Newtown High School freshmen gymnasts put forth tremendous efforts in the State Open, at New Milford High on March 2.

Brianna Schoffstall earned second place on the balance beam with a score of 9.4 and tied for sixth in the all around with a score of 35.6, qualifying for the New England Championships on beam, bars (sixth, 8.975), floor, and in the all around, while also earning First Team All State accolades.

Aliyah Reuther earned First Team All State on bars, placing ninth with a score of 8.825, and Second Team on floor and advanced to the New England competition on bars.

“The girls being freshmen, I thought they were grace under fire. Both girls had clean sets on bars and Bri got 9.4 on beam, which was her last event and her highest score. I’m very proud of both these athletes,” Newtown Coach Kim Kane said.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.