During Accounting 255, the class titled Electronic Business Management, I learned how to do several things that I had previously not known how to do. Below is a list of the things that I learned.
1. I learned what website to go to in order to create a free blog.
2. I learned how to format a web page. For example, I learned how to put a picture in the background.
3. I learned about the different types of blog postings.
4. I learned what website to go to in order to create a website.
5. I learned how to create a mission statement.
6. I learned how to insert source code into a website.
7. I learned how to create a privacy policy.
8. I learned about pay pal.
9. And therefore learned how to create a pay pal account and put a pay pal icon onto a webpage.
10. I learned about pillar articles and that they can be written about something you know about.
11. I learned how to attach videos to a web page.
12. I learned how to create an eBook out of content that is already on a web page.
13. I learned how to submit a URL to a search engine.
14. I learned about ezine articles and where to submit them.
15. I learned how to add Amazon products to a web page.
16. I learned how to add ClickBank articles to a web page.
17. And I learned how to create Café Press products.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
NCAA's Women's Gymnastics Championships
Twelve teams were selected to attend the NCAA Gymnastics National Championships and competed in two semifinal rounds. Six teams would compete in each; in the first session, University of Oklahoma, University of Michigan, UCLA, University of Arkansas, University of Georgia and the University of Illinois competed for the top three spots. Taking home that honor were the University of Oklahoma, the University of Michigan and UCLA scoring a 196.775, 196.700 and a 196.500 respectively. With UCLA being the defending champions, they needed to step up their game in order to take home the National title for the second year in a row. In the second session, the teams that competed were the University of Alabama, University of Nebraska, University of Utah, University of Florida, Oregon State University and Kent State University. Those earning the top three spots that moved on to the Super Six Finals Round were University of Alabama with a 197.050, the University of Nebraska with a 196.850 and the University of Utah with a 196.200. Surprisingly, the University of Florida, the team that has been first in the national rankings for the entire season, did not move on to the final round.
The competition was tight between the top two emergent teams, the University of Alabama and UCLA. Only .275 tenths separated the first and second place teams. University of Alabama scored a 197.650 and UCLA scored a 197.375. The University of Alabama edged out UCLA on the vault (49.575-49.500), the balance beam (49.350-49.200) and the floor exercise (49.450-49.350), but UCLA won the uneven bars (49.325-49.275).
Stanford won the NCAA Men’s Gymnastics National title, defeating Oklahoma (361.600), with a 363.450.
The competition was tight between the top two emergent teams, the University of Alabama and UCLA. Only .275 tenths separated the first and second place teams. University of Alabama scored a 197.650 and UCLA scored a 197.375. The University of Alabama edged out UCLA on the vault (49.575-49.500), the balance beam (49.350-49.200) and the floor exercise (49.450-49.350), but UCLA won the uneven bars (49.325-49.275).
Stanford won the NCAA Men’s Gymnastics National title, defeating Oklahoma (361.600), with a 363.450.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
NCAA Men's Gymnastics
NCAA men’s gymnastics also participates in an NCAA National Competition. It will take place this weekend as well, on April 15th and 16th at Ohio State. Last year, Michigan won the title, scoring a 360.500, Stanford came in second and Oklahoma took third place. All three teams are participating in the National Competition this year.
Men’s competition is a little bit different than women’s. Women’s collegiate gymnastics still bases their scoring on a 10.0 scale. Men have converted to international scoring; in this case, judges create two scores and then add them together. One score is based on execution, which is still out of ten points and the other score is based on difficulty. Every skill that a gymnast does has a point value, and the more skills he does, the more points he gets. Adding those two scores together gives the gymnast his score. This creates situation where there can be no top score in men’s collegiate gymnastics; there is always the possibility of a higher score if more skills or more difficult skills are competed. Women can only receive a maximum team score of 200.00 based on four events; in the old system, men could have received a top score of 300.00. Now they are receiving scores close to 360 due to the combination of the execution and difficult scores.
This year’s 2011 qualifying teams include Oklahoma, Stanford, California, Illinois, Penn State, Michigan, Ohio State, Minnesota, the Air Force Academy, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois-Chicago. Oklahoma’s regional qualifying score is 359.683 and is the top qualifier; Illinois-Chicago’s score is a 340.800 and marks the lowest score that was entered into the competition.
Men’s competition is a little bit different than women’s. Women’s collegiate gymnastics still bases their scoring on a 10.0 scale. Men have converted to international scoring; in this case, judges create two scores and then add them together. One score is based on execution, which is still out of ten points and the other score is based on difficulty. Every skill that a gymnast does has a point value, and the more skills he does, the more points he gets. Adding those two scores together gives the gymnast his score. This creates situation where there can be no top score in men’s collegiate gymnastics; there is always the possibility of a higher score if more skills or more difficult skills are competed. Women can only receive a maximum team score of 200.00 based on four events; in the old system, men could have received a top score of 300.00. Now they are receiving scores close to 360 due to the combination of the execution and difficult scores.
This year’s 2011 qualifying teams include Oklahoma, Stanford, California, Illinois, Penn State, Michigan, Ohio State, Minnesota, the Air Force Academy, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois-Chicago. Oklahoma’s regional qualifying score is 359.683 and is the top qualifier; Illinois-Chicago’s score is a 340.800 and marks the lowest score that was entered into the competition.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Season Injuries
Well, the season is officially over for the Illinois State University gymnastics team and it was a rough year. Three gymnasts suffered season-ending injuries this year; Robin Weissman tore most of the ligaments in her knee and Kim Caron and Jess Prousa both tore their Achilles tendons, all three girls required surgery.
The season was hampered with other injuries as well. Tori Sarantakis, although she did come back to compete in the final few meets, suffered a sprained ankle that took her out of the event where the Redbirds used her the most, the vault. Elise Gray also had a variety of injuries, ranging from her knees to her ankles, thanks to her vaults. Melissa Mann had problems with her collarbone after swinging bars and also sustained a sprained ankle on the balance beam.
Two of the all-arounders for the Redbirds were also taken out at the end of the season. The week before the State of Illinois Classic, Kim Genereux was vaulting and landed awkwardly on one of the mats, spraining her ankle. She was unable to compete in the all-around at state or conference, but was at least able to compete bars at SEMO. Erica Schick also had some trouble toward the end of season that ended up costing her a competing position at the NCAA Regionals. She was competing her dismount of bars and landed too far back on her heels, bruising them both. Schick competed beam and unfortunately fell, but did not compete any other events that day. At the conference competition, Erica was also able to compete bars along with Kim. Both had excellent routines.
All in all, the Redbirds could have used some of the girls they lost, but still did exceptionally well this season considering all of the injuries.
The season was hampered with other injuries as well. Tori Sarantakis, although she did come back to compete in the final few meets, suffered a sprained ankle that took her out of the event where the Redbirds used her the most, the vault. Elise Gray also had a variety of injuries, ranging from her knees to her ankles, thanks to her vaults. Melissa Mann had problems with her collarbone after swinging bars and also sustained a sprained ankle on the balance beam.
Two of the all-arounders for the Redbirds were also taken out at the end of the season. The week before the State of Illinois Classic, Kim Genereux was vaulting and landed awkwardly on one of the mats, spraining her ankle. She was unable to compete in the all-around at state or conference, but was at least able to compete bars at SEMO. Erica Schick also had some trouble toward the end of season that ended up costing her a competing position at the NCAA Regionals. She was competing her dismount of bars and landed too far back on her heels, bruising them both. Schick competed beam and unfortunately fell, but did not compete any other events that day. At the conference competition, Erica was also able to compete bars along with Kim. Both had excellent routines.
All in all, the Redbirds could have used some of the girls they lost, but still did exceptionally well this season considering all of the injuries.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Team Banquet
Today was the End of the Year Banquet for ISU Gymnastics that was held at Redbird Arena at Illinois State University. There were four awards announced this year, as well as who would be the captains for the upcoming 2011 – 2012 season.
First, the award for most valuable newcomer was announced, which goes to a freshman or transfer every year. This year, the award went to freshman Jenna Bossle, who has competed in every meet this season on at least two events, vault and bars. For the last few events, she even competed on the balance beam.
Second was the award for most improved gymnast. This goes to the gymnast that the team feels has improved most over the year; for the second year in a row, Hannah Meyer won the award. Not only has she greatly improved, but she has also stepped up to compete two events for the Redbirds this year. She has led off for the Redbirds on the floor exercise for every competition.
Following that was the most valuable gymnast of the year award. After such an amazing senior season, Erica Schick won the award. She competed in the all-around for almost every meet for the Redbirds and has done so for the last four years she has been at Illinois State.
Finally, the Redbird Award was given to Hannah Deutsch. The Redbird Award is given to the gymnast who not only steps in the gym, but also does well academically and participates in community service.
Next year’s captains, in an interesting scenario, will be Kim Genereux and Apollonia Barrientos, both of whom will be juniors.
First, the award for most valuable newcomer was announced, which goes to a freshman or transfer every year. This year, the award went to freshman Jenna Bossle, who has competed in every meet this season on at least two events, vault and bars. For the last few events, she even competed on the balance beam.
Second was the award for most improved gymnast. This goes to the gymnast that the team feels has improved most over the year; for the second year in a row, Hannah Meyer won the award. Not only has she greatly improved, but she has also stepped up to compete two events for the Redbirds this year. She has led off for the Redbirds on the floor exercise for every competition.
