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Gymnasts close out year at state |
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Wednesday, 27 February 2008 |
Glen Strandberg
Sports Editor
“We had an exciting trip to state. It was great to have three girls qualify, and that two were seniors was really a great culmination to their season.”
Those are the words of Forest Lake head coach Nancy Ellias after three of her gymnasts — Maddie Crew, Chelsie Uram and Taylor Brett (pictured at right in that order) — took part in last weekend’s state meet.
Ellias noted how the intensity of big competitions can make athletes rather nervous, but she didn’t sense her trio was having any issues.
“They had very good warm-ups, and the actual meet went pretty well,” she said.
Brett earned a personal best on the vault, which gave her sixth place in state.
Despite exceptional preparation on the balance beam, both Brett and Crew couldn’t move up the final standings.
Especially with Crew’s score, Ellias was puzzled with the low number. An inquiry can bring a penalty, so Ellias chose to keep quiet and let her girls move on to the floor exercise.
“Taylor had a good routine on floor and scored a 9.175,” Ellias explained.
“Maddie was the last performer, on the final event, so of course everyone was watching. She is such a dynamic performer, and unfortunately did not get to finish her routine.”
On Crew’s first pass, she did a “double back,” but did not land correctly and jammed her ankles. As Ellias said, her senior co-captain was unable to complete the routine, which brought about a frustrating conclusion to her high school career.
“All three girls had terrific seasons and I am so proud they made it to state,” Ellias shared. “It is quite a memorable experience; something they will treasure and remember forever.”
Notable Results
All-Around
14. Taylor Brett 36.750
30. Maddie Crew 30.925
Vault
6. Brett 9.587
27. Chelsea Uram 9.150
Uneven Bars
15. Brett 9.400
Balance Beam
27. Brett 8.575
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