May 15, 2003

Chicago, Ill. - Carmichael's restaurant in downtown Chicago was the scene for the traditional postseason banquet for the UIC women's gymnastics team on Saturday, May 10.

Following a record setting ledger, in which the Flames established a new school record of 196.800 and qualified for the NCAA Regional, there was much to celebrate.

Co-head coaches Peter and Mary Jansson honored senior Atlin Mitchell who enjoyed a fabulous career with the Flames. She once held the school record on vault, and was a key component on three NCAA Regional teams. Mitchell graduated in Criminal Justice as a Scholastic All-American and on the Dean's List.

The Most Consistent Beam Award went to Shannon O'Brien and Stacey Magiera, who anchored the Flames beam team all season long.

The Most Improved Gymnast Award was shared by Jennifer O'Neil and Holly Bruhn.

The Most Valuable Gymnast Award was given to Alyson Cacciatore and Veronique Meunier.

Each of the award winners competed as underclassmen in 2003, which bodes well for the future of the women's gymnastics program at UIC.

Also recognized was volunteer assistant coach, Randy Darlin, for his energy and commitment to the program.

Former UIC standout gymnasts Laura Jungels and Cheryl Rubinger were also honored or their creation and ability to sustain the UIC Spirit Club for the gymnastics team, supporting the squad at home and on the road with tons of enthusiasm.

The 2003 edition of the Flames finished as Illinois Classic and Midwest Independent Conference Champions, and the bars team finished 15th in the nation.

Individual school records were either set or equaled on three events in 2003. Here is a list of UIC's school records:

Vault: 9.925, Veronique Meunier ('03), Alyson Cacciatore ('03)

Uneven Bars: 9.950, Emily McKee ('97), Alyson Cacciatore ('03)

Beam: 9.950, Laura Jungels ('01)

Floor: 9.950, Jackie Jaworowicz ('03), Emily McKee ('95)

All-Around: 39.55, Alyson Cacciatore (03)