March 27, 2012
Results
COTTBUS, Germany - University of Illinois redshirt senior Paul Ruggeri captured silver on high bar at the 2012 World Cup, March 22-25 in Cottbus, Germany, as one of three gymnasts competing for Team USA. The Manlius, N.Y., native posted a 15.525 during the high bar final to finish just behind Epke Zonderland (15.725) of the Netherlands and ahead of fellow American John Orozco (third; 15.375). Ruggeri also tied for sixth on vault with a two-score average of 15.825.
"It means a lot to me to have medaled at this competition," Ruggeri said. "I've been a fan and a participant of gymnastics since I was a little kid, and to be able to participate at this level and to be medaling at this level is kind of unbelievable. It's just a way for me to further my goals and aspirations in the sport to know that I haven't reached my full potential. It's really motivating for me to keep up with the world's best."
In prelims, Ruggeri topped the high bar leaderboard with a 15.725 and ranked fourth on vault (15.900). The hardware marks Ruggeri's third international medal during the 2011-12 season, as the seven-time All-American won gold on high bar and silver on parallel bars at the 2011 Pan American Games last October.
Ruggeri will be back in the Orange and Blue lineup at the 2012 Big Ten Championships, April 6-7 in Iowa City, Iowa.
