Air Force Academy
NCAA National Qualifier
Air Force Men At NCAA Championships
4/14/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Gymnastics
April 14, 2003
The Air Force men's gymnastics team advanced two gymnasts onto the second day of competition of the NCAA Gymnastics Championships. Junior Jeff Andersen moved forward on floor exercise (second) and nearly advanced in the all-around (fourth). Senior team captain Aaron Jackson advanced on vault (third) from the evening session on Friday.
"Our gymnasts did an excellent job and we were very proud with the way they competed," said Falcons director of gymnastics Lou Burkel.
The top-three teams, all-around competitors and event individuals from each session qualified to compete on day two. Teams that advanced were Oklahoma, Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan, Illinois and Iowa.
The University of Oklahoma's Daniel Furney won the Nissen-Emery Award given to the best senior gymnast. Air Force's Jackson was one of eight finalists for the award.
Andersen and Jackson competed in the second round of the NCAA Gymnastics Championships on Saturday.
"Andersen scored an 8.90 on floor exercise with one of his best routines of the year, and Aaron scored 8.90 on vault with a very good handspring double front," said Burkel. "Neither advanced to the finals, but both had a very good competition."
Furney won the all-around championship, and led the University of Oklahoma to its second consecutive NCAA team championship.
"We have three days to prepare for the USAG Collegiate Championships in Denton, Texas, on April 18-19. We hope to see you there!"
