Lindenwood women's gymnastics head coach Jen Kesler announced today the signing of two gymnasts to National Letters of Intent. Katey Oswalt and Samantha Borges will join the Lindenwood roster for the 2016 season.

"We are thrilled to welcome these two young ladies to our Lindenwood Lion family," said Kesler. "Both of these individuals will bring not only talent and a competitive nature, but they are both ladies of strong character and great core values. As the Lindenwood gymnastics program enters its third year, it is crucial for us to bring in gymnasts who have the desire to work hard and embrace challenges as we continue to build this program's legacy. I give much credit to our assistant coach, Jennifer Grabowski, as she has played an instrumental role in her efforts to help find these young ladies who fit our vision."

Oswalt, the daughter of Steve and Rhonda Oswalt, joins the Lindenwood family from Meridian, Idaho. Oswalt has competed as a member of Mountain West Gymnastics. She was the Level 10 2013 Regional all-around champion, as well as a J.O. National Qualifier in 2013 and 2014. Oswalt's strengths lie in beam and floor, as well as in her attention to detail. 

In addition to her accolades on the competition floor, Oswalt has been named to the National Society of High School Scholars, as well as the ICHE's Who's Who Among Idaho Scholars.

"Katey was our first commit for the 2015 recruit class and we were beyond happy to have her take a leap of faith with us as she whole heartedly shares the vision we have for this program," said Kesler. "She is going to make a tremendous impact to this program not only in the gym, but in the classroom."

Borges, the daughter of John and Margaret Borges, is from Ontario, Canada. A gymnast from Manjaks Gymnastics, she has gained incredible depth and competitive experience as she has competed at the Canadian National Championships, finishing second on vault, third on floor, and sixth in the all-around.

Borges will come to Lindenwood as an all-around competitor, who will bring international experience that the Lindenwood program has never had before. She is a fierce competitor with poise and elegance. Her strengths reside in her power on both vault and floor.

"We are beyond excited to make more history as we sign our first international student-athlete," said Kesler. "Samantha will bring a unique piece of the puzzle as she has international experience and finesse that Lion nation has never seen before. She not only is a phenomenal gymnast, but a rock solid person."

This year's Lindenwood gymnastics program begins its 2015 season on Jan. 9 at Big Ten Nebraska.