Following that was the most valuable gymnast of the year award. After such an amazing senior season, Erica Schick won the award. She competed in the all-around for almost every meet for the Redbirds and has done so for the last four years she has been at Illinois State.
Finally, the Redbird Award was given to Hannah Deutsch. The Redbird Award is given to the gymnast who not only steps in the gym, but also does well academically and participates in community service.
Next year’s captains, in an interesting scenario, will be Kim Genereux and Apollonia Barrientos, both of whom will be juniors.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
NCAA Regionals at University of Oklahoma, April 2nd, 2011
Hannah Deutsch competed in the NCAA Regional Competition on Saturday, April 2nd, 2011 at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK. This was her last competition, not only as a Redbird but also as a gymnast. She scored a 9.775 and took 15th place for her performance. This was her second performance on the balance beam in the NCAA Regionals, she competed last year and unfortunately fell, placing 39th in the overall competition.
But Coach Conkling felt she performed very well under pressure and said, “She has a really nice routine, so I’m proud of her.” Hannah also felt really good about her performance, even though she thought she could have done a little better. “It hasn’t quite hit me yet that my senior year is over. We had a lot of injuries this season but I’m just glad to go out on a high note,” she was quoted saying from GoRedbirds.com.
Of the teams that did compete in the overall team competition, Oklahoma took first place and has therefore qualified to compete in the NCAA Nationals. They had a team score of 197.350. Utah took second place with a score of 196.475 and also qualifies to Nationals, Washington took third after scoring a 195.300. New Hampshire followed with a 194.500 and Missouri came in fifth place, with a total score of 194.175.
The NCAA’s will be hosted by Kent State University on April 15th through April 17th. The qualifiers include Alabama, UCLA, Oklahoma, Oregon State, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, Utah, Nebraska, Arkansas, Illinois and Kent State.
But Coach Conkling felt she performed very well under pressure and said, “She has a really nice routine, so I’m proud of her.” Hannah also felt really good about her performance, even though she thought she could have done a little better. “It hasn’t quite hit me yet that my senior year is over. We had a lot of injuries this season but I’m just glad to go out on a high note,” she was quoted saying from GoRedbirds.com.
Of the teams that did compete in the overall team competition, Oklahoma took first place and has therefore qualified to compete in the NCAA Nationals. They had a team score of 197.350. Utah took second place with a score of 196.475 and also qualifies to Nationals, Washington took third after scoring a 195.300. New Hampshire followed with a 194.500 and Missouri came in fifth place, with a total score of 194.175.
The NCAA’s will be hosted by Kent State University on April 15th through April 17th. The qualifiers include Alabama, UCLA, Oklahoma, Oregon State, Florida, Michigan, Georgia, Utah, Nebraska, Arkansas, Illinois and Kent State.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Regional Qualifiers
In an interesting turn of events for the Redbirds, Erica Schick will no longer be competing in the all-around competition at the NCAA Regionals. At the State of Illinois Classic, Erica was dismounting off bars during her competitive routine and landed with almost stiff legs, causing her to land hard on her heels. On top of this, the four-inch thick mat that she landed on was not very padded and she bruised both of her heels. As a result, she only competed on the uneven bars and balance beam at this competition and only on bars at the MIC Conference Championships. As this injury is still bothersome, she has opted out of the Regional competition.
Because of this, a gymnast from Southeast Missouri State University will now compete in the individual all-around competition. The Regional Qualifying Score (discussed in a previous blog), is also used to determine which gymnasts will attend Regionals in the all-around competition and as an individual event specialist. The gymnast from SEMO was also the one who was ahead of Hannah Deutsch on the balance beam. Since that gymnast will now be competing in the all-around, the spot for beam specialist became available. Hannah Deutsch was previously an alternate, and now out of 72 gymnasts who had competed balance beam enough to have an RQS, she has qualified in the top spot in the South Central Region. Her RQS score was a 9.830, her average was a 9.717 (which is irrelevant in determining who attends Regionals) and her high score is a 9.925.
Because of this, a gymnast from Southeast Missouri State University will now compete in the individual all-around competition. The Regional Qualifying Score (discussed in a previous blog), is also used to determine which gymnasts will attend Regionals in the all-around competition and as an individual event specialist. The gymnast from SEMO was also the one who was ahead of Hannah Deutsch on the balance beam. Since that gymnast will now be competing in the all-around, the spot for beam specialist became available. Hannah Deutsch was previously an alternate, and now out of 72 gymnasts who had competed balance beam enough to have an RQS, she has qualified in the top spot in the South Central Region. Her RQS score was a 9.830, her average was a 9.717 (which is irrelevant in determining who attends Regionals) and her high score is a 9.925.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Conference Awards
Several gymnasts on the Illinois State gymnastics team were honored at the MIC Conference Championships this year. Two of the girls were named First Team All-Conference, which means that they placed in the top three in at least one event or in the all-around competition. Erica Schick, for her second place finish on the uneven bars with a score of 9.825 and Apollonia Barrientos, who tied for third on the floor exercise after scoring a 9.675.
Erica Schick was also named Midwest Independent Conference Gymnast of the Year, an honor voted on by the head and assistant coaches of the conference. Although Erica was out of the all-around during conference because she sustained an injury the week before, Coach Conkling thought she was very deserving of the award. “Erica worked hard all year so it was nice to see her get gymnast of the year,” he was quoted at GoRedbirds.com.
The following competition is no longer a team competition, like the Redbirds were shooting for, but the NCAA Regional Competition. Erica was one of the top five all-around finishers in the region that Illinois State is a part of and has thus qualified for an all-around spot at the individual competition. Hannah Deutsch, after attending the competition last year, will be going as an alternate on the balance beam. There were several surprisingly absent teams from the NCAA Regional and Deutsch’s score was just not quite enough to qualify her for the individual competition, as there is only one event specialist per region.
Erica Schick was also named Midwest Independent Conference Gymnast of the Year, an honor voted on by the head and assistant coaches of the conference. Although Erica was out of the all-around during conference because she sustained an injury the week before, Coach Conkling thought she was very deserving of the award. “Erica worked hard all year so it was nice to see her get gymnast of the year,” he was quoted at GoRedbirds.com.
The following competition is no longer a team competition, like the Redbirds were shooting for, but the NCAA Regional Competition. Erica was one of the top five all-around finishers in the region that Illinois State is a part of and has thus qualified for an all-around spot at the individual competition. Hannah Deutsch, after attending the competition last year, will be going as an alternate on the balance beam. There were several surprisingly absent teams from the NCAA Regional and Deutsch’s score was just not quite enough to qualify her for the individual competition, as there is only one event specialist per region.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
at SEMO, March 16th, 2011
The Redbirds prepped for their last competition of the season as a team when they traveled to Cape Girardeau, Missouri for the Midwest Independent Conference Championships.
The gymnasts started on a bye, not competing for the first rotation due to the fact that there are five teams in the conference. Following that, they started on the balance beam where Apollonia Barrientos competed first, scoring a 9.35 with a wobbly routine. Jenna Bossle went next, unfortunately falling twice and scoring an 8.550. Tori Sarantakis scored a 9.450 and Stacie Morris, Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch finished the event, all with scores of a 9.550.
The Birds moved to the floor exercise where there were several uncharacteristic steps out of bounds. Hannah Meyer started off with a 9.050 and Emily Matko went second with a 9.475. Marissa Stom followed with a 9.625. Stacie Morris went fourth, scoring a 9.525 and Apollonia Barrientos went fifth, posting a score of 9.675. Hannah Deutsch ended the event, scoring a 9.60.
The girls moved to the vault, where they posted their highest event total of the night. Marissa Stom led off with a 9.775. Hannah Deutsch went second, posting a 9.575. Tori Sarantakis went third and scored a 9.650. Jenna Bossle went fourth and Elise Gray went sixth, both with scores of 9.75. Apollonia Barrientos competed between the two of them and scored a 9.675. Their total of the vault was a 48.60.
The team moved to their last event, the uneven bars. Emily Matko went first on her second event of the night and scored a 9.55 and Chelsie Seplowin went second, scoring a 9.35. Jenna Bossle competed third and posted a 9.60 and Kim Genereux followed with a 9.625. Apollonia Barrientos unfortunately had a few problems during her routine and scored a 9.25 but Erica Schick finished the event with a 9.825.
After four events, the final team score was a 191.900 and put the gymnasts in fourth place, behind SEMO, who won, Texas Women’s University and University of Illinois-Chicago. Centenary University placed fifth.
The gymnasts started on a bye, not competing for the first rotation due to the fact that there are five teams in the conference. Following that, they started on the balance beam where Apollonia Barrientos competed first, scoring a 9.35 with a wobbly routine. Jenna Bossle went next, unfortunately falling twice and scoring an 8.550. Tori Sarantakis scored a 9.450 and Stacie Morris, Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch finished the event, all with scores of a 9.550.
The Birds moved to the floor exercise where there were several uncharacteristic steps out of bounds. Hannah Meyer started off with a 9.050 and Emily Matko went second with a 9.475. Marissa Stom followed with a 9.625. Stacie Morris went fourth, scoring a 9.525 and Apollonia Barrientos went fifth, posting a score of 9.675. Hannah Deutsch ended the event, scoring a 9.60.
