Redhawks open season with comfortable win

The Southeast Missouri State gymnastics team opened its season Saturday night with a road victory against the University of Illinois-Chicago.

The Redhawks posted a 190.275 total in the debut of coach Kristi Ewakso. Illinois-Chicago finished at 186.400.

Southeast had first-place finishes in all four events, and senior Rikara Turner and freshman Jordan Salsberg finished one-two in the overall.

Salsberg won the uneven bars (9.625) and vault (9.750), while Brianna Gaddie placed first in the floor exercise (9.75) and tied for first with Turner in the balance beam (9.525).

Southeast had the top three scores in all four events.

Freshman Margaret O'Neal (9.60) placed second in uneven bars and Turner (9.55) was third.

Gaddie (9.725) took second in the vault while Turner and senior Amber Garlotte tied for third (9.675).

Salsberg (9.625) was second in the floor and Turner (9.60) was third.

Southeast's Sarah Brillhart (9.50) was third in the beam.

The Redhawks return to action Friday at Illinois State.

-- From staff reports