Hi, my name is Michelle Graves and I am a senior this year. I am a psychology major here at Texas Woman’s University. After taking a break from gymnastics to let my body heal, I am able to be back on the team and I could not be more excited about the upcoming year. I cannot wait to see the team come together to reach the goal of winning our tenth national championship! I think this is a very attainable goal as long as each member of our team works hard in and outside of the gym.

This week has not been too busy considering we have not started official practice yet. We have, however, had required conditionings this week, which have been very demanding. Monday we had our first themed practice in which we had to wear red, white, and blue. The seniors came out with a big show and were labeled the “laboring ladies.” They wore matching white and blue headbands, and spray painted their crazy hair with blue and red spray, it was definitely an exciting morning! This weekend TWU hosted a level 2-6 competition in the Kitty Magee arena. Each member of the team helped with at least one session. These weekends are always great for us because we get to meet some of our younger fans and cheer them on as they compete.

School is officially in full swing and I think everyone is glad to be back in a set routine. We started study hall this week also, which is a requirement for all rookies and those with a G.P.A below 3.0. Study halls are great because they ensure that we are being students before athletes and help provide a time to get any extra homework done throughout the week. This is a very important time of the year because we are all getting back into shape and trying to get used to the demands of being student-athletes. This is also when our foundation for the year is being set and what we do now is a good indicator of the year ahead.

I am looking forward to starting official practice this week and seeing how everyone comes together! Thank you for all the support of this gymnastics team, we look forward to a very successful year!

Michelle Graves - Senior

Go Pioneers!