Sometimes life is bitter sweet…This past Friday night saw our ladies post a season high score…. one of the nation's finest during the 2001 season. We witnessed the return of senior Robin Hawkins, a charismatic performer that became a Crimson Tide crowd favorite the day she began her career at Bama. Robin, returning from her second knee reconstruction, showed the gymnastics world exactly what she is made of. Her heart Friday night was bigger than her smile…. and few Crimson Tide moments have ever reflected the joy and admiration witnessed by the crowd's standing ovation.

While Robin's floor routine highlighted a terrific performance by the Tide, many of our fans wondered about the future of Tide senior Katie Hornecker, who watched from the sideline on crutches. Early in warm-ups, Katie had suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, an injury that would end her blossoming career. Katie, to be honest, was at the peak of her career and in the best physical condition ever.

The evening was bitter sweet…..I experienced more highs and lows in that two hour span than I can remember in a long time. Our team rebounded, Katie will heal, and life continues. It reminds us all to take time and enjoy each day, and that is exactly what I am doing this season!