USGF Technical Journal - No. 11, 1983 by USA Gymnastics

USGF

TECHNICAL ~ournal Offic ia l Techn ical Publication of the Un ited States Gymnastics Federation

VOL. III, No. 11

National Team Member ScoUjobnson

Coaches and club owners:

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USGF

TECHNICAL

VOL. III, No. 11

.Journal USGF Scientific and Technical Journal Published Exclusively for the USGF Professional Membership

Table of Contents Features

Floor Exercise Routine-New Concept

Mas Watanabe

'f:i

.sQ ~

Brian Meeker

Daniel Smith Rainer Martens

Competitive Anxiety Among Gymnasts Meeting Reports

5 Junior Olpllpic Development Committee REDO Minutes 6 Men 's Program Committee (March 5-6) 7 Executive Committee Oan. 6)

8 9 12

Men's Program Committee Oan. 14) Executive Committee (Sept. 21) Executive Conunittee Oan. 3 1)

Editor's Note: At the time of these meeting s Roger Counc il was Executive Director of the USGF. He has been replaced since by Michael Jacki. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ United States Gymnastics Federation _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Members: Amateur Athletic Union ; American Sokol Organization ; American Turners ; Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women ; National Association for Girls and Womens Sports ; National Association of College Gymnastics Coaches; National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics Coaches/Women ; National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics ; National Association of Women Gymnastics Judges ; National Collegiate Athletic Association; National Federation of State High School Associations ; National Gymnastics Judges Association; National High School Gymnastics Coaches Association ; National Jewish Welfare Board ; National Junior College Athletic Association ; United States Association of Independent Gymnastics Clubs ; United States Gymnastics Safety Association . Young Men 's Christian Association . Unless expressly identified to the contrary , all articles, statements and views printed herein are attributable solely to the author and the United States Gymnastics Federation expresses no opinion thereon and assumes no responsibility therefor.

USGF GYMNASTICS In order to continue in providing our readers with the most diverse and comprehensive information concerning the gymnastics community. we have expanded the magazine's coverage to include 20 different Departmenr:s. These various Departments will be a continuing series. however. each Department may not appear in every issue. Your contributions to the following menu of topical areas will compliment our original solicited articles. and will help benefit all those involved in the sport. The following are brief descriptions of each department We look forward to your contributions. Please address such correspondence to,

Editors USGF GYIlNASTICS Map.d.ne

Merchant, Plaza Suite 11 44E Indianapolis, Indiana 46204 U.S.A 0

Contributors should include with their double路spaced typewritten manuscripts a brief personal biography and a head-shot photograph. Photography and illustrations included should be black and white. with an attached description, photo credit. and a self-addressed路stamped envelope for thier rerum by mail. USGF MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS: TIlls department will pUblish historical. timely and competition articles encompassing the 18 member associations which comprise the LJSGF. BASICS: Will attempt to cover the basic elements needed for proper overall gymnastiCS development - flcxibiliry . dance. nutrition. strength. etc. TIlls series encourages a variety of \'i~l>Oints and "basics" definitions. GUEST OPINION: Readers are encouraged to submit constructive commentaries or criticisms (0 [he Editors of this magazine for possible

USGF Technical Journal

publication. ,' .Ianuscripts should be approximately 1050 words in length and should b.:: oriented toward identifying solutions to problem areas. This Department is designed as a forum for members of the readership to "speak their piece." LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Your comments are welcome and encouraged, and may address any topiC . Articles. editorials. opinions or photography from the magazine; national and international competitions; gymnastics history andlor furure directiOns; L'SGF programs and service. etc. lIIEDIA REPIlINTS: ~oreso than ever before. major and local newspapers and many magazines are covering gymnastics and gymnasts. Those articles you enjoy. whether relating to a tot or Olympian. conp<::tition, personality or special feature. send copies for consideration to be reprinted in the magazine. Include the name and address of the publication and the date the article appeared. QUESTION/ANSWER: Ask a question - any question - and we'll try to find an in-depth answer. Who, what. where. when and why about histoty, competitions, coaching tips, athletes, coaches. judges. rules, equipment, etc .. The editors will seek-out an authority to answer your questions. GYMNASTICS PEOPLE, PLACES AND NEWS: Who are the up-and-coming young gymnasts to took for' Who won a special award in your area? What events are going to happen' What took place in your town? Include a black and white photograph or illustration with a 300-word description for possible publication. The following Departments are a part of o ur Department "Pool" International, Natiotul Sports Medicine. Interview. Safety. Olympic Up-Date, Business, Promotion and Public Relations. Book Reviews. Teaching and Training, the Gym, Commenury and Editorial.

Safe Learning Environment Helping Skills by Mas Watanabe, USGF Men's Program Director A new gymnastics trend can be attributed to any number of factors . The development of new technique, improvement of gymnastics apparatus, or even the add ition of a new training device (such as a long grip with dowel). may have a critical Influence in setting a certain trend of movement. The improvement of a training facil ity is also an important factor, particularly the addition of pit areas in the training gym which have made a tremendous impact in the rate of improvement for gymnasts. Also , the overall difficulty in trends in gymnastics have even been accelerated as a result of providing a safe learning environment. The development of the spring floor, coupled with the pit on the landing area, have certainly facilitated the development of acrobatic movements in tumbling , Today, a full twist ing double back salta is a commonly used skill in the floor exercise routine wh ich was considered a very difficult move up until a few years ago , The most advanced acrobatic skills which we have seen in the international competitions so far are a double twisting double back salta (Li) for backward tumbling ; a front handspring to double front salta (Korolev) for front tumbling ; and a double side salta (Tong) for side tumbling . As far as the development of the single acrobatic skill is concerned , it appears that there is very little room left for further de velopment. There also has been some development of the transitional movements in the past few years, particularly the strength hold such as planche or V-seat hold to press out to handstand and double leg circles with flair action type movements have become very popular, These added elements make the routine look interesting and more balanced in the entire composition , However, when we critically review the development of the floor exercise routine in the past decade, basically there was no major change that took place other than the improvement of difficulty in acrobatic tumbling skills, Many of the gymnasts still use a 4 path routine (3 diagonals and 1 side path) with 3-4 running steps prior to every major tumbling path , Most of the transitional movements are not rhythmical and are chopped with many unnecessary steps before and after the movements, There are a few gymnasts who have attempted some innovative combinations or a different style of routine in the past ; however, nothing has been consistent enough to become a new trend in floor exercise, Reviewing the past general direction in floor exercise routines, it appears that the door to new trends in this event is wide open , If we wish to take a leadership role as a new trendsetter , perhaps the critical analysis of the routine and determining the potential directions for some of the elements are necessary steps at this point.

