TIGERS FRIDAY, JAN. 19 // 7 P.M. CT // BATON ROUGE, LA. Location................................. Baton Rouge, La. Enrollment........................................ 31,582 Conference......................................... SEC Colors.................................... Purple and Gold Arena................. Pete Maravich Assembly Center (13,215) Head Coach........................... D.D. Breaux (LSU, 76) Record at school/years........................ 495-302-7/28 Assistant Coaches.................. Bob Moore, Philip Ogletree 2006 Record........................................ 19-6 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).................... Fourth (195.900) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)........................ 8 (196.330) 2006 High Score.................................. 196.825 Letterwinners Returning/Lost............................ 7/6 Newcomers........................................... 6 Women s Gymnastics SID...................... Laurie Cannon SID E-mail............................... lcannon1@lsu.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (225) 578-1861/(225) 578-1861 Website................................. www.lsusports.net MISSOURI TIGERS FRIDAY, JAN. 12 // 7 P.M. CT // COLUMBIA, MO. Location.................................... Columbia, Mo. Enrollment........................................ 27,003 Conference....................................... Big 12 Colors.................................. Old Gold and Black Arena.............................. Hearnes Center (13,611) Head Coach...................... Rob Drass (Penn State, 90) Record at school/years............................ 77-64/7 Assistant Coaches.. Sarah Goebbert, Jodie Heinicka, Lauren Schwartzman 2006 Record....................................... 16-13 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).................... Fourth (194.850) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 14 (195.790) 2006 High Score.................................. 196.025 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... 10/3 Newcomers........................................... 6 Women s Gymnastics SID......................... Kate Lakin SID E-mail............................ lakinke@missouri.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (573) 882-2531/(573) 882-4720 Website................................. www.mutigers.com
2007 OPPONENTS 2007 OPPONENTS ILLINOIS STATE REDBIRDS SUNDAY, MARCH 4 // 2 P.M. CT // NORMAL, ILL. Location...................................... Normal, Ill. Enrollment....................................... 20,265 Conference........................... Midwest Independent Colors..................................... Red and White Arena............................ Horton Field House (5,000) Head Coach.............. Bob Conkling (Indiana Wesleyan, 82) Record at school/years............................. 5-15/1 Assistant Coach............................ Steve Avgerinos 2006 Record........................................ 5-15 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)..................... Fifth (189.025) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 57 (189.505) 2006 High Score.................................. 191.650 Letterwinners Returning/Lost........................... 8/5 Newcomers........................................... 5 Women s Gymnastics SID..................... Jenna Anderson SID E-mail............................... jcander@ilstu.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (309) 438-3262/(309) 438-5634 Website............................... www.goredbirds.com DENVER PIONEERS SUNDAY, MARCH 11 // 3 P.M. CT // DENVER, COLO. Location...................................... Denver, Co. Enrollment....................................... 10,326 Conference.................................. Independent Colors.................................. Crimson and Gold Arena.......................... Hamilton Gymnasium (2,800) Head Coach.............. Melissa Kutcher-Rinehart (Florida 93) Record at school/years......................... 141-65-2/7 Assistant Coaches.................. John Figueroa, Carl Leland 2006 Record........................................ 20-8 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).............................. N/A 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 16 (195.275) 2006 High Score.................................. 196.475 Letterwinners Returning/Lost.......................... 12/2 Newcomers........................................... 3 Women s Gymnastics SID........................ Derek Nagy SID E-mail................................. dnagy@du.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (303) 871-3800/(303) 871-3890 Website........................... www.denverpioneers.com WISCONSIN-LACROSSE EAGLES SUNDAY, MARCH 4 // 2 P.M. CT // NORMAL, ILL. Location................................... LaCrosse, Wis. Enrollment........................................ 8,600 Conference.................. Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Colors................................... Maroon and Gray Arena................................. Mitchell Hall (2,880) Head Coach................ Barbara Gibson (UW-LaCrosse, 78) Record at school/years......................... 551-146/21 Assistant Coaches.. Kari Motz, Cody Farley, Jenna Houle, Nina Schubert 2006 Record........................................ 16-4 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)..................... First (182.900) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)....................... 71 (180.930) 2006 High Score.................................. 183.500 Letterwinners Returning/Lost.......................... 12/6 Newcomers........................................... 4 Women s Gymnastics SID...................... Dave Johnson SID E-mail......................... johnson.dav2@uwlax.edu SID Phone/Fax................ (608) 785-8493/(608) 785-6539 Website............................ www.uwlax.edu/athletics ILLINOIS-CHICAGO FLAMES SATURDAY, MARCH 17 // 2 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location.....................................Chicago, Ill. Enrollment.......................................24,407 Conference...........................Midwest Independent Colors........................Navy Blue and Fire Engine Red Arena....................UIC Physical Education Bldg. (1,100) Co-Head Coaches.................Peter Jansson, Mary Jansson Record at school/years.......................204-177-1/16 2006 Record......................................11-10 2006 Conf. Finish (Score)................... Second (192.375) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)......................32 (192.810) 2006 High Score..................................194.200 Letterwinners Returning/Lost...........................9/4 Newcomers...........................................3 Women s Gymnastics SID......................John Jaramillo SID E-mail...................................jjar@uic.edu SID Phone/Fax................(312) 996-5880/(312) 996-8349 Website...............................www.uicflames.com AUBURN TIGERS FRIDAY, MAR. 9 // 7 P.M. CT // CHAMPAIGN, ILL. Location.................................... Auburn, Ala. Enrollment....................................... 23,333 Conference................................. Southeastern Colors......................... Burnt Orange and Navy Blue Arena....................... Beard-Eaves Coliseum (10,500) Head Coach.................... Jeff Thompson (Kentucky, 95) Record at school/years........................... 70-108/7 Associate Head Coach.................... Rachelle Thompson Assistant Coach............................ Krissy Hoeferlin 2006 Record...................................... 13-16 2006 Conf. Finish (Score).................... Fifth (194.975) 2006 Final Ranking (RQS)...................... 26 (195.695) 2006 High Score................................. 196.700 Letterwinners Returning/Lost.......................... 12/1 Newcomers........................................... 3 Women s Gymnastics SID....................... Ryan Schulz SID E-mail............................ schulrs@auburn.edu SID Phone/Fax............... (334) 844-9709/(334) 844-9807 Website............................. www.auburntigers.com STATE OF ILLINOIS CLASSIC SUNDAY, MARCH 25 2 P.M. CT HOSTED BY NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Location...................................... DeKalb, Ill. Arena..........................Convocation Center (10,000) Media Contact...............................Matt Brendich Office Phone...............................(815) 753-9538 Office Fax.................................(815) 753-9540 E-mail...........................b50mcb1@wpo.cso.niu.edu Tournament Official Web Site..............www.niuhuskies.com 2006 Champion/Score.......................Illinois/191.850 2006 Illinois Finish/Score......................First/191.850 BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIPS SATURDAY, MARCH 31 5 P.M. CT UNIVERSITY PARK, PA. HOSTED BY PENN STATE UNIVERSITY Arena....................................Rec Hall (5,812) Media Contact.................................Jen Armson Office Phone................................814-865-1757 Office Fax..................................814-863-3165 E-mail....................................jma19@psu.edu Tournament Official Web Site............www.gopsusports.com Big Ten Web Site............................www.bigten.org 2006 Big Ten Team Champion/Score.........Minnesota/195.150 2006 Illinois Finish/Score....................Seventh/192.500 Illinois Big Ten Championships/Last...................1/1990 NCAA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS SATURDAY, APRIL 14 6 P.M. CT Central Region......................Tuscaloosa, Ala. North Central Regional..................Denver, Colo. Northeast Regional...................Ann Arbor, Mich. South Central Regional..................Tucson, Ariz. Southeast Regional.................Morgantown, W.V. West Regional........................Berkeley, Calif. NATIONAL COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS APRIL 26-28 SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH JON M. HUNTSMAN CENTER HOSTED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH April 26..........................Team Preliminaries April 27.......................Super Six Team Finals April 28.......................Individual Event Finals 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 37
2006 SEASON-IN-REVIEW................40-41 THE BIG TEN CONFERENCE...............42-43 NCAA CHAMPIONSHIPS....................43 ILLINOIS HONOR ROLL..................44-45 INDIVIDUAL RECORDS......................46 TEAM RECORDS...........................47 ALL-TIME LETTERWINNERS..................48 MEDIA INFORMATION......................49
