With an increase in points in each of its first three meets, the Penn gymnastics team has been getting better and better.
The team's once-biggest obstacle of youth and inexperience has turned out to be its biggest strength, with freshman Marissa Rosen leading the team in almost every category and with steady improvement throughout the whole team.
This time last year, the Quakers had already suffered one more loss - and junior Stephanie Ortiz sees a difference.
"Everyone had the same skill level but I feel like we were a little less consistent last year than we are now," Ortiz said. "A lot more people are hitting their routines, sticking their skills and doing all of them clean and tight. We're definitely looking better this year."
After coming in second in last week's meet against Towson and Temple, coach John Ceralde was pleased with his team's effort and isn't surprised at all by his team's quick improvements. In fact, he expects to continue improving as each meet goes by.
So what's on the menu for this week's meet at The Liberty Classic Invite, hosted by Temple with Ursinus, West Chester, and Bridgeport also competing?
"I do expect to see good results," Ceralde said with a confident smile. "If we keep doing our work and we're consistent we'll come out ahead again."
Ceralde is pleased with his team's progression, which is due to the its continued practices and work ethic.
Temple head coach Aaron Murphy is also in his first year as head coach. Like Ceralde's predecessor, Tom Kovic, former Owls coach Ken Anderson was successful and long-standing. Murphy's team, however, has not fared as well during the transition, as the Owls currently sport an 0-3 mark.
Ceralde, taking over in a similar situation as Murphy, believes it's just a matter of time before Murphy's team clicks.
The transition for the Quakers has been seamless largely because both former head coach Kovic and Ceralde have provided leadership and support - and they know the program inside out.
"They're both great at being there as a mentor and someone to cheer you on," Ortiz said. "They're both very approachable."
Ortiz, who had a great meet last weekend, falling less than a point short of first place all-around, is careful not to be too confident.
She is, however, very happy with her team's progress and believes this is just the beginning.
"Everyone has their rough days but everyone keeps pushing through and just keeps looking better and better," Ortiz said. "I'm really excited to see how the team is going to finish up."
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.
