Prospect finds strength in numbers
Prospect has had its share of obstacles to overcome this season. The Knights had to overcome injuries to two gymnasts, Giana Scala and Meggie Kania, and also dealt with growing pains of two freshmen in the varsity lineup.
But Prospect did have Lauren Johnson, and the Knights senior was the glue that kept the team together through its trials.
Johnson once again stuck on Monday, taking first in the all-around (36.35) leading Prospect to first at the Mid-Suburban League quad meet at Rolling Meadows with 141.4 points.
The victory also sealed the MSL East division title for Prospect.
Conant took second with 138.9 points, followed by Elk Grove (129.15), and host Rolling Meadows (125.1).
“She knew she had to step up,” said Prospect coach Randy Smith of the Johnson’s leadership. “It’s also she’s a senior, and it’s like ‘This is all I got.’ I think she has become a different competitor.”
Johnson took first on bars (9.0) and beam (9.3) and tied for third on the vault (9.3).
“I worked really hard during the off-season, and I’d figure I’d just go for it,” said Johnson. “But I think everyone has stepped up for us. It has been a team effort.”
Scala continues to work herself back into shape and added a first place on vault (9.5). She tied for second on beam (8.95), took third on floor (9.2) and second in the all-around (36.15).
Prospect’s freshmen are also hitting. Maddie Larock took second on bars (8.9) and also scored on floor (9.15).
“I’m getting a lot more used to the competition,” said Larock. “I think we’ve stuck together as a team, and we’re all improving.”
Meicie Bennett helped lead the way for Conant. The sophomore tied for second on floor (9.3) and also tied for third in the all-around (36.0) and vault (9.3).
“Gymnastics is all about confidence,” said Bennett. “I’ve just believed in myself and that has helped me stick my routines.”
Sophomore Bri Bibel was limited to two events but tied for second on beam (8.95). Sophomore Rachel Tong tied for second on bars (8.9) for the Cougars.
Sophomore Amelia Rafferty started off on fire, taking first on floor (9.45) and adding a second-place finish on vault (9.4) for Elk Grove. She then just missed hitting her Geinger on the bars in taking third in the all-around (36.0).
“I’m feeling really good,” said Rafferty. “I have been much more consistent this season.”
Sophomore Rachel Andersen helped pace host Rolling Meadows by hitting big on floor (9.1) and beam (8.8).