Bowling Green State University Athletics
Falcons Place Fourth At MAC Championships
March 19, 2004 | Gymnastics
March 19, 2004
MOUNT PLESANT, Mich. -
With a score of 194.650 the Bowling Green State University gymnastics team placed fourth at the 2004 Mid-American Conference Championships hosted by Central Michigan, inside Rose Arena. The Host Chippewas captured the MAC crown with a meet record 197.525, followed by Kent State, 196.850 and Eastern Michigan, 195.550.
The MAC Gymnast of the Year Melissa Popovich had arguably one of her best performances of her career, with a third place finish of 39.450 in the all-around. She posted scores of 9.775 (beam), 9.9 (floor), 9.9 (bars) and 9.875 (vault).
The Falcons had several other top finishes in the MAC meet. Breanne Metzger posted a 9.8 on the balance beam to lead all Falcons. Kristin DiPietro and Jillian Stranges both posted scores of 9.75 to round out the top four Falcons on the beam.
On the floor exercise Popovich was joined by senior co-captain Pia Sjovall with a 9.9 to tie for fifth place. DiPietro finished directly behind the duo with a 9.875.
Popovich placed second on the uneven bars with a sparkling 9.9. Junior Kari Elste posted a 9.825 as well.
The vault provided several top performances such as a 9.875 by Popovich, a 9.775 by Metzger and a 9.675 by DiPietro.
2004 MAC Championship Results
1. Central Michigan - 197.525 2. Kent State - 196.850 3. Eastern Michigan - 195.550 4. Bowling Green - 194.650 5. Northern Illinois - 194.600 6. Western Michigan - 194.025 7. Ball State - 193.525
