Dec. 9, 2009

DEKALB, Ill. - Northern Illinois University gymnastics coach Mark Sontag on Monday announced the signing of USA Level 10 gymnasts Kim Gotlund (Wadsworth, Ill./Warren Township HS) and Elizabeth Huffman (Dunlap, Ill./Dunlap HS) to the Huskie team for 2010.

Gotlund, a native of Wadsworth, Ill., was a three-year varsity letterwinner at Warren Township High School. She competed at the USA Gymnastics Level 10 for four years and is a four-time USAG State and Regional qualifier. Gotlund was named the Pioneer Press Gymnast of the Year in 2008. She trained at the American Academy of Gymnastics Club gym in Wheeling, Illinois.

"In the early signing period, we are looking for all-around gymnasts who can make an impact in all four events. We want them to move right in and contribute with skills at the levels we are looking for in our team," Sontag said.

Dunlap's Huffman has competed at Level 10 for the past two seasons for Gym Corner Gymnastics Club and has also trained at the River City Gymnastics Club during her gymnastics career. An excellent student, Huffman is a member of the Honor Roll and National Honor Society.

"Both of these women are excellent fits for our program. We look for academic ability and work ethic along with a high level of athletic ability and they bring those qualities. We're excited to add them to our program for next year," Sontag said.

Northern Illinois opens its 2010 gymnastics schedule on Sunday, Jan. 10 with a home meet versus Wisconsin-La Crosse at the Convocation Center beginning at 2 p.m (CST). The Huskies return 14 gymnasts from a team that placed third at the 2009 Mid-American Conference Championships and sent two individuals to the NCAA South Central Regional, including last year's MAC Gymnast of the Year, Holly Reichard.