Temple University Athletics
Women's Gymnastics Team Heads North, Finishes Second at Alaska-Anchorage
2.21.09 | Women's Gymnastics
Feb. 21, 2009
ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Traveling to Alaska for the first time in Temple's gymnastics history, the Owls were narrowly edged by home-standing Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves 190.75-189.650 on Friday night.
Freshman Corrine Williams was the Owls' top performer of the day, earning second place finishes on floor (9.775) and balance beam (9.775), and third on floor (9.750). Sophomore Katie Canning finished second on floor with a score of 9.750.
The meet started out with some rough falls on the uneven bars, but with senior Nikki Berrian's high-flying geinger and giant full double back dismount the Owls were able to pull in a strong finish. Berrian placed third with a solid 9.6.
On vault, the Owls showed more promise with five out of the six competitors hitting their vaults. Senior Natasha Crawford and Williams stuck their vaults, determined to fight back from their earlier mistakes.
Floor exercise proved to be the best event for the Owls, with a total event score of a 48.20. Canning ended the floor exercise with a powerhouse double pike to earn her a second place finish with a score of a 9.75. Senior Winter Sneed showed off her charisma by dancing her way to a third place tie with Williams.
The Owls ended the competition on the balance beam where they truly showed their determination to finish out the competition on a good note. Sophomore Kathryn Ho hit a beautiful routine with only slight wobbles to earn her a 9.525.
Williams hit an outstanding routine to earn her a 9.775 and a second place finish.
The Owls will look to turn the tables when the two teams meet again on Sunday afternoon for a rematch. Action is slated to begin at 2:00 p.m. ET.