THE RECORD BOOK SEASON-IN-REVIEW Coming off a 17-5 season in 2005, the best under head coach Bob Starkell, the Fighting Illini women s gymnastics team had hopes of continuing their success into the 2006 season. However, five freshmen would need to fill the void left by six departed seniors. The team could only hope that this strong recruiting class could quickly become comfortable and help the upperclassmen make a push toward their third regional appearance in as many years. As the young Illini learned the ropes, the experienced performers led Illinois to a 6-3 record through the first half of the season. Illinois posted its season-high score of 195.300 in a victory over in-state rival Illinois-Chicago on Feb. 25, where they also posted the sixth-best balance beam score in Illini history (49.075). Marijka Botterman led the assault by capturing event titles on vault and uneven bars, which also was shared with Emily Earle, Kim Kruk and Krystal Melcarek. Following their best performance of the year, the Illini began their secondhalf run without sophomore sensation Michelle McGrady, who was sidelined with a stress fracture. With some big holes in the lineup, Illinois struggled against Ohio State, but was able to bounce back to defeat Big Ten foe Michigan State at Huff Hall. Sisters Danye and Marijka Botterman stole the show against the Spartans. Danye won titles on vault (9.750) and floor exercise (9.825), while Marijka took the all-around crown with a personalbest score of 38.850. Heading into the State of Illinois Classic, the Illini suffered their second untimely injury of the year as Danye Botterman, who was a significant part of the vault, uneven bars, and floor line-ups went down with a foot injury. Despite Botterman s injury, the Illini were able to win the state title, but with a disappointing score of 191.850. The Illini won all four event titles as well as the all-around competition. Cara Pomeroy was named first team All-Big Ten for the second consecutive year. Following the end of the regular season, the Illini headed to East Lansing, Mich., with high hopes for a top-four finish at the Big Ten Championships. However, their inconsistencies and trouble on the balance beam led to a seventh-place finish with a score of 192.500. Cara Pomeroy and Julie Crall led the Illini, tying for third on beam (9.825). The Big Ten Conference named Pomeroy to her second-consecutive first-team All-Big Ten, Julie Crall to the second team All-Big Ten, and Melissa Singer as Illinois Sportsmanship Award honoree. Julie Crall finished the 2006 season on a high note, placing fifth in the allaround at the NCAA South Central Regional. Despite the disappointing showing at Big Tens, Illinois earned its third straight NCAA Regional appearance. There, the Illini tied the highest finish in school history by placing fourth at the South Central Regional in Fayetteville Ark., with a score of 193.125. Julie Crall led the Illini with career -high scores on vault (9.775), uneven bars (9.675) and the all-around competition (38.950). Her all-around score was good for fifth place, nearly earning her a trip to the NCAA Championships. The Illini finished their season with a 10-4 regular-season record and a No. 25 national ranking. At the season-ending awards banquet, Pomeroy and Crall shared Most Outstanding Gymnast honors, and Pomeroy and Singer were named Co-Most Valuable Gymnasts. TEAM AWARDS MVP: Cara Pomeroy & Melissa Singer Most Oustanding: Julie Crall & Cara Pomeroy Most Improved: Ursula Orozco Most Consistent Beam: Cara Pomeroy & Katie Wild Scholar-Athlete: Emily Earle & Katie Wild 40 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE RECORD BOOK 2006 RESULTS (10-4 OVERALL, 7th IN BIG TEN) Date Opponent Result Score Jan. 6 at No. 6 Florida L 190.800-195.900 Jan. 13 at No. 7 Iowa State L 191.650-194.100 Jan. 21 Maryland W 192.450-190.400 Jan. 29 at Northern Illinois, vs. Central Michigan 1st of 3 Illinois 192.825, Central Michigan 192.250, N. Illinois 190.450 Feb. 4 Illinois State W 194.175-187.875 Feb. 11 No. 8 Missouri L 195.125-195.500 Feb. 18 at Iowa W 193.850-193.025 Feb. 25 at Illinois-Chicago W 195.300-190.775 Mar. 4 at No. 25 Ohio State L 192.875-193.375 Mar. 11 Michigan State W 194.275-193.775 Mar. 18 at State of Illinois Classic 1st of 4 Illinois 191.850, Northern Illinois 190.275, Illinois-Chicago 190.150, Illinois State 189.875 Mar. 25 at Big Ten Championships 7th of 7 Minnesota 195.150, Michigan State 194.975, Penn State 194.925, Michigan 194.475, Ohio State 193.525, Iowa 193.425, Illinois 192.500 Apr. 8 at NCAA South Central Regional 4th of 6 Florida 196.375, Arkansas 195.400, UCLA 195.175, Illinois 193.125 2006 MEET-BY-MEET SCORING Illinois-Chicago 191.125, SEMO 189.050 Date Team Vault Bars Beam Floor Florida 190.800 46.625 47.425 48.500 48.250 Iowa State 191.650 48.275 48.075 48.525 46.775 Maryland 192.450 48.850 48.200 47.300 48.100 Northern Illinois and Central Michigan 192.825 48.850 46.975 48.125 48.875 Illinois State 194.175 48.625 48.925 47.975 48.650 Missouri 195.125 48.825 48.525 48.875 48.900 Iowa 193.850 48.775 48.675 48.225 48.175 Illinois-Chicago 195.300 48.825 48.575 49.075 48.825 Ohio State 192.875 48.025 48.200 48.125 48.525 Michigan State 194.275 48.500 48.625 48.225 48.925 State of Illinois Classic 191.850 48.300 47.150 47.775 48.625 Big Ten Championships 192.500 48.550 48.275 47.550 48.125 NCAA South Central Regional 193.125 48.600 48.325 48.000 48.200 -- Season Average 193.135 48.432 48.150 48.175 48.381 -- Regional Qualifying Score (RQS) 194.060 48.780 48.535 48.470 48.775 2006 TEAM BESTS Team Score 195.300...............................at Illinois-Chicago (2/25) 195.125...............................vs. Missouri (2/11) 194.275...............................vs. Michigan State (3/11) Vault 9.875......Michelle McGrady.............vs. Maryland (1/21).......Marijka Botterman............at UIC (2/25) 9.825......Michelle McGrady.............twice, last at Iowa (2/18).......Danye Botterman.............vs. NIU & CMU (1/29).......Marijka Botterman............at Illinois Classic (3/18) Bars 9.875......Cara Pomeroy...............twice, last vs. Michigan St. (3/11) 9.850......Cara Pomeroy...............vs. Maryland (1/21) 9.825......Cara Pomeroy...............at Iowa (2/18) Beam 9.900......Cara Pomeroy................at UIC (2/25) 9.875......Julie Crall...................three times, last at Illinois Classic (3/18) 9.850......Cara Pomeroy................vs. NIU & CMU (1/29) Floor 9.850......Michelle McGrady.............vs. NIU & CMU (1/29) 9.850......Kim Kruk....................at Illinois Classic (3/18) 9.825......Michelle McGrady.............vs. Maryland (1/21).......Julie Crall...................vs. Missouri (2/11).......Kim Kruk....................at UIC (2/25).......Danye Botterman.............vs. Michigan State (3/11) All-Around 39.075.....Kim Kruk....................at Illinois Classic (3/18) 38.950.....Julie Crall...................at South Central Regionals (4/8).......Kim Kruk....................at UIC (2/25) 38.850.....Marijka Botterman............vs. Michigan State (3/11) 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 41
THE RECORD BOOK ALL-TIME CHAMPIONS 2006 Minnesota 195.150 2005 Michigan 196.250 2004 Michigan 197.800 2003 Michigan 197.450 2002 Michigan 196.475 2001 Michigan 197.150 2000 Michigan 197.850 1999 Michigan 196.300 1998 Minnesota 195.400 1997 Michigan 197.150 1996 Michigan 194.600 1995 Michigan 196.500 1994 Michigan 194.850 1993 Michigan 192.925 1992 Michigan 191.700 1991 Minnesota 189.000 1990 ILLINOIS 188.750 1989 Minnesota 187.450 1988 Minnesota 186.100 1987 Ohio State 184.350 1986 Ohio State 181.800 1985 Ohio State 180.850 1984 Ohio State 180.900 1983 Ohio State 178.000 1982 Michigan 140.950 2006 BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIPS MARCH 25, 2006 // JENISON FIELDHOUSE // EAST LANSING, MICH. CHAMPIONSHIP HISTORY Team Titles Last Ind.* Michigan 14 2005 67 Ohio State 5 1987 21 Minnesota 5 2006 29 ILLINOIS 1 1990 7 Iowa 0-11 Michigan State 0-9 Penn State 0-11 Wisconsin# 0-3 Indiana@ 0-0 * Total Individual Champions # Program discontinued in 1991 @ Program discontinued in 1983 Pl. Team Vault Bars Beam Floor Total 1. Minnesota 48.775 48.700 48.900 48.775 195.150 2. Michigan St. 48.750 48.550 48.775 48.900 194.975 3. Penn State 48.875 49.050 47.825 49.175 194.925 4. Michigan 48.875 48.750 47.475 49.375 194.475 5. Ohio State 48.075 48.525 48.175 48.750 193.525 6. Iowa 48.300 47.950 48.425 48.750 193.425 7. ILLINOIS 48.550 48.275 47.550 48.125 192.500 CHAMPIONSHIP RECORDS Vault 10.0 Katie Rowland, PSU 2003 Beth Wymer, Mich. 1995 Heather Kabnick, Mich 1995 Beth Wymer, Mich. 1994 Uneven Bars 10.0 Elise Ray, Mich. 2004 Nikki Peters, Mich. 1999 Nikki Peters, Mich. 1998 Nikki Peters, Mich. 1996 Balance Beam 10.0 Nikki Smith, PSU 2000 Floor Exercise 9.975 Sarah Cain, Mich. 2000 Sarah Cain, Mich. 1999 Nikki Peters, Mich. 1997 Heather Kabnick, Mich. 1997 All-Around 39.800 Elise Ray, Mich. 2004 Team Score 197.850 Michigan 2000 2006 INDIVIDUAL CHAMPIONS Vault: Chayla Hill, Michigan State 9.800 Carol McNamara, Michigan 9.800 Katie Lieberman, Michigan 9.800 Laura Johnson, Minnesota 9.800 Corissa Pirkl, Penn State 9.800 Bars: Katie Perrett, Penn State 9.900 Beam: Lindsey Bruck, Michigan 9.875 Floor: Carol McNamara, Michigan 9.900 AA: Lindsey Bruck, Michigan 39.275 GYMNAST OF THE YEAR Laura Johnson, Minnesota FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR Tatijana Thuener-Rego, Michigan CO-COACHES OF THE YEAR Steve Shephard, Penn State Kathie Klages, Michigan State 2006 ALL-BIG TEN TEAMS FIRST TEAM Cara Pomeroy, ILL Lindsey Bruck, MICH Jenny Deiley, MICH Tatjana Thener-Rego, MICH Laura Johnson, MINN Kristen Coleman, MSU Maalika Moore-Thomas, OSU Lisa Clark, PSU Meredith Hoover, PSU Jennifer Orlando, PSU Cara Pomeroy was a first team All- Big Ten selection. SECOND TEAM Julie Crall, ILL Liz Grajewski, IOWA Becca Clauson, MICH Nellie Kippley, MICH Carol McNamara, MICH Katie Lieberman, MICH Lauren Mirkovich, MICH Victoria Iakounina, MSU Brittany Brown, OSU Aslynn Satterfield, PSU 42 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE RECORD BOOK 2005-06 ACADEMIC ALL-BIG TEN SELECTIONS Michelle McGrady Accountancy 3.332 Emily Earle Kinesiology 3.890 2006 SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS APRIL 7-8, 2006 // BARNHILL ARENA // FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS TEAM RESULTS Pl. Team Vault Bars Beam Floor Total 1. Florida** 49.050 49.150 49.025 49.150 196.375 2. Arkansas** 48.775 48.950 48.975 48.700 195.400 3. UCLA 49.250 48.600 48.325 49.000 195.175 4. ILLINOIS 48.600 48.325 48.000 48.200 193.125 5. Illinois-Chicago 48.475 48.025 46.825 47.800 191.125 6. SEMO 48.175 46.925 46.600 47.350 189.050 **Advanced to NCAA Championships Cara Pomeroy Kinesiology 3.873 Melissa Singer Kinesiology 3.385 Katie Wild Spanish 4.000 EVENT CHAMPIONS Vault: Tasha Schwikert, UCLA 9.900 Bars: Samantha Lutz, Florida 9.900 Kate Richardson, UCLA 9.900 Beam: Kate Richardson, UCLA 9.900 FX: Kate Richardson, UCLA 9.875 Corey Hartung, Florida 9.875 ALL-AROUND RESULTS 1. Kate Richardson, UCLA 39.475 2. Corey Hartung, Florida 39.325 3. Kristina Comforte, UCLA 39.200 4. Ariana Berlin, UCLA 39.175 5. Julie Crall, Illinois 38.950 6. Ashley Reed, Florida 38.850 7. Dana McQuillin, Arkansas 38.825 8. Veronique Meunier, UIC 38.625 The 2006 Illini at the South Central Regional Championships in Fayetteville, Ark. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 43
THE RECORD BOOK NANCY THIES, 79 OLYMPIAN // NINE-TIME BIG TEN CHAMPION // ALL-AMERICAN Nancy Thies (Marshall) is without a doubt the most decorated gymnast in Illinois history. Born in Urbana, Thies competed just two seasons for the U of I, winning nine Big Ten titles, seven regional titles and earning All-America status on the uneven bars. She was named Big Ten Gymnast of the Year in 1976 and 77, in addition to being named the U of I Female Athlete of the Year in 77. In 1979, she earned a bachelor s degree from the university in history and journalism. Prior to attending Illinois, Thies competed at the 1972 Munich Olympic games and helped the United States to a fourth-place finish, the highest a U.S. team had finished in modern gymnastics history. At those Olympics, Thies became the first person to perform the back somersault on the beam in Olympic competition. During her international career, she won seven medals and two national titles, one on vault and beam. Following her gymnastics career, Thies worked as a gymnastics commentator for NBC sports for seven years, while also working as a journalist and author. Additionally, she was an active member of the United States Gymnastics Federation (USGF) as both a member for the Executive Committee and Vice-Chairman for Women. NATIONAL & REGIONAL HONORS ALL-AMERICANS 1976 Nancy Thies, UB (AIAW) INDIVIDUAL NATIONAL QUALIFIERS 1976 Nancy Thies, AA 1977 Patty Carmichael, AA Nancy Thies, AA 1979 Gayle Fleischmann, AA 1981 Heidi Helmke, AA 1982 Heidi Helmke, AA Karen Brems, AA 1987 Denise Lamborn, AA 2004 Cara Pomeroy, UB Ashley Williams, AA REGIONAL CHAMPIONS 1976 Nancy Thies, BB, FX, AA 1977 Nancy Thies, V, FX, BB, AA 2004 Cara Pomeroy, UB ALL-REGIONAL SELECTIONS 1976 Nancy Thies 1977 Nancy Thies 1979 Gayle Fleischmann 1980 Mary Charpentier 1983 Heidi Helmke Luann Roberts 1984 Allison Garrity 1986 Luann Roberts TEAM HONORS MOST OUTSTANDING 1994 Puni Viernes 1995 Stacy Redmond 1996 Kim Berres 1997 Kim Berres 1998 Kim Berres 1999 Phaedra Dixon 2000 Phaedra Dixon 2001 Jana Gallagher 2002 Jana Gallagher Ashley Williams 2003 Kara Kapernekas 2004 Cara Pomeroy Ashley