The girls moved to the vault, where they posted their highest event total of the night. Marissa Stom led off with a 9.775. Hannah Deutsch went second, posting a 9.575. Tori Sarantakis went third and scored a 9.650. Jenna Bossle went fourth and Elise Gray went sixth, both with scores of 9.75. Apollonia Barrientos competed between the two of them and scored a 9.675. Their total of the vault was a 48.60.
The team moved to their last event, the uneven bars. Emily Matko went first on her second event of the night and scored a 9.55 and Chelsie Seplowin went second, scoring a 9.35. Jenna Bossle competed third and posted a 9.60 and Kim Genereux followed with a 9.625. Apollonia Barrientos unfortunately had a few problems during her routine and scored a 9.25 but Erica Schick finished the event with a 9.825.
After four events, the final team score was a 191.900 and put the gymnasts in fourth place, behind SEMO, who won, Texas Women’s University and University of Illinois-Chicago. Centenary University placed fifth.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
at Northern Illinois, March 12th, 2011
The Redbirds went on the road again to Northern Illinois University for the State of Illinois Class in a battle against all of the state of Illinois gymnastics teams. The competitive teams included Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, University of Illinois and University of Illinois-Chicago, the one member of ISU’s conference that also competed in this competition.
The team began on the uneven bars where they did well. Tori Sarantakis led off the event and tied with Emily Matko who went second, scoring a 9.575. Chelsie Seplowin went third and fell, scoring a 9.30. Jenna Bossle went fourth and scored a 9.675 and Apollonia Barrientos followed, scoring a 9.775. Unfortunately absent from the event was Kim Genereux, who was out from the entire competition because of a sprained ankle she suffered the week before. Erica Schick rounded off the event, scoring a 9.800.
The girls moved to the balance beam next where Apollonia Barrientos started off. Her and Jenna Bossle had slightly wobbly routines and scored a 9.425 and 9.5, respectively. Stacie Morris went next and fell, scoring a 9.150 and Erica Schick, who also fell, scored a 9.25. Erica was taken out for the rest of the meet because she bruised her heels on her uneven bar routine. Melissa Mann went fifth and scored a 9.75 and Hannah Deutsch finished off the event with a 9.825.
Next, the competition moved to the floor exercise. Hannah Meyer fell on one her floor passes and scored an 8.90. Emily Matko followed, scoring a 9.375 and Marissa Stom went third, and after stepping out of bounds, scored a 9.30. Apollonia Barrientos was up next and scored a 9.750 and Hannah Deutsch went fifth, scoring a 9.725. Stacie Morris went last, in place of Erica and scored a 9.60.
Finally, the gymnasts moved to the vault. Marissa Stom went first and scored a 9.75, tying with Jenna Bossle who went fourth. Hannah Deutsch scored a 9.70, who posted the same score as Tori Sarantakis. Apollonia Barrientos went third and scored a 9.50 after a few uncharacteristic steps out of her vault and Elise Gray had the high score of the night for the Redbirds, scoring a 9.85.
Unfortunately, the Redbirds did not fare well in the standings, placing fourth with a 192.650. In third place was Illinois-Chicago who scored a 193.325, and in second was Northern Illinois who tallied a team total of 194.025. University of Illinois took first place with a score of 196.975.
The team began on the uneven bars where they did well. Tori Sarantakis led off the event and tied with Emily Matko who went second, scoring a 9.575. Chelsie Seplowin went third and fell, scoring a 9.30. Jenna Bossle went fourth and scored a 9.675 and Apollonia Barrientos followed, scoring a 9.775. Unfortunately absent from the event was Kim Genereux, who was out from the entire competition because of a sprained ankle she suffered the week before. Erica Schick rounded off the event, scoring a 9.800.
The girls moved to the balance beam next where Apollonia Barrientos started off. Her and Jenna Bossle had slightly wobbly routines and scored a 9.425 and 9.5, respectively. Stacie Morris went next and fell, scoring a 9.150 and Erica Schick, who also fell, scored a 9.25. Erica was taken out for the rest of the meet because she bruised her heels on her uneven bar routine. Melissa Mann went fifth and scored a 9.75 and Hannah Deutsch finished off the event with a 9.825.
Next, the competition moved to the floor exercise. Hannah Meyer fell on one her floor passes and scored an 8.90. Emily Matko followed, scoring a 9.375 and Marissa Stom went third, and after stepping out of bounds, scored a 9.30. Apollonia Barrientos was up next and scored a 9.750 and Hannah Deutsch went fifth, scoring a 9.725. Stacie Morris went last, in place of Erica and scored a 9.60.
Finally, the gymnasts moved to the vault. Marissa Stom went first and scored a 9.75, tying with Jenna Bossle who went fourth. Hannah Deutsch scored a 9.70, who posted the same score as Tori Sarantakis. Apollonia Barrientos went third and scored a 9.50 after a few uncharacteristic steps out of her vault and Elise Gray had the high score of the night for the Redbirds, scoring a 9.85.
Unfortunately, the Redbirds did not fare well in the standings, placing fourth with a 192.650. In third place was Illinois-Chicago who scored a 193.325, and in second was Northern Illinois who tallied a team total of 194.025. University of Illinois took first place with a score of 196.975.
Friday, April 1, 2011
at UIC, March 5th, 2011
The Redbirds went on the road again on March 5th, 2011. They met another conference rival at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Since the team was away, the girls started on the uneven bars.
Emily Matko began the event, and although she didn’t fall, she received a 9.100 due to a couple of form breaks. Chelsie Seplowin went next and also did not record a fall, but also had a few mistakes, only scoring a 9.025. Jenna Bossle followed, scoring a 9.650. Apples Barrientos went fourth and did excellent, sticking her dismount and scoring a 9.725. Kim Genereux unfortunately fell on her dismount, and only scored a 9.050. Finally, Erica Schick did her routine, scoring a 9.800.
The Birds moved to the vault, where they scored consistently well. Kim Genereux and Marissa Stom both scored a 9.700. Erica Schick and Hannah Deutsch both scored a 9.725, and Apples Barrientos and Jenna Bossle both scored a 9.775. After scoring a 47.325 as a team total on the uneven bars, they scored a 48.700 on the vault.
The gymnasts moved to the floor, where Hannah Meyer began the event and scored a 9.650. Unfortunately, Marissa Stom fell and scored a 9.175 but Kim Genereux followed, posting a 9.675. Apples Barrientos, Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick rounded out the event with a 9.725, 9.75 and 9.775 respectively. They scored a 48.575 on the event as a team.
Finally, the girls moved to the balance beam, always a treacherous and stressful event to be on last. Marissa Stom started on the event and fell, scoring a 9.0. Kim Genereux went next and Stacie Morris followed, and despite wobbly routines, scored a 9.575 and 9.425 respectively. Erica Schick followed with one of the best routines of her season, scoring a 9.725. Melissa Mann scored a 9.750 and Hannah Deutsch rounded out the event with a 9.85, coming in second in the competition.
Although the Redbirds had a decent meet and scored a 192.925, they lost to the Flames, who scored a 193.475. The two teams would meet again in one week at the Illinois Classic, where the University of Illinois, University of Illinois-Chicago, Northern Illinois and Illinois State compete in a state-wide battle at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL.
Emily Matko began the event, and although she didn’t fall, she received a 9.100 due to a couple of form breaks. Chelsie Seplowin went next and also did not record a fall, but also had a few mistakes, only scoring a 9.025. Jenna Bossle followed, scoring a 9.650. Apples Barrientos went fourth and did excellent, sticking her dismount and scoring a 9.725. Kim Genereux unfortunately fell on her dismount, and only scored a 9.050. Finally, Erica Schick did her routine, scoring a 9.800.
The Birds moved to the vault, where they scored consistently well. Kim Genereux and Marissa Stom both scored a 9.700. Erica Schick and Hannah Deutsch both scored a 9.725, and Apples Barrientos and Jenna Bossle both scored a 9.775. After scoring a 47.325 as a team total on the uneven bars, they scored a 48.700 on the vault.
The gymnasts moved to the floor, where Hannah Meyer began the event and scored a 9.650. Unfortunately, Marissa Stom fell and scored a 9.175 but Kim Genereux followed, posting a 9.675. Apples Barrientos, Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick rounded out the event with a 9.725, 9.75 and 9.775 respectively. They scored a 48.575 on the event as a team.
Finally, the girls moved to the balance beam, always a treacherous and stressful event to be on last. Marissa Stom started on the event and fell, scoring a 9.0. Kim Genereux went next and Stacie Morris followed, and despite wobbly routines, scored a 9.575 and 9.425 respectively. Erica Schick followed with one of the best routines of her season, scoring a 9.725. Melissa Mann scored a 9.750 and Hannah Deutsch rounded out the event with a 9.85, coming in second in the competition.
Although the Redbirds had a decent meet and scored a 192.925, they lost to the Flames, who scored a 193.475. The two teams would meet again in one week at the Illinois Classic, where the University of Illinois, University of Illinois-Chicago, Northern Illinois and Illinois State compete in a state-wide battle at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
RedbirdGym Store
If you’re looking for products to wear at the next Illinois State University gymnastics competition, just go to the RedbirdGym store at www.cafepress.com/redbirdgym. There, you will find several products that are available to advertise your admiration for the Redbird gymnastics team.
