Ohio State gymnastics has a new head coach for the 2017-2018 season in Meredith Paulicivic, who has taken over following the promotion of former head coach, Carey Fagan, to assistant athletic director. Paulicivic is entering her first year as head coach in the NCAA with many years of experience in the coaching world. Paulicivic's most recent position was at Utah as assistant coach from 2015-2017.

FloGymnastics recently caught up with coach Paulicivic to talk about becoming head coach at Ohio State.

FloGymnastics: What drew your attention to Ohio State?

Paulicivic: I felt like there was a good athletic and academic reputation at Ohio State. Also this team has a lot of potential to grow into a championship team. I also chose Ohio State because I felt like I could make an immediate impact. Everyone from the top to the bottom at Ohio State has impressed me.

How will your experience at Utah help you this season?

I got to see how a top program runs and operates from the all angles. I learned all the little things that it takes to take a program to the top. I learned a lot from Tom, who is one of the best recruiters. From Megan I learned all the 'soft skills' and how to be a mom to those young ladies. I also learned a great deal about the marketing and fan atmosphere in my time at Utah.

What are you most excited about for this season?

I have already made so many changes to the program, including going on our first team retreat that was very exciting. I am excited for a new, clean, and consistent Ohio State. I am teaching them the art of perfection and bringing back artistry which excites me. I am excited about the direction that it's going already.

As head coach, will you coach a specific event, or overall all events?

I will be the beam coach, which I really enjoy. I will also help coach tumbling and do all the choreography on floor. All the staff will really work together to coach on all four events.

What went into your decision for the rest of your coaching staff?

I really wanted to put together a staff that has a high level of technical experience and that was versatile. Randy was a gymnast at OSU and is a diehard OSU fan who believes in the ability of this program. Luke comes from a high level club who lots of technical knowledge that we need. I know Luke is going to make his mark in the NCAA.

How is the transition going this fall?

We have a brand new conditioning/testing program along with a new standard of excellence. The team has really risen to both of these changes which I am excited about. The team has more direction and structure which is allowing everything to be easier. They really are ready to put in the hard work and go the extra mile.

What has been the biggest surprise to you so far as head coach?

I am honestly having the time of my life and enjoying this more than I thought I would. The team is really buying in more than I thought they would and are picking up on my passion. The day in and day out has been great. I am loving the smack talk with the other coaches and it has been very fun in the gym.

What are your goals for your first season as head coach?

I have the same goals as the team -- to make it to NCAA Championships . . . which I know is a big jump, but everything is possible. We have big goals as a team but I love that, and you should never be afraid to dream big. We have goals to be in the top three at Big Tens. Personally I want to make a statement and help the team achieve their goals. I want people to notice a positive change in our program.

Is Carey Fagan still involved with the program?

Carey has been here for me whenever I need her. However she really lets me do my own thing and does not look over my shoulder. She will always be a big fan of Ohio State gymnastics!

Anything else you would like us to know?

I married into a Buckeye family so I am excited to say that I am now a real Buckeye fan!


Related:
Meredith Paulicivic Named Ohio State Head Coach
Randy Monahan And Lucas Wasson Named Ohio State Assistant Coaches