Rutgers University
North Carolina
Gymnastics Tops North Carolina
Feb 26 | Women's Gymnastics
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - Rutgers gymnastics scored best on floor exercise on the way to topping former EAGL rival North Carolina, 193.550-191.225, Friday inside Carmichael Arena. It marked the sixth victory over the past four meets for the Scarlet Knights (7-7) and the first win in program history over the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill.
"We did a good job coming back after struggling on our first event," head coach Louis Levine said. "It is always great to come away with a victory on the road."
Fifth-year senior Emma Hoffman (Union, N.J.) notched a 9.825 on floor exercise to guide the squad to a 48.750 in the event. Finishing right behind, freshman Riahanah Ali (Ann Arbor, Mich.) continued her consistency with her third-straight 9.800 routine and fourth in fifth meets. Also putting up a strong performance, senior Katie Stebick (Waterford, Pa.) recorded a 9.725, while junior Charly Santagado (Celebration, Fla.) and sophomore Libby Groden (Abbottstown, Pa.) each contributed a 9.700 to round out the five counted scores.
Rutgers then wrapped up the evening on balance beam, registering a 48.550. Senior Jenna Williams (Bordentown, N.J.) reached a season best at 9.800 to place second overall in the meet. Senior Claudia Salinas (Allendale, N.J.) and junior Claire Jones (Gaffney, S.C.) tied at 9.775, with Groden at 9.750.
RU started the night on uneven bars and posted a 47.675. Sophomore Makenzey Shank (Phoenix, Ariz.) led the way with a 9.750 as the anchor, while Hoffman posted a 9.725 to reach at least 9.700 for the seventh time in eight attempts this season.
Moving over to vault in the second rotation, Ali led all competitors with a 9.750 to pace the Scarlet Knights to a 48.575 team mark. Senior Nicolette Wilson (Toms River, N.J.) and freshman Michelle Amoresano (Whippany, N.J.) followed closely behind to tie for second at 9.725, as Hoffman notched a 9.700.
Rutgers will next head north to compete in a Sunday quad meet at No. 20 George Washington in Washington D.C. The 1 p.m. meet will also include Maryland and Towson.
Follow Rutgers Athletics on Facebook and Twitter (@RUAthletics) for all of the latest news and updates. For specific updates regarding women's gymnastics, follow the program on Twitter (@RUGymnastics), Facebook (/RUGymnastics) and Instagram (@rutgersgymnastics).
Players Mentioned