First, a long sleeve baseball jersey. The shirt is white, with a variety of colors on the sleeves with an Illinois State Gymnastics logo that has a gymnast silhouetted behind it. Buyers have the ability to select the colors of the sleeves; it can be bought in black, red or blue. Sizes include small to 2XL. The jersey is $18.99 on the website.
The next item is a tote bag, and only costs $15.00. The bag is 100% that has long handles for carrying that are 22” long. It is machine washable and measures 15” by 18” by 6”. This tote bag also includes the same Illinois State Gymnastics logo that is on the baseball jersey, on the front and back of the bag. It’s perfect for carrying anywhere; for a trip to the beach or toting books to school.
The last item available on the website is a ceramic travel mug. This also includes the Illinois State Gymnastics logo with the gymnast silhouetted in the background. It is 7” tall and holds 15 ounces. It’s perfect not only for cold beverages, but it is also going to keep hot beverages at your desired temperature. It also has a secure lid and will fit into most vehicles’ cup holders and is hand wash only.
First, a long sleeve baseball jersey. The shirt is white, with a variety of colors on the sleeves with an Illinois State Gymnastics logo that has a gymnast silhouetted behind it. Buyers have the ability to select the colors of the sleeves; it can be bought in black, red or blue. Sizes include small to 2XL. The jersey is $18.99 on the website.
The next item is a tote bag, and only costs $15.00. The bag is 100% that has long handles for carrying that are 22” long. It is machine washable and measures 15” by 18” by 6”. This tote bag also includes the same Illinois State Gymnastics logo that is on the baseball jersey, on the front and back of the bag. It’s perfect for carrying anywhere; for a trip to the beach or toting books to school.
The last item available on the website is a ceramic travel mug. This also includes the Illinois State Gymnastics logo with the gymnast silhouetted in the background. It is 7” tall and holds 15 ounces. It’s perfect not only for cold beverages, but it is also going to keep hot beverages at your desired temperature. It also has a secure lid and will fit into most vehicles’ cup holders and is hand wash only.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
at Texas Women's University, February 26th, 2011
The ISU gymnastics team hit the road after their quadrangular competition and flew to Texas for a competition against Texas Women’s University and Centenary College in Denton, Texas. Both of their competitors are conference rivals, only UIC and SEMO were missing from the mix.
The Redbirds started on the balance beam with Marissa Stom leading off; unfortunately, she fell, starting the girls with an 8.95. Hoping to build momentum next was Kim Genereux, who although did not fall, had a wobbly routine and scored a 9.225. Stacie Morris was next, she also fell and scored an 8.975. Erica Schick was up next, and scored a 9.45 with another wobbly routine. Uncharacteristically, Melissa Mann fell off on her acrobatic series and scored a 9.150. Hannah Deutsch finished the event with a 9.75, winning the event for the night. The total balance beam score was a 46.550, lower than the Redbirds would have liked.
Next, the team moved to the floor exercise in the hopes of doing well on their second event. Fortunately, the Redbirds were able to build on all of their scores on this particular event. Hannah Meyer led off, scoring a 9.625. From there, scores just went up. Marissa Stom scored a 9.65, Kim Genereux posted a 9.75, as did Apples Barrientos. Hannah Deutsch went fifth and scored a 9.800 and Erica Schick rounded off the event with a 9.825. The girls posted a score of 48.775 on the floor exercise.
Next, the Birds moved to the vault, where they posted their season high and almost broke the record for highest team vault score in the history of ISU gymnastics. Kim Genereux went first and scored a 9.775. Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick both scored a 9.75. Apples Barrientos scored a 9.825, Marissa Stom posted a 9.800 and Jenna Bossle posted her season high with a 9.875. The team scored a 49.075.
The Birds ended on the uneven bars, where they did not do as well as they would have hoped. Emily Matko went first and Jenna Bossle went third, both scoring a 9.550. Chelsie Seplowin went second, scoring only an 8.050, having fallen twice. Apples and Kim Genereux also fell, scoring an 8.425 and an 8.875 respectively. Erica Schick went sixth and scored a 9.675 on the uneven bars, posting a team score of only 46.075.
The Redbirds’ overall score was a 190.425, placing them third in the conference competition.
The Redbirds started on the balance beam with Marissa Stom leading off; unfortunately, she fell, starting the girls with an 8.95. Hoping to build momentum next was Kim Genereux, who although did not fall, had a wobbly routine and scored a 9.225. Stacie Morris was next, she also fell and scored an 8.975. Erica Schick was up next, and scored a 9.45 with another wobbly routine. Uncharacteristically, Melissa Mann fell off on her acrobatic series and scored a 9.150. Hannah Deutsch finished the event with a 9.75, winning the event for the night. The total balance beam score was a 46.550, lower than the Redbirds would have liked.
Next, the team moved to the floor exercise in the hopes of doing well on their second event. Fortunately, the Redbirds were able to build on all of their scores on this particular event. Hannah Meyer led off, scoring a 9.625. From there, scores just went up. Marissa Stom scored a 9.65, Kim Genereux posted a 9.75, as did Apples Barrientos. Hannah Deutsch went fifth and scored a 9.800 and Erica Schick rounded off the event with a 9.825. The girls posted a score of 48.775 on the floor exercise.
Next, the Birds moved to the vault, where they posted their season high and almost broke the record for highest team vault score in the history of ISU gymnastics. Kim Genereux went first and scored a 9.775. Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick both scored a 9.75. Apples Barrientos scored a 9.825, Marissa Stom posted a 9.800 and Jenna Bossle posted her season high with a 9.875. The team scored a 49.075.
The Birds ended on the uneven bars, where they did not do as well as they would have hoped. Emily Matko went first and Jenna Bossle went third, both scoring a 9.550. Chelsie Seplowin went second, scoring only an 8.050, having fallen twice. Apples and Kim Genereux also fell, scoring an 8.425 and an 8.875 respectively. Erica Schick went sixth and scored a 9.675 on the uneven bars, posting a team score of only 46.075.
The Redbirds’ overall score was a 190.425, placing them third in the conference competition.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Senior Night
This year’s quadrangular competition against Seattle-Pacific, Ball State and Wisconsin-Lacrosse doubled as Senior Night for the 2011 graduating class. Six seniors have completed their four years of eligibility and were honored by their coaches and teammates. Hannah Deutsch, Emily Matko, Stacie Morris, Jessica Prousa, Erica Schick and Katie Witty were the honorees of the night.
Hannah Deutsch is from Plano, Texas and has competed all four events for the Redbirds. She specializes on the balance beam, posting a 9.925 career high. On the vault and floor exercise, she has scored career highs of 9.75 and 9.875 respectively. Among her other honors include competing in the World Maccabiah Games in Israel where Team USA finished second overall.
Emily Matko is from Roanoke, Virginia and has also competed every event for the gymnastics team. Her career high on the floor exercise is a 9.825, on the vault, a 9.625 and on the uneven bars, a 9.700. At the beginning of this year, she was named the second recipient of the Northrip Endowed Scholarship.
Stacie Morris is from Burke, Virginia and has competed on the uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise for the Redbirds. Her career high scores include a 9.725 on the uneven bars, a 9.625 on the balance beam and a 9.675 on the floor exercise. She was the first recipient of the Northrip Endowed Scholarship.
Jessica Prousa is from Naperville, Illinois and has competed on all four events for the Redbirds, although not on vault since her freshman year. Her career bests include a 9.825 on the uneven bars, a 9.875 on the balance beam and a 9.775 on the floor exercise. She was voted Newcomer of the Year her freshman year.
Erica Schick is from Livonia, Michigan and has also competed all four events for the ISU gymnastics team. On vault her career high is a 9.75, on bars, a 9.875, on beam a 9.85 and on the floor exercise, a 9.875. She has also qualified for all four years to the NCAA Regionals Competition.
Katie Witty is from Chicago, Illinois on the vault and the balance beam for the Redbirds. Her career best on the balance beam is a 9.65 and on the vault, a 9.425. She has been named to the AFNI Athletics Honor Roll every year she has been on the team.
Hannah Deutsch is from Plano, Texas and has competed all four events for the Redbirds. She specializes on the balance beam, posting a 9.925 career high. On the vault and floor exercise, she has scored career highs of 9.75 and 9.875 respectively. Among her other honors include competing in the World Maccabiah Games in Israel where Team USA finished second overall.
Emily Matko is from Roanoke, Virginia and has also competed every event for the gymnastics team. Her career high on the floor exercise is a 9.825, on the vault, a 9.625 and on the uneven bars, a 9.700. At the beginning of this year, she was named the second recipient of the Northrip Endowed Scholarship.
Stacie Morris is from Burke, Virginia and has competed on the uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise for the Redbirds. Her career high scores include a 9.725 on the uneven bars, a 9.625 on the balance beam and a 9.675 on the floor exercise. She was the first recipient of the Northrip Endowed Scholarship.
Jessica Prousa is from Naperville, Illinois and has competed on all four events for the Redbirds, although not on vault since her freshman year. Her career bests include a 9.825 on the uneven bars, a 9.875 on the balance beam and a 9.775 on the floor exercise. She was voted Newcomer of the Year her freshman year.
