Jan. 2, 2001

For Immediate Release

Columbia, Mo.- The University of Missouri Women's Gymnastics squad appeared in the "other teams receiving votes" category of the pre-season 2001 GymInfo coaches poll on Monday. The Tigers begin the season with the No. 32 ranking in the land as they travel to Muncie, Indiana on Sunday to take on the Ball State Cardinals. The Cardinals also appeared in the "receiving votes" category with the Tigers. Coach Rob Drass said that the squad is excited to be where they are and will turn some heads as the season progresses.

"I think this is a good starting point for us," Drass said. "As our experience level increases, I think our ranking will improve. We have a lot of great potential and as our freshmen and sophomores prove themselves, we'll begin to turn some heads."

The Tigers truly do have one of the most brutal schedules in the nation as nine of their 10 2001 opponents also appeared in the pre-season poll. The highest-ranking Tiger opponent is No. 6 in the GymInfo coaches poll and defending NCAA Region 3 Champion Nebraska. The Huskers will visit the Hearnes Center on Jan. 28 for the AT&T Cable Classic. Drass said that the competition for Mizzou will be fierce, but it is necessary to grow into one of the top teams in the nation.

"The people of Columbia should definitely be entertained when they come out and watch our team," Drass said. "These opponents will provide good tests for our kids and will prepare them for regional and national competition."