WELCOME TO GRAND BLANC GYMNASTICS CO. GIRL’S COMPETITIVE PROGRAM

How Exciting!! Competitive Gymnastics!! Grand Blanc Gymnastics Co. competitive program (hereinafter referred to as GB) will give your child an opportunity to further develop her confidence, poise, individuality, mental and physical discipline, determination and self-respect.  She will develop close relationships with other athletes and coaches who demand the best in themselves and expect the best in others.  Our goal is to encourage teamwork and self-discipline, while creating a safe and fun environment for all involved.  The GB experience shall be wholesome, worthwhile, motivating and long lasting.

As part of the competitive program, all athletes and parent(s)/guardian(s) are responsible for reading and following the rules and policies stated in this packet.  A critical part of the training process requires that we have the same philosophies.  This manual will serve as the basis of the competitive program and should have every effort made toward adherence.

OUR MISSION AT GRAND BLANC GYMNASTICS COMPANY IS…

to play a valuable role in the development of children by encouraging TEAMWORK and SELF DISCIPLINE,

to assist in their preparation for LIFE’S CHALLENGES and to foster increased SELF ESTEEM in a

MOTIVATING and SAFE atmosphere.

 

WHY GYMNASTICS?

Gymnastics is the greatest overall body conditioning activity.  Some of the physical attributes that the gymnasts will develop are:  strength, flexibility, spatial awareness, muscular control, endurance, coordination, agility, running speed, balance and grace.  Gymnasts are rewarded with the results of their hard work by improving skills and achieving their goals.  Gymnastics will assist these young ladies to become confident young adults ready to face the world as they will develop many “life skills” such as time management and mental discipline in addition to the physical benefits.

 

WHAT IS COMPETITIVE TEAM?

Competitive gymnastics is under the jurisdiction of our national governing body, USA Gymnastics (USAG).  Three programs exist under USAG:  1) Junior Olympic or JO, 2) Talent Opportunity Program or TOP and 3) Elite.  Ninety-eight (98) percent of all competitive gymnasts participate in the JO level 1-10 developmental program that is described below.  The Elite program is where International/Olympic level athletes are trained.

JO which includes our Pre-5 and Level 5-10 Team

·         Levels 1-3 are developmental levels which skill & skill sequence evaluation is required to advance.

·         Compulsory Level 4 is the entry level for competition.  Some gymnasts may compete level 4, while others who have mastered level 4 skills prior to competitive season, may never compete level 4 in a meet.

·         Compulsory Level 5 is a beginning competitive level.  Team level 5 gymnasts can compete and qualify to state meets from a state qualifier by reaching state mandated scores.

·         Level 6 (like level 4 & 5) consists entirely of compulsory routines in which each gymnast competes the same routine on each event in order to develop skill and technique.  Level 6 gymnasts can qualify to state meet from a state qualifier by obtaining state mandated scores.

·         Beginner Optional Level 7 has certain skill requirements and many skill restrictions. This level is a combination of optional and compulsory.  Gymnasts can qualify to state by obtaining the required score at any sanctioned competition.

·         Level 8 is a beginner to intermediate optional level.  Restrictions on difficulty exist at level 8.  Gymnasts can qualify to state meet in the same fashion as level 7.  However, at level 8 state gymnasts can qualify to Regional competition by obtaining a predetermined score/placement at the state meet.

·         Level 9 is an intermediate to advanced optional level.  Gymnasts compete at state, regional and Eastern National Championships by obtaining required scores/places at specific competitions.

·         Level 10 is the highest level of the USA Gymnastics age group program.  Gymnasts compete at state, regional and national championships by obtaining required scores/places.

Regional competition involves our five state region which consists of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.  We are part of Region V.