Williams 2005 Cara Pomeroy 2006 Julie Crall Cara Pomeroy INDIVIDUAL REGIONAL QUALIFIERS 1986 Laura Hicks (AA) Allison Garrity (AA) 1995 Kelli Farrar (AA) Stacy Redmond (AA) Nicole Ward (AA) 2000 Phaedra Dixon (AA) Karen Hawley (AA) Carissa Ericson (FX) Jana Gallagher (BB) 2001 Jana Gallagher (AA) Carissa Ericson (V, FX) 2002 Jana Gallagher (AA) Ashley Williams (AA) 2003 Kara Kapernekas (AA) Ashley Williams (AA) REGIONAL COACH OF THE YEAR 2005 Bob Starkell REGIONAL ASSISTANT COACH OF THE YEAR 1998 Bob Starkell 2005 Kim (Mazza) Landrus MOST VALUABLE 1994 Mary Beth Clisham 1995 Dina Slomski 1996 Becky Ashton 1997 Kelly Hogan 1998 Kristin Montero 1999 Kim Berres 2000 Gena Gruss 2001 Jennifer Barrett 2002 Mina Moradi 2003 Karen Hawley 2004 Kara Kapernekas 2005 Lauren Newcomb 2006 Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer NIT CHAMPIONS 1996 Kim Berres, BB 1996 Natalie Forsthoefel, UB COLLEGIATE NATIONAL TEAM 1996 Tracey Althans, BB, FX 1996 Kim Berres, V, BB, AA 1996 Kelli Farrar, UB 1996 Natalie Forsthoefel, UB 1996 Kari Karubas, FX SCHOLASTIC ALL-AMERICANS 1983 Karen Brems 1984 Karen Brems 1989 Lynn Devers Shari Smith 1990 Lynn Devers Becky Gaa Denise Lamborn Shari Smith 1991 Kara Corso Lynn Devers Becky Gaa 1992 Becky Gaa 1993 Becky Gaa 1994 Tracey Althans Kimberly Bathke Natalie Forsthoefel MOST IMPROVED 1996 Kelly Hogan 1997 Michelle Lacki 1998 Michelle Lacki 1999 Melanie Dowart 2000 Allison Berg 2001 Jennifer Barrett Phaedra Dixon 2002 Amanda Kaufman 2003 Sara Dumich 2004 Melissa Singer 2005 Krystal Melcarek 2006 Ursula Orozco 1995 Tracey Althans Natalie Forsthoefel Kelly Hogan Karla Peterson Dina Slomski 1996 Tracey Althans Natalie Forsthoefel Kelly Hogan 1997 Kelly Hogan 1998 Gena Gruss Carmella Fernandez Melanie Dorwart Lisa Pellegrinetti 1999 Allison Berg Carissa Ericson Carmella Fernandez Gena Gruss Michele Mesik Mina Moradi Lisa Pellegrinetti 2001 Jennifer Barrett Allison Berg Carissa Ericson Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley Lisa Pellegrinetti Lindsay Ransom MOST CONSISTENT BEAM 1994 Kari Karubas 1995 Nicole Ward 1996 Kim Berres 1997 C. Fernandez 1998 Kim Berres 1999 Gina Wiechmann 2000 Phaedra Dixon 2001 Jana Gallagher 2002 Jana Gallagher 2003 Kara Kapernekas 2004 Margaret Dann 2005 Margaret Dann 2006 Cara Pomeroy Katie Wild UI grad Nancy Thies was a member of the 1972 U.S. Olympic Team. 2002 Allison Berg Sara Dumich Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley Amanda Kaufman Lindsay Ransom 2003 Sara Dumich Emily Earle Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley Amanda Kaufman Lauren Petric 2004 Margaret Dann Sara Dumich Emily Earle Kim Kirzow Lauren Newcomb Lindsay Ransom Katie Wild Ashley Williams 2005 Sara Dumich Emily Earle Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer Katie Williams Ashley Williams SCHOLAR-ATHLETE 1995 Tracey Althans Dina Slomski 1996 Tracey Althans Natalie Forsthoefel 1997 Kelly Hogan 1998 Melanie Dorwart 1999 Lisa Pellegrinetti 2000 C. Fernandez 2001 Lisa Pellegrinetti 2002 Allison Berg 2003 Emily Earle 2004 Katie Wild 2005 Katie Wild 2006 Katie Wild & Emily Earle ILLINOIS HONORS UI FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR 1977 Nancy Theis 1984 Karen Brems UI FEMALE NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR 1994 Nicole Viernes 1996 Kim Berres 2002 Ashley Williams 2006 Julie Crall UI OUTSTANDING FEMALE SCHOLAR-ATHLETE 1992 Becky Gaa (Jr.) 1994 Natalie Forsthoefel (So.) 1996 Natalie Forsthoefel (Sr.) 2006 Emily Earle (Sr.) FIGHTING ILLINI SPIRIT AWARD 1995 Dina Slomski FIGHTING ILLINI OUTSTANDING TEAM GPA AWARD (Highest GPA for a team) 1998 3.32 Cumulative GPA 44 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
THE RECORD BOOK FIRST TEAM ALL-BIG TEN PERFORMERS Nancy Thies 1976-77* INDIVIDUAL BIG TEN CHAMPIONS 1976* Nancy Thies,V,BB,UB,FX,AA 1977* Nancy Thies,V,UB,FX,AA 1978* Mary Charpentier, BB 1980* Mimi Eberle, V 1988 Heather Singalewitch, AA 1990 Laura Knutson, tied BB Denise Lamborn, V Peggy Pullman, tied BB Heather Singalewitch, FX 1991 Lynn Devers, tied UB 1999 Gina Wiechmann, tied BB BIG TEN GYMNAST OF THE YEAR 1976* Nancy Thies 1977* Nancy Thies 1988 Heather Singalewitch BIG TEN FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR 2002 Ashley Williams BIG TEN COACH OF THE YEAR 1990 Bev Mackes 2005 Bob Starkell BIG TEN MEDAL OF HONOR 1984 Karen Brems 1991 Lynn Devers ALL-BIG TEN 1976* Nancy Thies 1977* Nancy Thies 1978* Mary Charpentier 1980* Mimi Eberle 1987 Denise Lamborn 1988 Denise Lamborn 1990 Laura Knutson Denise Lamborn Peggy Pullman Heather Singalewitch 1991 Lynn Devers 1998 Kim Berres 1999 Gina Wiechmann 2002 Ashley Williams 2003 Ashley Williams (2nd) Kara Kapernekas (2nd) 2004 Cara Pomeroy (2nd) Ashley Williams (2nd) 2005 Cara Pomeroy Kara Kapernekas (2nd) 2006 Cara Pomeroy Julie Crall (2nd) Mary Charpentier 1978* BIG TEN TEAM TITLES 1976 102.550 points 1977 138.040 points 1990 188.750 points BIG TEN GYMNAST OF THE WEEK 1/27/99 Gina Wiechmann 3/3/99 Phaedra Dixon 3/1/00 Karen Hawley 1/9/02 Ashley Williams 3/1/05 Cara Pomeroy 2/8/06 Cara Pomeroy BIG TEN ALL-DECADE TEAM 1980 s Heather Singalewitch 1980 s Denise Lamborn ACADEMIC ALL-BIG TEN 1984 Karen Brems 1988 Laura Knutson 1989 Shari Smith Lynn Devers Laura Knutson 1990 Lynn Devers Laura Knutson Jennifer Durdil Denise Lamborn Shari Smith 1991 Kara Corso Lynn Devers Jennifer Durdil Becky Gaa 1992 Kara Corso Mary Beth Clisham Becky Gaa 1993 Becky Gaa Kimberly Bathke Mary Beth Clisham Kara Corso Pam Swan 1994 Tracey Althans Kimberly Bathke Mary Beth Clisham Dina Slomski Natalie Forsthoefel 1995 Tracey Althans Natalie Forsthoefel Kelly Hogan Dina Slomski 1996 Tracey Althans Nicki Ciccarelli Kelli Farrar Mimi Eberle 1980* Denise Lamborn 1987-88, 1990 Laura Knutson 1990 Lynn Devers 1991 Kim Berres 1998 Gina Wiechmann 1999 *Honors won at unofficial Big Ten Championship. Women s sports were not officially recognized by the Big Ten until 1982-83. BIG TEN CONFERENCE HONORS Natalie Forsthoefel Kelly Hogan 1997 Becky Ashton Kim Berres Nicki Ciccarelli Melanie Dorwart Kelly Hogan 1998 Becky Ashton Kim Berres Melanie Dorwart Carmella Fernandez Gena Gruss 1999 Becky Ashton Kim Berres Melanie Dorwart Carissa Ericson Carmella Fernandez Gena Gruss Lisa Pellegrinetti 2000 Allison Berg Phaedra Dixon Carissa Ericson Carmella Fernandez Gena Gruss Michelle Mesik Mina Moradi Lisa Pellegrinetti 2001 Jennifer Barrett Allison Berg Michelle Buranich Phaedra Dixon Carissa Ericson Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley Amanda Kaufman Michelle Mesik Mina Moradi Lisa Pellegrinetti Gina Wiechmann 2002 Allison Berg Michelle Buranich Sara Dumich Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley Amanda Kaufman Michelle Mesik Mina Moradi 2003 Michelle Buranich Jessica Cole Sara Dumich Jana Gallagher Heather Singalewitch 1988, 1990 Ashley Williams 2002 Karen Hawley Amanda Kaufman Lauren Newcomb Lindsay Ransom Ashley Williams 2004 Margaret Dann Sara Dumich Emily Earle Kim Kirzow Lauren Newcomb Lindsay Ransom Katie Wild Ashley Williams 2005 Margaret Dann Sara Dumich Emily Earle Lauren Newcomb Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer Katie Wild Ashley Williams 2006 Emily Earle Michelle McGrady Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer Katie Wild Peggy Pullman 1990 Cara Pomeroy 2005, 2006 Amanda Kaufman was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 45
THE RECORD BOOK INDIVIDUAL RECORDS ALL-AROUND 1. 39.475 Ashley Williams vs. Ball State, 2004 2. 39.375 Kara Kapernekas at State of Illinois Classic, 2003 3. 39.350 Ashley Williams vs. Minnesota/UIC, 2003 4. 39.350 Phaedra Dixon vs. Ohio State, 1999 5. 39.325 Ashley Williams State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Kim Berres vs. SEMO, 1996 7. 39.275 Ashley Williams at NCAA South Central Regional, 2004 Kara Kapernekas vs. Iowa, 2003 Jana Gallagher vs. Iowa, 2001 10. 39.250 Ashley Williams at Big Ten Championships, 2003 Phaedra Dixon vs. Iowa, 2000 VAULT 1. 9.925 Jessica Cole at State of Illinois Classic, 2003 Nicole Viernes vs. Florida & Iowa State, 1996 3. 9.900 Carissa Ericson vs. Iowa, 2001 4. 9.875 Michelle McGrady vs. Maryland, 2006 Marijka Botterman at UIC, 2006 Lauren Newcomb at Illinois State, 2005 Lauren Newcomb at Texas Women s Quad, 2005 Kara Kapernekas State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Danye Botterman vs. Iowa State, 2004 Nicole Viernes at Big Ten Championships, 1997 Nicole Viernes State of Illinois Classic, 1996 12. 9.850 Danye Botterman at State of Illinois Classic, 2005 Lauren Newcomb vs. Ohio State, 2005 Lauren Newcomb at Ball State, 2005 Danye Botterman at Texas Women s Quad, 2005 Danye Botterman at Big Ten Championships, 2004 Ashley Williams State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Danye Botterman State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Danye Botterman vs. Ball State, 2004 Ashley Williams vs. Ball State, 2004 Danye Botterman at Northern Illinois, 2004 Danye Botterman at Illinois-Chicago, 2004 Nicole Viernes vs. Iowa, 1996 BARS 1. 10.0 Cara Pomeroy at NCAA South Central Regional, 2004 2. 9.950 Cara Pomeroy at Texas Women s Quad, 2005 3. 9.925 Cara Pomeroy at State of Illinois Classic, 2005 Ashley Williams at NCAA South Central Regional, 2004 Cara Pomeroy State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Cara Pomeroy vs. Ball State, 2004 Kelli Farrar at State of Illinois Classic, 1997 Kelli Farrar vs. Iowa, 1997 Natalie Forsthoefel at NIT, 1996 10. 9.900 Cara Pomeroy at Missouri, 2005 Cara Pomeroy vs. Northern Illinois, 2005 Cara Pomeroy vs. Ohio State, 2005 Cara Pomeroy at NCAA Regionals, 2005 Ashley Williams State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Cara Pomeroy at Auburn, 2004 Cara Pomeroy vs. Michigan State, 2004 Ashley Williams at Big Ten Championships, 2003 Ashley Williams vs. Minnesota/UIC, 2003 Michelle Buranich vs. Penn State, 2001 Phaedra Dixon vs. Iowa, 2001 Phaedra Dixon vs. SEMO, 1999 Gina Wiechmann vs. SEMO, 1999 Kelli Farrar at Big Ten Championships, 1998 Kelli Farrar vs. Illinois-Chicago, 1998 Phaedra Dixon vs. Illinois State, 1998 Phaedra Dixon vs. SEMO, 1998 Kelli Farrar at Captain Crunch, 1997 Kelli Farrar State of Illinois Classic, 1996 BEAM 1. 9.950 Stacy Redmond vs. SEMO, 1995 2. 9.925 Kara Kapernekas at State of Illinois Classic, 2003 Kara Kapernekas at SEMO, 2003 Jana Gallagher vs. Illinois State, 2001 Jana Gallagher vs. Ohio State, 2001 Jana Gallagher vs. Iowa, 2001 Jana Gallagher vs. Cal. State-Fullerton, 2001 Kim Berres at Big Ten Championships, 1997 9. 9.900 Cara Pomeroy at UIC, 2006 Ashley Williams vs. Ball State, 2004 Ashley Williams at Ohio State Triangular, 2004 Cara Pomeroy at Ohio State Triangular, 2004 Amanda Kaufman at State of Illinois Classic, 2003 Jana Gallagher at State of Illinois Classic, 2002 Gina Wiechmann vs. Ohio State, 2001 Gina Wiechmann vs. Ohio State, 1999 Gina Wiechmann vs. Illinois State, 1998 Gina Wiechmann vs. SEMO, 1998 Kim Berres vs. SEMO, 1999 Kim Berres at State of Illinois Classic, 1999 Kim Berres at State of Illinois Classic, 1998 Kim Berres vs. Ohio State, 1998 Kim Berres vs. Illinois State, 1998 Kim Berres at State of Illinois Classic, 1997 Becky Ashton vs. Ohio State, 1997 Kim Berres at NIT, 1996 Nicole Ward vs. SEMO, 1995 FLOOR 1. 9.950 Kara Kapernekas vs. Ball State, 2004 Kara Kapernekas vs. Iowa, 2003 Amanda Kaufman vs. Iowa, 2003 Phaedra Dixon at State of Illinois Classic, 2000 5. 9.925 Lauren Newcomb State of Illinois Classic, 2004 Kara Kapernekas vs. Iowa State, 2004 Carissa Ericson at State of Illiniois Classic, 2000 Carissa Ericson vs. Penn State, 1999 9. 9.900 Ashley Williams vs. Ball State, 2004 Kara Kapernekas at Ohio State Triangular, 2004 Amanda Kaufman at State of Illinois Classic, 2003 Michelle Mesik vs. Iowa, 2001 Lisa Pellegrinetti vs. Ohio State, 2001 Lisa Pellegrinetti vs. UIC, 2001 Kim Berres vs. Penn State, 1999 Kim Berres vs. Ohio State, 1999 Phaedra Dixon vs. Minnesota, 1999 Phaedra Dixon vs. Ohio State, 1999 Gina Wiechmann at State of Illinois Classic, 1998 Kim Berres vs. SEMO, 1998 Kim Berres vs. Iowa, 1997 *bold indicates athletes on 2006-07 roster. 46 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS Ashley Williams is the Illinois All-Around record holder.
