One might think all gymnastics equipment is the same, but itâÂÂs not.

ThatâÂÂs why the Lawrence High gymnastics team and Free State HighâÂÂs Lacey Baxter spent Friday afternoon at Olathe South to become acquainted with the equipment before the start of the state gymnastics meet at noon today.

Yes, the beam and the bars are the same, but âÂÂ: different.

âÂÂThe floor mats are different, the bars are different,â LHS coach Kathy Johnson said. âÂÂTechnically, theyâÂÂre the same, but theyâÂÂre different. ItâÂÂs just something they do so the girls can be a little more comfortable.âÂÂ

The entire Lions squad qualified for todayâÂÂs event, and Baxter is the lone FSHS representative. Baxter and LHS senior Molly Hoss will be the city gymnasts most likely to earn a medal, as Hoss did last year.

She was sixth in the floor exercise and 19th in the all-around, but could do better this year. Her strengths are the beam and the floor exercise, just like Baxter.

The Firebird junior won the beam at last WednesdayâÂÂs regional, and, after not competing in gymnastics last year, could be a favorite this time.

âÂÂI hope that they can do well,â Johnson said. âÂÂIf they do well, then the team will do really well. ThatâÂÂs what drives the team success.âÂÂ

Johnson said a top-five finish for the Lions would be ideal, but theyâÂÂll need Hoss, freshman Meredith West and sophomore Nicole Jones to be at their best.

No matter how LHS or Baxter finishes, Johnson said the end of the meet could yield some tears âÂÂ:quot; which could be eased with medal-winning performances.

âÂÂIt was MollyâÂÂs and Melissa BowerâÂÂs last practices (Thursday),â Johnson said. âÂÂWeâÂÂre hoping for some good showings, but I think thereâÂÂs going to be some sad faces when itâÂÂs all over.âÂÂ