Air Force Academy

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Air Force junior gymnast Greg Stine (Houston, Texas) was selected to participate in the prestigious Winter Cup Challenge this February, USA Gymnastics announced on Jan. 10. Stine 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."

Stine returned to the program this fall, following a two-year absence to complete his Mormon mission in Korea.  Stine was a member of the Falcons' team during the 2003-04 seasons, collecting numerous honors. He recorded two USA Gymnastics national titles (all-around, 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 on Thursday, Feb. 8, will be divided up into two sessions, beginning at 12 p.m., and 6 p.m., respectively. The top athletes from the first day of action will advance to the finals on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 6:30 p.m.

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