Big Ten Release
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Mia Takekawa, Lyden Saltness and Arielle Ward of Illinois women's gymnastics earned All-Big Ten honors, the conference announced on Wednesday afternoon.
Takekawa received first team honors for the fourth time in her career, while Saltness and Ward garnered second team honors for the first time.
This the first time since 2021 the Fighting Illini squad had more than two All-Big Ten honorees. Nicole Biondi, Shaylah Scott, Takekawa and Mia Townes were named to the All-Big Ten Second Team at the conclusion of that season.
Takekawa has continued to serve as a strong asset to Illinois on the uneven bars, earning one 9.95, two 9.925s and four 9.90s. On beam, the graduate student has earned one 9.95, one 9.925 and five 9.90s.
Saltness is the most recent anchor for the Illini on uneven bars. The freshman scored a near perfect 9.975 at the Big Five meet and has earned three scores over 9.90.
Ward has been solid on vault for Illinois, scoring a career-high 9.925 on March 8 at the Alabama Quad meet. Ward is a new addition to floor this season, earning three 9.875s and taking the floor event win on March 3 against Bowling Green.
Next up
Illinois will begin postseason action at the Big Ten Championships on March 23 at 11 a.m. CT in East Lansing, Mich., at the Jenison Field House.
