With only one competition under its belt, the NIU women’s gymnastic team has put a smile on the face of head coach Bobbie Cesarek that shows no sign of fading. Then again, neither does the team’s talent.

NIU displayed that talent with a win in its opening meet against host Winona State Saturday. Lori Lebo led the team to victory in three events with a 9.25 on vault, and a 9.4 on the floor and beam. With only eight women on the team, however, Cesarek is quick to give credit to the group as a whole.

“As far as the opening of the season, I was very pleased to have hit the score we did (180.5),” Cesarek said. “It’s a nice point to come from and even five points better than our opening last year. I am extremely proud of all the girls.”

The only problem Cesarek felt needs improvement is the team’s performance on the balance beam.

“We fell on the beam a little more than we should have,” Cesarek said.