THE RECORD BOOK TEAM RECORDS TOTAL SCORE 1. 196.300 State of Illinois Classic 3/13/04 2. 196.150 vs. Iowa 3/3/01 3. 195.800 vs. Ohio State 3/6/99 4. 195.750 at Texas Women s Quad 2/26/05 195.750 at State of Illinois Classic 3/23/03 6. 195.700 vs. Michigan State 1/25/04 195.700 vs. Ohio State 2/3/01 8. 195.450 vs. Ball State 2/21/04 9. 195.425 vs. Ohio State 3/12/05 10. 195.400 at NCAA South Central Regional 4/3/04 195.400 at Big Ten Championships 3/20/04 VAULT 1. 49.100 at Texas Women s Quad 2/26/05 2. 49.000 State of Illinois Classic 3/13/04 3. 48.900 vs. Iowa 2/17/96 4. 48.850 at State of Illinois Classic 3/23/03 48.850 vs. NIU & Central Michigan 1/29/06 48.850 vs. Maryland 1/21/06 7. 48.825 at State of Illinois Classic 3/19/05 48.825 at State of Illinois Classic 3/22/96 48.825 at UIC 2/25/06 48.825 vs. Missouri 2/11/06 BARS 1. 49.475 at NCAA South Central Regional 4/3/04 2. 49.225 vs. Penn State 1/13/01 3. 49.100 State of Illinois Classic 3/13/04 49.100 vs. Ohio State 3/6/99 49.100 vs. Illinois State 2/28/98 6. 49.075 vs. Illinois-Chicago 2/16/01 7. 49.050 vs. Cal. State Fullerton 3/10/01 49.050 vs. Iowa 3/3/01 49.050 at Big Ten Championships 3/18/00 10. 49.025 at Texas Women s Quad 2/26/05 BEAM 1. 49.175 at Big Ten Championships 3/20/04 2. 49.150 at State of Illinois Classic 3/23/03 49.150 vs. Ohio State 2/3/01 4. 49.125 vs. Iowa 3/3/01 5. 49.100 vs. Ohio State 3/12/05 6. 49.075 at UIC 2/25/06 49.075 State of Illinois Classic 3/13/04 49.075 vs. Ohio State 3/6/99 9. 49.050 vs. Iowa State 2/14/04 10. 49.025 at NCAA South Central Regional 4/3/04 FLOOR 1. 49.450 at State of Illinois Classic 3/16/01 2. 49.425 vs. Iowa 3/8/03 3. 49.300 vs. Ohio State 3/6/99 4. 49.275 vs. Ball State 2/21/04 49.275 vs. Iowa State 2/14/04 6. 49.250 vs. Ohio State 2/3/01 49.250 vs. Iowa 3/3/01 8. 49.225 at Ohio State 1/31/04 49.225 vs. Michigan State 1/25/04 10. 49.200 vs. Penn State 2/13/99 The 2004 Fighting Illini women s gymnastics team set the school record of 196.300 to win the State of Illinois Classic. ALL-TIME TEAM RECORDS Year Duals Big Ten Regional Coach 2006 10-4 7th 4th Bob Starkell 2005 18-5 5th 6th Bob Starkell 2004 10-7 6th 5th Bob Starkell 2003 7-12 6th -- Bob Starkell 2002 6-16 6th -- Bob Starkell 2001 3-13 7th -- Bob Starkell 2000 7-10 6th -- Bob Starkell 1999 10-7-1 5th 5th Lynn Brueckman 1998 12-5 6th 6th Lynn Brueckman 1997 7-11 6th -- Lynn Brueckman 1996 13-5 5th -- Lynn Brueckman 1995 6-12 5th -- Lynn Brueckman 1994 4-14 7th -- Lynn Brueckman 1993 2-14 7th -- Bev Mackes 1992 2-14 6th -- Bev Mackes 1991 3-8 T-4th -- Bev Mackes 1990 7-2 1st 5th Bev Mackes 1989 9-5 4th 5th Bev Mackes 1988 5-3 3rd 7th Bev Mackes 1987 11-6 4th 4th Bev Mackes 1986 5-3 5th -- Bev Mackes 1985 2-5 5th 4th Bev Mackes 1984 2-4 T-4th 4th Bev Mackes 1983 8-7 3rd 4th Bev Mackes 1982 2-3 6th* 5th Bev Mackes 1981 1-3 4th* 6th Bev Mackes 1980 4-2 2nd* 4th Bev Mackes 1979 3-5 2nd* 8th Bev Mackes 1978 2-4 3rd* 9th Bev Mackes 1977 1-1 1st* 5th Allison Milburn 1976 2-2 1st* 7th Allison Milburn 1975 n/a 4th* -- Kim Musgrave 1974 n/a n/a* -- Kim Musgrave *Women s championships were not officially recognized by the Big Ten until 1982-83. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 47
THE RECORD BOOK ALL-TIME LETTERWINNERS A // B // C Adams, Susan - 1988, 89, 90, 91 Althans, Tracey - 1993, 94, 95, 96 Amico, Mary - 1981 Ashton, Becky - 1996, 97, 98, 99 Baffes, Kathy - 1978, 79, 80 Bagel, Jean - 1976 Barrett, Jennifer - 2000 Barrow, Christine - 1984 Bathke, Kimberly - 1991, 92, 93, 94 Bedrosian, Tammy - 1977 Berg, Allison - 2000, 01, 02 Berres, Kim - 1996, 97, 98, 99 Botterman, Danye - 2004, 05, 06 Botterman, Marijka - 2006 Brems, Karen - 1981, 82, 83, 84 Buranich, Michelle - 2000, 01, 02, 03 Carmicheal, Patty - 1977 Carr, Bridget - 1980, 81, 82 Castle, Jennifer - 1978 Charpentier, Mary - 1978, 79, 80, 81 Ciccarelli, Nicki - 1994, 95, 96, 97 Ciccarelli, Tracey - 1996, 97 Clisham, Mary Beth - 1991, 92, 93, 94 Cole, Jessica - 2003, 04, 05 Collias, Emily - 1984, 85, 86 Corso, Kara - 1990, 91, 92, 93 Crall, Julie - 2006 D // E // F // G Danke, Cheryl - 1985 Dann, Margaret - 2002, 03, 04, 05 Delact, Joan - 1977 Devers, Lynn - 1988, 89, 90, 91 Dixon, Phaedra - 1998, 99, 00, 01 Dorwart, Melanie - 1996, 97, 98, 99 Drummond, Becky - 1994 Dumich, Sara - 2003, 04, 05 Durdil, Jennifer - 1989, 90, 92 Earle, Emily - 2003, 04, 05, 06 Eberle, Mimi - 1980 Margaret Dann was a four time letterwinner Ericson, Carissa - 1998, 99, 00, 01 Farrar, Kelli - 1995, 96, 97, 98 Fernandez, Carmella - 1997, 98, 99, 00 Fleischmann, Gayle - 1977, 78, 79, 80 Forsthoefel, Natalie - 1993, 94, 95, 96 Gaa, Becky - 1990, 91, 92, 93 Gallagher, Jana - 2000, 01, 02, 03 Gardner, Laura - 1978 Garrity, Allison - 1984, 85, 86, 87 Greathouse, Teresa - 1975, 76 Gruss, Gena - 1997, 98, 99, 2000 H // I // J // K // L Hamilton, Gail - 1989 Hawley, Karen - 2000, 01, 02, 03 Helmke, Heidi - 1981, 82, 83, 84 Hicks, Laura - 1985, 86 Hogan, Kelly - 1994, 95, 96, 97 Howell, Lisa - 1979 Johnson, Gaye - 1978, 79, 80 Kalal, Randy - 1975 Kapernekas, Kara - 2002, 03, 04, 05 Karubas, Kari - 1994, 95, 96, 97 Kaufman, Amanda - 2000, 01, 02, 03 Kirzow, Kim - 2004 Knutson, Laura - 1987, 88, 89, 90 Kontur, Tracy - 1987, 88, 89, 90 Kruk, Kim - 2006 Lacki, Michelle - 1998 Lamborn, Denise - 1987, 88 LaPlante, Liz - 1978 Lunquist, Debr a- 1977 M // N // O // P Maart, Michelle - 1985, 86, 87, 88 MacAdams, Maggie - 1976, 77, 78 Matiya, Joellyn - 1980, 81, 82 McGee, Cindy - 1983 Mesik, Michelle - 2000, 01, 02 McGrady, Michelle- 2005, 06 Melcarek, Krystal- 2005, 06 Montero, Kristin - 1995, 97, 98 Montgomery, Lisa - 1982 Moore, Cindy - 1982, 83 Moradi, Mina - 1999, 01, 02 Murin, Laura - 1981 Neilson, Dotty - 1983 Newcomb, Lauren - 2002, 03, 04, 05 Numrych, Charlene - 1981, 82, 83, 84 Osowski, Jan - 1979, 80, 81 Pedregal, Marianne - 1984, 85, 86, 87 Pellegrinetti, Lisa - 1998, 99, 00, 01 Peterson, Anne - 1978, 79, 80 Peterson, Karla - 1992, 93, 95 Pollack, Allyson - 1981, 82 Polz, Laura - 1990, 91, 92 Pomeroy, Cara - 2004, 05, 06 Pontious, Joyce - 1978, 79, 80, 81 Powers, Terri - 1978, 79, 80 Pullman, Peggy - 1990, 92 Current senior Melissa Singer Q // R // S // T Rechenmacher, Jayne - 1978, 79, 80, 81 Rechenmacher, Jill - 1986 Redmond, Stacy - 1995, 96 Reid, Connie - 1983 Roberts, Luann - 1983, 84, 85, 86 Robinson, Deborah - 1975 Rosenwinkel, Pam - 1975 Roska, Sarah - 1976 Rossetto, Karen - 1989, 90, 91 Rudnicki, Patsy - 1982, 83, 84, 85 Ruf, Michelle - 1985, 86, 87, 88 Ruffolo, Laura - 2002 Salinas, Maria - 1975, 76 Segers, Alicia - 1976 Semeniuk, Tanya - 1993 Sheppard, Sarah - 1978, 79, 80 Shively, Debbie - 1987, 88 Simpson, Faith - 1991 Singalewitch, Heather - 1987, 88, 89, 90 Singer, Melissa - 2004, 05, 06 Slomski, Dina - 1992, 94, 95 Smith, Karen - 1975 Smith, Lindsey - 2006 Smith, Shari - 1988, 89 Sullivan, Kelcey - 1991 T // U // V // W // X // Y // Z Tex, Cathy - 1975 Thies, Nancy - 1976, 77 Travis, Lee - 1975, 77 Viernes, Nicole - 1994, 95, 96, 97 Ward, Nicole - 1992, 93, 94, 95 Wasserman, Sarah - 1991, 92 Weber, Cynthia - 1975, 76, 77, 78 Webster, Julie - 1980 Wild, Katie - 2003, 04, 05, 06 Wiechmann, Gina - 1998, 99, 00, 01 Williams, Ashley - 2002, 03, 04, 05 Wurtzel, Melissa - 1997 Yonezuka, Natacha - 1984, 85 48 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
MEDIA INFORMATION MEDIA INFORMATION MEET CREDENTIALS All home meets are held at Huff Hall and the public is charged for admission. A pass list, located at the northwest entrance of Huff Hall, is used for media and photographer admittance. Please call Anastasia Harold of the Public Relations office in advance to request credentials. She can be reached at (217) 244-5045. Media credential requests for road meets should be made through the host SID office. COACH/GYMNAST INTERVIEWS Please schedule all interviews through the Athletic Public Relations office. For interviews with head coach Bob Starkell or any Illinois coach or student-athlete, please contact Anastasia Harold. Coach Starkell is usually available for interviews before or following workouts Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Practice begins at 1:30 p.m. daily. Interviews with athletes will be conducted according to class and practice schedules. POST-MEET INTERVIEWS Coach Bob Starkell and gymnasts will be available after meets following a short cool-down period. Please make all requests for interviews to Anastasia Harold at the scorer s table. WORKOUT TIMES The Illini work out during the week on the third floor of Kenney Gym on the corner of Wright St. and Springfield Ave. Parking for Kenney is located along Wright St. in metered areas. Practices start at 1:30 p.m. daily. FIGHTINGILLINI.COM Fightingillini.com, the official website of the University of Illinois Athletic Department, is the fastest and easiest way for fans, alumni, students and parents to follow Illinois athletics. Maintained by the UI Athletic Public Relations office, fightingillini.com provides viewers with not only the latest scores, game stories, photos and statistics from all Illinois varsity sports, but also feature stories on studentathletes and coaches who shape the headlines. Live radio broadcasts of volleyball, football, men s and women s basketball, softball and baseball, as well as selected audio interviews, video highlight clips and live video of home gymnastics meets are availible at the click of the computer s mouse. FIGHTINGILLINI.COM FEATURES: The latest news on Illinois 19 varsity sports Live streaming video of home gymnastics meets Up-to-date results, schedules, statistics and game notes Feature stories on Illini student-athletes and coaches Student-athlete and coach biographies Photo galleries On-air radio broadcasts Audio and video clips MEET RESULTS Results will be available following the conclusion of the meet and also will be sent to the opposing team s sports information office. A story, complete with results, will be sent to selected media outlets. Team and individual results will be updated following each meet. If you wish to have your media agency added to the e-mail list, please contact Anastasia Harold in the Athletic Public Relations office. ILLINI ON THE WEB Illinois results and athlete information is also kept up to date at www.fightingillini.com. The women s gymnastics page features athlete biographies, schedules, results, statistics, feature stories, news, releases and live meet stats and video. GYMNASTICS MEDIA OUTLETS PRINT MEDIA Champaign News-Gazette Jeff Huth P.O. Box 677 Champaign, IL 61820 Ph: (217) 351-5232/5604 Fax: (217) 351-5374 The Daily Illini 57 East Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 Ph: (217) 333-7025 Fax: (217) 244-2933 Copley News Service John Supinie Ph: (217) 377-1977 (cell) *covering the Peoria Journal Star, Springfield State Journal-Register and Moline Dispatch RADIO WDWS Radio Dave Loane, Sports Director P.O. Box 3939 Champaign, IL 61826 Ph: (217) 351-5300 Fax: (217) 351-5385 WKIO/WLRW/WIXY, Illini Radio Group Mike Cation, Sports Director 2603 West Bradley Ave. Champaign, IL 61820 Ph: (217) 352-4141 FAX: (217) 298-9000 WDAN Radio Eric Turner, Sports Director 1501 N. Washington Danville, IL 61832 Ph: (217) 442-1700 WPGU Radio 24 East Green St. Champaign, IL 61820 Ph: (217) 244-3000 Fax: (217) 244-3001 TELEVISION WAND-TV Steve Breitweiser, Brian Jodice 904 Southside Drive Decatur, IL 62522 Ph: (800) 252-1601 -or- (217) 424-2500 Fax: (217) 422-8203 WCIA-TV Jason Elliott, Nevin Nelson, Aaron Bennett 509 South Neil St. Champaign, IL 61820 Ph: (217) 356-8333 Fax: (217) 373-3663 WICD-TV Josh Samuels, Bart Baker, Matt Coldagelli 250 County Fair Drive Champaign, IL 61821 Ph: (217) 351-8503 Fax: (217) 351-6134 INTERNET www.fightingillini.com www.bigten.org www.ncaa.org www.troester.com/gym www.insidegymnastics.com www.collegegymfans.com 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 49
THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS..................52-53 DIVISION OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS.......54-55 ACADEMIC SERVICES........................56-57 CHAMPAIGN-URBANA...........................58 CAMPUS LIFE.................................59 ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE IN 2005-06.............60-61 UI TRADITIONS.............................62-63 NOTABLE ALUMNI...........................64-65 UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION....................66 ATHLETIC DIRECTOR RON GUENTHER...............67 THE 2007 FIGHTING ILLINI.......................68