Tumbling Increase in difficulty of any single acrobatic tumbling skill could be the most difficult area to make any major change , A continuous effort should be placed on increasing the air time (height) for further improvement of difficulty, Ii. Combination tumbling - There may be any number of different types of combinations and this could be the key factor (direction) to further improve the aspect of tumbl ing in the routine , A. Add ition of preceding tumbling skill prior to the major acrobatic tumbling, Example: A front handspring-front salta step out-round off-flip flop double layout back salta, B. Combination of similar difficulty level tumbling skills , Example: a. Series of saltos Front salta - Front salta step out to - or Back salta - 1/2 twisting back salta step out to b. Round off - flip flop - 1'12 twisting back salta step outfront handspring - full twisting front salta C Addition of tumbling skill after the major acrobatic tumbling, Example a. Round off - flip flop - full twisting double back salta - flip flop - full twisting back salta b, Round off - flip flop - 1'12 twisting 1% Arabian dive rollfront salta 1 V, to prone, Very obviously in any combination, tumbling requires a greater distance to cover in the routine so that gymnasts must develop more powerful round-offs and handsprings to be able to accelerate rotational force in a greater amount without depending on running steps , IIi.

Pattern One of the requirements for the floor exercise routine which is stated in the FIG Code of points is that all available floor space in all directions should be used, The most commonly used 4 paths pattern does not meet this requirement fully , In order to fulfill this requirement, a routine should have a minimum of 5-6 paths and/or some of the paths should have more directional changes instead of a simple straight line, Perhaps some of the paths should have a possibly curved line instead of a straight line and use the transitional movement which would include a pivoting and pirouetting action to change the direction of the path, One should be aware that this addition of paths and new elements to cover the entire floor exercise area would require a great deal of endurance, Certainly this would also force gymnasts to move in and out from the corner very quickly to complete a routine within a 60 second time limit. In other words, this new pattern would mean less "stops" in the corners and throughout the routine, The following 2 diagrams are the representation of typical 4 paths pattern (#1) and the example of new type of floor pattern (#2), #1

End

Start

End

Start

IV, Composition ConSidering all the factors that were previously discussed, the type of elements required to compose the new style routine should include: (t) the tumbling which contains at least 2-3 combination tumbling paths; (2) the strength moves with good holding and press to handstand; (3) showing good flexibility in a rhythmical movement, examples : scissor leap - kick to back walkover stoop through to split; (4) a controlled balance movement; and (5) some dynamic jumps and leaps with pivoting and turning movements, examples: tour jete, side leap, These elements should be connected with some rhythmical and harmonious movements, The routine should be composed to maximize flow and rhythm and minimize stops, except those absolutely necessary holds such as scales and handstands to meet the requirements (2 second balance duration), Conclusion

/'bo/O hI ' Dan' /3/ad,

To summarize the ideas of potential directions which we could take to be the new trendsetter for this event: 1, Develop some strong combination tumbling paths not only for middle paths but also in the mount and dismount sequences, 2, Change the pattern of routine to cover as much floor exercise area as possible with many directional changes, 3, Compose the routine to flow with variety of rhythm throughout and minimize stops (interruption of flow), 4, Add some dynamic leaps, jumps and turns as the connecting movements, (This would require some basic dance training,)

Phil Cahoy during is floor exercise routine, 4

USGF Technical Journal

Junior Olympic Development Committee Report Minutes of Septembe r 1982 Meeting Fort Worth , Texas Voting Members Present: Kim Kludt, Reg . I Brad Loan , Reg . II Bob Chi lders, Reg . III Joan Rice, Reg. IV Kathy Koeth for Doreen Bolhuis, Reg. V Marilyn Schnaars, Reg . VI John WOjtczuk, Reg. VII Bruce Davis, Reg. VIII Linda Chencinski, WCC Delene Darst, WTC Roe Kreutzer, ODC Meeting was called to order by the Chairman , Connie Maloney at 7:00 P.M. Review of May, 1982 minutes: Addition . Dale Flansaas Kephart is the author of the 84-88 Compulsory Beam routines. II. Review of WTC and Women's Executive Board minutes of June, 1982 meetings. A. Discussion of when sectional meets are required: Delene clarified that the new ruling requiring sectional meets if there were 40 competitors at the previous year's State meet is not retroactive . The numbers at the Fall , 82 or 1983 Spring State meets will determine the need for sectional meets in 83-84 season. B. Motion: In a one-day local or sectional competition with 60 or less competitors , the Optional competition may precede the Compulsory competition. J. Wojtczuk, seconded and Passed C. Discussion of USGF Membership requirement of coaches: Motion: To recommend to the Women's Executive Board, that at a USGF - sanctioned meet, at least one coach from each team on the floor must have a Gold Card or Professional Membership. J. Rice, seconded and Passed unanimously. D. Discussion regarding the Women 's Executive Committee recommended that Class II Regionals may be Optional only competition , Motion: To recommend to the WC that the Class II Regional competition be a Compulsory & Optional competition to be consistent with the other levels of the Jr. Olympic program . B. Childers , seconded and Passed E. Class III Clarification: Class III and Class IIiC are considered the same level and it is therefore possible to enter both State meets in one season , provided that the Compulsory only State meet precedes the C&O State meet. Once a gymnast has entered a Class III C&O sectional or State meet, she may not compete in the III C State or State-qualifying meets the following season. F. Motion: Maintain a separate Children 's division at the Class I Regionals , but require that the Children and Juniors compete in the same session since they are vying for places on the Jr. Regional Team . D. Darst, seconded and Passed . G. Discussion of WC recommendation to JODC that a mandate score of 34,00 be used in Class IV. Motion: The mandate score for Class IV will be determined by the State Board.

