Jan. 7, 2015
Auburn at North Carolina, Jan. 9, 6 pm CT
On starting the season
“During the summer everyone is focused and looking toward new elements, but by the end of it you want to get on to regular training. Now we’re tired of regular training and want to get on to competition training. You can only simulate this so much, and you need to get out on the equipment. I think the staff and the girls are ready to go.”
On how the team feels about their first meet
“We’re in a really good spot right now. We’re obviously not going to be hitting on all cylinders yet. I don’t think you can hit 100 percent until you’ve been out there a couple of times and tested yourself. This is probably the most ready we’ve ever been to start off a season with depth and preparation.”
On what he wants to see from the team at North Carolina
“I need them to learn to compete. Even though we have a lot of returners, every season is its own entity. They need to learn to compete, hit and stand in our team bubble. Meaning we need to manage our expectations, team dynamics, energy level and focus. We want to hit 24-for-24. We’re going to have 24 routines in lineup, and we want to hit all of them to maximize our scoring potential.”
On breaking the season ticket sales record for a fifth consecutive season
“It’s exciting, I think we’ve proven to the community here that we’ve got a great product. I think the girls thrive on the fan support that we get. I know our recruiting relies on it because these girls chose Auburn because of these fans. We’re going to repay them and give them a good show this year.”
On the team’s No. 1 ranked difficulty of schedule
“I like it. I really believe you only reach your highest potential if you compete against the best and test yourself every night. In gymnastics, it’s a bit unique that the win-loss record, especially regular season, isn’t nearly as important as your score. The fact that you’re going against tough competition, we’re going to test our metal and see how we handle the pressure. In the end, it’s about winning and losing. You go to the SEC Tournament, regionals and nationals and you have to beat teams and be tough and be prepared. I don’t think anyone prepares you like the SEC.”