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the state's classic land grant university, dedicated to its traditional excellence in education, research, and public engagement, and driven to innovate in each of these missions. True to its mission to provide access to top quality higher education to all of Illinois, the Urbana campus regularly ranks among the "best buys" among American universities. More than 2,000 faculty members lead more than 38,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students in a process of discovery and learning in 16 colleges and schools and more than 80 research centers and labs. Illinois provides a diverse learning environment with students and faculty members from more than 120 nations, and a choice of 150 undergraduate majors. Students have opportunities ranging from participating in research or studying abroad, to leading one of more than 1,000 student organizations. Illinois faculty members win the most prestigious national and international awards, including Nobel and Pulitzer prizes, Guggenheim Fellowships, Tony Awards, and National Medals of Science and Technology. Illinois alumni are similarly recognized. Eleven have won Nobel Prizes. Campus resources include one of the largest public university libraries in the world, outstanding centers for the arts, and many world-class research facilities, including the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, Beckman Institute, and the Siebel Center for Computer Science. The University of Illinois is also well respected and well connected internationally, collaborating with other top institutions around the world in many disciplines and providing students, as well as faculty, opportunities to work with renowned colleagues around the world. Top: Illinois Union, located on the north end of the Quad; Middle Left: The Alma Mater statue; Middle Right: The Quad is the hub of all activity on the University of Illinois campus; Left: The Engineering Quad; Above: An example of a University of Illinois dormitory. 52 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS Far right: Front view of the Illinois Main Library, it combines with many other buildings to form the the largest public library in the country; Right: Illinois Undergraduate Library, which was built underground to preserve the Morrow Plots; Below: Altgeld Hall, the math building. The 2006 Fiske Guide to Colleges named Illinois as a "Public University with Strong Preprofessional Programs" in Architecture, Business, Communications/Journalism, and Engineering. The U.S. Department of Education rank the Center for African Studies as first, the Center for Latin American & Caribbean Studies second and Russian & East European Center fourth in the nation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Illinois as one of the top public national universities that grants doctoral degrees, according to its 2006 America's Best Colleges. Here is how some of the academic programs ranked among the best in the nation (2006 America's Best Colleges and 2007 America's Best Graduate Schools): HISTORIC FIRSTS AT ILLINOIS 1868 first architectural instruction west of the Allegheny Mountains 1876 establishment of the oldest continuous soil fertility research plots in the Unites States, the Morrow Plots 1893 first school of library science west of the Alleghenies 1922 invention of sound-on-film movies 1935 discovery of the essential amino acid threonine 1940 invention of the betatron for high energy physics 1948 first comprehensive college program for students with severe physical disabilities 1952 construction of the pioneering ILLIAC and ORDVAC computers 1959 development of PLATO, the first computer used for direct education 1970 construction of the first visible-spectrum semiconductor laser Established in 1876, the Morrow Plots are the oldest experimental research fields in the United States. 1977 discovery of a third life form, distinct from the forms that produce plants, animals and bacterial, called Archaea 1977 development of the quantum well laser, which made compact disc players possible 1990 invention of the e-mail program Eudora 1993 development of the first browser for the world wide web, Mosaic, was developed into Netscape 1996 development of a processing method that extends the life of microchips as much as 50 times 2001 development of self-healing plastics 2003 the University Library s collection exceeds 10 million volumes, the largest collection of any public university in the world. 2004 development of the laser transistor 2005 development of the world's fastest transistor and of a stretchable silicon that can be used to build high-performance electronic devices onto rubber substances Graduate Program for Library and Informational Scienes - 1 Digital Libraries - 1 Graduate Engineering Program - 5 College of Business - 12 Department of Psychology graduate program - 5 Eighty graduate programs and specialty areas rank in the top 30 in the country. Several undergraduate programs rank in the top 10 in the nation. Accountancy - 1 Aeronautical engineering - 8 Agricultural engineering - 3 Business Management - 8 Chemical engineering - 8 Civil engineering - 1 Computer engineering - 5 Electrical engineering - 4 Environmental engineering - 3 Insurance/risk management - 5 Materials science - 2 Mechanical engineering - 6 Nuclear engineering - 8 Real Estate - 5 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 53
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS Top Left: Illinois Field, home to the Illini Baseball team; Top Right: Atkins Tennis Center; Left: Renderings of the new Demirjian Indoor Golf Facility; Below: Assembly Hall; Bottom Left: Armory Indoor Track Complex; Bottom Right: Illinois Gymnastics facility in Kenney Gym. The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) was chartered in 1892 as a not-for-profit corporation of the State of Illinois. It was charged with overseeing and conducting the University s intercollegiate athletic programs and associated support services, and operated as a separate entity. After the state legislature voted in June 1989 to bring UI athletics within the University proper, the DIA assumed the functions and responsibilities of the Athletic Association. The DIA began operations officially July 1, 1989, and now, more than a century after University of Illinois athletics began, the mission is still to achieve excellence both in the classroom and in sport competition. The director of athletics is the division s chief executive officer, and reports directly to the chancellor of the Urbana-Champaign campus. The chancellor has final authority regarding the athletic program in all areas except for budget and major appointments. Those decisions rest with the University of Illinois Board of Trustees. The Athletic Board serves the DIA in an advisory capacity. It is composed of 20 members, (nine faculty, four alumni, three students and one trustee); and the three non-voting (ex-officio) members from the University administration. The faculty and student members are nominated by the Urbana-Champaign Senate and selected by the chancellor. The DIA does not receive state tax dollars and over the years has been able to fully fund the NCAA maximum allowable number of athletic scholarships for student-athletes in each of its sports programs, as well as to hire excellent coaches and maintain and upgrade its facilities, staying on par with the best major collegiate programs across the nation. This has been accomplished through revenues derived from the following major sources: gate receipts from football and men s basketball; television and radio rights fees for those two sports and corporate sponsorships and donations to the I FUND. The I FUND contributions provide the maximum allowable number of 54 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS scholarships in the 19 men s and women s sports at an average annual cost of approximately $16,000 for in-state student-athletes and about $27,000 for those from outside Illinois. FACILITIES The DIA utilizes and maintains 15 facilities for competition and the administration of 19 sports. The facilities include Memorial Stadium, Assembly Hall, Huff Hall, Illinois Field, the Outdoor Track & Field and Soccer Stadium, the Armory, Atkins Tennis Center, Kenney Gym, the University of Illinois Orange and Blue Golf Courses, the Bielfeldt Athletic Administration Building, the Ubben Basketball Practice Facility, Eichelberger Field Softball Complex, the Irwin Indoor Practice Facility and the Irwin Academic Center. The DIA will add a 16th facility in the fall with the completion of the Demirjian Indoor Golf Complex. Four years ago, a total refurbishing of the football complex took place in time to host the NFL Chicago Bears for the 2002 season. The first floor was reconstructed to expand and upgrade the Illini locker rooms, create permanent meeting room space and a more conducive sports medicine facility. Also added to the stadium in 2002 was a state-of-the-art video scoreboard as well as photo panels that adorn the North endzone. In 2000, the construction of the $12.5 million indoor football practice facility was completed, located just east of the current football complex and locker room. The football practice field opens directly onto the East Outdoor Practice Field. In 1992, the DIA completed an $18 million renovation project on Memorial Stadium, replacing the main and balcony stands on the east and west sides of the Stadium. In 1998, the Irwin Academic Center opened on campus, providing UI student-athletes with state-of-the-art computer study areas, conference rooms, career planning and placement and other academic programs all under one roof. The Irwin Center is utilized by over 600 student-athletes on an annual basis. ATHLETIC BOARD William D. Adams, ex officio Michael B. Bass, ex officio Benjamin Blaiszik, student Jeffrey G. Brown, student John P. Collins, alumnus Lawrence M. DeBrock, faculty Marianne Dickerson, alumna Thomas A. DiSanto, alumnus John Erdman, faculty James T. Frakes, alumnus Ronald E. Guenther, ex officio Meghan Naik, student Ann Nardulli, faculty (chair) Laurence Parker, faculty Nancy Sottos, faculty rep. Christopher Span, faculty Robert Y. Sperling, Board of Trustees Emily Watts, faculty Thomas Weissinger, faculty Matthew B. Wheeler, faculty rep. Top Left: Huff Hall, home to Illinois wrestling, gymnastics and volleyball; Top Right: Bielfeldt Athletic Administration Building; Above Left: Ubben Basketball Practice Facility; Above Right: Eichelberger Field Softball Complex. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 55
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ACADEMIC SERVICES The goal of each sports program within the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Illinois is to strive toward success. The DIA has taken a comprehensive approach to the success of the student-athlete. The Illini Life Skills program is designed to meet the total needs of the student-athlete. Sponsored by the NCAA, the Illini Life Skills program is comprised of five programming commitment areas viewed as critical to personal growth and development. The commitment areas are: academic excellence, athletic excellence, personal development, service to campus and surrounding communities and career development. This comprehensive balance of academic excellence, athletic achievement and personal well-being is stressed daily by the staff and coaches. Inevitably, a student-athlete s playing days will end, but with the assistance of the Illini Life Skills program, each Fighting Illini athlete will be fully prepared for career and personal challenges ahead. Presentations and workshops in many of the above areas can be ordered from the Illini Life Skills menu on an individual or team basis. Each program is tailored to the specific individual s request. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE: Among the elements stressed by the academic services department to assure student-athlete success are counseling and tutorial services, a monitoring program and state-of-the-art computer labs. The Irwin Academic Center, the former Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity house, opened as a center to consolidate academic services for studentathletes. ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE: Athletically, the University of Illinois has long supported a broad-based sports program. Its coaching staff and facilities are among the nation s best. The UI s support units include excellent staffs for recruiting, equipment, facilities maintenance, fund raising, publicity and promotions. Its sports medicine staff not only assists student athletes in strength training and conditioning, but also in personal health maintenance. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: As important as the UI s commitment is to the student-athlete s performance in the classroom and on the field, it also considers the individual s spiritual and emotional needs, and his/her career objectives. Fighting Illini student-athletes are afforded the opportunity to attend a variety of seminars during their collegiate experience, helping them enhance their future following athletics. Among the seminars offered are those in career placement, financial planning, time and stress management, sexual harassment, drug and alcohol education and player/agent relations. SERVICE: The DIA also sponsors a Student Athletic Advisory Board (SAAB), which is made up of representatives from all 19 Fighting Illini intercollegiate athletic teams. CAREER DEVELOPMENT: The strong relationships built within the vast Illinois alumni networking system provide excellent opportunities for all student-athletes, whether it be for summer jobs, internships or in career placement after graduation. Once the individual s career is established, the DIA asks for participation in a follow-up program that allows student-athletes to benefit from their predecessors experiences. 