Learn

How is preparation going for the Trials?
Training is going very well. I can’t complain. My bicep is feeling okay and everything is right on schedule. I won’t have in as many routines as I should have because of the injury. I’ve only been doing routines for about three weeks, but I still don’t feel too bad.

Will you be performing anything new in Anaheim?
No, I will perform the same routines that I’ve been performing; the same as what I was competing before my injury.

Is there anything in particular that you would like to accomplish at the Trials, other than securing a spot on the Olympic Team?
I definitely want to show people that I’m back. I just want to go out there and hit my routines the best I can hit them. I want to finish my career on a good note and that’s what it will come down to at Trials.

What do you expect the competition to be like? Is there anyone in particular that you think the fans should look out for?
More than likely, I think it will be similar to Championships. I don’t expect any one person to stand out more so than they did at Championships.

What do you think the intensity level will be like in Anaheim? Will the nerves be more of a factor than at other competitions?
This will be a little more intense, but I’m sure you will see people hitting stuff. Yes, the nerves will be more of a factor, but sometimes nerves are better for you when you are competing. I still get nervous, but I love it! If you’re not nervous then you’ve lost the edge of competing. I think nerves help, but if you have too many nerves, that can be an issue.

Are you excited to be back in Anaheim for another big competition?
Yes, Anaheim was great. The fans were great, the whole atmosphere was great. It’s a great place for gymnastics and I’m excited to be back there, reliving my dream.

Will competing in a familiar environment help calm your nerves?
Yes, honestly, if it was back in Boston I would be even calmer, since I made the past two Olympic Teams there. But, a familiar setting is definitely the best place to be for this type of meet. Especially when you know what you accomplished in the past at this arena, it makes it a bit easier going in. I think the guys on the Worlds team will be at a bit of an advantage because we have our Worlds experience to look back on.

Will you have time to do anything fun in Anaheim, like attend Disneyland?
More than likely I will golf in between the meets. I’ve been golfing between competition days since American Cup a few years ago and I enjoy doing it. It is better than sitting around and letting my head wander about the competition. It’s good to get out and do something different.