Gymnastics Hosts Christmas Party for Stallings RISE Center Students
12/16/2010 12:00:00 AM | Gymnastics
Dec. 16, 2010
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The Alabama Gymnastics team took time out from its normal practice routine to host its annual Christmas party for the children from the Stallings RISE Center in the Frances Smith Practice Facility Thursday afternoon.
"We've hosted this party for numerous years, and I have to say I think this year's was the best yet," UA head coach Sarah Patterson said. "From the moment they hit the door, the children bring such amazing energy to the gym and everyone has such a great time. Our ladies get so much out of it and everyone has a huge smile the entire time."
Patterson and the Crimson Tide have joined with RISE for a Christmas party for nearly 20 years and have hosted the party in the UA practice facility since it opened in 1996. As always, the gymnasts and RISE students were joined by a very special guest when Santa Claus made his way to Coleman Coliseum and the practice gym.
After finishing exams last Friday, the gymnasts are currently training for the start of the 2011 season, which gets underway Friday, Jan. 7 at home against Penn State. Season tickets can be purchased online at RollTide.com and through the Alabama Ticket Office (205.348.2262).
