CRUNCH TIME AT SHOW ME CENTER

Southeast Missouri State University's gymnastics team will be near full strength tonight as the Otahkians defend their title in the sixth annual Cap'n Crunch Invitational.

The Otahkians will square off against Illinois, Bowling Green, Yale and Alaska-Anchorage in the 7 o'clock meet at the Show Me Center.

Southeast will enter the meet with an overall record of 5-4 after posting its first victory of the young season at Iowa last weekend.

Co-captain Rebekah Brajcki and touted freshman Megan Owen are expected to return from minor knee injuries, which should boost the Otahkians, said coach Bill Hopkins.

"We want to continue to build on what we've been doing during the past two good meets in a row and we are getting healthier as a team," Hopkins said. "Obviously, the Cap'n Crunch is always a big meet for us and a chance for us to perform well in front of the home town audience.

"The traditional large and vocal crowds that we get for the Crunch are a big boost to our gymnasts. The fans have a very positive effect on our performances."

Southeast boasts an extremely balanced lineup. Hopkins has 20 gymnasts to choose from and a number of freshmen have made an impact.

Sophomore Erin Chenier continues to shine for the Otahkians. She recently set the school record for all-around score during a home meet that saw Nebraska finish first and Southeast second.

Freshman Malia Roberts has been one of the Otahkians' leaders as she has consistently challenged Chenier for the all-around title at each meet.

Other freshmen who have made an impact are Jen Wall and Ericka Harrison.

The newcomers have been receiving guidance from a number of seasoned veterans, including senior Kate Farrington, who will compete in her final Cap'n Crunch Invitational. She said she wants tonight's meet to be a memorable performance.

"As a senior, in my final Cap'n Crunch, I want to hit on all of my routines and have a very good meet as a team," said Farrington. "I am confident that we are very capable of hitting on all our routines.

Said junior Kristin Frohlich, "Cap'n Crunch is a big meet for us every year. We always get a big crowd and the team wants to perform really well for the fans."