 

TOPs which includes our Level 4, Trainer 5 and those who were previously trainers who are continuing TOP training

The TOP program was designed by USAG to identify young gymnasts between the ages of 7 and 11 with exceptional strength, flexibility and skill.  Gymnasts who are 7 & 8 will test physical abilities only.  The physical ability portion of testing involves strength and flexibility.  Testings are held throughout our region (see above) during June and July each year.  Gymnasts who are 9 to 11 attend the summer physical ability test to attempt to qualify to the National Testing held in October.  The National Testing involves the physical ability test along with a skill test for each age group.  All gymnasts are ranked and score reports are sent to the gym and to the families of the participants.  The goal is to qualify for the National Camp held each year in December.  The top 7 & 8 year old gymnasts can qualify their coach to the camp.  The top 9 to 11 year olds attend the camp. 

At GB, 7 & 8 year olds who are close to or achieve maximum scores in the gym will attend the Regional Testings.  If an 8 year old qualifies a coach to the camp, that 8 year old will also test again next year in the 9 year old division.  If a 7 year old comes close or achieves the Diamond level, she will test again in the 8 year old division.  The 9 to 11 year olds who are close to maximum scores in the gym will attend the Regional Testings.  If they do not qualify to the National Testing, they will not test for TOPs in future years.  If they qualify to the National Testing but not either of the camps, we will discuss the future of training TOPs depending on scores, skills and goals for the future.  If they qualify to either camp, they will test again next year until they are over 11 years old.

Testing and training for this program is extremely rigorous.  It is not for everyone, but we do feel that TOPs strength and flexibility is a valuable tool and it is used throughout our competitive program even if the athlete is not participating in the TOP program.

COMMITMENT

Being part of our competitive program involves a high level of commitment on the part of both athletes and parents. Gymnasts in this program must be dedicated to year-round training.  A gymnast in our competitive program is allowed 3 weeks of vacation per year in addition to gym closings.  Any athlete not in compliance will be required to EITHER re-enter the recreational program for one session or arrange for private lessons.  This policy is in the best interest of all athletes involved.  Athletes who miss training fall behind in areas of strength, flexibility and endurance which reflect in their skills, and hold back the forward progress of other athletes who adhere to a consistent training program.  When planning a short vacation, private lessons are still recommended.  ALWAYS, pick up a conditioning list prior to an absence from the gym.

 

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

A Holiday Party is held each year in December.  An Awards Banquet for Team and a Picnic for Pre-Team is held each year in June to recognize the dedication and efforts of gymnasts, coaches and parents.  Team Pictures are taken each season.

 

COMMUNICATION

Parents should not attempt to talk to coaches during practice unless approached by the coach. This includes the warm up period.  If you need a question answered, ask before or after class or leave a note with the office or send an e-mail to gbgym@hotmail.com. The gym doors will contain important information regarding special practices, open gyms, meet deadlines, meet schedules, etc.  Remember parents and gymnasts are responsible for the information posted on the doors and in the mailboxes!!  Gymnasts’ names, addresses & numbers will be printed on a competitive roster that is passed out to the competitive coaches and gymnasts for communication purposes.

CHECK YOUR MAILBOX AFTER EACH PRACTICE!

 

TEAM FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

GB recognizes and greatly appreciates the support and dedication of competitive program families.  However, we must also stress that we are running a business which must have established policies with respect to accounts payable and accounts receivable.  At the same time, if you ever have a problem, please feel free to approach us at any time.  A summary of current competitive program financial obligations is available at all times.

Tuition – don’t forget about the black drop box next to the bulletin board

·         Anyone wishing to pay six (6) months tuition at a 20% discount may opt to do so twice a year.  January through June must be paid by December 15th.  July through December must be paid by June 15th.  If a student decides to leave the program or can not participate for any full month, a refund will be prorated in monthly increments at the regular monthly tuition rate.  Partial months will not be prorated.

·         Monthly tuition is due the first (1^st) of every month.  Those paying before the first may deduct an early payment discount of $5 per family. 

·         Family discounts of 10% are given for those families with more than one child enrolled.  Families with recreational members must be enrolled continuously to receive the 10% discount.

·         Tuition is considered late after the 10^th of each month at which time a $10 late fee is assessed.  Tuition outstanding after the 15^th of the month will be charged an additional $5 per week.

·         GB team tuition is non-refundable and will not be pro-rated for missed classes.  Team tuition is a program based fee not a “per month fee.” 

