Feb. 18, 2009

Story by Matthew C. Worthington, Gymnastics Contact

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO. - No. 25 Southeast Missouri State Redhawks host the Ball State Cardinals on Thursday evening for the annual Outback Steakhouse Invitational. The meet has a start time of 6:00p.m. (CT).

Last week...

Southeast (7-2, 6-0) is coming off an impressive, comeback, win over Illinois State, 194.150-193.775. Senior Rikara Turner (Hastings, Minn./Twin City Twisters) led the Redhawks in winning the all-around crown with a 39.050. Individual event titles went to sophomore Brianna Gaddie (East Grand Forks, Minn./Red River Valley) on floor and vault, and junior Kelley Krengiel (Lemont, Ill./Lemont H.S.) on bars.

Farden's thoughts...

"We are looking forward to a solid home meet," said head coach Tom Farden. "Our team has had a great week of practice and we are optimistic that is will parlay into a good outing. Our next stretch includes two MAC opponents and we are looking forward to meeting them. Ball State has some very capable athletes and some solid scoring threats."

Scouting the Cardinals...

Ball State is coming off a 191.900-193.325 loss at Eastern Michigan on Sunday afternoon. Despite the loss, Ball State is on the upswing after a slow start to the season.

The Cardinals are led by fifth-year senior Teresa Phipps, who tied for first on the balance beam (9.750) and tied for first in the floor (9.800) in the Cardinals meet Sunday at Eastern Michigan. Phipps has finished first or tied for first seven times this season.

Video Streaming...

Friday's meet can be watched, live, via WebCast on www.kfvs12.com. The video will also be archived on the site to view at your convenience.

Outback Steakhouse Luncheon...

Tickets are going fast for the Outback Steakhouse Luncheon. Be sure and pick up your tickets before they run out. Tickets will be on sale at the ticket stand during the game, or you can buy directly from the coaching staff or a Redhawk gymnast. The luncheon is Saturday, Feb. 21, from 11:00a.m.-1:00p.m. Tickets are $20 each or 2 for $30.