The BG gymnastics team, after starting the season off with two consecutive losses, got their first win to open Mid-American Conference play as they defeated the reigning conference champs in Western Michigan 192.825 to 191.450.
“It is definitely a confidence builder for us,” said Coach Kerrie Turner. “Western tied for the MAC championship last year so going in knowing that they are a strong program and being able to get that win early on, especially in our first MAC meet, is really important to us.”
Coming into this matchup, the Falcons had to play better to avoid a third straight loss of the season and that is exactly what they did. They improved in the area they struggled with most last week, the balance beam, posting a 48.075, which is 2.175 points better than last week.
“It is hard to start on balance beam,” said Turner. “They struggled there but they were really prepared, so we really did discuss after the meet the fact there is not really a reason to get so nervous about balance beam.
The Falcons entering into this competition seemed focused on improvement. Improving upon their performance from last week in balance beam and overall score, along with Lauren Feely, Megan Harrington, Gina Locigno, and Alyssa Nocella posting better scores, compared to last week, as all-around athletes.
“I think overall we were really excited to go back to the MAC and have a good meet and build off our first meet from Ohio State,” said Alyssa Nocella. “We really worked during that week to build up confidence and be excited to know that we were going to do good this weekend.”
With that in mind, the Falcons as a team took the stage and competed well with everyone contributing and doing their part.
“I definitely feel confident in all of my teammates. Last year we only lost a few routines from last year so we have a great team coming into this year, most of whom are experienced,” said Megan Harrington.
The Falcons next meet will be on Jan. 25 in Anderson Arena at 4 p.m. where they will take on Eastern Michigan, who is currently winless of the season.
