Number 2 ranked Alabama faces number 4 ranked Georgia this Friday night in Coleman Coliseum at 7:00 p.m. in what can only be termed the biggest rivalry in gymnastics.

Asked why she thought this was the case, Georgia's head coach, Suzanne Yoculan responded, "I think there are three reasons. One is the fact that both teams emerged at about the same time (in the 80's) as powerhouses for gymnastics. Secondly, both teams have maintained that championship level of success and they're never out of the picture. Being ranked number 3 or 4 is an off year for either of these teams. Thirdly, I think it is about geography, both of these teams are in the SEC and we often recruit the same athletes."

Not only is this the biggest rivalry in gymnastics, but it is often the hottest ticket in town. This meet has had the largest attendance in the nation for the last five years including a sellout (15,043) of Coleman Coliseum in 1997.

Both these teams perform regularly perform in front of home crowds of 9,000-plus. What is about Georgia and Alabama gymnastics that draws record numbers? "The difference is the fans," Coach Yoculan says, "They're in this for the long haul. They have been around a long time and they're educated about the sport. They're 'true fans' who get involved and are part of the family."

The Georgia Gym Dogs had a rough meet last week against Michigan barely edging past them for the win with a 196.675 to 196.625. Georgia was forced to count falls on bars and beam. They managed to beat Michigan in the final rotation due to 3 Michigan falls on beam and Suzanne Sears posting a season high score of 9.975 on the floor exercise.

Coach Yoculan knows that there will be no second chances against Alabama. "We need six great bar routines at the beginning to get things started against Alabama. If we don't hit bars then it will be over. Alabama isn't going to loss it in the final rotation and let us come back on them."

"Alabama has proven that they are a consistent team. But from looking at the scores (adding back the points lost for falls) Georgia has larger scoring potential if they can hit their routines."

Unfortunately for Georgia, they have recently lost freshman Sierra Sapunar who was injured during practice on Tuesday. Sapunar tore a ligament in her elbow which will not require surgery, but will keep her out of the line-up for four to six weeks. Sapunar had been a consistent performer on bars and vault for Georgia scoring 9.95's.

Despite the loss of Sapunar, freshman will still play a significant role in Georgia's lineup, they are scheduled to perform 10 of the 24 routines. Both Cory Fritzinger and Marline Stephens will compete in the all-around while Chelsa Byrd will compete in two events.

Both Georgia and Alabama will be looking to remain undefeated in the SEC in this meet which is likely to come down to the final routine.