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What does it mean to you to be headed to the Olympics for the second consecutive time?
It means a lot, especially this time around. I am in a different position than the last Olympic Games. This year I am in a position to medal as an individual and with the team as well.

And with your twin brother for a second time as well?
Well, I can’t even imagine doing it without him. That’s the way I feel about it. It is so much better doing it with him. I am just really glad we are both healthy, in great shape and were able to make two Olympic Teams together.

What is your most memorable experience from the Olympic Games in Sydney?
I think one of my most memorable experiences was when I stuck my handspring double front on vault. I was having trouble on the vault going into the Games and my first time performing it in Sydney, I stuck it! Everyone was jumping up and down it was really memorable.

Do you feel more prepared than you were at your first Games?
Yes, a lot more prepared.

How is preparation different the second time around?
Preparing for the Games in 2000, I didn’t really know what I was getting into because I had very little experience prior to the 2000 Olympics. I was just happy to be going be a part of the team. This time around making team was expected and the Olympics are where I need to perform.

Do you have advice for your fellow athletes who are headed to their first Olympics?
I guess my advice would be that it’s really just another competition and everyone who goes has obviously been to a lot of competitions. They just have to remember that they are good competitors and can perform well under pressure.

What, if anything do you hope will be different at this Olympics?
I hope we come away with a medal this time!

Is there anything in particular you are looking forward to this year?
I’m actually really excited to go to Athens. I’ve never been to Greece before and I think seeing the area will be great. There is so much history, so it sounds like a really neat place to go.

Over the past year, you have managed to stay on top of the world… How has that impacted your confidence heading into the Olympics?
I’m actually very confident, mainly because I feel my routines are very consistent and I have been scoring very well. I am confident and like you said, winning the majority of the competitions I have been in over the past year also helps. With that being said, it’s the Olympics and when it comes down to it, I still have to perform extremely well, especially to win!