Southeast Missouri State roundup: Gymnastcs coach Ewasko fills out her staff

Southeast Missouri State gymnastics coach Kristi Ewasko filled out her staff with one of the most successful gymnasts in University of Missouri history.

Sarah Shire has been hired as the Redhawks' assistant coach. She will serve as the program's recruiting coordinator and beam coach.

Shire spent last season as MU's director of operations. Her primary duties included coordinating team travel and recruiting assistance. She also served as a career coach, summer camp coordinator and sport psychology intern.

"Sarah will add experience and enthusiasm to our program," Ewasko said in a statement. "She was a very successful gymnast, and I know that she will do exceptional work in the coaching arena as well. I am extremely excited for Sarah to join the staff."

Shire was a four-time All-American in only three seasons at perennial power MU. She was named Big 12 Conference newcomer of the year in 2008, Big 12 gymnast of the year in 2009 and 2010 and South Central Regional gymnast of the year in 2009 and 2010. Shire was a member of the U.S. National Team from 2002 through 2005 before competing in college.

Shire also is involved heavily in the club gymnastics scene. She has served as a coach and choreographer for Flipz USA since 2006. She has instructed children of all ages on fundamental and advanced skills and coordinated workout plans on all four events.

Softball renovations

Renovations to the Southeast Softball Complex are under way.

Southeast athletics is partnering with the university's facilities management department on the $67,000 effort. The project includes a new infield and re-sodding the outfield to provide better drainage.

The Florissant Sod Company, which is located in O'Fallon, Mo., is providing the installation and irrigation.

Renovations will be completed before the start of the 2013 season.

"Our infield has a completely new surface, and the quality of the surface will significantly benefit our student-athletes' safety in practice and games," Southeast coach Lana Richmond said in a statement. "The outfield grass is a premium Bermuda sod, and it will give us an exceptional turf. The field looks great and our players will be eager to start fall practice on the new surface."

Softball signings

The Southeast softball program recently added two infielders to its recruiting class when Savannah Carpenter and Elysia Mesa signed to play for the Redhawks.

Carpenter, who is from Newbury Park, Calif., batted over .400 in each of her seasons at Oaks Christian High School. The three-year starter who played both third base and catcher hit a career-best .467 with four home runs and 29 RBIs as a senior.

"Savannah is a power hitter with a good presence at the plate," Richmond said in a statement. "I am impressed with her versatility."

Mesa, who is from Gilbert, Ariz., was a four-year starter at Gilbert High School. She played shortstop, second base and third base. She hit .347 with two home runs and 37 RBIs as a senior.

"Elysia plays a very good middle infield. She has good range and a strong arm," Richmond said in a statement.

-- From staff reports