The NWN interviewed varsity head coach Steve Foerch about this year’s Boys Gymnastics team.

NWN: How do you think the team will do this year?
Foerch: We are going to start off strong and end even stronger. This year we have one of the hardest working teams of all time.

NWN: What game/meet is going to be the most challenging this year?
Foerch: Glenbrook North and Niles North. They’re the two conference teams that are within three points of our score.

NWN: What are some of the team’s goals, and some of your personal goals this season?
Foerch: Some of the team’s goals this year are to score 3rd or higher in Conference, top five in Sectionals, and top 20 in State. Some of my personal goals are to qualify at least five athletes in state.

NWN: What are the biggest areas that need improvement on the team?
Foerch: Even scores on high bars!

NWN: What should everyone know about the gymnastics team that isn’t necessarily publicized to the school?
Foerch: Everyone on the team is super creative. They’re a very personal group of athletes. I’m not trying to undermine the other teams, but if you ever hang around our gym during practices you just get a feeling of fun. They’re very good sportsmen.

NWN: Who is the most influential player on the team? Who do you think will have the most impact during this season?
Foerch: Hantac Chang, without hesitation. He’s a senior, he’s our captain, and he’s our team leader. He’s probably the hardest worker on the team and I’ve known him for four years. As for the most influential person on the team, I would have to say all the juniors and seniors because they’re the leaders.

NWN: What are the team’s best attributes?
Foerch: They’re very physically strong, which is super important in gymnastics. They have lots of upper body strength.

NWN: Realistically, how far do you think the team can go this year?
Foerch: Top 20 in State; the highest we’ve ever gotten was top 15 in State.

The Boys Gymnastics team takes on Deerfield (away) tonight at 6:30.