Master Workshops Spring, 84 Each member of the committee received rough drafts of one event, Class I-IV. Connie has agreed to compile a list of the major elements of all the events in order for the Committee to evaluate the consistency of difficulty within each specific Class level. IV. Meeting was adjourned at 11 :30 PM . Respectfully submitted, Connie Maloney, Chairman

REDO MINUTES September, 1982 Congress Americana Hotel, Fort Worth, Texas Voting Members: Region I Tammy Briggs (Sub.) II Brad Loan (Sub.) III Carol Stabisevski IV Rod Rogers

Region V Steve Whitlock VI Peter Sielski VII John Wojtczuk (Sub.) VIII Bunny Cook

Guest: Becky Riti , Jim Gault, Bill Sands Meeting was called to order at 9:05 a.m. by Chairman, Roe Kreutzer. 1. Discussion of the 1982-83 Olympic Regulations. Page 1 E-2 (Some National Team gymnasts may petition to bypass the Classic Meet if National Team has required meets very close to the Classic Meet). Motion: A Gymnast asked to participate in International competition close to a Classic Meet will be told at time of notification if she may bypass the Classic Meet. Selection Committee with National Technical Director will make this decision. S. Whitlock, P. Sielski (Passed) 2. Discussion on problems this past year during open and pre-meet warm ups at the National Competitions. Motion: In pre-meet warmup coaches of individual gymnasts may block time on bars and beam . S. Whitlock, J. Wojtczuk (Passed) Motion: Open warmup must follow a specific procedure. Each gymnast must have equal time on all apparatus. T. Briggs, B. Cook (Passed) 3. Discussion on the height of the uneven bars. Some of the taller girls are hitting their feet on the floor. Motion: That girls 5 foot 4 inches be allowed to raise the bars. B. Loan , B. Cook (Passed) 4. Discussion on Meet Rotations. Motion: For a three session rotation we use the A-B-C - C-B-A rotation . 5. Discussion on the 1982-83 vaulting regulations. Motion: Two different vaults from different families. 1C and 1B or better for the All Around. Finals the same but averaged. S. Whitlock, P. Sielski (Passed) (This will be studied by the Vaulting Committee)

J. Wojtczuk, seconded and Passed unanimously. III. New Business A. Class III Floor Exercise Time Limit: JODC recommends to WTC to continue with the time of 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds. B. Discussion regarding the Class IV Vault Bob Childers polled Region III coaches and received many responses showing concern for the layout squat vault being dangerous for the Class IV gymnast, as well as not being developmental. Committee discussed that Class IV is primarily a recreational level and the routines should be of a level that can be reached successfully without a great demand of time and training . C. 1984-88 Compulsory Routines Delene explained the timetable: Rough drafts out for evaluation Fall , 1982 Critiques in by January 1983 Revisions made in Winter, 83 Routines filmed Summer, 83 Routines go to press, Jan . 84 USGF Technical Journal

6. Discussion of the PSF Testing in the Jr. Program. (We still have questions on how it will work into the existing program). Motion : That we except the PSF Program. S. Whitlock, B. Cook (Passed) 7. Discussion on the 1984-88 Compulsories. Motion: The Class IV, III , and II compulsory routines be recreational & developmental to optionals . (Easier than present routines). B. Loan , J. Wojtczuk 6 yes 2 no. Motion: The Certification Committee meet, in person , with the authors of the compulsory routines for discussion before finalizing the routines . B. Cook, S. Whitlock (Passed) The next meeting will be at the American Classic in January, 1983. Meeting adjourned at 2:30 p.m. Minutes recorded by Bunny Cook. Roe Kreutzer

Men's Program Committee Meeting VI. Final World Championship Trials (September 16-17) Editor's Note: At th e time of this meeting Roger Council was Executive Director of the USGF. He has been replaced since by Michael Jacki.

Held at the American Cup, March 5-6, 1983

A. The top 18 competitors from the U.S.A. Championships will be eligible. B. The Final Trials will count for 70% with the other 30% of a competition score being forwarded from the U.S.A. Championships. C. The top 8 competitors will qualify for the World Championships Team . D. In the event of a tie for 6th place , the high compulsory score combined from U.S.A. Championships and Final Trials will receive the higher ranking . If a tie still exists, FIG regulations based on compulsory scores will be used to break the tie. E. In the event of a tie for 8th place , the tie will be broken as outlined above .

Present: Les Sasvary, Chairman Bill Roetzheim Abie Grossfeld Tom Gardner Tim LaFleur Mas Watanabe (non-voting) Makoto Sakamoto (Assistant National Coach , non-voting)

International Events:

Absent: Ed Burch Fred Roethlisberger

VII. U.S.A. vs . France , (March 25-26) , Nantes, France The competitors for this competition are:

Meeting was called to order at 8:00 a.m. Roger Counsil informed us that the Athlete's Foundation is functioning , and all monies to be paid to athletes must be channeled through the U.S.G.F Roger also stated that the U.S.G.F Regional Meets are up for bid. The four regional meets are to be held the weekend of May 20-21 and are to be self-supporting events. In the event that no one sponsors a regional meet in a particular region, due to a lack of funds, the U.S.G .F will pick up the judging fees . All regional meets are to be judged competition III. In the event that more than one bid comes in for a regional meet in a particular region, the M.P'C. will choose the site.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Tim Daggett Jim Hartung Mario McCutcheon Brian Meeker (alternate)

Coaching staff:

5. Roy Palassou 6. Billy Paul 7. Peter Vidmar

1. Abie Grossfeld 2. Makoto Sakamoto

VIII. Champions All (April 16) Don Dembrow was selected to compete with Peter Kormann as coach . IX. DDR Invitational (April 15-17)

II. U.S.G.F Men 's Team Tournament (May 13-14) At the time of our meeting, the U.S.G .F was still in need of a host for this competition. If a host is not found in time for a reasonable amount of time for preparation, the meet will be canceled. III. Championships of the U.S.A. (June 3-5) As stated from an earlier meeting, the top 72 gymnasts who obtain a qualifying score of 106.00 points will be eligible to compete . In the event of a tie for 72nd place, both athletes will be eligible. The top 36 qualifying scores will compete as a group. In case of a tie for 36th place in qualifying score , the competitor with the highest compulsory score will compete in the upper group. If the compulsory scores are tied , the lowest of the six compulsory scores will be dropped and the remaining five event scores will be added to determine the winner. If there is still a tie, one men 's event score will be dropped until there is a winner. This is as in FIG regulations . In the events of a tie for 36th in compulsory at U.S. A. Championships, the higher qualifying score will compete in the upper group. If the qualifying scores are tied , the FIG regulations will again be used to break the tie. At the conclusion of the competition , the top 18 competitors will be on the National Team and advance to the World Championship Trials . In the event of a tie for 18th place, both competitors will be on the National Team and the competitor with the highest camp . score will receive the higher ranking . The U.S.A. Championships will count for 30% towards qualifying for the 1983 World Championship Team .

