September 25, 2005

Its funny how fast the time flies…just like that summer is over and its time to start classes again. The team is back and so excited to start training, and its makes it that much sweeter to gain our fabulous new freshmen without losing any seniors. Within the first day we already knew that Heather, Fee, and Nicole were a great fit on the team. To start off the pre-season we mixed it up a little this year and decided to head to Santa Cruz to do a ropes course instead of a regular retreat. It was definitely a hit to say the least. Many of us had never had the chance to do one before, and it was a great opportunity to really start thinking and working together as a team, tackling problems and challenging ourselves physically as well. The course really brought out the competitive nature in all of us, and the team chemistry was palpable…it was really nice to feel that so early in the game. The woods were beautiful and we had a great time, but the highlight would have to be Tabby and Liz attempting handstands on the ropes…just hilarious! After the exhausting but awesome 6 hour session, we all walked around downtown Santa Cruz to window shop and eat dinner, and I think we all agreed that this retreat really ranked way up there on the extensive list of great beginning of the year outings.

This week has been filled with lots of hard-core conditioning and cross-training to make sure we're fit and ready to do gymnastics…you can tell everyone is just itching to throw some skills. Through team meetings we've already started outlining our high aspirations for the year. I still can't believe that Nat, Lou and I are seniors! I love them to death and I know we'll savor every moment of our last year here. The team is also so excited to have Mike on board as our new assistant coach. Throughout the week we've gotten many great opportunities to get to know the freshmen and catch up with everyone else, from team dinners to football games to movies. Now everyone is preoccupied with getting settled in the dorms, while the freshmen live it up during Orientation week and we all get ready to show our recruits a good time this weekend. Go Card!

-- Glyn Sweets