Score of 196.025 moves team closer to regionals

The Kent State gymnastics team beat Southeast Missouri State 196.025-194.075 tonight at the M.A.C. Center, helping to move the team closer to regionals.

“We accomplished another 196, which was our goal,” sophomore Christine Abou-Mitri said. “We came together as a team and just built one after another, so I’m really proud of everyone.”

The women dominated the meet, placing first on each event. Vault began the meet, with sophomore Christina Lenny taking second with a score of 9.850 and junior Lydia Barrett winning the title with a score of 9.925.

Abou-Mitri won bars with a score of 9.80, with seniors Laci Hendress and Stacey Kalberg tying for second at 9.775.

At the end of the second rotation, Kent State was leading 98-97.350.

The Kent State coaches said they finally saw the beam set they have been waiting for all season during the third rotation. The Flashes’ 48.675 was enough to defeat Southeast Missouri’s score of 48.125.

The team finished on a high note, with Barrett, Hendress and senior Rachel Stuck tying for first place on floor with a score of 9.900.

Abou-Mitri won the all-around title, and Kent State’s victory marked the 150th win in coach Brice Biggin’s career.

Contact sports reporter Pamela Crimbchin at [email protected].