Voted unanimously not to attend. X. U.S.A. vs . U.S.S.R. - Los Angeles , CA (April 22-23) Competitors for this event will be the top five from 1982 plus Bart Conner. The sixth place competitor from 1982 will be the alternate. XI. TBS Cup (April 21-27) The two highest ranked competitors who are not competing in the U.S.A. vs. U.S.S.R. meet will attend the TBS Cup plus the coach of the highest ranked gymnast who attends the competition. XII. Hopoel Games (May 1-7) Gymnasts: Steve Marino, Robby Mahurin Coach: Karl Schier XIII. U.S.A. vs. China (May 6-7) Cancelled. XIV. International Tournament, Tunisia (May 6-8) Cancelled. XV. French International Invitational, Antibes (June 10-17)

IV. U.S.G.F Junior Nationals (June 23-25) The qualifying scores for the Junior Nationals are as follows.

Gymnast: Stacey Maloney Coach: to be decided

Class II : 90 points Class I: 95 points Junior Elite: 105 pOints

XVI. Deutsches Turnfest, Frankfurt (June 26-July 3)

There will be a two week training camp immediately following the Junior Nationals for the following individuals.

XVII. World Univ. Games (July 1-11)

Top ten Class II competitors Top ten Class I competitors New Junior Elite competitors Also eligible will be those athletes who are on the Junior Team at the time of the Junior Championships.

Cancelled .

Coaches : Jim Howard (head coach) Hal Frey (aSSistant) Paul Ziert (alternate) Athletes: Top five from optionals at U.S.A. Championship XVI II. Mocada Tournament, Cuba (July 2-3) Cancelled .

V. National Sports Festival (June 24-July 3) The top twelve senior members from the U.S.A. Championships , who choose to attend , will be eligible. The junior members will be selected from the December, 1982 ranking. 6

XIX. Pan Am Games, Venezuela (August 14-27) Coaches : Abie Grossfeld,Makoto Sakamoto Athletes: Top seven from U.S.A. Championships who wish to attend. USGF Technical Journal

XX. International Invitational , Los Angeles , CA (August 25-28) Coaches and athletes to be selected at U.S.A. Championships. XXI. World Championships, Budapest (October 23-30) The delegation of two coaches and eight athletes wi ll depart for France October 10. A compu lsory and optional competition wil l be held in France October 14 and 15, and the delegation wil l depart for Budapest on October 17.

XXIV. National Sports Festival Senior Coaches: Rich Chew Rusty Mitchell Bill Mead (alt. ) Junior Coaches: Ed Burch Dan Connelly Mike Thomas (alt.) Submitted for approval , March 24 , 1983

XXII. Kurt Thomas Petition The petitions of Kurt Thomas and Kevin Prady to regain their amateur status were unanimously approved provided that the FIG also give their approval. Until the FIG turns down their petitions , they wi ll not be allowed to compete in U.S.G.F. sanctioned events. XXIII. U.S.G.F. Junior Program Mas Watanabe and Tom Gardner informed the committee of the following points concerning the Junior Program. 1. Junior coaches: Yoichi Tomita, Tom Gardner, Ed Burch, Bill Austin , Hiddo Mizoguchi, Ray Gura, Susan Cable (coaches approved by M.P.C.). 2. For the U.S.A. vs. Canada competition Coach: Yoichi Tomita

January 6 Session

Executive Committee Meeting United States Gymnastics Federation

Thursday January 6, 1983

The Committee discussed the Athletes Foundation relates to the High School and College athlete and eligibil ity.

Meeting of the Executive Committee

Texas Wesleyan College Board Room 8 :30 AM - 12:10 PM

The committee discussed the USGF Eligibility Code. The concerns expressed considered the regulations of the IOC, USOC, FIG , and the member organizations

Minutes The meeting was called to order by President Bud Wilkinson at 8:30 AM. Members Present: Mr. Bud Wilkinson - President Mrs. Roe Kreutzer - Vice President for Women Mr. Mike Milidonis - Secretary Mr. Peter Kormann - Member at Large Members Absent (excused): Mr. Les Sasvary - Vice President for Men Mrs. Sue Ammerman - Member at Large Mrs. Jackie Fie - FIG Women 's Technical Comm ittee Member Mr. Bill Roetzheim - USGF Representative to the FIG Technical Assembly - Men

Proposed by Mr. Kormann to delete part II Participation of the USGF Eligibility Code and correct the remaining format accordingly. The Eligibility Code will then be sent to the Executive Committee for approval. Second by Mr. Milidonis. Motion Passed. President Wilkinson introduced President John Fleming of Texas Weslyan University. President Fle ming presented a proposal to the USGF for the relocation of the USGF National Office. The proposal included the temporary and permanent relocation offers, proposed terms and associated interests. Following the presentation by President Fleming the comm ittee openly discussed the proposal and various questions. President Fleming distributed the written proposal to the committee following the presentation and the discussion.

USGF Office Staff Present: Mr. Roger Counsil - USGF Executive Director Mr. Ed Zimmer - Assistant to the USGF Executive Director Ms. Kay Mi ller - USGF Office Secretary President B. Wilkinson welcomed the members and the USGF staff to the meeting of the Executive Committee. The committee discussed the recent difficulties related to the USGF Equipment Position Statement, including: a. The monetary amount of insurance (one million vs five million dollars). b. What is a certified engineer? c. Meet directors are not able to meet sanctions. d. What liability coverage is necessary for the USGF and the meet director? Proposed by Mr. Milidonis, that: The USGF Executive Comm ittee recognizes that the proposed USGF Equipment Position Statement creates difficulty with the USGF Sanction Policy and Procedure, Insurance programs and Membership Program. And therefore concludes that the meet directors, of USGF sanctioned events, are responsible for the verification of equipment specificiations , the necessary and required insurance coverages (one million dollars liability coverage) and compliance with USGF Sanction Policy and Procedures. Therefore , the proposed USGF Equipment Position Statement is rescinded by the USGF Executive Committee. Second by Mrs. Kreutzer Motion Passed. USGF Technical Journal

The committee further discussed the proposals received for the relocation of the USGF Office from Colorado Springs , Indianapolis and Texas Weslyan. The committee requested the finalization of bids from the three possible sites to be received by the USGF Office within the next two weeks (Jan uary 21 , 1983). Following the receipt of the final proposals the Executive Comm ittee shall schedule a conference call to discuss the proposals. The Executive Committee will then consider the proposals and prepare a ballot for approval by the USG F Board of Directors. Mr. Counsi l addressed the committee concerning the recent interpretations of the Sanctioning Policy and Television negotiations. The USGF may not relate domestic Sanctioning to television rights according to the USGF Law Firm. The USGF should request VOluntary consideration and support television negotiations for events. The committee directed Mr. Counsi l to prepare a revised Sanction Policy and send it to the Executive Committee for approval and th'ln publication. Mr. Counsi l announced to the com mittee the receipt of the Tax Letter. The USGF is now a Texas Corporation. The USGF office will send to the Board of Directors the corrected Articles of Incorporation and the ByLaws. Mr. Counsil presented an update on the contracts negotiated for the USGF. The Nissan Contract includes participation of athletes in mall and auto shows. The contract also includes to the USGF.

