Wheaton’s Brackman glad to be back

A year ago, Wheaton Co-op gymnast Mike Brackman was ready to help his team compete for the state title. But on the Sunday before the state meet, Brackman came down with appendicitis and Wheaton finished eighth.

This year Brackman is back, minus his appendix, but ready for Friday’s team competition at Lincoln-Way East in Frankfort.

“There is nothing going to stop me from competing this year,” said Brackman, who is a senior. “This is my last shot and most likely my last meet. I am ready to come out strong.”

With Brackman in the lineup, Wheaton Co-op should contend for the title along with host Lincoln-Way Co-op. Downers Grove North, also could challenge while Mundelein, Palatine, Naperville North, Highland Park Co-op and Glenbrook South also will compete.

“We should be right there,” Wheaton coach Chad Downie said. “We had a great chance last year, but when Mike got sick, it all went away.”

After being diagnosed with appendicitis, Brackman was rushed into surgery Sunday evening. He was released the next day, but was not able to compete.

“It was frustrating watching it all go down,” Brackman said. “I couldn’t do anything to help.”

So Brackman spent the offseason working out and getting stronger. His all-around scores have been in the top 10 in the state this year and he posted the highest qualifying score in the state this year on the high bar.

“He is a tremendous kid with a great work ethic,” Downie said. “It will be great to see him out there this year.”

The format has changed a bit this year. On Friday, along with the team competition, the all-around will also be contested. All-arounders from non-qualifying teams will compete at 6 p.m.

Lincoln-Way Co-op’s Ajani Cargle posted the highest all-around score at sectionals. Brackman’s teammate Darren Fill was right behind, while Downers Grove North’s Luke Schubert, Rolling Meadow’s Marc Herrf, Glenbard North’s Ryan Kennedy and Libertyville’s Craig Breckenridge could also contend.

On Saturday the individual event finals will be held. The preliminaries are at noon and the finals begin at 7 p.m.

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