McLean County Times

Illinois State University's gymnastics program has announced the completion of its coaching staff under head coach Cassandra Ringer. The announcement included the retention of assistant coach Kendra Combs and the hiring of new assistant coach Adeline Kenlin.

Combs, who joined the Redbird Gymnastics program in fall 2023, is entering her second season with the team. She serves as the primary vault coach and choreographer while also assisting with bars coaching. "Kendra has played an integral role in the successful trajectory of Redbird gymnastics over the past several years," Ringer stated. "Her attention to detail, precise planning, and student-athlete focus will lend itself well to the continued development of the program."

The previous season saw significant achievements for the Redbirds, including a fourth-highest team score in program history (196.150) and two top-four bars event scores, including a 49.175 which ranks second overall. The team won their second MIC Championship in three seasons and sent three athletes to the NCAA Regional in Washington. Combs was instrumental in these successes, helping coach individuals like Jaye Mack and Angelica Labat to qualify for regional championships.

Kenlin joins Illinois State after a distinguished gymnastics career at Iowa, where she became a two-time All-American and NCAA runner-up on beam in 2022. She tied Iowa's school record on beam with a 9.975 in 2021 and was named Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Year. "We are thrilled to welcome Adeline to the Redbird gymnastics staff," Ringer said. "Her accolades both personally and professionally are impressive; however, it is her passion for the sport and growth mindset that set her apart."

The Redbirds aim to defend their Midwest Independent Conference Championship when their season begins in January 2026.