University of Minnesota Athletics
2012 Gymnastics Preview: Balance Beam
1/3/2012 12:00:00 AM | Gymnastics
Jan. 3, 2012
In this four-part series, GopherSports.com will be previewing the 2012 women's gymnastics season event-by-event. Accompanying each preview will be a video which features head coach Meg Stephenson analyzing one Gopher gymnast's routine along with explaining what judges look for in that specific event. The third preview will focus on the balance beam.
With the 2012 season near, the University of Minnesota women's gymnastics knows one thing heading into the season, which is that they are deep on balance beam. Even with graduating a trio of gymnasts on the beam, head coach Meg Stephenson returns the top two average beam routines from last season.
"We have more depth on beam than any other event," said head coach Meg Stephenson. "It is great to have that competition because that is what makes our team good."
The Gophers' top returners this season are junior Shannon Golich and sophomore Dusti Russell. Both gymnasts claimed a pair of titles on beam while each also earned a season and career high score of 9.900 last spring.
"Both Shannon and Dusti competed consistently last year for us, and each of them have made upgrades on their routines. We look for both of them to have a big year on beam"
Stephenson also looks toward senior Amber Hammerschmidt for her experience in the event. The Rosemount, Minn. native competed on beam in all but two meets last season.
"Amber was also a regular performer for us last season. We have added a big dismount to her routine, and that will bring some added excitement."
Hammerschmidt's experience will be backed up by fellow seniors Briana Jones and Lucy Ennis. Even though neither of them saw much time on the beam last season, Stephenson still feels they are an integral part of the group.
"We are excited to have Bri and Lucy in the mix this year since neither one of them saw much time on beam last season. Both of them bring great leadership and confidence to the event, which you always like to have come from your seniors."
Stephenson also mentioned the progress junior Janell Campbell and sophomore Kayla Slechta have made over the summer and hopes that each will contribute throughout the season.
Last but not least, are freshmen Cierra Tomson and Kylie Schermann. The Gophers hope these two freshmen can step in right away and contribute on beam.
"Cierra and Kylie are both very solid on the beam. Cierra is really good on the beam, and we look for her to be a good all around competitor for us. As for Kylie, I feel this is her best event, and we look for her to definitely contribute this year."
Check back later this week for the final preview, which will be on floor exercise.
Players Mentioned
