PATTY PANICHAS INTERVIEW 8-08

1) You’re judging the Olympics! Can you tell us what it means to you and how it felt when you first found out?

Answer: This is such an incredible honor and a once in a lifetime experience. When I first found out that my name was drawn, I was in shock. I never imagined that I would be in this position.

2) Please fill us in about your background in gymnastics, in coaching and judging, and as officers for both NAWGJ and USAG these past years.

Answer: I’ve been involved in many aspects of gymnastics, as a gymnast, coach and judge.

I coached at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT for 28 seasons. I loved coaching and the interaction with the athletes. There is nothing like it. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Although I am no longer coaching, I am still on the teaching faculty and a member of the Exercise Science Department.

Currently and for many years, I have served as the NAWGJ Regional Judging Director and the USAG Regional Technical Committee Chair for Region 6. I value being a part of both organizations.

3) Can you tell us what your life might be like in the coming weeks? (When you leave, what you will be expected of you once you are in Beijing, etc) Do you know which event(s) you are judging?

Answer: Gymnastics, gymnastics and more gymnastics!!! I shall be leaving on Sunday, August 3rd and arriving in Beijing on August 4th. I’ll be A-2 on balance beam for the entire competition. The A-panel judges are drawn and then placed on an event. This is done months prior to the Olympics. The responsibility of the A-panel is basically to determine the content of the routine. The A-panels will meet with the FIG-Women’s Technical Committee beginning on August 5th. It is my understanding that the A-panels are also responsible for reviewing each day of competition (the following day) for the purpose of evaluation.

4) Will you be able to do any sightseeing in China – any personal side-trips? Have you you been over there before?

Answer: I am not anticipating having a lot of free time for sightseeing but it will be a bonus it I do.

I was in China last summer on vacation with friends, so fortunately I have seen some of the country. The Great Wall was magnificent, the climb almost killed me and I only climbed a small section. What an adventure, I am so glad I did it.

5) How do you think this whole experience will affect you in the future?

Answer: I think it will further expand my appreciation of the sport and provide a better understanding of the process. I am hoping for a positive experience and memories I shall cherish in the years to come.

One of the things I shall treasure is knowing how excited people have been as I’ve gone through the journey. There are many people who share in this honor because without their support and encouragement over the years, I would not be in this position. If you are one of those people, I thank you--and enjoy the experience!