The 1989-90 season was a special one in the history of Illini women's gymnastics. That team was more individual Big ten titles and produced more All-Big Ten performers than any other women's gymnastics team in school history. It also captured the school's first Big Ten women's gymnastics title since 1977.

The 1990 team had a 7-2 dual meet record and saved one of their outstanding performances for the Big Ten Championships. At the Big Ten Meet, the Illini captured 4 Big Ten Individual tiles, set five team records and 3 Big Ten records, won seven out of a possible twelve trophies for placing in the top three in the four individual events, and laid claim to the Big Ten Coach of the Year in Dr. Bev Mackes. The Illini scored a Big Ten Meet record in achieving 188.75 points while outdistancing second place Michigan state by 1.25 points. The individual titles went to Denise Lamborn in the vault, Heather Singalewitch in the floor exercise, and Laura Knutson and Peggy Pullman who tied each other for first in the balance beam. All four athletes were named to the All-Big Ten team, which Illinois dominated.

The Illini also dominated the academic All-Big Ten team with five spots being taken by Lynn Devers, Laura Knutson, Jennifer Durdil, Denise Lamborn, and Shari Smith.

1990 Team Members:
Susan Adams
Kara Corso
Lynn Devers
Jennifer Durdil
Becky Gaa
Laura Knutson
Tracy Kontur
Denise Lamborn
Laura Polz
Peggy Pullman
Karen Rossetto
Heather Singalewitch
Shari Smith

Coaches:
Julius Esclamado
Susan Ringwald
Pam Swan