Feb. 3, 2009

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - University of Maryland gymnast Abbey Adams has been named East Atlantic Gymnastics League (EAGL) Specialist of the Week following her contributions to the Terrapins' impressive victory in Saturday's quad-meet.

Adams tied for first on uneven bars (9.850), tied for second on floor exercise (9.900) and tied for fourth on vault (9.800), as the Terps posted their best team score (194.475) in nearly two years to defeat EAGL opponents then-No.19 West Virginia, George Washington and Rutgers Saturday evening in the WVU Coliseum. Her scores on bars and floor represent career highs, while her performance on vault tied her career-best mark.

A sophomore from Spring, Texas, Adams is enjoying a breakout season, having claimed five individual victories through the team's first four meets. She currently ranks tied for fourth in the EAGL on floor exercise (9.812 average) and eighth on all-around (38.383 average).

"Abby has made tremendous strides this season and has developed into a strong performer week-in and week-out for our team," head coach Bob Nelligan said. "This recognition from the EAGL is certainly well-deserved in her case."

The EAGL honor represents the first of Adams' career and the first by a Terrapin gymnast since junior Michele Brenner garnered Specialist of the Week honors last season for the week ending March 15.

Maryland (6-1) has beaten its last five opponents and is off to its best start since reeling off six straight victories to start the 1999 season. The Terrapins boast the second best record in the EAGL and rank fifth in the league in overall team average (192.725). They have accumulated consecutive team scores greater than 194 for the first time since February 2007.

Adams and the rest of the Terps return to action at 6 p.m. Saturday when they travel to Raleigh, N.C., to participate in the Governor's Cup. The 14th annual cup will pit Maryland against state rival Towson, as well as EAGL foes New Hampshire, NC State and North Carolina.