Stepping Up and Moving On
3/10/2009 12:00:00 AM | Men's Gymnastics
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2009
After spending a week "South of the Border," junior/sophomore Evan Heiter (Pinckney, Mich./Pinckney HS) takes some time to discuss the men's gymnastics team's upcoming competition against Illinois (March 14) at 7 p.m. at Cliff Keen Arena. Heiter competes on floor exercise and vault, and this season he placed third on floor against UIC with a career-high 13.950. The Michigan native also takes some time to reflect on the senior's last meet in Cliff Keen this Saturday.
It has been a productive two weeks off for the Michigan men's gymnastics team. Following a fourth-place showing at the Pacific Coast Classic, my teammates and I spent a week training in Ensenada, Mexico. The week was a nice break from the normal surroundings of Ann Arbor, and the climate change didn't hurt much either.
Our week culminated with a competition involving members of the Michigan team, as well as members of our host Mexican club. The entire trip was a great experience for all involved, and we were all sad to leave the steady 60 (and higher) degree weather behind. But, we knew there was business to be taken care of back in Ann Arbor.
The week subsequent to spring break was spent working on upgrades and perfecting routines. It's of the utmost importance to put emphasis on these areas now, to make sure we are at our strongest heading into the postseason. Adjusting to the time change, class, and practice schedule wasn't easy either, but I'm certain we made strides in polishing skills and placing new ones in our routines.
It's hard to believe that Senior Night is fast approaching. This coming Saturday night marks the class of 2009's final appearance at Cliff Keen Arena. What else can be said about a Senior Night meet besides, "bittersweet." I feel privileged to have been able to train along side of the senior class for the past three years. Each and every one of the eight seniors (and one super-senior) brings such a unique piece to the puzzle that makes up our team. It will definitely be tough to find such selfless, driven, and spirited young men such as these.
I won't say the road has been easy, or without its pitfalls, but through the struggles and triumphs, we became brothers; bonded by an experience few will be able to experience. Cue "Good Riddance", by Greenday sorry! It's not all emotional goodbyes though. Senior Night is a time to celebrate the futures of everyone and wish them luck in whatever new endeavors they choose to take on. It goes without saying, though, they'll continue to bleed Maize and Blue for many years to come.
Players Mentioned
