March 20, 2015
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -
By Gabby Richards, GoPSUsports Student Staff Writer
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.- The Penn State women's gymnastics team begins its quest for the Big Ten title tomorrow in Ann Arbor, Mich. After a rather successful season under the helm of head coach Jeff Thompson, who came into the Penn State fold just five years ago, the Nittany Lions enter the post-season with only two regular season losses.
The success of this team lies within their dedication and consistency in the practice gym, where coach Thompson tells his gymnasts to "compete how they practice." While many challenge the saying, "practice makes perfect," these gymnasts have dedicated themselves to it.
"These girls have been so successful because they trust each other," Thompson said. "Each and every one of them has stepped up, at some point, this season. We have had girls rotating events and changing lineups and they have adjusted well to that. We are one team."
Event Break Down: Bye-Rounds and B1G Momentum
The Nittany Lions finished second at the Big Five meet last weekend, giving them the momentum they need as they head into the Big Ten Championships. This tournament is different than any other: bye rounds are awarded to various teams throughout the tournament, a major change from the traditional meet. Typically, teams have a set rotation based on whether they are the home or away team at a meet, a routine that the gymnasts adjust too all season.
Penn State has been awarded two bye rounds during the tournament. How the team will handle two bye rounds will come down to their ability to channel their energy and adrenaline, something they have worked on all season.
Bye rounds aside, the Nittany Lions have a rather different rotation than they are used to. They will open on bars, then head over to beam, before making their way to floor, and finishing off on vault.
"We have to focus on sticking our handstands and dismounts on bars," Thompson said. "If we can stick our landings on bars, that momentum will transfer to beam."
The Nittany Lions close out on the two strongest events in their rotation: floor and vault.
"I want our girls to really connect with the audience and the judges when they are performing on floor," Thompson said. "Floor is an event meant for storytelling and if they can do that, they will be successful. Vault has been our event all season and I am confident that we will do what we have done consistently all season."
Thompson's Team
This team is equally as trusting of one another as they are competitive. Coach Thompson, along with his staff, has built an environment, which breeds a team-first mentality. Thompson's gymnasts were able to score a 196.650 on the road, the fifth highest road score in school history.
Where To Watch
You can watch your Nittany Lions on the Big Ten Network. The meet starts Saturday, March 21 at 11:30 a.m.