Jenifer Simbhudas Earns Big Ten Gymnast Of The Week Honor

March 5, 2008

IOWA CITY – University of Iowa women’s gymnastics junior Jenifer Simbhudas has been named Big Ten Gymnast of the Week. The announcement came Wednesday from the Big Ten office. This is Simbhudas’ second Gymnast of the Week honor this season.

Simbhudas receives the honor after a strong performance against Minnesota and Texas Woman’s University last weekend. Placing first in two individual events and the all-around competition, Simbhudas helped lead the Hawkeyes to a 195.900 win over Minnesota.

Against Minnesota, Simbhudas placed first on vault with a season-best 9.875, which is Iowa’s top individual vault score this season. She then took the title on floor with a career-best 9.95 and won the all-around with a career-best 39.45.

Simbhudas led the Hawkeyes to a win over Texas Woman’s University. She placed first on vault (9.825) and in the all-around (38.95). Simbhudas is ranked 20th nationally and third in the Big Ten in all-around rankings.

“Jenifer has done a fantastic job for us this season,” said Iowa Head Coach Larissa Libby. “She has really matured and found a renewed focus. Her leadership on the competitive floor has been a great example for our team. We are very proud that she has dedicated herself to being the best student-athlete that she can be. She truly deserves this honor.”

Iowa is currently ranked 19th nationally and third in the Big Ten with an 8-4-1 record. The Hawkeyes will host Iowa State Friday in the “Pink Meet,” honoring Breast Cancer Awareness. Competition will take place at Carver-Hawkeye Arena at 7 p.m. and is Iowa’s last home meet of 2008.

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