Being just one of two representatives of Penn at the NCAA Northeast Regional gymnastics competition is a difficult task. But for Emily Petkun and Leah Moon having each other made competing just a little bit easier.
It was the first time that the Penn gymnastics program has qualified two gymnasts to the regional competition, which was held at New Hampshire on Saturday night.
Petkun finished 16th out of 21 competitors in the all-around and Moon, competing on balance beam, placed 40th out of 50 gymnasts with a 9.100.
Coach Tom Kovic said that facing high-caliber competition was a positive experience for the pair.
"It was a good meet," he said. "It was a great competition for Leah and Emily to be involved in."
Petkun, who also qualified in 2004, placed five spots ahead of last year's standing. She found that having prior experience at the regional level competition helped her step up her performance at this year's meet.
"I definitely was prepared, not just physically, but also mentally for the meet this year," she said. "I knew how it was going to be run. I knew what to expect."
This meet was Moon's first appearance at the NCAA regional competition.
As one of three captains of this year's squad, Moon was a strong leader and performer throughout the season but decided to focus less on the competition and more on enjoying the overall experience.
"We went in wanting to have a good time," she said. "It was great to see some really amazing gymnastics."
Both Petkun and Moon agreed that the absence of their team from the meet was the hardest thing about competing.
"This meet was difficult because we didn't have our team there cheering us on," Petkun said. "It just means you have to do it for yourself and try much harder to motivate yourself."
However, there were two very important Quakers supporters in the crowd.
"Tom [Kovic] and [assistant coach] John [Ceralde] were really great at being there for me and giving me the extra edge that I needed," Petkun said.
For Moon, who has been doing gymnastics since the age of four, this meet marked the end of four decorated seasons with the Red and Blue and also the end of her career as a gymnast.
When asked if she would continue gymnastics after she graduates, Moon's response was quick.
"I'm definitely done."
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.