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What does it feel like to be a part of this Olympic Team; particularly compared to other teams?
It feels great, all the guys on the team are very talented individuals and they are ready to go. We have really had a lot of the heart and desire in the past, but we haven’t ever had all the skills like we have now. This team really is the full package, and I think that is what makes the difference.

How did you feel when the announcement was made in Colorado Springs?
It was definitely mixed emotions. I was obviously excited and happy that I was picked for the team, and it really is an honor. But at the same time, I felt bad for Raj [Bhavsar] because of all the hard work he has put into the team. The whole process has been tough because we both knew one of us would be an alternate, and that’s hard, especially since we have been training together for four years.

Do you notice anything different from past Olympic Teams you have been on; What will make this team stand out?
This team is just amazing. We have two 2-time Olympians, one 3-time Olympian, and three other guys who have all had international experience. Everyone on this team has won a medal at World Championships. Prior to this team, I haven’t ever competed on a team where anyone had won a medal at World Championships, no less everyone. We all really have the experience and knowledge to get the job done and I think that is the biggest thing that stands out to me about this team.

What are you most excited about this year?
Really, I am just excited about the opportunity to compete at the Games. It has been a long road for me to get to where I am, and I am looking forward just to being in Greece.

How do you feel about competitions outside the U.S.? Does it affect you any differently than if you were staying here in the States?
I don’t think being in Athens is really going to affect us. I know we are all going to go out and do our job and really, it won’t be any different than other international competitions we have all competed in. Sports are sports, and that’s really all this is.

Will your training change over the next month? If so, how?
Not necessarily. I think everything will be the same. You just have to get in the gym and get your workouts done. The only real difference is that we will be training as a team for the next couple of weeks, which is something new.

When do you actually leave for Athens?
August 3rd.

What is your personal goal at this Olympics? And as a team?
Well, the team always comes first. The better we do on the first day, the more finals we will make as individuals. So for me, the way I see it, if I go out there and rock all six events the first day, then I am helping myself individually, but I am also helping the team. Basically, if you do better for the team, in the end you are doing better for yourself.