STANFORD, Calif. - Former Cardinal standouts Akash Modi and Eddie Penev were recently named to the 2018-19 U.S. Senior National team following the conclusion of the U.S. Gymnastics Championships last weekend in Boston.
Of the 12-member national team, Modi and Penev are among 11 athletes who competed collegiately. During their time on The Farm, both were recipients of the Nissen-Emery Award, presented annually to the nation's outstanding senior gymnast based on athletic achievement, academic excellence and sportsmanship. Modi claimed the award in 2017 while Penev was recognized in 2013.
Modi placed sixth in the all-around competition at the U.S. Championships, as well as fifth on high bar and floor, sixth on pommel horse and seventh on vault. A five-time NCAA individual champion and 12-time All-American, Modi capped his career in 2017 as a two-time Academic All-American. Modi was also an alternate for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team.
Penev was unable to compete at the U.S. Championships due to an ACL tear, but had already been named to the roster. Penev, who graduated in 2013, was a three-time NCAA individual champion and five-time All-American. Penev, who capped off his collegiate career as the NCAA all-around bronze medalist, was a member of Stanford's most recent NCAA title team in 2011.
Modi, who will compete at the World Team Selection Camp on Sept. 19-23, was also named the co-winner of the Sport Persons of the Year award alongside Oklahoma's Yul Moldauer.