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With the 2012 Olympic Games in London just a few days away, athletes from around the globe prepare for what could be the biggest moment in their life. One such competitor is Arizona native Alexander Naddour, who is looking to make the most of his gymnastic opportunity in London.
Fellow team USA gymnast Sam Mikulak is dealing with a left-ankle injury he suffered back on June 28 at the Olympic trials. Naddour is in line as a replacement pick from a group of three alternates, who get told 24 hours before team preliminaries begin on Saturday if they will get to compete or not.
"What I tell Alex all the time is dig deep," said Mike Naddour, his father and coach. "You've got to dig deep because it could happen, and if it does, you've got to be ready."
The 21-year old junior at the University of Oklahoma is a two-time NCAA pommel-horse champion, but has also been training for the floor exercises, rings and vault if the team needs him.
"It's a great experience no matter what comes out of it," said Mike Naddour. "We're being optimistic that Alex is going to get put in."
The US Men's gymnastic team has not one a team gold medal since 1984, though they did take a team bronze in 2008 in Beijing.
For more on the 2012 Olympic Games, make sure that you check out SB Nation's dedicated Olympics hub.
