Anyone who missed this meet will be glad to know that all the components we have learned to take in stride over the years were present again this year. The temperature was frigid, the parking was scarce, the seating was awful, the sound system was blaring on both sides of the gym simultaneously, despite attempts to block it the sunlight blinded the girls as they ran vault, and the judging was tough. However, what you walk away remembering is the Dearys’ passion for hosting this extremely competitive meet and their commitment to celebrating the sport, the gymnasts that compete in it, and the coaches that train them. Our gymnasts were chosen again this year to be the receipient of an award that celebrates the life and spirit of an individual important to the State of Conneticut and USAG. Our Level 10s were honored to receive the Richard A. Terry memorial award which recognizes gymnastics spirit and encourages gymnasts to share their spirit and love of the sport. Mr. Terry passed away from a tragic accident in November. He was an energetic and vibrant force in the world of gymnastics. He founded and coached Milford gymnastics programs and was instrumental in bringing about the sport of gymnastics statewide for Connecticut. He served as an Assistant coach for the UB and the SCSU gymnastics programs and was associated with many Olympians. As part of the award the girls were given a new pannel mat to bring back to the gym and remember Mr. Terry during training.
Other gymnasts gifts included a professional photo disk for each gymnast, an entry into a drawing to a win a free week at a gymnastics camp, and a large drawstring bag! Free scrunchies were flying everywhere and Ellie and Nicole made sure to collect one for each of their Level 4 and 5 teammates. The choose/trade a box game was a big hit again this year. The competition consisted of 33+ gyms! The girls also enjoyed some friendly competition back at the hotel. Going head to head during Wii games and foot to foot during pool handstand competitions and knock downs seemed to be the favorites. With girls and parents from all levels on hand to join the down time activities the weekend was a lot of fun! It was also great to see so many girls at the meets supporting their team mates. Olivia and Jenna deserve special recognition supporting the Level 10s way past their bed time! You girls rock! 
The Optional Teams competed on Saturday. Their scores are listed below. The Optional Teams were not eligible for the Team competitions as the top 5 scores were counted for the Level 7 and 8 Teams and the top 3 scores for the Level 10 Tteams. 
The Compulsory Teams competed on Sunday. The competition kicked off bright and early with the Level 4s on one side and the Level 5s on the other side. Between events Ellie and Nicole rotated sides cheering the girls on and keeping us updated on both meets. The Level 4s were the only one of our Compulsory Teams eligible to compete as a team........and they came through placing 4th and bringing a huge trophy back to the gym! Check it out - its on display in the lobby! The Compulsory Team scores are listed below.
