Sam Peszek
What was the official diagnosis for your ankle? How's it feeling now?
I ended up having a pretty bad sprain and a few torn ligaments. I am trying to heal it, and it has been feeling really good lately.
Are you back to gymnastics training?
I am going into the gym still, but I am trying to focus more on core conditioning and flexibility. This is in addition to the healing process, so I can come back stronger.
Are you planning to continue with elite gymnastics?
I am currently still in the elite program and I am going back to the ranch in November for national team camp. I plan to train elite in 2009, and would love to go to the 2009 Worlds.
Are you thinking ahead to NCAA gymnastics in a few years? What schools are you looking at?
Of course! I definitely want to compete at the NCAA level and I can't wait to choose my school. Right now, I am just starting to receive emails from schools and looking into everything, so I am keeping all of my options open.
Has your life changed at all since Beijing?
Yes and no. I have been traveling a lot more and doing appearances, interviews, tour stops and shows. It has been so much fun and very different from what I am used to. A few of the things I’ve done include being on the Oprah Show, being introduced at a Fever and at a Colts game, being in the Frosted Pink with a Twist show, and attending a Governor’s reception.
I’m looking forward to going to the White House next week to meet the President, being in a skating and gymnastics TV show in December, and attending some competitions and receptions.
On the other hand, I am still attending my regular Catholic high school so things are sort of the same. I love going to school and the social aspect of high school, so I'm happy I get to have the best of both worlds.
It must be hard to see Peter retire. Can you talk a little about him as a coach?
I’m very sad that Peter is leaving DeVeau’s and not coaching gymnastics any longer. I’ve been with Peter since I was 8 years old and he’s been a great coach. He set goals for me and helped me to achieve them. Peter was always nice to everyone and treated everyone with respect. I know many people in the gymnastics community will miss him as much as I will. I’ve learned a lot from him. He will always will be a part of my family.