(Please See Meeting, page 8) 7

Conference Call January 14

MenJs Program Committee Meeting Present: Les Sasvary, Chairman-Vice President, MPC Fred Rothlisberger, Secretary & Sr. Program Rep . Abie Grossfeld Tom Gardner, Junior Program Representative Tim LaFleur, Athlete Representative Bill Roetzheim , F.I.G. Representative and N.C.A.A. Rules Committee Representative Mas Watanabe , Men 's Program Director (non-voting)

V. It was brought up that reports on trips must be submitted within two weeks. Mas was directed to notify coaches who are negligent in these matters. VI. Moved that the top ranked men plus Bart Conner be asked to participate in the French vs. U.S. A. dual meet March 26 and 27 in France . National Team coach and his assistant. VII. Men 's coaches workshop will be conducted late April at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Mas Watanabe is arranging .

Absent: Ed Burch, Junior Program Representative Discussion of selection of coaches for 1983-84. Desirability of selecting the 1984 National and Olympic Coach at this time was debated. It was decided to delay this decision until the June 3 & 4 meeting. II. Applicants for 1983 Team Coach are : Abie Grossfeld, Jim Howard, Makoto Sakamoto, Art Shurlock, and Fred Turoff. Abie was elected unanimously to be the 1983 National Team Coach . The National Team Coach will be the coach for major U.S.A. team functions to include the World Championships , Pan American Games and full team dual meets with other nations. The U.S.A. Team Coach may use his assistant coach(es) and/or other selected staff in addition to himself or in his place for competitions or training camps with the approval of the Men 's Program Committee. Abie was directed to make recommendations for his assistant or assistants by the March 4-5 meeting .

VIII. Distribution of minutes and shortcomings in distribution of those minutes to persons who need the information was discussed . There has been a breakdown in the mailing of these minutes and a mailing list was developed for the National Office to use. Next scheduled meeting is the one annual expenses paid meeting and will be held in conjunction with the American Cup in New York City, March 4 and 5. Submitted for approval , January 14, 1983

Fred Roethlisberger, Secretary Executive Director Approval:

III. Moved that the 1984 National and Olympic Coach be selected at the 1983 U.S.A. National Championships . Seconded. Passed unanimously. Date: IV. Selection of five U.S.A. Team members to participate in the meet in Thailand . Goodwill Gymnastics Competition. China, Japan, U.S.A., U.S.S.R. Moved that the top ranked gymnasts who did not go on the team trip to Italy will be asked plus Bart Conner. Passed unanimously. Coach of the highest ranking gymnast. Passed unanimously. (Participants in the U.S.A. vs. Italy Meet -November 26 and 27 in Italy were Abie Grossfeld (head coach) , Francis Allen (assistant coach) , Phil Cahoy, Mark Caso, Scott Johnson, Jim Mikus, Roy Pallasou , Billy Paul and Chris Riegel (alternate) .

Executive Committee Approval :

Date:

Meeting----------------------------------------Aloe Vera has offered a grant of $7000 to the USGF for a promotional sponsorship. The contract will be referred to the contract committee.

have the availability of training on a permanent basis . The costs of the move and a possible grant were also discussed. The USGF must develop guidelines for the coaching and support of the post graduate athlete and other athletes who choose to train at the training center.

Mr. Wilkinson proposed that the Contract Committee be dissolved and that the Executive Committee assume the responsibilities of the Contract Committee. The present members of the Contract Committee shou ld be appointed to the new structure. Second by Mr. Kormann.

Proposed by Mr. Milidonis to relocate Mr. Watanabe as director of the Training Center in Colorado Springs as soon as feasible . Second by Mr. Kormann.

Motion Passed .

Mr. Counsil presented an update on the television contracts for events . To date the sales are down as projected. The television money is not as available as in the past due to the schedul ing of other professional and amateur sports.

Mr. Ed Zimmer presented the USOC Operation Gold Distribution Policy to the committee. The qualification procedures and program were detailed for the committee.

Mr. Counsil announced the recent reduction of USGF Office Staff. The proposed raises have been frozen , four staff released and one new staff member hired as USGF Comptroller.

Proposed by Mrs. Kreutzer to approve the USGF Olympic Gold Policy. Second by Mr. Milidonis. Motion Passed.

Mr. Counsil presented a brief report on the financial status of the USGF. The budget concerns and payments are on schedule. The committee discussed the financial status of the USGF Magazine. The discussion considered the projected publication budget, membership program funds , possible means to reduce costs , etc. The committee also discussed the need for communication to the membership.

Mrs. Kreutzer asked Mr. Counsil if the USGF had procured the necessary liability coverage for Officers , Directors , and Staff. Mr. Counsil has negotiated an Association Policy with Forest T Jones Company. Mr. Counsil was also asked about the progress of the MacDonalds Head over Heels program . The program shall be launched in March, directed at schools and clubs .

Mrs. Kreutzer proposed the approval of the Mens Program Committee Minutes of November 28, 1982. Second by Mr. Milidonis

Upon motion duly made and seconded , the meeting of the USGF Executive Committee was adjourned at 12:05 PM .

Motion Passed.

Submitted for Approval by:

Mr. Counsil presented the proposal to assign Mr. Mas Watanabe to the USOC Training Center in Colorado Springs. The committee discussed the advantages of the year round use and scheduling of events at the training center. Athletes would

Mike Milidonis Secretary, USGF Executive Committee.

USGF Technical Journal

USGF Executive Committee Meeting, Sept. 21 United States Gymnastics Federation

Tuesday September 21 , 1982

Meeting of the Executive Committee

Conference Telephone Conversation USGF Office

Editor'. Note: AI Ihe li me o f Ihi s me etin g Roge r Counc il was Execu li ve Direclo r of Ille USGF. He has be en re pl aced sin ce by M ichael Jack l.

