Stanford Women's Gymnastics Program Signs Three Outstanding Recruits
Cardinal signings ensure future success

Nov. 9, 2005

Stanford, Ca - The Stanford women's gymnastics is excited to announce the signing of three exceptional student-athletes who will enter Stanford University in the Fall of 2006, according to Cardinal head coach Kristen Smyth.

The three gymnasts are Allyse lshino (Santa Ana, Ca), Carly Janiga (Paradise Valley, AZ) and Blair Ryland (Woodbridge, VA).

"The three recruits we have signed for the 2006-2007 season are excellent students and tremendous athletes," said Smyth. "These exceptional young women bring to Stanford Women's Gymnastics international competitive experience, explosiveness and power, elegance and artistry. It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know these student-athletes and their families throughout the recruiting process. I am excited about adding such a talented group to our program and already feel as if they are a part of the Stanford family. I am confident that they are going to make outstanding contributions to the Stanford Community during their careers."

Ishino is currently a senior at Foothill High School. Allyse is an International Elite gymnast and was a leading member of the Senior National Team. For most of her career she trained at Gliders Gymnastics under Steve and Beth Rybacki, Currently she trains at Wildfire Gymnastics with Bill Callander. Allyse was fifth in the All Around at the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials and was an alternate on the 2004 silver medal winning U.S. Olympic Team. Allyse has had extensive international experience and represented the U.S. at the 2004 Pacific Alliance Games, placing first in the All Around, fourth on bars, fourth on balance beam and second on the floor exercise. She also competed in the 2003 Pan American Games, placing fourth in the All Around.

"Allyse is a beautiful athlete and is known for her exquisite lines and presentation. She is extremely artistic and has a unique style that stands out from other gymnasts,” said Smyth.

Janiga is a senior at Saguaro High School. Carly is an International Elite gymnast training at Desert Devils Gymnastics with coaches Geoff Eaton, Shelly Eaton and Kristin Fanning. Carly placed ninth in the All Around, sixth on vault, seventh on balance beam and eighth on floor exercise at the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. She was one of only 10 athletes invited to the 2004 Olympic Team selection camp and almost earned a spot representing the USA.

"Carly is excellent on four events but her specialties are vault, beam and floor, where she is one of the very best in the country." said Smyth. "Carly is extremely athletic and powerful and will have an immediate impact on our program.”

Ryland is a senior at Woodbridge High School. Blair is an International Elite gymnast training at Capital Gymnastics Training Center with coaches Tatiana Perskaia, Victor Vetrov and Marina Gerisamova. In 2005, Blair placed first on balance bC-am at the National Training Camp in June and qualified to the U.S. Classic.

"Blair is excellent on all four events and displays a wonderful combination of power and artistry,” said Smyth. "She has incredible lines, interesting skill selection and great consistency as a performer. In addition. Blair's work ethic and leadership skills are going to be tremendous assets to our team."