Huff Hall | University of Illinois Fighting Illini
Huff Hall | University of Illinois Fighting Illini
Illinois gymnasts achieved a sweep of the Big Ten weekly awards to wrap up the regular season, the conference announced on Tuesday. Preston Ngai received the title of Gymnast of the Week, Brandon Dang was named Specialist of the Week, and Ian Sandoval collected his third honor as Freshman of the Week.
Ngai was instrumental in Illinois' triumph over No. 6 Ohio State, setting two career highs on the still rings (14.050) and high bar (13.750), securing wins in both events. He also posted a 13.750 on the pommel horse, aiding his team in achieving the ranked victory.
Dang, who recently participated in the FIG World Cup in Antalya, Turkey, scored a season-high 15.000 on the pommel horse, winning the event and contributing to the Illini's success. His performance maintained his undefeated status (7-0) for the regular season. This week's award marks Dang's fifth Specialist of the Week honor for this season and the seventh in his career.
Returning from injury, Ian Sandoval made a significant contribution by scoring a career-high 13.700 on the floor during the first rotation, leading the team in the event. He participated in the vault, parallel bars, and high bar lineups, all key in securing their victory.
The Illinois gymnasts are scheduled to compete in the Big Ten Championships in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with competition commencing on April 4 at 6 p.m. CT.
Big Ten Weekly Awards - April 1, 2025
Gymnast of the Week - Preston Ngai, Illinois
Specialist of the Week - Brandon Dang, Illinois
Freshman of the Week - Ian Sandoval, Illinois
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