Peszek withdraws from selection process for 2009 World Championships Team

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Sept. 15, 2009 – 2008 Olympic team silver-medalist Samantha Peszek of Indianapolis, Ind., has formally withdrawn from the selection process for the women’s 2009 World Championships Team. Peszek was selected to participate in the second of two selection camps but has decided to decline the invitation so she can undergo shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum.

“I’m disappointed that I won’t be able to compete for a spot on the USA World Championships Team,” said Peszek. “The decision was a tough one to make but one that will enable me to get healthy and ready for next season.”

Peszek, a high school senior and gymnast at Sharp’s Gymnastics, was a member of the 2007 Pan American Games Team and the World Championships Team that won gold medals. She has given a verbal commitment to compete for UCLA in the future. Peszek is coached by Marvin Sharp.