For most new coaches, their first year usually consists of introductions, changing lineups, and new strategies. But for Men's Gymnastics Coach Randy Jepson, the first year at the helm has been old business so far.

In the fall, after taking the over for the retiring Karl Schier, Jepson found himself in charge of a talented but unhealthy Penn State squad. Taking the injuries in stride, the former assistant coach has found the transition rather easy.

"I think the transition has been really smooth," Jepson said. "There are a few more responsibilities, but I have been around long enough to know the system and how things get done."

Jepson first entered coaching as a graduate assisant to Schier during the 1983-84 and 1984-85 seasons. Before being promoted to head coach, Jepson served as Schier's assistant coach for six years. Jepson believes that the smooth transition has been a result of a unique working relationship between Schier and himself.

"Ever since he first came here, we just kept increasing his (Jepson's) responsibilities," Schier said from his new home in Boca Raton, Fla. "Recruiting is very, very important, and over the years more and more of the load was given to him."

As a graduate assistant, Jepson's only responsibility was to keep in contact with the gymnasts, Schier said. After being promoted to assistant coach two years later, Jepson's jobs expanded to included recruiting and ordering new equipment. Last year, Jepson headed the renovations of the team's $150,000-plus new practice facility in the White Building's South Gym. In the last two years, Jepson was responsible for setting practice schedules for the team.

"I had a great instructor in Karl," Jepson explained. "He gave me a lot of responsibilities. I appreciated the confidence he had in me."

In addition to Schier's confidence, Jepson has also gained the confidence of his team.

"Everything has been really well," said senior Adam Carton. "We have had a lot of injuries, but he has handled it really well. He has not stressed us out at all."

As a gymnast, Jepson was a three-year letterman at the University of Oregon. After Oregon dropped its men's gymnastics program, Jepson transferred to Penn State, where, in his final year of collegiate eligibility, he earned All-America status on the rings.