Erica Schick is from Livonia, Michigan and has also competed all four events for the ISU gymnastics team. On vault her career high is a 9.75, on bars, a 9.875, on beam a 9.85 and on the floor exercise, a 9.875. She has also qualified for all four years to the NCAA Regionals Competition.
Katie Witty is from Chicago, Illinois on the vault and the balance beam for the Redbirds. Her career best on the balance beam is a 9.65 and on the vault, a 9.425. She has been named to the AFNI Athletics Honor Roll every year she has been on the team.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
vs. Seattle-Pacific, Ball State and Wisconsin-Lacrosse, February 17th, 2011
On February 17th, 2011, the Redbirds returned home to compete in a quadrangular competition against Seattle-Pacific, Wisconsin-Lacrosse and Ball State University. The Redbirds began on the vault, and in another change to the vault lineup, Kim Genereux began the event, scoring an impressive 9.750. Scores were erratic on this rotation, Hannah Deutsch followed with a 9.650, Erica Schick was next with a 9.725 and Apollonia Barrientos went fourth and scored a 9.600. Normally, scores are constantly progressive and build on each other, but that didn’t seem to be the case in this rotation. Marissa Stom unfortunately fell and scored a 9.000 but Jenna Bossle posted a 9.675 to finish off the event for the Birds. Their total vault score was a 48.400.
The gymnasts moved to the uneven bars next. The bar lineup has stayed fairly consistent for the previous few competitions. Emily Matko led off with a 9.500 but Chelsie Seplowin unfortunately fell and scored an 8.875. Jenna Bossle followed with a good score of a 9.600. The last three competitors did well, Apples, Kim and Erica scored a 9.750, 9.725 and 9.750 respectively. They posted a total uneven bar score of 48.325.
Next up, the balance beam. Marissa Stom led off with a 9.525 and Kim Genereux posted a 9.650. Stacie Morris followed with a 9.575. Erica and Melissa Mann followed score a 9.700 and a 9.800. The real story on balance beam this meet though was Hannah Deutsch. After an extraordinarily impressive beam routine, she scored her career high on the event, a 9.925. I can tell you from experience, that I have never heard Horton Fieldhouse erupt as loudly as I had in that particular moment. After such an exhilarating moment, the Redbirds had to move to floor after scoring a 48.650 on the balance beam.
The Birds really needed to do well on the floor exercise to post the excellent score they wanted to. Unfortunately, things didn’t start out well; Stacie Morris fell and only scored a 9.050. Marissa Stom went next and scored a 9.500, also not the score that the gymnasts really want to have to count. The following four performances were excellent though, all scoring above a 9.750.Their overall score on the floor was a 48.625.
• Kim Genereux 9.750
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.775
• Hannah Deutsch 9.825
• Erica Schick 9.775
A happy ending for the Redbirds; they accumulated a score of 194.000. They also won the entire competition, beating all three of the other teams. It was an excellent night for the Redbirds and even more special because it was Senior Night. Look for the next blog posting to highlight the girls that will be graduating this year.
The gymnasts moved to the uneven bars next. The bar lineup has stayed fairly consistent for the previous few competitions. Emily Matko led off with a 9.500 but Chelsie Seplowin unfortunately fell and scored an 8.875. Jenna Bossle followed with a good score of a 9.600. The last three competitors did well, Apples, Kim and Erica scored a 9.750, 9.725 and 9.750 respectively. They posted a total uneven bar score of 48.325.
Next up, the balance beam. Marissa Stom led off with a 9.525 and Kim Genereux posted a 9.650. Stacie Morris followed with a 9.575. Erica and Melissa Mann followed score a 9.700 and a 9.800. The real story on balance beam this meet though was Hannah Deutsch. After an extraordinarily impressive beam routine, she scored her career high on the event, a 9.925. I can tell you from experience, that I have never heard Horton Fieldhouse erupt as loudly as I had in that particular moment. After such an exhilarating moment, the Redbirds had to move to floor after scoring a 48.650 on the balance beam.
The Birds really needed to do well on the floor exercise to post the excellent score they wanted to. Unfortunately, things didn’t start out well; Stacie Morris fell and only scored a 9.050. Marissa Stom went next and scored a 9.500, also not the score that the gymnasts really want to have to count. The following four performances were excellent though, all scoring above a 9.750.Their overall score on the floor was a 48.625.
• Kim Genereux 9.750
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.775
• Hannah Deutsch 9.825
• Erica Schick 9.775
A happy ending for the Redbirds; they accumulated a score of 194.000. They also won the entire competition, beating all three of the other teams. It was an excellent night for the Redbirds and even more special because it was Senior Night. Look for the next blog posting to highlight the girls that will be graduating this year.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
at SEMO, February 11, 2011
After competing at Ball State University, the Redbirds went on the road the following week to compete against Southeast Missouri State, an MIC rival, on February 11th, 2011. Illinois State hosted SEMO for the season opener on January 8th and won, 191.500-190.275.
Illinois State started on the uneven bars. Emily Matko began the event, scoring a 9.475 and Chelsie Seplowin followed with a score of 9.500. Jenna Bossle scored a 9.600 and Apollonia Barrientos posted a 9.675. The final two competitors were Kim Genereux and Erica Schick, who scored a 9.775 and a 9.825 respectively. The total bar score was a 48.375, not as high of a score as the Redbirds would probably like, but a good start to the competition.
In an interesting twist, Coach Conkling drastically changed the lineup for vault. Erica Schick began the event, scoring a 9.700, really setting up the rest of the girls to build upon that score. Hannah Deutsch and Apollonia Barrientos both scored a 9.725. Unfortunately, Kim Genereux fell on her vault, scoring a 9.250. But Marissa Stom and Jenna Bossle both posted good scores, scoring a 9.775 and a 9.650. Their total vault score was a 48.575. After two events, the Redbirds were four tenths behind the Redhawks.
On the third event, the floor exercise, Hannah Meyer began the event. She scored a 9.575 and after Marissa Stom competed, she scored a 9.550. Kim and Apples both posted excellent scores, with a 9.725 and a 9.750. And the last two competitors, Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick, both earned a 9.825. The gymnasts posted an overall score of a 48.700.
Finally, the Redbirds moved to the balance beam, always a treacherous event to compete last and things don’t go very well at this point. Marissa Stom, Kim Genereux and Stacie Morris all fell scoring a 9.100, 8.775 and 8.500 respectively. Erica Schick posted a 9.725 despite a somewhat bobbly routine. Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch both posted excellent scores with a 9.800 and a 9.825. Unfortunately, the Redbirds fell apart on the last event and lost to the Redhawks. On the bright side, despite the distress on the balance beam, the Redbirds still posted a 192.925.
Illinois State started on the uneven bars. Emily Matko began the event, scoring a 9.475 and Chelsie Seplowin followed with a score of 9.500. Jenna Bossle scored a 9.600 and Apollonia Barrientos posted a 9.675. The final two competitors were Kim Genereux and Erica Schick, who scored a 9.775 and a 9.825 respectively. The total bar score was a 48.375, not as high of a score as the Redbirds would probably like, but a good start to the competition.
In an interesting twist, Coach Conkling drastically changed the lineup for vault. Erica Schick began the event, scoring a 9.700, really setting up the rest of the girls to build upon that score. Hannah Deutsch and Apollonia Barrientos both scored a 9.725. Unfortunately, Kim Genereux fell on her vault, scoring a 9.250. But Marissa Stom and Jenna Bossle both posted good scores, scoring a 9.775 and a 9.650. Their total vault score was a 48.575. After two events, the Redbirds were four tenths behind the Redhawks.
On the third event, the floor exercise, Hannah Meyer began the event. She scored a 9.575 and after Marissa Stom competed, she scored a 9.550. Kim and Apples both posted excellent scores, with a 9.725 and a 9.750. And the last two competitors, Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick, both earned a 9.825. The gymnasts posted an overall score of a 48.700.
Finally, the Redbirds moved to the balance beam, always a treacherous event to compete last and things don’t go very well at this point. Marissa Stom, Kim Genereux and Stacie Morris all fell scoring a 9.100, 8.775 and 8.500 respectively. Erica Schick posted a 9.725 despite a somewhat bobbly routine. Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch both posted excellent scores with a 9.800 and a 9.825. Unfortunately, the Redbirds fell apart on the last event and lost to the Redhawks. On the bright side, despite the distress on the balance beam, the Redbirds still posted a 192.925.
Monday, February 28, 2011
That's My Sister!
Jonathan Deutsch is the younger brother of Hannah Deutsch, a current member of the Illinois State University gymnastics team. Most of the things I know about Jonathan come directly from Hannah; he’s from Texas, loves Texas sports, he currently attends Mizzou.
The only thing I ever thought about Jonathan was how obnoxious he was, although I do say that in the nicest way possible. Whenever Jonathan comes to a competition, Hannah does seem to do extraordinarily well. I’m not sure if it can be attributed to her brother or her whole family being there (because with one usually comes the other), but it may just be a fluke; Hannah is a very good gymnast even when no one is watching. Jonathan also has this interesting habit of yelling whenever Hannah finishes a routine, and not just something normal, “GOOD JOB HANNAH!” or anything like that. The kid yells, “THAT’S MY SISTER!” Cute at first, annoying next and finally, after reading the following blog post from him, I realized how incredibly proud he is of his older sister.
