By Sean Cartell – UK Media Relations
Jackie McCarter, former Olympic Gymnastics Force coach and independent consultant, was recently named an assistant gymnastics coach at the University of Kentucky. McCarter brings more than 20 years of experience to her new job. She recently sat down with UK Media Relations to discuss her new position and her outlook on the UK Gymnastics program.
Q: Talk about your decision to take the job at UK and your impressions of the program so far.
A: ?My decision to take the job at UK was really a very easy one. I have been familiar with the UK Gymnastics program for many years. When this opportunity presented itself I felt very comfortable accepting the position. I am very proud and excited to be a part of the UK gymnastics program.?
Q: The UK Gymnastics program is certainly on the rise. Talk about how exciting it is to be a part of such a program and your expectations for the team this upcoming season.
A: ?In the short time that I have been at UK, I have been thoroughly impressed with the discipline and dedication of the staff and students. I have every confidence that the program will only improve upon its already stellar reputation.?
Q: You bring 20 years of experience to the job but this is your first position working with a University. Talk about the adjustment and the advantages to working with a collegiate gymnastics program.
A: ?I have been working with college-level students for several years doing camps in the summer months, but this is my first position working with a University on a full-time basis. It is an adjustment to be working at this level full-time where the young women truly appreciate the art of the sport. The students here realize the hard work and dedication it takes to be a member of a top-notch gymnastics team and are willing to do whatever it takes to maintain and exceed the UK reputation.?
Q: What are your impressions of the support system behind UK Gymnastics?
A: ?The University of Kentucky faculty, parents and community are very supportive of not only the gymnastics program, but all sports programs the school has to offer. I feel as though I have been welcomed into a very tight-knit family that sticks together and supports each other equally.?
Q: What would you say a fan could expect when he or she comes out to a meet this season?
A: ?When a fan comes to view the meets he or she can expect to see the creme de la creme of athletes that I am proud to say I?ve had a hand in training. The meets are exciting and a lot of fun to watch. No one will walk away disappointed.?
