March 2, 2008

By Matthew C. Worthington, Gymnastics Contact

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. - The Southeast Missouri State Redhawks (3-6, 2-2 MIC) lost a close battle Sunday afternoon against the Illinois State Redbirds, 192.900-193.025. The Redhawks still boast an extraordinary Regional Qualifying Score of 193.84 and are hoping to lock up a spot in the NCAA Regional.

Southeast started off slowly in the meet as they were only able to garner a 47.800 on the bars. Illinois State was able to take down the top two spots led by Amanda Candler's 9.725. On the Redhawk's side, freshman Lauren Dinan (Doniphan, Neb./Nebraska Twisters) tied for third with a 9.650 while sophomore Rikara Turner (Hastings, Minn./Twin City Twisters) tied for fourth with 9.600.

On vault, Southeast stepped it up to the tune of a 48.475, led by freshman Brianna Gaddie's (East Grand Forks, Minn./Red River Valley) career-best 9.875 that earned her a share of the individual title. Starlyn Schwartz (Pensacola, Fla./First City Gymnastics) was the next best Redhawk as she picked up third with a 9.725. Schwartz was followed by the fourth place finish (9.675) of teammate Amber Garlotte (Lee's Summit, Mo./Eagle Gymnastics).

The Redhawks struggled on beam once again, but won the event 47.725-46.800. Sophomore Jena Nguyen (Sioux Falls, S.D./All American) was the top Redhawk, finishing in second (9.675), and Jennifer Dinan (Doniphan, Neb./Grand Island Twisters) was a step behind with 9.650. Tying for third (9.600) was junior Sandra Blake (Tri-Cities, Wash./Mid Columbia).

Southeast was rock solid on the floor turning in a 48.900 on the heels of Blake's first place tying score of 9.850. Gaddie finished in third for the Redhawks with a 9.800 followed by Nguyen and Turner who tied with 9.775. Garlotte and senior Alison Ezell (Kansas City, Kan./Alpha Omega) were also tough as they tallied 9.700 and 9.650, respectively.

Blake picked up her third all-around title of the season with a firm 38.650, and Turner barely missed second as she turned in a 38.175.

The Redhawks will now get a small break after their long road trip. They will travel to Chicago, Ill. On Saturday, March 8 as they face the University of Illinois-Chicago. The regular season is winding down for the Redhawks with only two games left. Stay tuned to GoSoutheast.com for all the updates and results as the Redhawks compete to earn a NCAA Regional berth.