Membership Fees

·         An annual “Competitive Program Membership Fee” is charged of all team members which helps offset expenses incurred with administration, planning time, phone calls, copying, team equipment purchases, coaches’ travel, etc. Coaches spend an enormous amount of time planning, training, traveling and supporting the gymnasts in addition to the time they spend actively coaching, and these fees represent the amount required for compensation and expenses incurred in coaching competitions, training camps and educational expenses.

·         USAG Membership Fees are charged for all level 5 team gymnasts and higher.  Membership fees are approximately $50 and are included in the annual membership fee for level 5 and higher.  Benefits include a card allowing participation in sanctioned meets and USA Gymnastics magazine subscription.

·         Membership fees are based on all team members committing for the entire season.  Payment is due July 1^st. Thus, meet fees that have already been accounted for will not be refunded if a gymnast decides to leave the team at any point during the season.  We must operate in this manner so that fees can be established and not constantly adjusted.  Otherwise, if someone left mid-season, all other team members’ fees would be increased.

Competitive Attire

·         A “team jacket” may be required, which gymnasts will be required to wear to all away meets including travel to and from the meet, all team activities related to the meet and additional team activities.

·         Gym bags, competitive leotards, tank warm-up leo and warm up jacket and pants are ordered once per year. (Approximately $260)

·         All participants in the competitive program are required to purchase the tank warm-up leotard.

Travel Expenses

·         Parents are responsible for getting gymnasts to and from competitions and expenses incurred.

Competition Schedule & Entry Fees

·         Entry fees are charged for each competition and cost anywhere from $25-$125 per competition.  These fees are budgeted into the Membership Fees and Monthly Tuition. 

·         The competitive schedule will be determined and distributed in the fall.  If you are unable to attend a scheduled competition, notify the office immediately.  Notification needs to be given months in advance due to the early entry deadlines required by many meets.

If your child decides to stop participating at GB, please notify the Head Coach thirty (30) days in advance in order to accommodate those gymnasts who may be on a waiting list.

TRAINING CONTENT

In order to understand and appreciate what goes into the development of a competitive gymnast, one must understand exactly what it is we are trying to achieve during training. As a general rule, the average ratio for the competitive program is 8:1.  There will be times when groups will be larger or smaller.  Four fundamental areas are addressed during training:  strength, flexibility, skills and mental aspects.

Strength training is a very important part of gymnastics as it also, can play a role in the reduction of injuries.  At GB, we use many varieties of conditioning in order to keep it challenging and hopefully a fun part of training.  Much of what we use was developed by Dr. Larry Nassar, USA Gymnastics National Team Doctor.  Flexibility is also critical to the long-term success of the gymnast. Flexibility adds to the aesthetic appeal of the performance, allows the athlete to master skills more easily and plays a role in reducing the frequency and seriousness of injuries. 

Skill development falls into two categories:  basics and new skills.  Basics are the foundation of gymnastics.  If a gymnast does not have strong basics, her entire performance is weakened.  These core skills must be continually refined in order to improve performance.  In order to move on to more difficult skills, mastery of the basics is a necessity.

Mental training is used to try to create the competitive atmosphere during practice.  We tell our gymnasts to “practice like competition, and compete like practice.”  As each gymnast is an individual, we work on areas such as visualization techniques in order to reduce/eliminate anxiety that may occur at competition.  In addition, we have a weekly “circle” in which many items/issues are discussed.  On occasion, we will discuss age appropriate issues within smaller groups.

LEVEL MOBILITY

Part of the mission of GB Gymnastics is to develop happy, healthy, confident children.  One way we can help meet this demanding goal is to place the children at the proper level.  What this means is that every gymnast must be able to perform the skills and routines at a given level comfortably.  The skills should not be at the edge of or beyond her ability level.  We can never expect our athletes to perform skills or routines in a competition that they cannot perform consistently during practice.  Many items are taken into consideration when gymnasts move to the next level.  To move to the next level the gymnast is expected to have the skills mastered that are required in the next level.  In order to maintain the integrity of the program, we will opt for what is best in the long term interest of the athlete.

