URBANA – Less than two-tenths of a point separated No. 4 Illinois from Penn State at the Big Ten Men's Gymnastics Championships.

Less than two points proved the difference between finishing third and finishing second.

CHAMPAIGN – When nine-time All-American Travis Romagnoli completed his Illinois gymnastics career last spring, the Illini had one returning All-American in the all-around, Leo Oka, and one spot to fill.

In stepped Linh Hoang.

Four recruits, including Wheaton's Laura Ruffalo, signed national letters of intent with Illinois coach Bob Starkell's women's gymnastics program.

Jon Valdez was named the top assistant coach for Illinois' men's gymnastics program, coach Yoshi Hayasaki announced Wednesday.

CHAMPAIGN – Former NCAA all-around champion Travis Romagnoli was recognized for the third time Saturday as the Illinois men's Most Valuable Gymnast.

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Don't bother trying to convince Travis Romagnoli he was dealt a bad hand this season.

Or a bad ankle, for that matter.

Sure, the Illinois gymnast has spent more time in the trainer's room than on the parallel bars.

CHAMPAIGN – Last year he helped Illinois reach an NCAA regional. Now Kurt Hettinger's contributing to a much younger gymnastics team.

Bob Starkell, who has served as interim head coach of the Illinois women's gymnastics team this season, was named head coach Tuesday, athletic director Ron Guenther announced.