56 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ACADEMIC SERVICES WOMEN S GYMNASTICS GEORGE HUFF AWARD RECIPIENTS 1977 Jean Bagel Sarah Ausich (Nelson) 1978 Tammy Bedrosian (Kleber) Joan Delast Sarah MacAdams Cynthia Weber (Byrd) 1979 Sarah MacAdams Elizabeth LaPlante 1980 Jan Osowski Joyce Pontious (Youngbrandt) 1981 Jan Osowski Joyce Pontious (Youngbrandt) 1982 Karen Brems Ann Pollack 1983 Karen Brems 1984 Karen Brems 1985 Heidi Helmke Luan Roberts (Peszek) 1986 Emily Collins (Gomez) Natacha Yonezuka 1987 Luan Roberts (Peszek) 1988 Michelle Maart 1989 Michelle Ruf Shari Smith (Tooley) Laura Knutson Lynn Devers (Pounds) 1990 Jennifer Durdil (Klinger) Laura Knutson Heather Singalewitch (Endre) Shari Smith (Tooley) Lynn Devers (Pounds) 1991 Laura Knutson Heather Singalewitch (Endre) Denise Lambo (Becker) Jennifer Durdil (Klinger) Rebecca Gaa (Cole) Kara Corso (Pothier) Lynn Devers (Pounds) 1992 Rebecca Gaa (Cole) Susan Adams (Shrader) Mary Clisham (Bessemer) Lynn Devers (Pounds) 1993 Rebecca Gaa (Cole) Jennifer Durdil (Klinger) Kara Corso (Pothier) Kim Bathke (Bergmann) Dina Slomski (Bilsbury) Mary Beth Clisham (Bessemer) 1994 Natalie Forsthoefel (Boule) Kara Corso (Pothier) Tracy Althans Kimberly Bathke (Bergmann) 1995 Tracey Althans Kimberly Bathke (Bergmann) Becky Drummond Natalie Forsthoefel (Boule) Dina Slomski (Bilsbury) 1996 Kelly Hogan Tracey Althans Nicole Ciccarelli Kelli Farrar Karla Peterson Dina Slomski (Bilsbury) Nicole Vierness Natalie Forsthoefel (Boule) 1997 Rebecca Ashton Kelly Hogan Katherine Karubas 1998 Kimberly Berres Nicole Vierness Katherine Karubas Kelly Hogan Nicole Ciccarelli Rebecca Ashton Carmella Fernandez 1999 Carmella Fernandez Carissa Ericson Lisa Pellegrinetti Kristen Montero Rebecca Ashton Melanie Dorwart Kim Berres Gena Gruss 2000 Carissa Ericson Lisa Pellegrinetti (Denise) Mina Moradi Carmella Fernandez Melanie Dorwart Phaedra Dixon Rebecca Ashton Gena Gruss 2001 Michelle Buranich Lisa Pellegrinetti Amanda Kaufman Karen Hawley Gena Gruss Carmella Fernandez Phaedra Dixon Carissa Ericson Allison Berg Jana Gallagher 2002 Phaedra Dixon Allison Berg Carissa Ericson Jana Gallagher Karen Hawley FIVE GYMNASTS EARN ACADEMIC HONORS Five members of the Illinois women s gymnastics team were named to the 2005-06 Academic All-Big Ten team. Emily Earle, Michelle McGrady, Cara Pomeroy, Melissa Singer and Katie Wild (pictured) were all honored by the conference for their success both in the gym and in the classroom. In addition, Wild and Earle won the team s scholar-athlete award by posting 4.0 grade point averages during their senior seasons. Michelle Mesik Jennifer Barrett 2003 Emily Earle Karen Hawley Katie Wild Lauren Newcomb Amanda Kaufman Jana Gallagher 2004 Katie Wild Melissa Singer Lindsay Ransom Cara Pomeroy Kathryn Kopren Kimberly Kirzow Emily Earle Sara Dumich Margaret Dann Ashley Williams 2005 Margaret Dann Sara Dumich Emily Earle Michelle McGrady Lauren Newcomb Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer Katie Wild Ashley Williams 2006 Marijka Botterman Julie Crall Emily Earle Michelle McGrady Cara Pomeroy Melissa Singer Lindsey Smith Katherine Wild ILLINI TEAMS EXCEL IN THE CLASSROOM IN 2005-06 Ten of 19 Illinois athletic teams recorded over a 3.0 GPA in 2005-06 Illinois had three student-athletes named ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-American and 11 earned Academi All-District honors Eighteen student-athletes earned a perfect 4.0 GPA in 2005-06. Four sports earned a perfect 1.000 in the NCAA Academic Progess Rate (APR). 123 student-athletes earned Academic All-Big Ten honors in 2005-06. Over 50 percent of all student-athletes earned over a 3.0 GPA in the spring, while 46 percent posted a 3.0 or better in the fall. CAREER PLANNING CHECKLIST FRESHMAN: ORIENTATION / ADAPTATION Successfully complete First Year Student-Athlete Meetings Course Explore campus activities and student organizations Participate in HOMETOWN HEROES program Visit the Career Center to learn about its services Attend life skills career development workshops Develop your professional and networking skills SOPHOMORE: SELF-ASSESSMENT / EXPLORATION Evaluate your strengths, skills, values and interests Discuss career ideas with counselors, faculty, family & friends Update your resume Attend Illini Career Networking Night Gain career related experience: an internship, a summer job Participate in HOMETOWN HEROES program Attend workshops and seminars to enhance your personal and career goals Look for opportunities to develop leadership skills in and out of your athletic career Work with the life skills coordinator and your academic counselor if you are unsure about your major or career choice Develop professional skills JUNIOR: DECISION MAKING / GOAL SETTING Work with your academic counselor and the life skills coordinator to develop career goals and strategy. Fulfill academic requirements needed for graduation and your career field Maintain a strong grade point average Research your career field to determine which qualifications you must develop Attend Career Center and Life Skills workshops: resume writing, interview skills, job search strategies, and research occupations and companies Acquire hands-on experience: internships, clinical or field experience Take advantage of volunteer opportunities through HOMETOWN HEROES program Attend the Illini Career Networking Night Attend campus Job Fairs Work with the life skills coordinator to update your resume and for assistance with career planning If you are considering grad school, register for necessary exams (GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, etc.) Develop strong relationships with faculty, counselors, administrators and professionals in your field of interest. Work with life skills coordinator to secure a summer job in chosen field Test your career choice to ensure its right for you SENIOR & FIFTH YEAR: JOB SEARCH / IMPLEMENTATION Update resume and create a cover letter Register for on-campus interviewing with Career Center Continue to attend Career Center and Life Skills workshops and seminars Continue to participate in HOMETOWN HEROES program If attending grad school, register for post-graduate exams If eligible for awards or post-graduate scholarships, work with the life skills coordinator to complete application process Continue to pursue leadership roles on campus Utilize the Career Center, life skills coordinator for support and resources in your job search process 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 57
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHAMPAIGN-URBANA Top Left: The changing leaf color beautifies one of Urbana s historic residental areas; Top Right: An aerial view of Champaign- Urbana; Left Photos: CU s electric entertainment and nightlife. Champaign County is a warm and welcoming community with a dynamic mix of technology, tradition and culture. The community is rich in culture and full of activities. Champaign County provides a level of entertainment opportunities unmatched by other communities its size due in large part to the presence of the University of Illinois. Champaign County is proud to offer vibrant, yet diverse attractions while maintaining friendly, small town hospitality. Literally a crossroads, Champaign County lies halfway between the Windy City of Chicago and St. Louis. East or westbound travelers find Champaign halfway between Indianapolis and Peoria. Nearly 180,000 people call Champaign County home. Add 40,000 University of Illinois students and faculty and you see the diversity of a population that makes Champaign one of the most sophisticated counties in Illinois. Four distinct seasons provide much of the flavor of Champaign. The summer months provide many outdoor activity opportunities with hiking, canoeing and camping locations nearby. Children can be entertained by a wide variety of summer camps and water parks. With the fall comes a beautiful display of changing leaf color and the always brisk weather for the college football season. Snow activities are the name of the game in the winter, as well as Fighting Illini basketball and other indoor sports. When spring rolls around, the community shakes off the winter chill and continues to enjoy fine cuisine, entertainment and intellectual stimulation. 58 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CAMPUS LIFE SHOWS AND CONCERTS The Assembly Hall, which seats 16,618, is the largest Illinois arena outside of Chicago's United Center. From rock shows to Broadway to family shows to Fighting Illini basketball and much more, the Assembly Hall has hosted the top names in show business. Performers and events hosted at Assembly Hall include The Rolling Stones, Dave Matthews Band, Ludacris, Garth Brooks, Kanye West, U2, Frank Sinatra, Nelly, Aerosmith, Tina Turner, "Cats," Bill Cosby, Mikhail Baryshnikov, The Harlem Globetrotters, Elton John, Reba McEntire and Bruce Springsteen. CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS The University of Illinois has over 1,087 registered student organizations, honorary societies, and teams, giving students opportunities to pursue interests in religion, politics, ROTC, professional advancement, service organizations, rights/freedom issues and performing arts. With 41 fraternities, 23 sororities and 10 African American Greek organizations, Illinois has the largest Greek participation of any University. RECREATION The University s recreation department offers many amenities for all students. In addition to a wide variety of club sports (ice-skating, hockey, soccer, volleyball, etc), many students take part in intramural athletics in numerous sports (flag football, basketball, softball, volleyball, bowling). The University hosts four cultural centers Afro-American; Asian-American; La Casa Cultural Latina; Native American. The Illini Union allows more than 83,000 students to attend or participate in over 200 programs, lectures, musicals, and concerts in a given year, while Foellinger Auditorium seats 1,750 for concerts, speakers, and special events. The Japan House and Arboretum offer formal and informal tearooms, stroll gardens, and art and cultural classrooms. TECHNOLOGY The University of Illinois is the founder of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications and currently houses the supercomputer. NCSA opened its doors to the national scientific computing community in January 1986. Because of Illinois strong tie to computer technology, the school boasts over 65,000 computer connections for students on the campus network. There are also 110 buildings with wireless access. The outdoor recreation department designs and gives students day trips for the following activities: bike trail riding, canoeing/kayaking, cross country skiing, hiking in Allerton State Park and horseback riding. ARTS AND CULTURE Illinois presents a rich variety of cultural programs for education and entertainment. Performance centers and theatres present the world s finest operas, ballets, and plays, and auditoriums host popular performers of music and shows. Great museums, lectures, and presentations by the world s top scholars enrich both the campus and the community. Krannert Center for the Performing Arts: four theaters seat about 4,000 and annually host 350 student and professional performances, as well as commencements, lectures, and other events, many of them free. Top Right: IMPE cardio machine room; Upper Right: Dave Matthews made his second stop in Champaign this winter; Above Right: Green Street, the hub of Illinois student nightlife; Above Left: The Illinois football coaching staff with Nelly; Above: The Quad is a scenic popular spot for students in the heart of campus; Right: Chicago native Kanye West came to Champaign for his Touch the Sky tour. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 59
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ILLINOIS ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE 2005-06 ILLINOIS ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS The Illinois men s basketball team participated in its seventh consecutive NCAA Tournament, and finished the season as the second-winningest program nationally over the last six years. The squad finished with 26 wins, topping the 25-win mark for the sixth straight year, longest in Big Ten history. Illinois guard Dee Brown was named the 2006 winner of the Bob Cousy Award, given to the nation s best point guard. Illini seniors Brown and James Augustine were both selected in the second round of the 2006 NBA Draft. Illini netters Kevin Anderson and Ryan Rowe took home the 2006 NCAA Doubles national title, becoming the second Illinois pair to do so in the last four years. The men s tennis team finished in the Top-10 and advanced to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen for the fifth straight year. The Illinois men s gymastics team fell just four-tenths of a point shy of a national title to finish second at the 2006 NCAA Championships. Individually, the Illini took home 12 All-America honors and Justin Spring won two national individual titles in parallel bars and high bar. He also won the Nissen-Emery Award, given to the nation s best gymnast. Illinois women s cross country team, led by junior Cassie Hunt, took fifth at the NCAA Championships, the school s best-ever finish in the sport. Hunt won the Big Ten title and was named the conference s athlete of the year. The Illini soccer team advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year and the fifth time in six years, losing to College Cup participant Florida State in the second round. The squad finished the season ranked 20th nationally. Three athletes were named Big Ten Athletes of the Year: Ryler DeHeart (men s tennis), Cassie Hunt (women s cross country) and Justin Spring (men s gymnastics). Three Illini teams finished their seasons in the NCAA Top-10: Men s Gymnastics (2nd), Men s Tennis (9th) and Women s Cross Country (5th). Forty-two (42) Illini were named to All-Big Ten teams and 22 were All-Americans. 60 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS ILLINOIS ATHLETIC EXCELLENCE NATIONAL CHAMPIONS JUSTIN SPRING, MEN'S GYMNASTICS (high bar, parallel bars) KEVIN ANDERSON/RYAN ROWE, MEN'S TENNIS (NCAA Doubles) AWARD WINNERS DEE BROWN, MEN'S BASKETBALL Bob Cousy Award Winner (point guard) Frances Pomery Naismith Winner (nation's top senior 6 feet or under) RYLER DEHEART, MEN'S TENNIS Big Ten Athlete of the Year KATIE ENGEL, CROSS COUNTRY Big Ten Freshman of the Year CASSIE HUNT, WOMEN S CROSS COUNTRY Big Ten Athlete of the Year Big Ten Athlete of the Championships CHRISTEN KARNISKI, SOCCER Big Ten co-defensive Player of the Year YVONNE MENSAH, WOMEN'S TRACK AND FIELD Athlete of the Indoor Championships JUSTIN SPRING, MEN S GYMNASTICS Nissen Emery Award (national gymnast of the year) Big Ten Gymnast of the Year DOMINIQUE WORSLEY, MEN'S TRACK AND FIELD Big Ten Indoor and Outdoor Freshman of the Year ALL-AMERICANS Kevin Anderson, men's tennis Ross Bradley, men's gymnastics Dee Brown, men s basketball Nick Brown, men's track and field Ted Brown, men's gymnastics Ryler DeHeart, men's tennis Pete Friedl, wrestling Wes Haagensen, men's gymnastics Jenna Hall, softball Cassie Hunt, women's track and field Abe Jones, men's track and field Christen Karniski, soccer Chris Lung, men's gymnastics Yvonne Mensah, women's track and field Adam Pummer, men s gymnastics Ryan Rowe, men's tennis Tramell Smith, men's track and field Justin Spring, men's gymnastics Nathan Vadeboncoeur, men's track and field Adrian Walker, men's track and field Steve Weatherford, football Tyler Yamauchi, men's gymnastics 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 61
