Feb. 16 - Ankita Shah

Hey Everyone!! 
      Winter break is unfortunately over, but I’m excited for the start of a new semester and an amazing season! This new team has made so much progress and I’m excited to see everyone competing and bring up the team confidence. The first meet was a great showing of what is to come from the team. We really proved to everyone that we are moving in a new direction and can compete with some of the higher ranked teams. It really amazes me how after all the hard practices and conditioning days this team has pushed through and showed a limitless potential.  
      For me, the first semester was a little tough getting used to the new environment and learning to balance gym and school. It was definitely a learning process, but I go into the new semester with a more positive outlook, and I now expect more out of myself. Not being able to compete this season due to injury impacted me the most last semester. I was constantly thinking about what could have been rather than focusing on what I have accomplished. After many talks with my parents, and teammates I have learned to look at this as a positive rather than negative. Yes, I don’t get to compete, but in life there are always setbacks. My current goal is to work extremely hard in rehab, and become a stronger gymnast than before. I just can’t wait for when I can represent these BEARS!  
Come and Support!!!
GO BEARS!
Ankita

Nikki Lew - Feb. 10

Hi Everyone!
       First semester is finally over, and we have already begun second semester. Time is flying by. As a freshman this year, I definitely had struggles and have overcome most of them.  When I first arrived on campus, I was completely helpless. Up until then, my parents had done everything for me: cooking, cleaning, buying groceries, making appointments, talking to teachers and counselors, etc. All I had to focus on were my grades and gymnastics. My parents even helped move my belongings into the dorm room for me!  But I have grown.  I am learning to be more responsible and take care of my own problems.  My organizational and time management skills have greatly improved. Adjusting to college life has been easier than I had anticipated since I had help and guidance from my team-mates, coaches, friends, and counselors.  They stood by me and encouraged me throughout practices, midterms, and finals.
       After being on Winter Break for over a month, this has been our first week back at Cal. to begin the second semester of classes. It’s been a little difficult getting re-adjusted back to the "study mode." The rain has not helped much either. However, my friends have all returned and the campus is “alive” again. The classes which I have chosen this semester are difficult, but interesting.  With one semester completed, I now have some idea of what to expect. Plus, SEASON IS FINALLY HERE!!! It’s been so exciting competing and performing our routines. We have been training intensely in the gym almost everyday since the end of August- perfecting our skills and routines.  With our large incoming freshman class, our team is not only younger, but stronger, and more confident. It is our time to shine! So come on out and watch our meets!
GO BEARS!
Nikki