July 12, 2007

PITTSBURGH -

University of Pittsburgh gymnastics coaches Debbie Yohman, Michael Rowe and Jessica Bartgis announced the signing of Shannon Vafiadou on Thursday. Vafiadou will join Molly Moyer and Mallory Brewer as members of this year's freshman class.

Vafiadou (Mahwah, N.J./Mahwah) is a three time Level 10 Junior Olympic National qualifier, who trains at the Chelsea Piers Gym. In 2004, she was the Level 9 Eastern National All-Around and Balance Beam Champion. With accolades such as those, it is no wonder that Vafiadou's new head coach is excited to get her into the gym as quickly as possible.

"Shannon is a strong all-around competitor," said coach Yohman. "She has improved so much this year, especially on the bars. Her vault and her floor routine are impressive and now that she's improved on the bars, I really believe that she doesn't have a weak event."

Vafiadou signed her National Letter of Intent in the presence of 75 of her closest friends and relatives, including her parents George and Marianne.

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