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHIEF ILLINIWEK One of the most dramatic and dignified traditions in college athletics is the performance of Chief Illiniwek at the University of Illinois. Since 1926, this symbol has stirred pride and respect in audiences at Memorial Stadium, the Assembly Hall and Huff Hall. Illiniwek (pronounced ill-eye-nih-wek ) was the name of the loose confederation of Algonquin tribes that once lived in the region. The French changed the ending to ois in naming what became the state of Illinois. Illiniwek means they are men and former Illinois football coach Robert Zuppke is believed to have suggested calling the UI symbol Chief Illiniwek. In 1926, Assistant Band Director Ray Dvorak conceived the idea of performing an American Indian dance during halftime of the Illinois vs. Pennsylvania football game in Champaign. Lester Leutwiler, a student interested in Indian lore, was chosen for the role. Leutwiler s performance, done in a homemade costume, was received so well that he was asked to continue his dance through the 1928 season. A. Webber Borchers, the second Chief Illiniwek, was the first to appear in authentic American Indian regalia. He initiated a campaign to raise money to replace his homemade outfit with an authentic one, but with the Depression on, he received just $15 dollars. However, a Champaign merchant stepped in to fund the rest and Borchers was off. He recalled: In the summer of 1930, I went, at my own expense, to the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. I hitchhiked out, called an Indian agent and explained my mission. He and an Indian trader called in an older Sioux woman. She and two younger women made the suit. On Nov. 8, 1930, in New York s Yankee Stadium, Illinois faced Army in the seventh game of the season. It was there that Borchers made the first appearance of Chief Illiniwek in that outfit. Since then, five different authentic outfits have been used by Chief Illiniwek. The one used in performances today was purchased in 1983 from Sioux Chief Frank Fools Crow, and is topped by a headdress of turkey feathers. This year marks the 81st year of Chief Illiniwek. Chief Illiniwek has served as Illinois symbol since 1926. ALL-TIME CHIEF ILLINIWEK 1. Lester G. Leutwiler, Urbana - 1926, 27, 28 2. A. Webber Borchers, Decatur - 1929, 30 3. William A. Newton, Chicago - 1931, 32, 33, 34 4. Edward C. Kalb, Springfield - 1935, 36, 37, 38 5. John Grable, Overland, Mo. - 1939, 40 6. Glen Holthaus, St. Louis, Mo. - 1941, 42 7. Idelle Stith, Fairfax, Okla. - 1943 (Princess Illiniwek) 8. Kenneth Hanks, Raymond - 1944 9. Robert Bitzer, Collinsville - 1945, 46 10. Robert Bischoff, St. Louis, Mo. - 1947 11. James A. Down, East St. Louis - 1948, 49, 50 12. William G. Hug, Park Ridge - 1951, 52 13. Gaylord Spotts, Jacksonville - 1953, 54, 55 14. Ronald S. Kaiser, Clayton, Mo. - 1956 15. John W. Forsyth, Olney - 1957, 58, 59 16. Ben Forsyth, Olney - 1960, 61, 62, 63 17. Fred Cash, Urbana - 1964, 65 18. Rick Legue, Champaign - 1966, 67 19. Gary Simpson, Fairfield - 1968, 69 20. John Bitzer, Shelbyville - 1970, 71, 72, 73 21. Mike Gonzalez, Jacksonville - 1974, 75, 76 22. Matt Gawne, Oak Park - 1977, 78, 79 23. Pete Marzek, Berwyn - 1980 24. Scott Christensen, Bloomingdale - 1981, 82, 83 25. William Forsyth, Springfield - 1984, 85 26. Michael Rose, Tulsa, Okla. - 1986, 87 27. Tom Livingston, LaGrange - 1988, 89 28. Kurt Gruben, Rochelle - 1990, 91 29. Steve Raquel, Champaign - 1992 30. Jeff Beckham, Bourbonnais - 1993 31. John Creech, London, Ky. - 1994, 95 32. Scott Brakenridge, Western Springs - 1996, 97 33. John Madigan, Philo - 1998, 99, 2000 34. Matthew Veronie, South Holland - 2001, 02, 03 35. Kyle Cline, Decatur - 2004, 2005 36. Dan Maloney, Galesburg - 2006 Kyle Cline served as Chief Illiniwek in 2004 and 2005. 62 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS SCHOOL SONGS ILLINOIS LOYALTY We re loyal to you Illinois We re Orange and Blue, Illinois We ll back you to stand Gainst the best in the land For we know you have sand Illinois Rah! Rah! So crack out that ball Illinois We re backing you all Illinois Our team is the fame protector; On boys, for we expect a Victory from you Illinois Chehee, Cheha, Cheha-ha-ha Go Illini Go Chehee, Cheha, Cheha-ha-ha Go Illini Go Illinois, Illinois, Illinois Fling out that dear old flag of Orange and Blue Lead on your sons and daughters, Fighting for you; Like men of old, on giants Placing reliance, shouting defiance Oskee-wow-wow! Amid the broad green plains That nourish our land, For honest labor and for learning we stand, And unto thee we pledge our heart and hand, Dear Alma Mater, Illinois OSKEE-WOW-WOW Old Princeton yells her tiger Wisconsin her varsity And they give the same old Rah! Rah! Rah! At each university But the yell that always thrills me, And fills my heart with joy, Is the good old Oskee-wow-wow, That they yell at Illinois Chorus Oskee-wow-wow, Illinois Our eyes are all on you Oskee-wow-wow, Illinois Wave your Orange and Blue Rah! Rah! When your team trots out before you Ev ry man stand up and yell Back the team to gain a victory Oskee-wow-wow, Illinois MARCH OF THE ILLINI We are marching for dear old Illini For the men who are fighting for you Here s a cheer for our dear Alma Mater May our love for her ever be true While we re marching along life s pathways, May the Spirit of old Illinois Keep us marching and singing In true Illini Spirit For our dear old Illinois HAIL TO THE ORANGE Hail to the Orange. Hail to the Blue. Hail Alma Mater, Ever so true. We love no other, So let our motto be Victory, Illinois, Varsity. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 63
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS NOTABLE ALUMNI Charles Bowsher, U.S. Comptroller General ROBERT JOHNSON Owner of the Charlotte Bobcats NBA franchise; 2003 Sports Illustrated s Most Influential Minority in Sport; Former CEO of Black Entertainment Television Max Abramovitz, Architect/ Assembly Hall (deceased) John B. Anderson, 1980 Presidential candidate Mark Andreessen Programmer of Netscape internet browser Albert Babb, Pioneer in hemodialysis Barbara Bain, Actor Arnold Beckman Founder/chairman emeritus of Beckman Instruments James Brady Press secretary during Reagan Administration; wounded during Reagan assassination attempt; namesake of the Brady Bill on handgun control DeeDee Bridgewater, Grammy nominated jazz vocalist Nancy Brinker, Breast Cancer Foundation Dee Brown, Author of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee Hal Bruno Jr. Retired director of political coverage for ABC News Dick Butkus, College Football and NFL Hall of Famer James Cantalupo Chairman and CEO of McDonald s Corp. International Shou-Po Chao, Secretary General of Taiwan Steven Chen, Computer designer John Coleman, Founder of the Weather Channel Michael Colgrass Jr. Composer, 1978 Pulitzer Prize-winner in Music Godfrey Danchimah, Comedian John Darling, Chancellor, Louisiana State University Andrew Davis Film director/producer ( The Fugitive, Under Seige ) Ollie Watts Davis, Opera Singer Dorothy Day Founder of the Catholic Worker Movement (deceased) Eugene Dorsey, Chair, Independent Sector JERRY COLANGELO Director of USA Basketball; Former president of the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks Rick George, President of the PGA Champions Tour John Georges, CEO of International Paper Co. Thornton Gilchrest, President, National Safety Council S. Malcolm Gillis, President, Rice University Harold Red Grange College Football and NFL Hall of Famer (deceased) Richard Greenberg, Film maker Jerry Hadley, Opera star Lou Boudreau Professional Baseball Hall of Famer (deceased) Jean Driscoll Wheelchair athlete; Eight-time winner of the Boston Marathon George Halas, Founder of Chicago Bears (deceased) Dwight Dike Eddleman Olympic high jumper (deceased) Lee Falk Cartoonist (The Phantom, Mandrake the Magician) (deceased) Perdita Felicien, World Champion and Olympic hurdler Michael Filerman, TV producer George M.C. Fisher, CEO of Eastman Kodak Dan Fogelberg, (Attended) Composer and recording artist Rich Frank, Former President of Disney Studios Steve Friedman, TV producer, director Dale Gardner, Astronaut MANNIE JACKSON Former Pro Basketball player, Owner of Harlem Globetrotters Bill Geist, Journalist on CBS Sunday Morning HUGH HEFNER Founder of Playboy Magazine 64 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS NOTABLE ALUMNI Robert Novak, Columnist and CNN political commentator Jerry Orbach, Actor (deceased) ERIKA HAROLD Miss America 2003 Leanne Harvey, General Manager, New Orleans Zephyrs Eric Halverson, Opera star, bass Sharon Hendrick, Wheelchair track Olympian Nicole Hollander, Cartoonist (Sylvia) Sue Ann Huseman, President, Monmouth College Billy Morrow Jackson, Painter Jesse Jackson Jr., (Attended) Politician Donald Johanson Anthropologist, discoverer of oldest known hominid, Lucy Arte Johnson, Laugh-In television personality Katherine Kendall, United Nations Social Affairs Director Charla Krupp, Editor, Glamour magazine Ray Ozzie, Microsoft Chief Software Architecht Peter Palmer, Actor, singer (Broadway) Francine Penny Patterson Taught Koko the gorilla to communicate through Sign Language Greg Philbin, Member of the band REO Speedwagon Ron Popeil, Ronco Inventions Fidel Ramos, Former President of the Philippines James Scotty Reston Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist (deceased) Bobby Richards, Olympic pole vaulter Stephen Sample, President, USC E. Roger Sayers, President, University of Alabama Gerald Schoenfeld, Shubert Organization Gene Shalit, NBC Today Show film critic Albert Shanker American Federation of Teachers (deceased) Shel Silverstein (Attended) Author and songwriter (deceased) Roger Simon Syndicated columnist for the Baltimore Sun ANG LEE Film Director ( Brokeback Mountain, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and The Hulk ) Godfrey Sperling Jr. Syndicated columnist for the Christian Science Monitor Mark Steinberg Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Golf, IMG Dennis Swanson, Vice President of Viacom Joe Tanner, Astronaut Barbara Ann Teer Founder & CEO of National Black Theater Naomi Lynn, Chancellor, University of Illinois-Springfield Jack Mabley, Newspaper columnist Carol Marine, Television journalist/anchor Sam Skinner Secretary of Transportation; Chief of Staff during the Bush Administration Ralph Snodsmith, TV gardening guide Nancy Thies, Olympic gymnast, sportscaster Lynne Thigpen Tony Award-winning actress, An American Daughter (deceased) Lynn Martin Secretary of Labor during the Bush Administration Craig Virgin, Olympic Runner Marvin Wachman, Chancellor, Temple University Fred Marx, Co-director and editor of Hoop Dreams Arnold Weber, President, Northwestern University Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Actress William Wegman, Artist Jim McNeely, Grammy nominated jazz pianist Jack Welch, CEO of General Electric Erie Mills, Opera star Cheryl West, Playwright Bobby Mitchell, Professional Football Hall of Famer Tom Murphy, Retired chairman of General Motors Tug Wilson Former Big Ten Commissioner; Olympian (deceased) Scott Mutter, Artist/Photographer Rosalyn Yalow 1978 Nobel Prize-winner in physiology & medicine Steve Nagel, Retired astronaut Timothy Zahn, Writer Malden Nesheim, Provost, Cornell University Ray Nitschke Professional Football Hall of Famer (deceased) ROGER EBERT Pulitzer Price-Winning Film Critic 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 65
