BYU Gymnastics Opens Season at Kentucky

PROVO -- The BYU women's gymnastics team opens its season Friday against the University of Kentucky Wildcats in Lexington, Ky., at 7:30 p.m.

"The first meet is always a good indicator for the season," said BYU coach Brad Cattermole, whose team qualified for NCAA Regionals ranking 20th nationally last season. "This early in the season I'm pleased, recognizing we still have a long way to go."

Balancing fresh faces and familiar favorites, the team is a tight combination of talent and experience. Coach Cattermole said the team's strengths lie in beam and vault work.

The Cougars are led for the second year by co-captain seniors Trisha Ashton and Brogan Jacobsen. Jacobsen scored a perfect 10.0 on floor last season. Also returning is senior Kari Lords, who scored a perfect 10.0 on beam.

"The freshman bring the excitement and the experienced gymnasts bring the stability," Cattermole said.

BYU split its season series with Kentucky in 2003. Kentucky beat BYU in January, 194.075-192.475, then BYU turned around and beat Kentucky 196.800-192.475 in February.

"Kentucky's always a tough team," Cattermole said. "Excite Night is their big home invitational and we're excited to attend."

This is Kentucky's second meet of the season after opening with a loss to Ohio State on Sunday, 193.575-192.825.