Jan. 28, 2013

STANFORD, Calif. - On Sunday we asked the question, "Who am I?" Today, the identity of the mystery Stanford gymnast is revealed: it's Stanford freshman Taylor Rice. In a poem posted on Sunday on GoStanford.com, Taylor gave some clues to her identity.

Enjoy Taylor's Q-and-A with team manager, Tori Lewis:

Tori: How is the beginning of the season going?

Taylor: We're looking strong, but we have a lot of improvements to make. We have strengths to show that we haven't yet but I'm confident in how we're doing and excited the season has started!

Tori: What's been your highlight of the season so far?

Taylor: The last meet when I stuck my vault was really exciting for me.

Tori: How's your quarter looking academically?

Taylor: I'm in three, "real" classes. [Laughs] My schedule is pretty nice and I have a nice break before gym each day, which is great. Overall, it's looking good.

Tori: Do you have a favorite SWG moment so far?

Taylor: After the Georgia meet, when we knew we didn't do our best, but we all collected as a unit and had a talk with Kristen who told us that she was still proud of who we were. It made me proud to be a part of SWG. Even though we didn't do our best, Kristen still appreciated our attitudes and our efforts, which a lot of coaches might not do.

Tori: What's your funniest SWG story?

Taylor: Right now in the season it doesn't seem that funny, because it wasn't that long ago, but I fell on my double turn on floor, which is not a hard skill! I did a seat drop on the floor and could not believe I fell.

Tori: What lessons have stuck with you from preseason?

Taylor: An overall respect for people who were on the team previously. For the alumni that came before us and the traditions they made. Also for the team captains and upperclassmen on the team for just being there and sticking it out.

Taylor: When we're doing our conditioning, in particular our circuits, which are really hard. You can tell everyone is putting in 100 percent effort even though we're dying. Seeing my teammates like that inspires me to keep going. It's literally giving all you can in every moment, every last bit of energy you have.

Tori: What are you looking forward to the most about the rest of the season?

Taylor: I'm looking forward to SWG gaining confidence and consistency in our work. I know we have a lot more to show and I'm looking forward to us doing really well!