TOLEDO, Ohio – In its fifth year of operation, Elevate the Stage has announced the participating NCAA teams slated for February 22-23, 2019 at the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio. The All-Big Ten affair features the Fighting Illini Women's gymnastics team, along with national powerhouses, Michigan and Nebraska.

Presented by ProMedica and owned/operated by Knight Eady, the collegiate competition will run in conjunction with the weekend-long club meet for girls Junior Olympic competitors levels 2-10, Xcel, and an Open competition.

The orange and blue will be competing in the second session on Saturday, Feb. 23 with reigning Big Ten champions, Michigan, along with Minnesota, Ohio State, and Rutgers. It will also provide the Illini with a chance to compete on podium ahead of the 2019 postseason.

"As one of the head Women's gymnastics coaches in the Big Ten, I am very pleased to be able to announce that our Big Five tournament will be hosted on podium, in Toledo by Elevate the Stage," said head coach Nadalie Walsh. "We were fortunate to attend the Elevate the Stage meet last season in Augusta, Ga. They run a high class event which we will be looking forward to all season long. "

Typically only used at top championship meets and international competitions, such as Worlds and Olympics, podium is when the equipment is placed on a platform several feet off the ground so the gymnast is elevated from the rest of the individuals on the floor. This allows the gymnasts to be showcased individually, while also enhancing the fan experience.

The podium provides an extra bounce that the gymnasts need to adjust to when postseason rolls around since the NCAA Championships and a select conference championships are held on podium. The extra bounce provides less stress on the body, but competitors need to adjust their momentum on skills and landings.

"This is a great opportunity for the student athletes as well as our conference to be highlighted and showcased," said Walsh. "The NCAA Championships is always hosted on podium, so this Elevate the Stage meet will not only serve as a the final match up with our Big Ten opponents, but will also better prepare the Fighting Illini for postseason competition."  

Tickets for the college meet will be on sale beginning fall 2018. Pre-sale ticket information is available at elevatethestage.com.

About Knight Eady Sports Group

Founded in 2013, Knight Eady provides full-service event operations, including management and consultation of live sporting events. In addition, Knight Eady offers strategic communication plans for enhanced market exposure, branding, and corporate partner relationships. Knight Eady believes in motivating and inspiring individuals to reach beyond their potential and develop an unparalleled loyalty and passion for their sport. This is accomplished by delivering quality, consistent, cost efficient and creative services, while applying ethical principles that radically exceed expectations.

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