Ball State University Athletics
Gymnastics Inks Two Athletes To NLI's For 2016-17
November 18, 2015 | Gymnastics
MUNCIE, Ind. - Ball State gymnastics third-year head coach Joanna Saleem announced the signing of two athletes to national letters of intent during the early signing period.
Brianna Slonim (Verona, Wis. / Verona Area High School) and Madeline Macdonald (Oley, Penn. / Oley Valley High School) will join the Ball State gymnastics team, starting in the 2016-17 season.
"I am very pleased with our 2016-2017 recruiting class, and can not wait to have them on campus," Saleem said. "We are bringing in some top quality young ladies to our program. Both Brianna and Madeline will add depth to our gymnastics team on all four events."
Slonim, an all-around gymnast from Gymfinity Gymnastics, earned numerous state and regional titles in 2010 and 2013. She was named vault, floor, and all-around state champion in 2010. In 2013 she obtained the vault, balance beam, and all-around state champion title. In 2013, she also qualified for the regional competition, where she was named the vault regional champion.
"Bri is high achieving in the classroom as well as the gym," Saleem said. "She understands the hard work needed to be successful. She is determined to achieve more in every aspect of her life. She is going to fit perfectly with my coaching philosophy. Bri is a very dynamic vaulter and her high level beam routine will be exciting to watch."
Macdonald, an all-around gymnast from Berks Gymnastics Academy, showcased her talent on the vault by earning state championship awards from 2013 through 2015. She also qualified for regional and national competitions all three seasons.
"Maddie is a great student and is solid on all four events. She will be particularly fun to watch on vault and floor. She is an extremely hard working gymnast that has experience competing at level 10 and at JO Nationals. She understands the training process and is willing to work through adversity to achieve her goals. She will bring calm confidence and unmatchable work ethic to team. I am looking forward to her achievements as a Cardinal!"
