Fresh off a good performance at the DuPage Valley Conference meet over the weekend, the Wheaton Co-op gymnastics team has high hopes as it gears up for the opening leg of the state series Friday.
The squad will play host to one of the 16 IHSA regionals, which begins at 6:30 p.m. and features one of the stronger teams in the state in DeKalb. Addison Trail, Oak Park and Yorkville will also be present with berths in Wednesday’s Glenbard North sectional on the line.
“DeKalb is a very strong team this year,” said Wheaton coach Maureen Latimer. “Our goal this week is to make a few modifications to our routines to be ready for Friday.
“One of our big goals is to make it as a team to sectionals. We also have the talent to get girls to state if we hit our routines.”
The squad came in second at the DVC meet, posting a score of 139.875, bested only by Glenbard North (141). Individually, Sarah Deicke placed second in the all-around with Emily Cook and Audrey Channon finishing third and fourth respectively.
Deicke was second on the uneven bars and third on the balance beam while Cook was second on floor and third on the vault. Channon came in as the runner-up on the balance beam with Danielle Johnson also placing fifth on the floor.
“Our conference meet went fairly well,” the coach said. “There were really some great routines from all of the schools. I was really excited about our top beam routines. Overall, we had a very nice meet but there is still room for improvement.”
Glen Ellyn, IL —