 

To Level 5 Team – Approval of competitive coaches.

To Level 6 - Gymnast must score an average of 32.5 (or higher) by averaging her top two all-around scores from the same season.  In nearly every situation, a gymnast will finish at least one entire season of level 5 before moving up to level 6. 

To Level 7 - Gymnast must score the USAG Level 6 mobility score in a sanctioned competition.  Gymnasts in level 6 will not participate in the state meets.  Our goal is to qualify the level 6s to level 7 as quickly as possible and then to begin training level 7 and compete as soon as they are ready on at least 3 events.

To Level 8 - Gymnast must score two (2) separate 34.0 All Around or higher, compete at least one season of level 7 and have coaches approval

To Level 9 & 10 – Approval of level 9/10 Head Coach and achieve all USAG Score requirements

 

SAFETY

Safety is always the first priority!  As with any activity involving speed and height, gymnastics is considered a dangerous sport.  GB staff will make every effort to provide the safest environment available.  Parents and athletes must be aware of the inherent dangers involved in gymnastics.  All gymnasts must have a signed REGISTRATION/RELEASE FORM on file and make sure that updates are made if necessary.

 

Safety is a group effort.  Although staff will constantly monitor the environment, parents and athletes must share in the responsibility.  Also, gymnasts must always STAY OFF EQUIPMENT UNLESS SUPERVISED BY A COACH and WAIT INSIDE OF THE BUILDING FOR PARENTS TO PICK THEM UP.

 

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is mandatory.  Parents MUST call in if a gymnast is going to miss a practice.  We do recognize that school comes first.  Gymnasts who have a large volume of homework are allowed to bring it to practice.  She may work for 30-45 minutes on homework during her stronger events.  Make-up classes will be offered on a pre-approved space available basis only.  Parents are responsible for gymnasts arriving at practice on time. If a gymnast is late, she must still perform the entire warm up.  The warm up is an important part of the training process in which the body prepares for activity limiting the potential for injury.  If for some reason a gymnast cannot get out of school early enough, parents must notify the coaches immediately.  Some of the most crucial conditioning will be done at the end of practice, gymnasts will not be permitted to leave early unless prior arrangements have been made with the coach.  We can not allow gymnasts to continuously arrive late or leave early from practice.  Summer is a very important time for practice.  Gymnasts will be working on learning new skills and improving strength and flexibility more during the summer than during the competitive season.  Every effort should be made to maintain good attendance year round.  Gymnasts who do not attend at least 80% of the required practice schedule may lose their spot on the competitive team.

 

ATTIRE

Gymnasts are required to train dressed in a manner which reflects positively on our program.  Leotards shall be worn.  Sport bras are required as needed (strongly recommended for 10 and older).  Underwear should be concealed by the leotard.  Jewelry is not permitted due to safety hazards.  Hair should be pulled up and away from the gymnast’s face. 

 

Level 6 and higher gymnasts are required to have wrist weights & wrist bands with them at all times.  Some of our training sessions require the use of wrist weights.  One to two pounds is sufficient.  Gymnasts are also required to supply their own athletic tape if needed.  Gymnasts who wear dowel grips are required to have at least two pair broken in and ready to use at all times.  If one grip breaks or is damaged, the other one is ready to use in practice or competition.  Gymnasts must constantly inspect their grips for damage.  Damaged grips must be discarded immediately.  Grips are allowed for level 6 and higher.

FACILITY MAINTENANCE

In order to keep costs to a minimum, GB will require assistance from staff and athletes.  Athletes are responsible for picking up trash, tape, cups and straightening the gym at the end of practice.  All drinks must be maintained in spill-proof containers.

 

CANCELLATIONS

The gym will be closed only in the case of extremely severe weather or a related condition (such as a power outage).  Call into the gym’s voice mail for information.

