Rewriting Russian Gymnastics

'Veteran' junior, now first year senior, Maria is participating in her first major senior competition this week.  There are some fabulous pictures on the RGF website of her, her team mates and the coaches. Words are one thing.  Much has been said about the participation of Mustafina, the prospects of Russia's young team in competition against the experienced Romanians, and those absent through injury.  It's clear that in medal terms, there is little pressure on this team to perform. The pictures speak of another reality.  The tense expectations of Russia's elite have been replaced by the optimistic efforts of a new generation.  The coaches are seen to be encouraging, supporting and involved.  The team appears to be working happily.  Three members of the senior team - Mustafina, Kharenkova and Sosnitskaya - have their personal coaches here with them.  The roster of personal coaches travelling to a competition is often a measure of which gymnasts ar...