Executive Committee Minutes The meeting was called to order by Senior Vice President Les Sasvary at 7:35 PM (Fort Worth time) .

The USGF Equipment Position Statement and recent adopted revision shall be prepared for presentation and distribution at the USGF Congress 1982. Agenda Item III. USGF Academy.

Members Present: Mr. Les Sasvary - Vice President for Men Mr. Mike Milidonis - Secretary Mrs. Sue Ammerman - Member at Large Mr. Peter Kormann - Member at Large and Mr. Roger Counsil - USGF Executive Director Members Absent Excused : Mr. Bud Wilkinson - President Mrs. Roe Kreutzer - Vice President for Women

Mr. R. Counsil presented the concept of a USGF Academy to the members. The establishment of the service to the gymnastics community would enhance the educational goals of the USGF. The service could provide opportunities in coaching knowledges and methodology, safety education,accredited courses and preparation for professionals, program promotion , etc. The USGF Academy could possibly be a financial success and provide services to the gymnastiCS community and general public . The members asked that Mr. R. Counsil continue to develop the concept with hopes to begin implementation as soon as the budget permit, possibly the fall of 1983. Agenda Item IV, Review of the membership program for 1983.

Agenda Item I. Review of Minutes of the Women 's Committee Executive Board Meeting. June 18-19, 1982, Fort Worth , Hilton. The members discussed the statement, page 3, Rules and Policies Book, Motion: " In any sanctioned USGF competition all active coaches must be members of the Women 's Committee . (Gold Card or Professional) Passed. " Mr. R. Counsil appraised the members of questions from the gymnastics community concerning the statement and the repercussions as a result of required USGF membership. Mrs. S. Ammerman commented that the concern of the Women's Committee Executive Board was to encourage that all participating coaches be insured . The members requested that Mr. R. Counsil investigate the possibility of reassigning a portion of the membership fee in order to increase the membership insurance to a sum corresponding to the Liability Insurance coverage of equipment and officers and directors of the USGF.

Mr. R. Counsil suggested that the USGF (Executive Director) commission a review board or establish an ad hoc committee composed of coaches, officials, and athlete representatives to review the structure, function and organization of the USGF membership program . The group may investigate membership policies, program benefits, program services, etc. and present findings and suggestions to the USGF Office and Board of Directors. The members directed Mr. R. Counsil to consult legal counsel and appoint such a commission or committee with the inclusion of board members. Agenda Item V. Athletes Foundation . Mr. R. Counsil presented a structure and policies for the Athletes Foundation. The foundation is operating and is in need of final approval of all related policies . The members directed Mr. R. Counsil to contact a legal counsel with expertise in these matters for final clarification of all related policies . The members support the establishment of the general fund concept and the continuation of reimbursement of athlete's training expenses.

Agenda Item II. Equipment Position Statement Modification.

Proposed by Mr. L. Sasvary that the USGF Office continue to operate the Athlete's Foundation as established for the reimbursement of athlete 's training expenses .And further that the USGF Office submit all Athlete Foundation policies to legal counsel for review of content, form and legality.

The members discussed the difficulty of states and regions ability in meeting the equipment standards of the USGF, especially the spring floor construction and specifications .

Motion Passed. Agenda Item VI. Status of the USGF Membership Program .

Proposed by Mr. M. Milidonis that the proposal be added to the Equipment Position Statement which states: "An individual program with equipment not meeting one of the above criteria may fulfill the requirements of the FIG approval by: 1) Providing written proof of FIG Specifications being met or exceeded as verified by a professional engineer ; except in the cases of spring floor exercise mats and vaulting boards . Since no standards have been set with regard to springiness and since the FIG has recognized two American companies and a Canadian company whose floor and vaulting equipment deviated from existing FIG standards , compliance need only be with regard to measurement specifications , padding and/or covering , as they comply to the FIG specification book or to the spring floor or vaulting board specifications of the two American companies (Nissen and AMFAmerican) or the Canadian/European company (Spieth-Anderson) that have been approved by the FIG .

Mr. R. Counsil apprised the members of recent communication concerning the status of the membership program . The information recently presented to the USGF offers alternatives and potential revisions of the membership program status. Research is being conducted relating to the membership program from the perspective of a "fulfillment house concept ." The members asked that the USGF Office prepare all possible information for communication to the USGF Board of Directors. Mr. M. Milidonis asked that agenda items for the upcoming September 26th meeting be communicated as soon as possible. On motion duly made and seconded , the conference call meeting of the USGF Executive Committee was adjourned at 8:30 PM . Submitted for Consideration by:

2) Proof of liability insurance in the amount of $5,000 ,000 which is provided by the USGF Membership Program or other bona-fide insurance company. Motion Passed. USGF Technical Journal

Michael J. Milidonis Secretary, USGF Executive Committee 9

Competitive Anxiety Among Gymnasts Daniel Smith and Rainer Martens University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

As gymnasts improve their skill and begin participating in higher levels of competition they must learn to cope with increasing amounts of pressure. Danielle Walker, a talented 12-year-old gymnast, was one who could not. The anxiety two days prior to each meet was so great she cou ld not eat or sleep. She eventually quit gymnastics - a sport she dearly loved - when her doctor found she had an ulcerated stomach caused by the stress. Stress over an extended period is a leading cause of psychological " burnout," an increasing problem among gymnasts we're told . By burn out, we mean athletes who have been experiencing success but after intensive training decide to quit because they are psychologically exhausted and therefore have lost interest in further participation. Unfortunately we have no statistics about the number of young gymnasts experiencing burnout. We suspect it is only a small percent. Nevertheless, stress is a companion of many gymnasts, and even though it may not cause burn out, it has substantial adverse effects. Performance in competitive meets suffers, interpersonal relationships are strained, and the fun of participating is diminished because of excessive anxiety. Through competitive experience, some gymnasts learn how to handle the pressure quite well, but others do not. It is frustrating for athletes to work hard to develop their physical skills, but then have competitive anxiety deprive them of being able to display their skills in competition. When a youngster chokes during competition most coaches try to either reassure the athlete, advising them to forget about the anxiety. Or, if this fails, coaches may try the "yell and scream" approach, hoping perhaps that the anxiety will be transformed into fear of the coach. Occasionally these crude methods work, but often they do not. Fortunately sports psychologists have discovered more effective ways to help athletes manage the ir competitive anxiety. The breakthrough has come in recognizing that managing anxiety is a psychological skill. It is something sports psychologists and coaches can teach to athletes. And now we have several methods for teaching this skill to athletes, and sports psychologists are cond ucting further research to refine these methods. We conducted one such study with the 40 gymnasts who participated in the 1982 Summer Sports Festival held in Indianapolis. Our major objectives were to learn more about the type of anxiety gymnasts experience and how these types of anxiety changed as the time to compete neared . Understanding Competitive Anxiety

