Jan. 8, 2012

Complete Results

MORGANTOWN, W. Va. - The Maryland gymnastics team scored an all-time high 194.225 points at WVU Coliseum Sunday afternoon to open the 2012 season. The Terps placed third behind No. 13 Penn State (195.775) and West Virginia (195.100).

"I thought this was a great season opener for us," said head coach Brett Nelligan. "Although we didn't come away with the win, it's one of our highest season-opening scores."

Junior Ally Krikorian and sophomore Katy Dodds set career highs on the balance beam and the floor, respectively, to lead the Terps. Krikorian scored a 9.750 on the beam to beat her previous best of 9.725. Dodds totaled a 9.850 to finish third in the event.

"Katy [Dodds] and Ally [Krikorian] were very impressive today," said Nelligan. "They were dominant and forceful on their respective events."

Four Terps made their collegiate debuts at the tri-meet. Sophomore Karen Tang won on the bars with a 9.850, while sophomore Jessie Black finished tied for ninth with a 9.725. Freshman Stephanie Giameo tied for ninth on the beam and Emily Heller debuted on the vault.

"Steph [Giameo] and Karen [Tang] did exceptionally well for their first time in collegiate competition," said Nelligan. "They both have a bright future ahead of them."

The Terps began the meet on the beam. Maryland totaled 48.300 points lead by Krikorian and Giameo who both placed in the top-10.

Dodds and Krikorian placed in the top-5 on the floor as the Terps tallied 48.500 points before scoring 48.625 on the vault. The Terps placed two gymnasts in the top-3 as Dodds and Krikorian tied for third with a score of 9.850.

Maryland closed the meet with Tang taking the gold medal on the bars.

"Overall it's a great start," said Nelligan. "There is plenty of room to improve, but the basics are all there. We have a team that knows how to compete and fight hard and for this early in the season that's a great sign."

Maryland will open its home schedule against EAGL-foe Pittsburgh Friday at 7 p.m.