 

INJURIES

All injuries should be checked by a doctor knowledgeable about sports injuries.  See a coach for names of doctors in our area.  For most injuries, gymnasts should continue to practice on the events and skills that will not affect the injury.  It is often possible to work around injuries and to turn a difficult time into something positive by increased work on flexibility, strength, specific events or specific skills.  Because most injuries still allow the gymnast to practice on a limited basis, session fees will not be adjusted unless the gymnast is required to miss more than one month because the injury will not allow her to work out in any way.  The gymnast must have a doctor's excuse specifying which events or skills can or cannot be worked and exercises for rehabilitation.

Emergency Procedures

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, the following procedure will be followed:  Emergency first aid will be administered, including the request of EMT and an ambulance if necessary.  Parents will be contacted via the emergency contact information provided on the GB information form.  In the event that we are unable to contact a parent or alternate source from the form, we will make arrangements to contact the medical staff and hospital indicated.  If a physician or hospital preference is not included, we will contact the nearest hospital and follow their instructions.

NUTRITION

Whether inside or outside of the gym, gymnasts always need nutritious food for maximum performance.  A healthy diet is just as important as practice, conditioning, etc. to be successful in any sport.  Instead of pop, gymnasts should drink juice, water, etc.  Eliminate junk food from a gymnast's diet.  Remember healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables.  Also, include pasta, grains, rice, bran, skinless chicken, turkey, fish, low fat dairy products, etc.  (These foods are low fat and contain needed vitamins!)  All gymnasts need CARBOHYDRATES for ENERGY!! 

During practice, gymnasts may be given a break to revitalize either with juice or a snack.  Please make sure that your gymnast's snack is healthy and adequate for eating during practice.  Examples are:  fruit, crackers, pretzels and other nutritious snacks.  Candy, soda or other sugared foods will not supply an instant source of energy.  Each gymnast is required to bring a water bottle to practice every day.  If a gymnast does not bring a water bottle, they will be required to purchase one out of the machine after one warning.  Nutrition is very important for every gymnast's success!!

RESPECT YOURSELF & OTHERS

Gymnast and parent actions are a reflection of respect for themselves, their teammates and GB.  Actions at competitions, team functions or any gymnastics related travel make a public statement about yourself, GB and the sport of gymnastics.  Only the highest standard of behavior is acceptable.  Remember that you are representatives of GB.

Gymnast

Each gymnast must remember that she is participating in one of the most demanding and difficult sports.  She may experience frustration, fear or defeat.  She must learn from these things, face them and overcome them.  Each gymnast must maintain a positive attitude.  Both individual achievement and team effort will be emphasized.  Gymnasts must be supportive of each other at all times.  The gymnast must pay attention to the instruction received during the class time.  NO TEAM MEMBER IS ALLOWED TO USE ALCOHOL OR DRUGS OR TO SMOKE.  If any of these items occur, the gymnast will be dismissed from the team.

Hard work and putting forth a best effort is all we will ever ask and what every gymnast should demand of herself.  Treat other gymnasts with respect.  Be kind to others.  Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.  Ask permission to leave the gym (i.e. leaving early, using rest room, phone, etc.)  Rude or belittling comments, displays of anger or disgust, talking back to coaches or crying because of frustration is not allowed.  Be honest, cheating will not be tolerated. 

Gymnasts are responsible for telling coaches when their body is telling them to stop or slow down.  If sick, medicated or injured, keep coaches informed.  Concentration on goals is required in every practice. 

 

Parent/Guardian

Parents need to insure your athlete gets enough sleep, proper food and drink, gets to and from the gym, has proper clothing and equipment and receives proper instruction.  Also, encouragement and support should be offered at all times. Through the items mentioned above, parents show respect for their athletes and the effort they put forth.  Any more or less does a disservice to your child and limits her opportunity for success.  Communicate.  Talk to coaches with any problems or concerns. If we cannot help, we will explain why and will work to find another way to solve the issue.  Complaining to other parents cannot solve a problem, nor can a problem be solved if coaches are unaware.  By allowing us to play such a large role in your child’s life, please respect us enough to know that we have the children’s best interest at heart. 