We have learned much about competitive anxiety in the past 10 years. First we have learned to distinguish between trait and state anxiety. Trait anxiety is a stable personality characteristic. When you see a young gymnast who frequently becomes anxious, even when in non- or low-threatening situations, this youngster is considered high in trait anxiety. It is a disposition or tendency to become highly anxious in certain situations. State anxiety, on the other hand, refers to an athlete's present state of anxiety, or how uptight he or she is at a particular moment in time. Thus, trait anxiety te lls us about the tendency for athletes to become stressed in competition and state anxiety tells us how stressed they actually are at a particular point in time. Athletes high in competitive trait anxiety can be low in state anxiety, and athletes low in competitive trait anxiety can be high in state anxiety, depending on the situation. We have developed a psychological scale to measure trait anxiety specific to competitive sports called the Sport Competition Anxiety Test. And we have developed a scale to measure competitive state anxiety, which we will tell you more about in a moment. Our past research revealed another important distinction about types of anxiety. We found that some athletes experience all types of physical reactions to the stress of competition such as butterflies in the stomach , muscle tension, co ld and clammy hands, and increased heart rate. Other athletes reported less physical anxiety, but instead experienced more 10

mental anxiety or worry. Their mind wou ld race with thoughts about failure, they would worry about unimportant details, or have images of disaster. Of course, some athletes experienced high levels of both physical and mental anxiety. Research in clinical psychology shows that the procedures most effective for helping individuals learn to cope with their anxiety depends upon the type of anxiety they have - physical or mental. Thus we constructed a psychological scale to assess these two types of anxiety among athletes. As we were doing so, we discovered a third dimension which appears to be the opposite of mental anxiety or worry - namely, self confidence. Most of us know the importance of self confidence and yet sports psychologists have not had a good means to measure this attribute. Thus we were delighted to find a reliable scale for measuring self confidence. If you have been reading closely, you may be wondering whether the scale to measure physical anxiety, mental anxiety, and self confidence is a trait or state anxiety scale. It is a state scale and we cal l it the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory (CSAI). It measures the athletes' physical anxiety, mental anxiety, and self confidence as they are experiencing it at the moment they complete the scale. Our purpose in studying the gymnasts at the Summer Sports Festival was to see if the pattern of physical anxiety was different from the mental anxiety as the time to compete neared. We also were very curious about how their self confidence might change as the time to compete neared .

Looking at all 40 gymnasts together, mental anxiety was considerably higher at the 4-day and 24-hour pOints than was physical anxiety. The Study

The United States Gymnastics Federation and the coaches of the Summer Sports Festival teams were very helpful in permitting us to obtain information from the gymnasts. Each of the 40 gymnasts completed the CSAI four times before competition . The first time was four days before the event, then 24 hours, 2 hours, and finally 5 minutes before the event. It took less than 5 minutes each time to comp lete the 27-item scale. After we obtained the gymnasts' respo nses we computed a score for each of the three subscales in the CSAI for the four times we tested the athletes. The minimum score an athlete could obtain on anyone of the three subscales was 9 (9 items x low score of 1) and the maximum score was 36 (9 items x maximum score of 4) . You can see the results best in Figure 1. The self confidence scores of the athletes fluctuated only a small amount from the 4-day to 5-minute points in time , indicating this characteristic is relatively stable as time to compete nears. The average self confidence score of 24.8 fell in the mid range, and was nearly identical to scores of athletes in several other sports. Looking at all 40 gymnasts together, mental anxiety was co nsiderably higher at the 4-day and 24-hr. points than was physical anxiety, but physical anxiety increased markedly 2 hours before the contest and remained about the same 5 minutes before. These changes in physical anxiety were statistically significant, meaning there is less than 1 chance in 100 that the increase occurred by accident. Now look at the pattern of changes in mental anxiety as the time to compete neared . The changes were minimal and statistically not significant, indicating this type of anxiety is quite stable. Now what do these results tell us? Should we help athletes learn to control their physical anxiety because this type of anxiety increases most before competition? Or should we help them learn to control mental anxiety because this type of anxiety was already elevated 4 days before the competition? To answer these questions we first need to understand what these scores on each scale mean. USGF Technical Journal

The average score of 14 for the physical anxiety 4 days and 24 hours before competition is very low, representing only an increase of 18% over the lowest score possible. The average score of 17-18 for mental anxiety and the 2-hour and 5-minute scores for physical anxiety are also relatively low, representing only a 33% increase. The scores on physical and mental anxiety are almost identical to swimmers participating at the Summer Sports Festival , swimmers at our university, high school women softball players and high school men track athletes . High school wrestlers reported about the same level of mental anxiety, but had a physical anxiety score of 21 .9. We also looked at the anxiety scores of the top 5 place finishers among tlie men, women, and rhythmic gymnasts at the Summer Sports Festival to see if their scores were different from the other gymnasts. We found no differences for physical anxiety, but the better gymnasts were a couple of points lower in mental anxiety at the 2-hour and 5-minute points. Perhaps these athletes had learned how to calm themselves mentally more than those who did not place in the competition. Further testing with larger samples, however, needs to be done before we can confirm this observation . Our results appear to indicate that we need not be concerned about the physical and mental anxiety of these gymnasts. Or do they? This conclusion may be true about the group, but it is not true for a few individuals. About 10% of the gymnasts reported high physical and/or mental anxiety scores at the 2-hour or 5-minute points. Some showed that they experienced higher physical anxiety than mental anxiety and others showed just the opposite. Although it is comforting to know that these elite gymnasts are as a group not experiencing excessive levels of anxiety, it is imperative coaches recognize that anxiety is an individual problem. Thus, our results suggest two important things: 1. Coaches need to recognize which gymnasts are experiencing high levels of anxiety. 2. Gymnasts may experience different levels of physical and mental anxiety. Recognizing Anxious Athletes Once you have coached athletes for several months and seen them in practice and competition , you can tell when they are anxious. At least most coaches think so, but we found it not to be true. We conducted two studies, one with wrestling coaches and one with volleyball coaches, and discovered that on the average coaches were poor in their ability to identify the anxiety levels of their athletes before the game. On the other hand, when we asked the athletes to predict the anxiety level of their coaches, they were able to do so quite well. Although as a group the coaches were poor at identifying the anxiety levels of their athletes, a few were excellent. This is encouraging for it indicates coaches do not have an immutable personality which make them insensitive to athletes' emotions. Perhaps coaches as a group are poor at recognizing athletes' anxiety because they are so busy with other coaching matters they don't give this any importance or they lack the skill to recognize such emotions. The primary skill here is called empathy, which is the ability to put yourself into the other person's place and understand how he or she feels and thinks. Empathy can be taught, the most important step being recognizing the need to be sensitive to other's feelings. Coaches with empathy will be better able to help their athletes develop the psychological skill to manage anxiety than those without empathy. Physical and Mental Anxiety From our research at the Summer Sports Festival we learned that some gymnasts had higher levels of physical anxiety than mental anxiety prior to competition and others were higher in mental anxiety. We also saw that these changes in mental and physical anxiety were individually unique as time to compete neared . The significance of finding that a few athletes experience high levels of physical anxiety wh ile others experience high levels of mental anxiety is this. Many sport psychologists and some coaches are attempting to help athletes manage their excessive anxiety by using one method exclusively. Often this method is to teach athletes to physically relax using progressive relaxation techniques, yoga, or autogenic training . These methods may be effective, if taught and practiced well , for athletes who primarily experience physical anxiety. For athletes who experience mental anxiety, however, these techniques are unlikely to be of much help. Recent studies outside of sports have shown this to be the case. The USGF Technical Journal

