University of North Carolina Athletics
Tar Heels Sign Three Gymnasts to 2010-2011 Squad
November 19, 2009 | Women's Gymnastics
Nov. 19, 2009
The University of North Carolina gymnastics program announced the signing of three letters of intent on Wednesday. Kristin Aloi of Winston-Salem, N.C., Emily Cornwell, of Bloomington, Ind., and Acacia Cosentino, of Liberty Township, Ohio will join the team for the 2010-2011 academic year.
"We are thrilled that Kristin, Emily, and Acacia have decided to join us here at Carolina," Coach Derek Galvin said. "During the recruiting process it was evident that each of these young ladies was seeking a college experience that provided a balance of exceptional academic resources and an outstanding athletic program."
Kristin Aloi is one of the top gymnasts in North Carolina and an excellent student. She will continue the tradition of academic and athletic success in the Tar Heels' gymnastics program. She attends Mount Tabor High School in Winston-Salem. Aloi trains at High Point Gymnastics in High Point, NC where she is coached by Rob Travers, Buddy Thorburn and Jenna Squires. A USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Nationals qualifier, Aloi placed fourth on balance beam and 17th in the All-Around at the 2009 Junior Olympic Level 10 National Championships.
"Kristin's rapid improvement in the past year and a half is the result of her determined effort and commitment to the pursuit of her goals as a Junior Olympic Level 10 gymnast," said Galvin.
Emily Cornwell trains under the guidance of Michelle Hart and Casey Wright at Wright's Gymnastics Academy in Greenwood, Ind. Also an outstanding student, Cornwell attends Bloomington High School South in Bloomington, Ind. A 2008 and 2009 USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Nationals qualifier, she placed fifth on balance beam and 11th on floor exercise at the 2009 National Championships. Prior to the National Championships, Cornwell placed second in the all-around and finished in the top 4 on each event at the 2009 Region 5 Championships. She is a former club teammate with freshman Carolina gymnast Meredith Magjuka.
"Emily's enthusiasm and personality will add a special dose of energy to the team experience," said Galvin.
Acacia Cosentino attends Lakota West High School in West Chester, Ohio. An outstanding student as well as a very talented gymnast, Acacia receives her gymnastics training at Mary Lee Tracy's Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy. Acacia's primary coaches are Enrique Trabanino and Betsy McNally. A USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Nationals qualifier, Acacia was the 2009 Region 5 balance beam champion.
"I believe Acacia's grace and elegance as a performer, especially on balance beam and floor exercise , will serve her very well as a collegiate competitor," said Galvin.
"The commitment and self-discipline that Kristin, Emily, and Acacia have developed and displayed in their academic and gymnastics pursuits thus far will serve them well during their college careers," Galvin said. "I believe they will each be a wonderful addition to our campus community, as well as to our gymnastics program."
Players Mentioned
