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Assistant Coach: Joanne Bowers

"Keep a positive attitude, work hard every day, and enjoy the whole team experience."
		- Joanne Bowers 2003

Nickname(s):		Jo
Birthday, Sign:		6/19, Gemini
Hometown:		Newport News, Va and St. Pete, Fl
Parents:		Richard & Shirley Caravana
Siblings:		Debbie (Spain), Mike (VA), Gina (VA), and Nancy (FL)
Pets:		dog - Rocky
Major:		MA in Education w/teaching certificate in healthy and PE
Hobbies:		reading, swimming, biking, spending time w/family

Q & A - About Gymnastics and U-M

At what age did you start gymnastics?		6
How did you become involved in gymnastics?		Youth aerial circus in St. Pete, FL. Youngest trapeze flyer in the US at the time!
What is your favorite event? Why?		When I competed it was always bars because I didn’t have to think as much and it came easier to me.

What attracted you to the University of Michigan?		The gymnastics program.
What is it like competing for U-M?		As a coach, when Calli Ryals got a 10.0 on floor at Ohio State last year. I have never been coaching an athlete that got a 10.0 before!
What has been your most memorable (gymnastics) moment at U-M?		As a coach, every time I am talking/hugging one of the girls and I know we have a special relationship and I am making a difference in their lives.
What has been your most memorable (non-gymnastics) moment at U-M?		Spending time with all these wonderful people!

What inspires you to keep going after a disappointing meet or a tough week of practice?		I have been coaching for 20 years and I realize no loss or bad practice is ever as bad as we feel about it. Chin up and keep plugging away.
What advice would you share with up-and-coming gymnasts who aspire to be like you or one of your teammates?		Keep a positive attitude, work hard every day, and enjoy the whole team experience.

Some of my Favorites include...

actor/actress:	Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts	song/music:	Soft Rock
movie:	On Golden Pond, Tommy Boy	class/subject:	Psychology/ Child Development
food:	Seafood, Italian, Mexican	website:	mgoblue.com
restaurant:	Real Seafood Co, Olive Garden	volunteer event:	anything with kids

Q & A - About You Personally

Something unique about me:
Married to a division I college football coach for 22 years!

Of all the places you have traveled to, which has been your favorite? Why?
Nags Head, NC for a family get-together.
Vail, CO was beautiful.
Hawaii was fun and beautiful.

Who do you admire most in this world? Why?
My sister Gina – she is amazing. She keeps our family all together even though we’re all spread out..

Besides family or friends, what is the ONE thing you couldn't live without?
chocolate

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