TheMat.com interviews U.S. Olympic Greco-Roman team captain Steven Mays

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Gary Abbott (USA Wrestling)
09/19/2000


TheMat.com interviews Olympic Greco-Roman Team Captain Steven Mays    TheMat.com: What is the mood of the team, going into the last few days of preparation?    Steven Mays: "Our mood is up. We have got our weight under control. We've taken in the sights of Sydney, and now are focused on the task at hand, and that is wrestling.    TheMat.com: None of the team members have  competed in the Olympics before. What makes this experience different than other major events, such as a World Championships?    Steven Mays: "I think most people here understand that this is where dreams are made. People step it up to the next level here. They all want to make history or be a part of history."    TheMat.com: A number of major media, including Sports Illustrated and USA Today, have picked our Greco-Roman team to win zero medals. What does the team think about that?    Steven Mays: "We are not here to please the media. We are here to go out and perform at our best. We are going to do our thing out there. I believe that will be good enough to get medals."    TheMat.com: What have the coaches done to help the athletes get prepared for the Olympics?    Steven Mays: "They have given us leeway to excel. They have allowed us to train in the way that has gotten us to this point. They have supported our efforts. The leeway factor has been a key."    TheMat.com: What are your personal goals for the Games?    Steven Mays: "To say that I don't want to medal would be selling myself short. If I perform to the best of my ability, that's all I can ask. If I do the best that I can, the results will take care of themselves.     TheMat.com: What should American wrestling fans expect from this U.S. Greco-Roman Olympic Team?    Steven Mays: "This team has a lot of heart, and the guys have experience. We will surprise some people. We have people who will get the job done. The fans should keep their eyes on us.    Interview conducted from the Athlete's Village, September 19.