To be honest, I thought the kid was trying to embarrass her. Yeah, my brothers are proud of me, but if they ever did anything like that, it would strictly be to see my face turn red as soon as they did it. Sometimes I think they’re embarrassed of me; they’re at that annoying teenage age when they can’t even acknowledge me when they walk into the arena.
But, you read this blog, and it will just about move you to tears. That’s My Sister.
The only thing I ever thought about Jonathan was how obnoxious he was, although I do say that in the nicest way possible. Whenever Jonathan comes to a competition, Hannah does seem to do extraordinarily well. I’m not sure if it can be attributed to her brother or her whole family being there (because with one usually comes the other), but it may just be a fluke; Hannah is a very good gymnast even when no one is watching. Jonathan also has this interesting habit of yelling whenever Hannah finishes a routine, and not just something normal, “GOOD JOB HANNAH!” or anything like that. The kid yells, “THAT’S MY SISTER!” Cute at first, annoying next and finally, after reading the following blog post from him, I realized how incredibly proud he is of his older sister.
To be honest, I thought the kid was trying to embarrass her. Yeah, my brothers are proud of me, but if they ever did anything like that, it would strictly be to see my face turn red as soon as they did it. Sometimes I think they’re embarrassed of me; they’re at that annoying teenage age when they can’t even acknowledge me when they walk into the arena.
But, you read this blog, and it will just about move you to tears. That’s My Sister.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Want More ISU Gymnastics?
Looking for more information about Illinois State University gymnastics? Check out RedbirdGym's Web Page!
On the Calendar, you can find out when, where and what time the next competition will be for the Redbirds.
Also included, are videos posted directly from the Redbird Gymnastics YouTube Channel. These are all videos of competitions that the Redbirds have competed in this season and by doing a little digging, you can also find videos of competitions from previous years.
There are also several links available about Illinois State University Gymnastics. One of the categories of links on the website is ISU Gymnastics Information. Here you will find a link to GoRedbirds.com as well as the Redbird Record Book. Feel free to also join the ISU Gymnastics Facebook Group for up to date news feeds on what the Redbirds are up to. There are also several links to news sites about Illinoi State University sports. Another category of the websites is all about NCAA gymnastics. There is a direct link to the NCAA website and to more recreational sits, such as collegegymfans.com (a blog that is monitored by several gymnastics fans) and Troester’s Gym Info, which features results and regional and national standings, along with the ever important regional qualifying score.
Coming soon include features like Results and Stats, and there will eventually be products available for purchase on the webpage. Photos will also be available for viewing, taken by your very own Redbird gymnasts! Finally, another section of links will also include information just about gymnastics and the history of the sport.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact RedbirdGym, through the Contact Me section available on the website.
On the Calendar, you can find out when, where and what time the next competition will be for the Redbirds.
Also included, are videos posted directly from the Redbird Gymnastics YouTube Channel. These are all videos of competitions that the Redbirds have competed in this season and by doing a little digging, you can also find videos of competitions from previous years.
There are also several links available about Illinois State University Gymnastics. One of the categories of links on the website is ISU Gymnastics Information. Here you will find a link to GoRedbirds.com as well as the Redbird Record Book. Feel free to also join the ISU Gymnastics Facebook Group for up to date news feeds on what the Redbirds are up to. There are also several links to news sites about Illinoi State University sports. Another category of the websites is all about NCAA gymnastics. There is a direct link to the NCAA website and to more recreational sits, such as collegegymfans.com (a blog that is monitored by several gymnastics fans) and Troester’s Gym Info, which features results and regional and national standings, along with the ever important regional qualifying score.
Coming soon include features like Results and Stats, and there will eventually be products available for purchase on the webpage. Photos will also be available for viewing, taken by your very own Redbird gymnasts! Finally, another section of links will also include information just about gymnastics and the history of the sport.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact RedbirdGym, through the Contact Me section available on the website.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
at Ball State, February 4th, 2011
The Redbirds went back on the road the week following the competition against Denver University. They competed in Muncie, Indiana at Ball State University on the fourth of February. The girls went into this meet feeling more confident after the previous few competitions, scoring higher after the tough performances in Seattle.
The gymnastics team started on the uneven bars. With the exception of Kim Genereux’s fall, the Birds did very well. Genereux was trying so hard to stick her dismount that she unfortunately ended up sitting it down. The girls were in the lead after the first event with a total score of 48.225.
• Emily Matko 9.550
• Chelsie Seplowin 9.525
• Jenna Bossle 9.650
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.725
• Kim Genereux 9.100
• Erica Schick 9.775
The vault followed. In a strange twist in lineup, Coach Conkling started off the event with Apples Barrientos, who had previously been going third. His thoughts, I believe, were to start off with a stronger score in the hopes that the scores would build on each other. Although an interest idea, it didn’t quite work…
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.7
• Marissa Stom 9.625
• Hannah Deutsch 9.575
• Kim Genereux 9.150
• Erica Schick 9.650
• Jenna Bossle 9.675
It seems Coach Conkling had the wrong idea for this competition, and should have put Apollonia in the sixth spot, as her score was the highest and probably would have been higher if she hadn’t been in the first spot. But the Redbirds were still in the lead after two events, with a running total of 96.450, still improving their lead against the Cardinals.
The next event, the floor exercise. What hampered the Birds on this event, was start value issues. There were several scores that Coach Conkling had to petition. Luckily, the judges ruled in the Birds favor, and after three events, the running total was 145.000-143.200.
• Hannah Meyer 9.700
• Marissa Stom 9.575
• Kim Genereux 9.650
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.725
• Hannah Deutsch 9.725
• Erica Schick 9.750
Finally, the last event for the Redbirds, the balance beam, which is always a tough event to end on. Only one major hitch in the event, it seems the freshman, Jenna Bossle, was a little nervous to be competing and unfortunately fell twice. With that exception, there were only a few bobbles here and there, and the Birds put up a total score of 48.250.
• Marissa Stom 9.650
• Jenna Bossle 8.200
• Kim Genereux 9.500
• Erica Schick 9.675
• Melissa Mann 9.700
• Hannah Deutsch 9.725
The Redbirds won the meet with a respectable score of 193.250 to Ball State’s 191.975. Although the Birds were pleased with their efforts for the night, they are still definitely looking to improve on their overall score if they hope for any chance to make it to NCAA Regionals.
The gymnastics team started on the uneven bars. With the exception of Kim Genereux’s fall, the Birds did very well. Genereux was trying so hard to stick her dismount that she unfortunately ended up sitting it down. The girls were in the lead after the first event with a total score of 48.225.
• Emily Matko 9.550
• Chelsie Seplowin 9.525
• Jenna Bossle 9.650
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.725
• Kim Genereux 9.100
• Erica Schick 9.775
The vault followed. In a strange twist in lineup, Coach Conkling started off the event with Apples Barrientos, who had previously been going third. His thoughts, I believe, were to start off with a stronger score in the hopes that the scores would build on each other. Although an interest idea, it didn’t quite work…
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.7
• Marissa Stom 9.625
• Hannah Deutsch 9.575
• Kim Genereux 9.150
• Erica Schick 9.650
• Jenna Bossle 9.675
It seems Coach Conkling had the wrong idea for this competition, and should have put Apollonia in the sixth spot, as her score was the highest and probably would have been higher if she hadn’t been in the first spot. But the Redbirds were still in the lead after two events, with a running total of 96.450, still improving their lead against the Cardinals.
The next event, the floor exercise. What hampered the Birds on this event, was start value issues. There were several scores that Coach Conkling had to petition. Luckily, the judges ruled in the Birds favor, and after three events, the running total was 145.000-143.200.
• Hannah Meyer 9.700
• Marissa Stom 9.575
• Kim Genereux 9.650
• Apollonia Barrientos 9.725
• Hannah Deutsch 9.725
• Erica Schick 9.750
Finally, the last event for the Redbirds, the balance beam, which is always a tough event to end on. Only one major hitch in the event, it seems the freshman, Jenna Bossle, was a little nervous to be competing and unfortunately fell twice. With that exception, there were only a few bobbles here and there, and the Birds put up a total score of 48.250.
• Marissa Stom 9.650
• Jenna Bossle 8.200
• Kim Genereux 9.500
• Erica Schick 9.675
• Melissa Mann 9.700
• Hannah Deutsch 9.725
The Redbirds won the meet with a respectable score of 193.250 to Ball State’s 191.975. Although the Birds were pleased with their efforts for the night, they are still definitely looking to improve on their overall score if they hope for any chance to make it to NCAA Regionals.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
vs. Denver University, January 30, 2011
After coming back from being on the road in Seattle, the Redbirds finally started to put something together in their competition against Denver University. For a full recap of the night, go to the following link:
Redbird Gymnasts Fall to Denver Despite Season High Scores
The Birds posted their highest score of the season so far with a 193.925. Denver University (ranked #24 in the nation), scored a 194.400. The link that I actually want you to look at, although it is only a quick blurb about the results of the meet, is at the following link:
DU 194.4 at Illinois State 193.925
Really, just the first sentence is the most important part of the recap. Do you see it? “Illinois State puts a scare into #24 DU, but the Pioneers held on for a win.” For any of you read the blog about the Regional Qualifying Score or RQS, you may remember that being in the top thirty six is critical to qualifying to NCAA Regionals. Although a 193.925 is a really good score for the Birds, they are capable of still improving on top of that. Continuing to progress throughout the rest of the season is critical if the girls really want to make it to NCAA Regionals, but in my mind, they certainly have the talent and drive to get the job done. Right now, their Regional Qualifying Score isn’t the best, they do have two 188s that are really dragging that average down. But, if they manage to do really well the next couple meets, they’ll drop those scores and quickly move up in the rankings!
