Freshman Ian Sandoval collected his second consecutive College Gymnastics Association Rookie of the Week honor after leading No. 2 Illinois (2-1) to victory over No. 4 Nebraska (0-1)
This accolade is Sandoval’s fourth of the week, along with Big Ten Gymnast of the Week, Big Ten Freshman of the Week and Inside Gymnastics’ NCAA Gymnast of the Week.
Last weekend, Sandoval earned three event titles against the Cornhuskers on floor exercise (13.600), parallel bars (13.500) and in the all-around to fill the role of the injured redshirt fifth-year Sam Phillips.
From his family’s influences to his passion for always improving, gymnastics has been a foundational part of Sandoval’s life. His love for the sport hasn’t changed since coming to Illinois, and Sandoval plans to keep it that way.
Family first
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Gymnastics was part of Sandoval’s life from an early age, growing up in Frisco, Texas. His older sister Zahira played the sport in her youth, which sparked Sandoval’s interest.
Sandoval said he and his parents would always watch his sister’s classes with extreme excitement, to the point where he would start crying because he wasn’t involved in the activities. After these moments, Sandoval was immediately put into classes; the rest is history.
The love that Sandoval gained from his biological family is what he has also found within the Illinois gymnastics program. Sandoval said that from the second he got to campus, his teammates felt like his true brothers.
The culture of head coach Daniel Ribeiro’s program is one where each gymnast pushes one another to be better every day. Sandoval noted the team has collective focus and dedication when they are in the gym. This has produced successful results this season.
Achieving personal goals
Even competing at the collegiate level is tough in men’s gymnastics. With limited NCAA programs, aspiring athletes must continuously put themselves out there in any way possible to get a coach’s attention.
Sandoval said his consistent high work ethic in the gym helped him get to the point where he proved he deserved a spot on a Division I team. Before earning his place in Champaign, Sandoval was the 2023 all-around national champion and a two-time U.S. Championship qualifier.
In his first season as an Illini, Sandoval already has high hopes for his career. Winning national championships with his teammates is number one on his list. However, achieving All-American status in multiple events at the NCAA championships is also a desire.
Sandoval’s name has shown up in multiple NCAA rankings this week. He is ranked No. 5 in the all-around and No. 5 in vault. After his most recent performances, Sandoval’s goals for his career at Illinois may have the opportunity to become a reality in his first season.
Coming up
Sandoval and the Illinois squad will take on a consistent Big Ten rival this weekend. No. 7 Michigan (4-2) hosts Illinois on Saturday in Ann Arbor. The contest will be available on Big Ten Plus at 1 p.m.
