Chesterton's Wilburn earns attitude award

Updated: March 23, 2011 3:48PM

MUNCIE - Chesterton's Samantha Wilburn received the Mildred M. Ball Mental Attitude Award at Saturday's state gymnastics meet. Along with the honor Chesterton High School received a $1,000 scholarship in Wilburn's name.

Wilburn's parents, who are coaches of Chesterton's team, were moved to tears.

"Lots of kids deserved this award," coach Kathy Wilburn said. "Samantha always put the team first and never complained about other's being in events. She's put a lot of focus on academics and the team."

Samantha said it was an exciting and surprising way to finish her high school gymnastics career.

"My mom had mentioned she nominated me because I met the criteria," she said. "It was really nice to end my career this way with gymnastics being such a huge part of my life. I'm so proud for myself and Chesterton."

Just having fun: Difficulty with scoring led to a wait in the announcement of the All-Around winner and team winner. The gymnasts didn't mind however. As the IHSAA worked on correcting scoring errors by the computer, the competitors put aside rivalries and competition, joining in a large sing-along and dance off. Teams intermingled, creating a massive conga-line on the floor exercise mat.

Change for the better: IHSAA officials, coaches, and gymnasts said they loved the new venue. The confines of Worthen Arena allowed for events to be spaced out better and gave more room for the competitors. It also took away any concerns of a wall placed at the end of the vault line at the previous site of the state championship, Perry Meridian High School.

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