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION PRESIDENT B. JOSEPH WHITE University of Illinois President B. Joseph White took office as the University of Illinois 16th president on Jan. 31, 2005, to lead the further development of what he calls the university of the future. White, 58, is familiar with both public higher education and the Midwest. He spent nearly three decades affiliated with the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he received his doctorate in business administration in 1975. He also served there as interim president, dean of the business school and faculty member. Upon the announcement of his selection as president by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees in November 2004, White stated four aspirations: 1) To continue to build the performance, stature, reputation and resources of the University; 2) To ensure that the work of the University is hard-wired to the needs of the people of Illinois, especially in education, economic development and health care, vital matters that touch every citizen; 3) To focus intensively on maintaining access to the University as a gateway of opportunity...as well as the excellence of the University; and 4) To ensure that University campus communities are models of diverse people working together. Among White s primary focuses since taking office have been development of a strategic plan, Creating a Brilliant Future for the University of Illinois, and the forging of what he calls a compact among five principal parties to provide the resources needed to ensure excellence. The compact consists of: 1) State support continuing to play a vital role; 2) Tuition payers and their families carrying an increasing share of the burden while the University provides financial aid to ensure access; 3) Faculty members doing their part through excellent work and success in winning competitive research grants and contracts; 4) Donors doing their part through generous giving; 5) And University leadership making the best use of resources with which they have been entrusted. Before coming to the University of Illinois Joe White was the Wilbur K. Pierpont Collegiate Professor, professor of business administration and research professor in the Life Sciences Institute at U-M, leading the development of the Project for a Positive Healthcare Future. The project focuses on improvements in efficacy, patient and provider empowerment and efficiencies that can result from advances in biology, engineering and information science applied to the practice of medicine. White is a native of Detroit who was reared in Kalamazoo. He earned his bachelor s degree, magna cum laude, in international economics from the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in 1969 and an MBA, with distinction, from Harvard University in 1971 and doctorate in business administration in 1975 from the University of Michigan. He first joined the U- M faculty as assistant professor of organizational behavior and industrial relations in 1975; was associate professor from 1978-80; associate dean in the U-M Business School 1987-90, interim dean 1990-91; president of the U-M William Davidson Institute 1993-2001; dean of the Business School 1991-2001, and interim president in 2002. The William Davidson Institute is a center of expertise on economic and business development in emerging market economies. White also has private-sector experience, including six years at Cummins Engine Co., Inc., 1981-87, first as vice president for management development and then as vice president for personnel and public affairs. White is an independent director or trustee of several companies, including Equity Residential, headquartered in Chicago; Gordon Food Service; and Kelly Services. He is a director of the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research. He has chaired the boards of several large healthcare organizations, including the University of Michigan Health System, St. Joseph Hospital in Ann Arbor and the Catherine McAuley Health System. White is on the board of the American Council on Education, which serves as a consensus leader on key higher education issues and seeks to influence public policy through advocacy, research and program initiatives. He also serves on the President s Circle of the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations. He has written, taught and lectured extensively on leadership, management and organizational matters. He received an honorary degree from Wabash College in 2003. White was recently appointed to the Chicago 2016 Evaluation Committee to explore the City of Chicago s possible pursuit of the opportunity to host the 2016 Olympic Games. He and his wife, Mary White, are the parents of two grown children and have two grandchildren. CHANCELLOR RICHARD HERMAN As Chancellor at Illinois, Dr. Richard Herman is committed to excellence in education, scientific and intellectual innovation, diversity, engagement with societal needs, and internationalizing the education of students. He continues to encourage and support interdisciplinary research and new alliances-including partnerships between government, universities, and industry-to create opportunities for progress in basic and applied research. Dr. Herman is a leader in national discussions about transforming public research universities and the land-grant mission to meet the needs of the twentyfirst century. As a member of the National Council on Competitiveness and National Innovation Initiative, he works to foster relationships between the academic world and the national business community, maximizing the contributions that research universities can make in preserving U.S. competitiveness in the global economy. For many years, Dr. Herman has played a leading role in discussion of national science policy, consistently stressing the need to better position the sciences to engage the emerging needs of society. In February 2006, Dr. Herman was appointed by President Bush to the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology. He joins a select group of members from the academic community and the private sector who advise the president on technology, scientific research priorities, and math and science education. He also served on the National Science Foundation's Advisory Committee for the Directorate of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and served as Chair of the Joint Policy Board for Mathematics. He currently serves on the Mellon College of Science Advisory Board and is a member of the Observatories Council, the Management Council of the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc., associated with the National Optical Astronomy Observatory. A mathematician whose work concentrates on mathematical physics and operator algebras, Dr. Herman's research has been supported by such agencies as the National Science Foundation, NATO and NDEA and has resulted in numerous reports in scientific publications. He is a member of the Tau Beta Pi and Sigma Xi honorary societies and recipient of an Alexander von Humboldt Foundation fellowship. Before coming to Illinois, he served on the faculties of the University of California at Los Angeles, Pennsylvania State University and the University of Maryland at College Park. He has been a visiting faculty member and fellow at the University of Marseilles and Princeton University. Dr. Herman and his wife, Susan, are active in the Champaign-Urbana community, where Mrs. Herman helped found the 40N/80W Arts Council and Dr. Herman serves on the Boards of the United Way and the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce. The Hermans have three children and six grandchildren. 66 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS RON GUENTHER Entering his 15th year as Director of Athletics at the University of Illinois, Ron Guenther has returned his alma mater to the national elite in competing for championships in 19 intercollegiate sports with outstanding coaches, staff and facilities, including two straight Top-25 finishes in the NACDA Director s Cup competition and an NCAA title for the Illinois men s tennis program in 2003. In 2001, he was named the NACDA/Continental Airlines Central Region Athletic Director of the Year. The MVP of the 1966 Illinois football squad, Guenther continues to move the Illini athletic program on a breakneck pace toward a position of competing at a championship level in all programs. Guenther has overseen a series of dramatic changes that have local, regional and national media, alumni and fans marveling at his ability to add sport programs in women s soccer and softball, recruit top-level coaches, successfully engineer and surpass a $70 million capital campaign and create a model program producing outstanding student-athletes. He is currently leading a second major capital campaign to expand and renovate facilities, strengthen endowment and increase annual giving to offset the rising cost of tuition. Under Guenther s leadership, Illinois has steadily improved its performance on the field and in the classroom. Off the field, Illinois student-athletes have continued to benefit from outstanding academic service programs, matching the overall campus grade point average and producing nearly 100 Academic All-Big Ten award winners annually in all sports. Guenther has also spearheaded a revolution for funding for championshiplevel programs and facilities as the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics has opened necessary additional revenue streams totaling more than $3 million through working partnerships with corporate sponsors and management of the Illini Sports Radio Network. Guenther s aggressive plan to make the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics a valuable and enthusiastic partner in the overall education, research and service mission of the University has begun to pay dividends in the 21st century. Now in his fourth decade with the University of Illinois, Guenther was the Most Valuable Player on the 1966 Illinois football squad under Head Coach Pete Elliott. He was a second-team All-Big Ten selection at offensive guard, also earning first-team Academic All-Big Ten honors and recognition as the University s outstanding senior in physical education. Guenther earned his bachelor of science degree in physical education from Illinois in 1967 and an M.S. in administration in 1968 before embarking on a successful career in coaching, athletic administration and business. Guenther was named the 17th Director of Athletics on May 14, 1992 after serving for two years with the University of Illinois Foundation as Director of Major Gifts and for three years as a partner with The Barofsky Association, a Chicago-area investments and marketing firm. From June of 1988 to March of 1989, Guenther served as Interim Director of Athletics for External Operations, administering the development program, public relations, promotions, tickets, merchandise and summer camps. Guenther spent the previous three years within the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics as associate athletic director for development, coordinating the Campaign for Excellence in Athletics. That campaign began the first major facelift of athletic facilities in nearly 60 years on campus and provided the impetus for the eventual construction of Illinois Field for baseball, the UI Outdoor Track and Field and Soccer Stadium, the Atkins Tennis Center and the Irwin Football Complex, housing coaches offices, locker rooms, sports medicine, strength and conditioning facilities and meeting rooms for Illinois football. One of the nation s top athletic fund raisers, Guenther has been instrumental in soliciting gift commitments totaling more than $50 million toward capital improvements at Illinois during the last 15 years. Firmly committed to delivering the Illinois message across the state and Midwest, Guenther served from 1983 to 1987 as assistant athletic director for Chicago operations, renewing a commitment that continues today to reach out to the thousands of Chicago-area alumni, donors and fans. During his tenure in Chicago, Guenther created the annual statewide caravan for promotion and public relations and saw a tripling in the number of donors to Illinois athletics. Guenther spent eight years at North Central College in Naperville, Ill., including a stint from 1975-79 as director of admissions and also as an associate head football coach. From 1979-83, he served as the vice president of development and public affairs at North Central, helping to design and implement a $15 million Capital Campaign. As associate head football coach, Guenther helped the Cardinals amass a 23-12-2 record, including the school s first winning season in 15 years. Before moving to North Central College, Guenther was offensive line coach at Boston College from 1971-74, helping to develop nine National Football League players. From 1968-71, Guenther was a teacher and coached football, wrestling and track and field for the Evanston Township and Glenbard High School systems in suburban Chicago. Born Oct. 3, 1945, Guenther is a native of Elmhurst, Ill. and a graduate of York High School. He lettered at Illinois in 1965 and 1966, helping Illinois to a 24-14-1 record in his four seasons. Guenther earned MVP honors on a squad that produced five All-Americans in 1966. He was inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame on Sept. 22, 2005. Guenther and his wife, Megan, reside in Champaign. 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS // 67
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS THE 2007 FIGHTING ILLINI Danye Botterman - Sr. Marijka Botterman - So. Nicole Cowart - Fr. Julie Crall - So. Lori Hamilton - Fr. Kim Kruk - So. Michelle McGrady - Jr. Krystal Melcarek - Jr. Ursula Orozco - So. Cara Pomeroy - Sr. Sarah Schmidt - Fr. Melissa Singer - Sr. Lindsey Smith - So. Laura Woolf - Fr. Bob Starkell - Head Coach Kim Landrus - Associate Head Coach Amy Kruse - Assistant Coach 68 // 2007 ILLINOIS WOMEN S GYMNASTICS