Without a doubt, this less-than-average-height NIU boss is standing taller than any other gymnastic coach in the country.

But what NIU’s 5-foot gymnastics coach Bobbie Cesarek lacks in stature, she makes up for in enthusiasm and gymnastic knowhow.

That knowhow has been put to good use this season. The undefeated Huskies (10-0) have remained consistently strong on and off the road.

After 14 years of NIU coaching, Cesarek is understandably optimistic about the season underhand.

“This is certainly our best season in terms of scores and records,” Cesarek said. “The extent of talent we (NIU) have in the gym is incredible and the season has only just begun.”

Cesarek herself did not begin competing gymnastically until she reached college-level competition. High schools had not yet implemented many women’s sports programs at the time and according to Cesarek, her height did not provide her with the best advantage for those that were offered.

“I got into dance which really taught me to recognize the beauty of gymnastics and movement,” Cesarek said. “There were no private gyms or YMCA’s and schools did not know a lot about gymnastics. Basketball was certainly not an option for me.”

Only when Cesarek attended Plymouth State College in New Hampshire did she begin competing in gymnastics. From there Cesarek became involved for three summers with the state’s first gymnastic camp ever offered.

Her experience eventually led Cesarek to NIU when she was offered a teaching and coaching opportunity that now requires a minimum 12-hour workday in the gym. Add to that a husband and a five-year-old daughter with gymnastic hopes of her own and Cesarek has little time to herself.

If the truth be known, Cesarek escapes to the golf course as soon as the season lets up.

“I play golf as soon as the season is over. It gives me a needed break from the gym and a chance to get away,” Cesarek said. “After nine months of intense training and those 12-hour days, I need a summer away so I come back excited about the new season in the fall.”

But at the pace the NIU gymnastic team is going, this season’s excitement might just be enough for a lifetime.