Because parents have such a large emotional stake in the athlete’s performance with little control over the outcome, they sometimes may experience stress which can lead to unusual behavior.  In addition by watching practices and competitions, parents may gain limited knowledge about the sport of gymnastics.  When a parent starts to coach their child, they can actually interfere with the very performance they are trying to enhance.  Please refrain from coaching  during practice or competition.  In addition, this interferes with the development of the coach/athlete bond which is critical to any long term success in the sport.  Please leave coaching up to Grand Blanc Gymnastics’ trained staff.  Often times, multiple corrections can be given, but due to the ability of the gymnast to apply one (maybe two) at a time, the coach will give the athlete the most important area to try to improve in the next effort. 

Parents who recognize themselves in the following descriptions may need to reevaluate their actions, role and attitudes:  observing every practice intently; praising or punishing your child for what you observe; finding your sense of worth or happiness dependent on the success of your child; constantly comparing your child’s progress to others in her group, on her team or in competition; verbally abusing the gym, coaches and/or program while still placing your child in our program, video taping each competition and requiring your child to review it with you at home,

 

Parents must always remain in the designated waiting area and are NEVER allowed on the gym floor (unless requested by a member of the staff).  Please make every effort to play a positive supporting role in your gymnast’s competitive career.  Negative comments regarding gymnasts, judges, coaches or anything related to gymnastics will not be allowed during practice and/or competition.

COMPETITION

Competition, in itself is neither good nor bad; it is only appropriate or inappropriate.  Competition is not for everyone.  Some thrive in a competitive environment, others do not.  Some gymnasts are ready to compete at their present age and/or maturity level, others will need more time, while a few may never prosper from the competitive experience.

Team gymnasts are expected to participate in all scheduled competitions.  Pre-5 gymnasts will select meets on the competitive schedule.  Part of the measurement process of their hard work is represented by going out onto the competition floor and performing to the best of their ability in front of family, friends and teammates.  Gymnasts who do not attend practice as scheduled prior to important competitions may jeopardize their chances of competing.  Gymnasts should conduct themselves at competitions with grace and courage, accept all scores in a positive manner since we learn as much from our mistakes as we do from our best efforts.

We are dedicated to assisting each gymnast perform to her highest ability level.  This does not mean that every child must have a burning desire to someday become an Olympian, quite the opposite.  We will treat each athlete’s goals and aspirations individually.  While allowing gymnasts to develop at their desired pace, we will still demand respect and a strong work ethic from all of our athletes.  In order to keep parents informed, performance reviews will occur twice a year.

Our goal is to attend at least one out of state competition per season for level 5/6.  Levels 7-10 will have one travel meet that involves flying (in addition to Regionals/Nationals) and many others in our region.  Level 7-10s are expected to travel to all scheduled competitions.  This should be viewed as a reward for the gymnasts’ efforts.  Fewer than 1 in 2000 gymnasts will ever make a national team to represent the USA in national or international competition.  Our goal is to expose our gymnasts to large competitions to allow them to see what it takes to compete at such a meet and in turn motivate them to work harder in the gym.  Also, they gain experience in handling themselves in high pressure situations which prepares them for higher level competition and other things they will experience in life.

The commitment to travel will continue to be a component of the competitive and educational experience at GB.  In many cases we register every gymnast for every competition for her level.  If you find that you are unable to participate in any competition on the schedule, let the head coach know as soon as possible.  Meet entry fees are often sent in months in advance.

Eligibility

·         Gymnasts must be current on all gym financial obligations.

·         Gymnasts must have mastered all skills required.  We would never want to embarrass a gymnast by placing them in a situation in which they do not feel confident and comfortable.

·         Attendance.  Missed practice can mean missed competitive opportunities.

·         Gymnasts must be emotionally ready to compete.  A positive attitude is important.

Obligations

·         No Junk food 24 hours prior to a competition.

·         Arrive at the designated check-in time wearing proper attire (including appropriate undergarments).

·         Appearance is very important.  Each athlete is representing our gym.  Hair should be pulled back off of face in a neat style that will endure the entire competition.  A loose ponytail is not acceptable.  Hair must be secured so that during competition it can not cause a disruption to the gymnast’s performance.  A slicked back bun or ponytail with a braid tucked under is fine.

