Dec. 10, 2008

Get behind the scenes of Illinois Gymnastics with Illini Ink - the weekly women's gymnastics journal. In this week's edition, senior Lindsey Smith talks about the intensity of practice, last weekend's Mixed Pairs Exhibition, finals week and Christmas break.

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Hello Illini Fans-

It is getting to be that time of year when practices are getting really hard. The team has been working hard and hitting the routines heavy. Everyone has really been focusing on the details. I have seen a lot of pizzazz and energy along with tons of stuck landings. I have a feeling it is going to be an even more amazing season than last year!

We had our Mixed Pairs Exhibition competition this past weekend and were able to display the great routines we have been working on. The competition went great. It is always fun when the guys and girls get to team up and put a show on for our fans. Sarah Schmidt and her partners Kyle Padera and CJ Padera ("the brothers") took home the title of 2008 Mixed Pairs winners. Sarah had an excellent bar routine, putting up a score of a 10.0 from our fellow student-athlete guest judges. This event is always a fun way to start off the season!

Now that Mixed Pairs is over, everyone is starting to feel the nerves of finals week approaching. The girls are feeling the stress of the added exams and work in the last few weeks of the semester. Although it is extremely stressful now I know we all cannot wait for our Christmas break. It is a nice month off school and some time home to spend with our families. Also it will be a great opportunity to get a lot of time for hard work in the gym to get us ready for season.

I am sure this upcoming weekend will be filled with studying and coffee breaks, but good luck girls with finals and I know you will all do great!

Thanks for reading and Go Illini!

Lindsey