North Carolina State University Athletics
Pack Gymnastics Opens Fall Practice
9/10/2014 12:00:00 AM | Women's Gymnastics
Sept. 10, 2014
RALEIGH, N.C. - The NC State gymnastics team began preparations for the 2015 season Wednesday afternoon in Carmichael Gymnasium, as the Wolfpack held its first official practice.
"I think it went well," said junior Michaela Woodford. "Everyone came in excited with good energy and we worked really hard."
State lost six seniors from last season's squad, but returns a strong nucleus. The squad boasts two seniors, including Lane Jarred and Naomi DeVries. The Pack also returns Brittni Watkins, the 2014 EAGL Gymnast of the Year, as well as Michaela Woodford, the 2013 EAGL Rookie of the Year.
NC State will count on strong contributions from its freshmen class, including Allie Wismer, Chelsea Knight, Sami Circeo and Taylor Murphy.
"The first practice was a lot different than what I'm used to," Wismer said. "It was short, but we worked quickly and really hard."
"The freshmen are looking awesome," DeVries said. "They're coming straight from club, so they're used to doing full-out routines everyday. Coming here, they've been able to adjust well and have been really motivated."
Last season, the Wolfpack secured a postseason berth for the 12th consecutive season. Watkins was named regular-season All-American and captured the 2014 EAGL Gymnast of the Year.
Senior Lane Jarred
On the team's focus in practice:
"We're focusing on getting our bodies in shape, so that when we do our bigger skills it will be easier. Right now, we're trying to stay positive and work as a team.
On being a leader of the team and being an example:
"As a leader, I've tried to set a good example of the expectations inside the gym and outside the gym. We've talked about helping each other, trying to work collectively with the younger girls and giving them guidance in whatever areas of need."
Senior Naomi DeVries
On first practice as a senior:
"Today's practice was a little bittersweet, because it was the last first day of practice for Lane and I. It went really smooth. We were all in good shape and had all of our skills down from this past summer. It was really good."
Freshman Chelsea Knight
On impressions of first collegiate practice:
"Today, we were mainly focusing on the basics and getting prepared for the season. I think for the first practice we did really well."
