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Redbirds Return to Kalamazoo for Gymnastics Dual Meet
Illinois State gymnastics faces off against Western Michigan in a Friday afternoon competition.
Published on Mar. 6, 2026
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Illinois State gymnastics is heading back to Kalamazoo, Michigan, for a Friday afternoon dual meet against Western Michigan. This marks the second consecutive weekend the Redbirds will compete in the state, following a tri-meet with Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan last week. Both teams are looking to build on recent strong performances, with Illinois State ranked 56th nationally and Western Michigan ranked 43rd.
Why it matters
This dual meet provides an opportunity for both teams to continue improving and solidifying their positions in the national rankings as the collegiate gymnastics season progresses. The competitive landscape of the sport is evolving, with an increased emphasis on all-around performers and the value of consistent scoring and minimizing errors.
The details
Illinois State enters the competition after achieving their highest team score of the season, 194.675, in last week's tri-meet. Western Michigan dominated several events in their last meet, winning three of the four. Redbird standouts include freshman Mia LeBlanc, who recently competed in the all-around for the first time this season, and junior Ally Lau, who earned her second MIC Performance of the Week honor.
- The meet is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. CT on Friday, March 6, 2026.
- Last week, Illinois State competed in a tri-meet with Eastern Michigan and Western Michigan.
The players
Mia LeBlanc
A freshman gymnast for Illinois State who recently competed in the all-around for the first time this season, finishing second overall with a score of 38.675.
Ally Lau
A junior gymnast for Illinois State who earned her second MIC Performance of the Week honor for a career-high 9.900 on beam.
Western Michigan
A gymnastics program currently ranked 43rd nationally with an average score of 195.032.
Illinois State
A gymnastics program currently ranked 56th nationally with an average team score of 193.257.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The competitive landscape of collegiate gymnastics, as highlighted by these teams, points to several emerging trends. Increased emphasis on all-around performers, like Illinois State's Mia LeBlanc, is becoming more common. Coaches are seeking gymnasts who can contribute across multiple events, adding versatility to team lineups.
The takeaway
This dual meet between Illinois State and Western Michigan showcases the evolving nature of collegiate gymnastics, with a focus on well-rounded performers, consistent scoring, and the value of depth within team lineups. The outcome of this competition will provide insights into the strengths and strategies of these programs as they continue to navigate the competitive landscape of the sport.