·         Jewelry should not be worn with the exception of post earrings which are not recommended but are acceptable.

·         Make up use should be limited and ONLY clear finger/toe nail polish is allowed.

·         No speaking to anyone in the stands at any time from the beginning of stretch out until excused at the completion of the competition.

·         Accept place in the line-up and the scores received with dignity and without comment or criticism.  Crying and uncontrolled emotions do not belong in a competition.  You cannot control the scores you get nor can you control the performances of other gymnasts.  You can only control what you do.  If you do well and receive a disappointing score, ask us.  If mistakes are made and you are disappointed, do not make matters worse by giving in to your emotions and letting them impact your performance on upcoming events.  Gymnasts who are not ready to compete on an individual event may still be required to attend the competition to gain competitive experience on the other events.  Whether a gymnast is ready for an event is the coaches decision.

·         Remember you are part of a team.  The team needs you to be in control and ready to perform.  When attending an out of state competition, gymnasts are strongly encouraged to attend sessions for all other levels from GB competing.

·         Gymnasts should not keep track of event scores, all around scores or placement during the competition.  Parents and coaches will have these items for gymnasts to review after competition.  Gymnasts should concentrate on their performance and the performance of their team.

·         Be prepared to assist coaches with springboards, mats, music, bar settings as needed during the meet.

·         Be courteous, respectful and polite to all meet officials, competitors and coaches.

·         Keep all belongings in your gym bag.

·         Bring an extra copy of floor music (optional) and a back-up pair of grips to all competitions.

·         Stay with the team until the competition has concluded and the coach has released you.  Be prepared to stay beyond the estimated times provided in the meet information.  It is a fairly common occurrence for a competition to run over.

·         All gymnasts MUST be in team warm-ups and are expected to stay for awards.

Format

Check in is the time at which the gymnast must arrive for the competition.  This is normally a 30 to 45 minute period in which the warm-up, stretch out and bar settings take place.  Timed warm-ups immediately follow check in.  This is a period of time in which each gymnast is given a set amount of time to practice skills for competition on each apparatus.  The time ranges from one minute to two minutes per gymnast per event.  After timed warm-ups conclude, gymnasts change from their warm up leotards into their competitive leotards and then they march in and compete.  At some competitions additional warm-up time is given during competition, this is called “touch.”  This is given at all competitions for optional (level 8 and up) and based on the number competing in a rotation for level 7 and under.

Judges have very specific items that they are looking for when judging routines.  The coaches can give more detail outside of the competition if parents have questions about scoring.  If a parent should ever think that his or her own judgment as to the merits of a routine is more accurate that those of the judges and the coaches, the parent is encouraged to take the classes, study the materials and take the test to become a certified gymnastics official.  Our sport is always in need of talented officials who can correctly score and rank hundreds of routines performed over a long weekend.

Guidelines for Spectators

Parents are encouraged to attend every competition.  Your support through applause at competitions is greatly appreciated.  You should feel free to applaud for any and everything you like.  The gymnasts are encouraged to support each other the same way on the competition floor.  Cheering that is too loud is discouraged as it may disrupt others who are competing. 

Promote GB in appropriate ways:  i.e. T-shirts, banners, cheers.  Never speak negatively about another club, coach, gymnast or judge.  Complaints should be directed through us.  Parents should never approach meet officials.  USAG rules only allow judges, meet workers and USAG members and competing athletes in the competitive area.

Gymnasts are not to be contacted once they are on the competition floor.  All energy should be focused on the competition with as few distractions as possible.  Once the competition has ended, gymnasts will be excused to return to their parents.

In the case of an injury during warm-up or competition, please wait for the coach to give an indication that you should come onto the competition floor.  In most cases this will not be necessary, and the situation will be handled by the coach and/or trainer.  If the situation is serious, your presence will be needed and requested.

 

Reporting Scores

The coaches will call/fax in scores to local newspapers when necessary. Individual parents and families are not generally allowed to submit their own articles.  The only exception is when those articles are approved in advance by the head coach.