Academy cadet invited to gymnastics winter cup challenge

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INDIANAPOLIS (AFNEWS) --  A U.S. Air Force Academy junior was selected to participate in the Winter Cup Challenge this February, USA Gymnastics announced Jan. 10.

Cadet Greg Stine of Houston is just the third academy gymnast in the history of the program to participate at the nationally-recognized meet, which will help determine the U.S. Senior National Team.

"I am thrilled that Greg has been invited to the U.S. Winter nationals," Air Force head coach Kip Simons said. "Greg has set the standard for this team and his qualification signals a new beginning for what our coaching staff has planned for the future of Air Force gymnastics."

Cadet Stine returned to the program this fall, following a two-year absence to complete his Mormon mission in Korea. Cadet Stine was a member of the Falcons' team during the 2003 and 04 seasons, collecting numerous honors.

He recorded two USA Gymnastics national titles in the all-around and pommel horse, and USAG All-American status in five events -- all-around, floor exercise, still rings, vault and high bar.

He is the second all-around competitor from Air Force to compete at the Winter Cup Challenge in the past three years, as former Falcon Jeff Andersen participated at the 2004 meet. In addition, All-American Joel Miller qualified to compete at the 1992 challenge on the still rings.

The Winter Cup Challenge will be divided up into two days, with all competitions being held at the Sports Center Arena in Las Vegas. The preliminary competition takes place Feb. 8. The top athletes from the first day of action will advance to the finals Feb. 10.

"As an Olympian, I know how difficult this competition is," assistant coach and seven-time Winter Cup Challenge participant Brett McClure said. "I am honored Greg qualified and has earned the right to compete in this prestigious competition."

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