They practice together. It's only fitting they compete together. This weekend at Penn State, for the first time ever, the men's and women's Big Ten Championships will be held at the same site on the same weekend -- a move many coaches are enthusiastic about.

"I think it's going to bring more excitement to the sport of gymnastics," Ohio State Men's Coach Peter Kormann said. "I think it's great for Penn State to be able to do it that way the first time."

The move was initiated by the Big Ten's men's gymnastics group, association head, Tom Dunn said. Dunn, the Iowa men's coach, said the organization wanted the new format in the hopes that some of the popularity the women enjoy would rub off on the men. The move was received by the women's coaches with mixed emotions, Lady Lion Coach Steve Shephard said.

"They proposed it to (the women's coaches) last summer," Shephard added. "Some (women's) coaches were very excited, and some had reservations . . . about the logistics of (a combined meet)." Shephard continued, adding quickly that the women's coaches were eager to help the men.

The men's sport has been in trouble lately, as many men's programs across the nation are shutting down due to a lack of funds, Dunn said.

"We've lost a lot of programs and there most probably won't be an NCAA Championship meet after next year," Dunn said.

So naturally, the men's coaches are eager to see how this weekend goes. Lion Coach Randy Jepson expects to see a positive outcome.

"I think it's going to be just an outstanding event," Lion Coach Randy Jepson said. "Fans for the first time will be treated to both men's and women's championships at the same site. I'm really excited about what the weekend holds for gymnastics enthusiasts -- as well as for the athletes."

Some gymnasts themselves are excited to be competing with their counterparts. Captain Jim Delaney said holding a same-site championship will give the athletes an opportunity to watch each other compete.

"Both mens and women's gymnastics will feed off each other," junior Mark Cooper said. "I think it'll be better for the public."

While Lady Lion sophomore Michelle Manzolillo said her team had not really given the matter much thought. "We're really excited about the meet. . .the (new format) doesn't make much difference."