March 25, 2008

Chicago, Ill. - UIC sophomore DeAvera Todd (Decatur, Ga./Southwest DeKalb) was named the Midwest Independent Conference Gymnast of the Week for the period ending March 25.

Competing in only her fourth all-around of the season, Todd scored a career-best 39.075, placing third overall at the State of Illinois Classic on Saturday afternoon. To make the meet even more memorable, Todd managed to win the state vault crown scoring a 9.850 on her birthday.

At the conclusion of the state meet, Todd was named to the All-State Team for her impressive performances.

Over the course of the season, Todd has won three vault titles and has scored a 9.800 or higher in the last six meets.

Todd currently ranks third in the conference on the vault with a regional qualifying score (RQS) of 9.820.

In a tri-meet with Northern Illinois and Central Michigan on March 2, Todd also tied the school vault record with an incredible 9.925

This award marks the first of the season for Todd and the first of her career.

The UIC women's gymnastics team will look to defend their title at the MIC Championships on Friday, March 28, in Shreveport, La.