Julia Abel Director of Gymnastics Operations | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Julia Abel Director of Gymnastics Operations | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Illinois gymnasts Tate Costa and Alex Diab are preparing to compete in the Men's Gymnastics Olympic Trials, which start on Thursday, June 27 at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The trials will determine five spots on the Olympic roster. Both athletes earned their places at the trials following impressive performances at the Xfinity U.S. Championships earlier this month.
The University of Illinois has a history of sending gymnasts to the Olympics, with seven alumni having competed in previous games. Notably, Justin Spring was part of Team USA that won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Tate Costa participated in the all-around competition at the Xfinity U.S. Championships and finished 25th overall. His strongest performance was on vault with scores of 13.425 and 13.400.
"This is an experience of a lifetime for Tate," said head coach Daniel Ribeiro. "He earned his spot and is ready to hit some routines."
Alex Diab focused on still rings during the championships and secured his third title with a combined score of 29.450.
"Alex became the greatest ringman in Illinois history, and now he is number one in the country," Ribeiro commented.
The Olympic Trials will be broadcasted live through various platforms including USA/Peacock/NBCOlympics.com for Day 1 and NBC/Peacock/NBCOlympics.com for Day 2.
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