Redbird Gymnasts Fall to Denver Despite Season High Scores
The Birds posted their highest score of the season so far with a 193.925. Denver University (ranked #24 in the nation), scored a 194.400. The link that I actually want you to look at, although it is only a quick blurb about the results of the meet, is at the following link:
DU 194.4 at Illinois State 193.925
Really, just the first sentence is the most important part of the recap. Do you see it? “Illinois State puts a scare into #24 DU, but the Pioneers held on for a win.” For any of you read the blog about the Regional Qualifying Score or RQS, you may remember that being in the top thirty six is critical to qualifying to NCAA Regionals. Although a 193.925 is a really good score for the Birds, they are capable of still improving on top of that. Continuing to progress throughout the rest of the season is critical if the girls really want to make it to NCAA Regionals, but in my mind, they certainly have the talent and drive to get the job done. Right now, their Regional Qualifying Score isn’t the best, they do have two 188s that are really dragging that average down. But, if they manage to do really well the next couple meets, they’ll drop those scores and quickly move up in the rankings!
Monday, February 21, 2011
First Annual Illinois vs. Michigan Competition, January 23, 2011
The Redbirds next meet was the first annual Illinois vs. Michigan competition. The three other teams that participated in the competition were University of Illinois at Chicago, Eastern Michigan University and Central Michigan University. Illinois State added its scores with UIC and Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan added their scores together in a battle between the two states.
The Birds started on the vault, with the first three competitors (Apollonia Barrientos, Kim Genereux and Hannah Deutsch) all posting scores of a 9.600. Erica Schick competed next and scored a 9.575 and Jenna Bossle followed with a score of a 9.700. Tori Sarantakis sustained an injury during her vault, scoring an 8.675 due to a fall. The meet began with a total score of 48.075.
Next came the uneven parallel bars, and with it, a little bit of drama. Due to Tori’s injury, Emily Matko had to step in and compete on the event. She led off the Redbirds with a score of 9.275, hitting the routine despite a few mistakes. The next two competitors, unfortunately both fell, Hannah Meyer and Jenna Bossle scored an 8.825 and 8.300, respectively. Things started to look up though when Apollonia scored a 9.700, Kim Genereux scored a 9.675 and Erica Schick finished the event with a 9.800. After two events, the Redbirds had a running total of 95.350.
The balance beam was also a bit of a setback for the Birds. Marissa Stom, Stacie Morris and Erica Schick all scored below a 9.500, either falling or wobbling throughout their routines. On the other hand, Kim Genereux posted a 9.700. And, as usual, Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch anchored the event, ever consistent as usual with a 9.775 and 9.750. The beam score was still a little bit low, with a total score of 47.975 posting a running total of 143.325.
The Redbirds ended on the floor exercise, where they finished with a strong performance. Hannah Meyer scored a 9.575 and Marissa Stom would have scored a 9.700 but stepped out of bounds resulting in a 9.600. Kim Genereux scored a 9.775 and Apollonia Barrientos posted a 9.725. Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick both finished with strong performances, each scoring a 9.800. An overall score of a 48.700 on the event contributed substantially to a final total of 192.025.
Central Michigan won the meet with a total of 193.375. Illinois State placed second with their total score. UIC placed third with a 189.975 and Eastern Michigan scored a point lower, with a 188.975. Unfortunately, the state of Illinois lost the meet to the state of Michigan by a marginal amount. Michigan scored a 382.250 and Illinois scored a 382.000.
The Birds started on the vault, with the first three competitors (Apollonia Barrientos, Kim Genereux and Hannah Deutsch) all posting scores of a 9.600. Erica Schick competed next and scored a 9.575 and Jenna Bossle followed with a score of a 9.700. Tori Sarantakis sustained an injury during her vault, scoring an 8.675 due to a fall. The meet began with a total score of 48.075.
Next came the uneven parallel bars, and with it, a little bit of drama. Due to Tori’s injury, Emily Matko had to step in and compete on the event. She led off the Redbirds with a score of 9.275, hitting the routine despite a few mistakes. The next two competitors, unfortunately both fell, Hannah Meyer and Jenna Bossle scored an 8.825 and 8.300, respectively. Things started to look up though when Apollonia scored a 9.700, Kim Genereux scored a 9.675 and Erica Schick finished the event with a 9.800. After two events, the Redbirds had a running total of 95.350.
The balance beam was also a bit of a setback for the Birds. Marissa Stom, Stacie Morris and Erica Schick all scored below a 9.500, either falling or wobbling throughout their routines. On the other hand, Kim Genereux posted a 9.700. And, as usual, Melissa Mann and Hannah Deutsch anchored the event, ever consistent as usual with a 9.775 and 9.750. The beam score was still a little bit low, with a total score of 47.975 posting a running total of 143.325.
The Redbirds ended on the floor exercise, where they finished with a strong performance. Hannah Meyer scored a 9.575 and Marissa Stom would have scored a 9.700 but stepped out of bounds resulting in a 9.600. Kim Genereux scored a 9.775 and Apollonia Barrientos posted a 9.725. Hannah Deutsch and Erica Schick both finished with strong performances, each scoring a 9.800. An overall score of a 48.700 on the event contributed substantially to a final total of 192.025.
Central Michigan won the meet with a total of 193.375. Illinois State placed second with their total score. UIC placed third with a 189.975 and Eastern Michigan scored a point lower, with a 188.975. Unfortunately, the state of Illinois lost the meet to the state of Michigan by a marginal amount. Michigan scored a 382.250 and Illinois scored a 382.000.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
at University of Washington, January 15th, 2011
On January 15th, 2011, the Redbirds competed in their third meet in less than seven days and their second meet while in Seattle against University of Washington, Boise State and Seattle Pacific. It seems Seattle is not a lucky place for your Birds to compete because, for the second night in a row, they scored a little bit below what they really want to in order to qualify for Regionals. The girls started on beam, with one of their lowest total scores of the season, a 46.550. Tori Sarantakis, Marissa Stom and Hannah Deutsch all fell off the apparatus and Erica Schick made a few mistakes resulting in a lower than normal score. Only Kim Genereux and Stacie Morris completed routines successfully. The gymnasts moved onto the floor next, an always successful event for them and this was no exception. The Birds counted no scores below a 9.650. Hannah Deutsch had the top score on the event for the Redbirds with a 9.825 while Erica Schick and Kim Caron both scored a 9.800. The third event was vault, where the Redbirds also had some trouble. Marissa and Kim Genereux, going first and second on the event respectively, both fell on their vaults and the Birds situation only got marginally better when Apollonia Barrientos stood up her vault but took a big step on the landing. Tori Sarantakis did score a 9.800, at the time, her season high but more damage had been done to the Redbirds total score. The last event was the uneven bars; even made routines scored low. Three of the six competitors fell and Kim Genereux scored the highest on the event for the girls with a 9.525. The overall total score of the night was a 188.025, placing the Birds in third place in the competition with only Seattle Pacific trailing behind.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
MIC Gymnast of the Week
Erica Schick was named Midwest Independent Conference gymnast of the week after her performance at Southeast Missouri State University on February 11th, 2011. The Redbirds lost to SEMO after a devastating balance beam performance in which they counted three falls in their overall score. Despite all this, Erica, who competed in all four events, won the all-around event with a total score of 39.075. The Redbirds began on the uneven bars, as they always do when they’re away, where Erica competed in the sixth position and scored a 9.825. She was the top finisher on the event between the two teams. Next, the gymnasts moved to the vault. Erica competed first on vault and scored a 9.700 after competing a yurchenko tuck full. They competed next on the floor exercise, where Erica also competed in the sixth position. Erica tied her fellow teammate, Hannah Deutsch, with a score of a 9.825. The two of them tied for second place on the event. Finally, moving to the balance beam, the Redbirds have a rough performance. Throughout the six performances, the Redbirds totaled five falls. Erica stuck her beam routine, and regardless of the fact that it was somewhat tentative, Erica scored a 9.725. On that particular event, she placed fifth. From GoRedbirds.com, Coach Conkling is quoted as saying, “I’m not surprised Erica won gymnast of the week. She had her best meet of the year and tied her personal best on the all-around last week. She works really hard and she really deserves it.”
