ST.

Monday, February 26, 2001

ST. PAUL – Talented Austin High School junior gymnast Amy Bickler placed fifth Saturday.

Earning a fifth-place medal in the 2001 Minnesota High School Gymnastics Meet may have disappointed the student-athlete, but her coach, Mark Raymond, said Bickler’s performance showed signs of the gymnast’s continued improvement.

"We knew going into the state meets that the level of competition would be impressive and we were hoping just to place. Amy did that," Raymond said.

"This is my fourth year as coach and each year Amy adds something to her routine," Raymond said. "She went to state as a sophomore and again this year and I expect her to improve in her senior year."

Bickler is a three-sport student athlete, who also plays for the Pacelli softball team and is a setter on the volleyball team.