How has training been going this summer?
Training has been going very well. We have seen around 12-15 athletes this summer. The girls are currently working new skills, cleaning up form and execution and working hard on consistency. As a team we are working hard on upgrading beam and floor. We have girls working triple flight series, new beam dismounts, and upgrading tumbling. We are looking to open with E level passes along with finishing with a stronger tumbling pass. Brandie Jay is one gymnast who is working hard to bring that difficulty to start the season.
Have you seen any freshmen in the gym this summer?
Yes we have seen three freshman in the gym; Gigi Marino, Hayley Sanders and Jasmine Arnold. All three girls have been here since June taking classes and getting comfortable with college life. They have been training about four days a week and also working hard on strength and conditioning.
What are your goals for the team next year?
We want to be the picture of consistency this year. The team needs to be able to trust each other and know that no matter who is in the lineup, they will hit. We need to practice with consistency and show that in the way we compete. This team is looking to walk out on the floor every meet with confidence, consistency and being comfortable.
What do you think it will take for Georgia to get back to winning a national title?
Continuing to stay in the process and keep working, working, working! We are also working hard on winning the perception battle, getting the doubt out of peoples mind. We have to show that we are a strong team from day 1. Which means we don’t get a turn, day, or event off. We have to keep proving that WE ARE GEORGIA.
Who do you see being a leader for your team next season? Who do you think will step up to fill in for seniors leaving?
I think Chelsea Davis will continue to be big for us on two events next year. Senior Sarah Persinger has been very diligent with her training and wants to have a great senior year. She didn’t see much time in the lineup last year and is working hard to get back to full strength. She is not just saying what she wants to do, she has been backing it up with actions. I also see our three juniors being big contributors to our team next year; Mary Beth Box, Brandie Jay and Brittany Rogers. They are all strong athletes and competitors and I see them continuing to carry the load for this team.
What have you learned in your two years coaching at Georgia and how has that changed you as a coach?
Every year we need to make adjustments. Each year, each day, and each athlete teaches me something new. There are also the hard and the fast, the things that never change. At Georgia those are respect, trust, honesty and a family atmosphere. The lessons I have learned from the past two years have shaped what we do for our third year. I will continue to believe in the hard and the fast.
Anything else you would like us to know?
I am excited about this 2015 team. We have some amazing young talent coming in. I am excited for the lessons we have learned and ready for the preseason to begin. It is great to see the gymnasts motivated and excited to get going as well.
How has training been going for you this summer?
Just like the past few summers, I have not been doing gymnastics this summer. I had a small knee procedure at the end of last year and I am recovering this summer. This year and in the past I take summer to give my body a rest. I spend a lot of time recovering, rehabbing and keeping up on my fitness level. My body needs this time to rest.
You have seen a lot of action in the vault and bars lineups. Are you hoping to be able to contribute on beam and floor this year as well?
That really is up in the air. It is my last year and I want to give it everything I have but it honestly depends on how my body responds to training beam and floor. I would personally love to be able to compete all-around.
What type of leader do you think you will be?
Our senior class has a good mix of personalities and leadership skills. I will be a quiet leader and plan to lead by example in and out of the gym.
What are your goals and your team goals?
Personally I want to give it everything I have and have no regrets with my gymnastics career. I would love to earn All-American status as well as being consistent week in and week out. Our team goal is to win a national championship.
What do you think it will take for Georgia to get back to the top?
We have been building the past few years and have made improvements at Nationals. We are hoping to start stronger and come out of the gate strong and win the perception battle.
What are you most excited about for this season?
I am excited to take in every moment of this year, enjoying being a part of a team and being on campus. I want to enjoy one last year still being able to do flips! I want people to know that we are working hard and don’t overlook Georgia because we will be contenders!
Related:
Summer Update- Michigan
Summer Update- Oklahoma
Related:
Summer Update- Michigan
Summer Update- Oklahoma