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
at Seattle-Pacific, January 14, 2011
The competition at Seattle-Pacific University in Seattle, Washington took place on Friday, January 14th, 2011. The competition was a rough one for your Redbirds, and you can read all about the highlights and what Coach Bob Conkling had to say about it at the following link:
Redbirds Defeat Seattle Pacific in First Away Meet
With the exception of the comments made by Coach Conkling, it seems like the Birds had a pretty good competition against the Seattle-Pacific Falcons. Unfortunately, the students over in the media department at Illinois State University really have no idea what they’re talking about when it comes to the sport of gymnastics. Wins and losses over an opponent have absolutely no bearing over advancing to the NCAA Regional or National competition that Illinois State wants to compete in. Instead, gymnastics is based on averages, and not just the average of all of the meets that the girls compete in, but six of them out of the twelve to fifteen that are held every year. The Regional Qualifying Score (or RQS, as it is commonly referred to) is made up of the six highest team scores that the Redbirds achieve. Of those six meets, three of them MUST be on the road because many teams are favored when they’re competing in their home venues. After those six highest overall scores have been accumulated, the highest of them is dropped and the remaining five are averaged in order to eliminate any outliers. The reason behind this ridiculous math? As one can infer from its given name, the RQS determines who is going to be attending the NCAA Regional competition. Of the eighty three collegiate gymnastics teams, only thirty six qualify for Regionals, normally with an RQS of about 193.000. So, the conclusion of this post: while yes, ISU gymnastics did win their first away competition, it was with a score of 189.600, one that is not yet good enough to achieve their goal of qualifying to the NCAA Regional Championship.
Redbirds Defeat Seattle Pacific in First Away Meet
With the exception of the comments made by Coach Conkling, it seems like the Birds had a pretty good competition against the Seattle-Pacific Falcons. Unfortunately, the students over in the media department at Illinois State University really have no idea what they’re talking about when it comes to the sport of gymnastics. Wins and losses over an opponent have absolutely no bearing over advancing to the NCAA Regional or National competition that Illinois State wants to compete in. Instead, gymnastics is based on averages, and not just the average of all of the meets that the girls compete in, but six of them out of the twelve to fifteen that are held every year. The Regional Qualifying Score (or RQS, as it is commonly referred to) is made up of the six highest team scores that the Redbirds achieve. Of those six meets, three of them MUST be on the road because many teams are favored when they’re competing in their home venues. After those six highest overall scores have been accumulated, the highest of them is dropped and the remaining five are averaged in order to eliminate any outliers. The reason behind this ridiculous math? As one can infer from its given name, the RQS determines who is going to be attending the NCAA Regional competition. Of the eighty three collegiate gymnastics teams, only thirty six qualify for Regionals, normally with an RQS of about 193.000. So, the conclusion of this post: while yes, ISU gymnastics did win their first away competition, it was with a score of 189.600, one that is not yet good enough to achieve their goal of qualifying to the NCAA Regional Championship.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
vs. SEMO, January 8th, 2011
The Redbirds began their season on Saturday, January 8th in a home meet against Southeast Missouri State University, one of our rivals in the Midwest Independent Conference. The Redbirds competed for a combined total score of 191.500 and defeated the Redhawks, who finished with a final score of 190.275.
The gymnasts began on vault. Their lead-off competitor, Marissa Stom, score a 9.575. Following her, Kim Genereux and Apollonia Barrientos also both scored a 9.575. Needless to say, the Redbirds started out rather consistently. Erica Schick competed next and scored a 9.600. The last two competitors, Jenna Bossle and Tori Sarantakis, who both compete one of the most difficult vaults in collegiate gymnastics, scored a 9.6500 and a 9.725 respectively. Tori Sarantakis placed first on the event with her score while Jenna Bossle placed third behind Emma Garrett of Southeast Missouri State University. The team competed for a combined vault score of 48.125.
Next up, the Redbirds moved to bars. The lead-off competitor, Tori Sarantakis, started off with a score of a 9.000. Jenna Bossle was up next and scored an 8.350 after falling on her release move. Apollonia Barrientos competed on her second event of the day, scoring a 9.700. Kim Genereux followed, scoring a 9.650 and Kim Caron scored a 9.675. The final competitor, Erica Schick, scored a 9.500. Overall, the Birds had a total uneven bar score of 47.525, a score a little bit lower than they’re used to. Barrientos placed third with her score of a 9.700 and after two events, the Birds had a running total of 95.650.
The third event, beam, is one that makes or breaks a competition. Marissa Stom started off on her second even of the day with a 9.625. Tori Sarantakis and Kim Genereux, both on their third event for the day, scored a 9.125 and 8.825. Erica Schick was fourth up on beam and scored a 9.500. Melissa Mann was fifth up and scored a 9.700, while Hannah Deutsch anchored with a score of 9.800. Deutsch and Mann took second and third, respectively, behind Taylor Westrick of SEMO who scored a 9.850. Despite some struggling on beam, the Redbirds maintained their lead with a total of 47.750 on beam and a running score of 143.400.
The Birds finished on the floor exercise. Hannah Meyer led off with a 9.500 and tied with Kim Genereux, who competed third on the event. Melissa Mann, in the second position, scored a 9.450. Apollonia Barrientos competed fourth, scoring a 9.675 and Hannah Deutsch competed sixth with a score of a 9.700. Erica Schick, last up on floor, scored a 9.725. Erica placed second on the event and Hannah placed third, behind Brianna Gaddie from SEMO; she scored a 9.750. The Redbirds floor score totaled to a 48.100.
Erica Schick and Kim Genereux both competed in the all-around. Erica placed first with a total score of 38.325 and Kim took second with a 37.550. Head coach Bob Conkling was happy with the overall performance of the gymnasts, “It’s not just the coaches that have high expectations for this year, but the student-athletes as well. They want to be in the top 36 in the country and I believe they are totally capable of doing that,” he said, quoted from GoRedbirds.com.
The gymnasts began on vault. Their lead-off competitor, Marissa Stom, score a 9.575. Following her, Kim Genereux and Apollonia Barrientos also both scored a 9.575. Needless to say, the Redbirds started out rather consistently. Erica Schick competed next and scored a 9.600. The last two competitors, Jenna Bossle and Tori Sarantakis, who both compete one of the most difficult vaults in collegiate gymnastics, scored a 9.6500 and a 9.725 respectively. Tori Sarantakis placed first on the event with her score while Jenna Bossle placed third behind Emma Garrett of Southeast Missouri State University. The team competed for a combined vault score of 48.125.
Next up, the Redbirds moved to bars. The lead-off competitor, Tori Sarantakis, started off with a score of a 9.000. Jenna Bossle was up next and scored an 8.350 after falling on her release move. Apollonia Barrientos competed on her second event of the day, scoring a 9.700. Kim Genereux followed, scoring a 9.650 and Kim Caron scored a 9.675. The final competitor, Erica Schick, scored a 9.500. Overall, the Birds had a total uneven bar score of 47.525, a score a little bit lower than they’re used to. Barrientos placed third with her score of a 9.700 and after two events, the Birds had a running total of 95.650.
The third event, beam, is one that makes or breaks a competition. Marissa Stom started off on her second even of the day with a 9.625. Tori Sarantakis and Kim Genereux, both on their third event for the day, scored a 9.125 and 8.825. Erica Schick was fourth up on beam and scored a 9.500. Melissa Mann was fifth up and scored a 9.700, while Hannah Deutsch anchored with a score of 9.800. Deutsch and Mann took second and third, respectively, behind Taylor Westrick of SEMO who scored a 9.850. Despite some struggling on beam, the Redbirds maintained their lead with a total of 47.750 on beam and a running score of 143.400.
The Birds finished on the floor exercise. Hannah Meyer led off with a 9.500 and tied with Kim Genereux, who competed third on the event. Melissa Mann, in the second position, scored a 9.450. Apollonia Barrientos competed fourth, scoring a 9.675 and Hannah Deutsch competed sixth with a score of a 9.700. Erica Schick, last up on floor, scored a 9.725. Erica placed second on the event and Hannah placed third, behind Brianna Gaddie from SEMO; she scored a 9.750. The Redbirds floor score totaled to a 48.100.
Erica Schick and Kim Genereux both competed in the all-around. Erica placed first with a total score of 38.325 and Kim took second with a 37.550. Head coach Bob Conkling was happy with the overall performance of the gymnasts, “It’s not just the coaches that have high expectations for this year, but the student-athletes as well. They want to be in the top 36 in the country and I believe they are totally capable of doing that,” he said, quoted from GoRedbirds.com.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Recap
Over the next few days, I will be providing a recap of the competitions that your Redbird gymnasts have already competed in thus far throughout the season. Preseason was challenging as always, with Head Coach Bob Conkling creating difficult practices and even more rigorous strength and conditioning at the end of workouts. Through his first five years at ISU, he has yet to coach the team to the regional competition and his ambition was showing through in the assignments that he was consistently giving to the girls in the gym. Despite having a few weeks off during Christmas, the girls were still working hard, obviously sharing the same desire to attend regionals as their coaches. Finally, after weeks of practicing, the season for competition was about to commence. It all begin with a duel against conference rival, Southeast Missouri State at home in Horton Field House on January 8th. Following that, the Redbirds traveled to Seattle where they competed in two competitions; one against Seattle-Pacific University on Friday, January 14th and the next, in a quad meet the following day at Washington in which Boise State and Seattle-Pacific also took part in. The Redbirds came back home two weeks ago on January 23rd to compete in a quad meet including fellow Midwest Independent Conference team University of Illinois-Chicago, Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University. This particular meet was also the first annual Illinois vs. Michigan competition, creating a dual between the two states. Finally, your Birds competed at home for a third time against No. 24 Denver University.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)