Feb. 19, 2014

CHICAGO- UIC gymnast Joseph Hodges prepares for competition at the 2014 Winter Cup Challenge, set to be held at the Riviera Hotel and Casino's Royale Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nev., Thursday through Saturday. Hodges is one of 89 gymnasts set to compete in the three-day event.

"The Winter Cup Challenge brings together the best gymnasts in the United States," head coach Charley Nelson said. "The competition is invitation only and we are proud to say that Joseph Hodges has qualified for this year's event."

Hodges will be among current and former collegiate gymnasts, representing 13 colleges, including six members of the 2013 U.S. Senior National Team. Four World medalists and members of the 2013 World Championships team will also be present, as well as two 2012 Olympic participants.

"The event consists of a preliminary competition and a final," continued Nelson. "I think Joseph has a great chance of qualifying into the final. That will make it a busy weekend since Joseph's final home competition comes this Sunday against Iowa."

The top 42 gymnasts will advance to final competition, along with the top three gymnasts in each event. Performances will help determine 15 men that will make up the U.S. Men's Senior National Team at the 2014 P&G Gymnastics Championships in Pittsburgh, Pa., Aug. 21-24.

"Regardless of the final results, I'm certainly proud of Joseph and I know he will represent UIC well in Las Vegas," added Nelson.