We've got a new slide show and a photo album for the Rings Ceremony

• Slide Show: Rings Ceremony (Monday, September 15, 2003)
• Photo Album: Rings Ceremony (Monday, September 15, 2003)

Here are a few of the Photos:
(Click on a thumbnail to view a full size picture)

76 kb 01.Coach Mal and Dr. Witt begin the presentation

86 kb 02.Ashley and Michelle add wattage to the field

106 kb 03.SEC Floor Champ Ashley Miles

"Official practice began Thursday, September 19th for the 2003-2004 GymTide. There was a real air of enthusiasm as the coaches 'took control' of practice for the first time this Fall in Bama's state-of-the-art Coleman Coliseum Annex practice facility.

Prior to Thursday, the coaches were severely limited, under NCAA regulations, as to the amount and types of 'coaching' they were allowed to do - primarily only that needed for safety considerations. And, as with other NCAA sports, the official practice starting date, as well as the amount of practice time allowed, is strictly controlled.

With this in mind, it appeared that a strong emphasis was placed on efficiency and time management during the practice. The gymnasts scurried around to the various apparatuses as if each were trying to ensure a high mark for 'makes good use of time' on her report card."

We've got the 2nd part pf last week's slide show and a photo album for the Gymnasts Poster Signing

• Slide Show: Gymnasts Poster Signing (Monday, September 15, 2003)
• Photo Album: Gymnasts Poster Signing (Monday, September 15, 2003)

Here are a few of the Photos:
(Click on a thumbnail to view a full size picture)

46 kb 01 Sarah and Johnna Gay and Brittany Comeaux

50 kb 02 Four winning smiles start the poster signing

52 kb 03 Mari and Alexis greet some fans

As Crimson Tide fans know, gymnastics season is a time of accomplishment and accolades at the Capstone and 2003 was no exception. Last season though had a special glow from the very beginning though as Sarah and David Patterson celebrated their 25^th season coaching at Alabama and their team responded with a season-long performance worthy of such a milestone.

The Tide went into the season with one of the youngest teams in the nation, with seven freshmen and three sophomores making up the majority of the 14 athletes on the roster. There was no doubt that the Pattersons, along with long-time assistant coach Bryan Raschilla had their work cutout for them. But 'the kids' soon proved they were alright and looking to make a name of their own in the wake of Alabama's 2002 NCAA Championship.

Among the highlights from last season, and there were many, was the induction of Sarah Patterson into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, making her only the sixth woman and the first women's coach to earn a berth in the hall. As a team, Alabama followed up its 2002 national title with a runner-up finish at the 2003 NCAA Championships. The Tide also won its 19^th NCAA Regional title.

1. Roster for the 2004 season

It's hard to believe, but the 2004 season isn't too far away and being the ultra-organized folks that we are, we already have some dates for the Medalist Club calendar. So mark these dates down and keep an eye out for additions coming soon.