most effective relief of anxiety occurs when the method selected is appropriate to the type of anxiety experienced. From our experience in working with athletes, we find more athletes experience mental anxiety than physical anxiety at(d most athletes experience a combination of both . This is true also for the gymnasts we studied. Thus to help athletes more effectively acquire the psychological skill to control their anxiety, many will need to learn procedures other than physical relaxation methods. To control mental anxiety we have found cognitive behavior modification methods to be most effective. These methods involve educating athletes about the causes of anxiety, teaching them to recognize the onset of negative thinking , and learning how to stop these thoughts and replace them with positive but realistic thoughts. These procedures are far more complex, and thus harder to learn, than the methods appropriate for physical relaxation , but athletes can learn them .

Not all athletes need to physically or mentally relax prior to competition. Sometimes they need to increase their arousal or activation level so they are keyed up to perform optimally. Although an athlete may be able to learn how to relax physically in a quiet room, it is quite another thing to be able to produce physical relaxation when about to mount the parallel bars in the Olympic Games for the most important performance of the athlete's career. We believe the learning of physical relaxation skills do not transfer well to the actual competitive situation unless mental relaxation skills are also learned . Cognitive behavior modification procedures help athletes think different about the competitive situation. The importance of winning is reduced and emphasis is placed on the fun of pursuing a difficult challenge. We should render a caution here . Not all athletes need to physically or mentally relax prior to competition . Sometimes they need to increase their arousal or activation level so th ey are keyed up to perform optimally. As most coaches by now know, each athlete has a unique level of optimal arousal to achieve best performance . When the arousal is too low performance will lack flare and be sloppy. When arousal is too high and the athlete is anxious, the performance will not be smooth and errors from a lack of concentration are more likely to occur. Managing anxiety means learning how to find the optimal arousal level for each athlete. Conclusion In this paper we have tried to share with you some of what we have learned about competitive anxiety. And we have described to you what we learned from studying the gymnasts at the Summer Sports Festival. It is this type of research , where we are able to test athletes during actual competition rather than in sterile laboratory conditions, that helps us to learn how to help coaches and athletes manage anxiety.

Figure 1. Cognitive, Somatic, and Self-Confidence Measures Sport Festival Gymnasts

26 -

4 days

25 -

24 hrs.

24 -

2 hrs.

19 -

5 min.

18 -

Self-confidence

17 -

Somatic

16 -

Cognitive

15 -

Time Before Competition

14 11

Conference Call

Executive Committee Meeting, Jan. 31 United States Gymnastics Federation

Monday January 31, 1983

The members discussed each of the proposed office sites in relationship to services, finances, office staff, support of USGF programs, etc.

Meeting of the Executive Committee

Conference Telephone Call USGF Office 8:00 PM (Ft. Worth Time)

The members discussed the mechanics of the possible office relocation and the effect on present and future USGF programs.

The meeting was called to order by Senior Vice President Les Sasvary at 8:00 PM .

The members continued discussion of the USGF Office relocation. The ballot to the board of directors must contain the recommendation of the Executive Committee. The ballot should be returned as soon as possible so that the Indianapolis organizing committee has time to prepare a proposal. The ballot is to be sent to the Board of Directors by Mail-Gram.

Executive Committee Minutes

Members Present: Mr. Bud Wilkinson - President Uoined the call at 9:25) Mr. Les Sasvary - Vice President for Men Mrs. Roe Kreutzer - Vice President for Women Mr. Mike Milidonis - Secretary Mr. Peter Kormann - Member at Large Mrs. Sue Ammerman - Member at Large Mrs. Jackie Fie - FIG Women's Technical Committee Member Mr. Bill Roetzheim - USGF Representative to the FIG Technical Assembly, Men and Mr. Roger Counsil - USGF Executive Director Agenda Item I. The application of Mr. Kurt Thomas regarding the reinstatement of amateur status. The matter has been referred to the Men 's Program Committee. The members discussed the concern for the interpretation of the eligibility rules of the laC, FIG , and USOC. The committee requested the USGF Office to investigate the procedures followed by other National Governing Bodies for the reinstatement of amateur status. Agenda Item II. The report on the Albuquerque Journal situation. Mr. R. Counsil apprised the committee of the recent communication, negotiation, and contract terms with the Albuquerque Journal for a competition within the next three years . The committee expressed concern for the scheduling of the competition , the invitation of foreign athletes and the dates of the competition . Mr. R. Counsil expressed the concerns of legal counsel regarding US Laws and conflicting rules of the FIG, and the Amateur Sports Act.

Proposed by Mr. L. Sasvary that the USGF National Office be relocated to Indianapolis as soon as possible . Second by Mr. M. Milidonis.

Motion Passed. Agenda Item IV. Nissan Contract. The members expressed a concern for the athlete involvement portion of the Nissan Contract. Mr. R. Counsil explained that the terms of the contract guarantee the reimbursed costs of the presentations and appearances. Proposed by Mr. P. Kormann that the USGF confirm that the agreement with Nissan guarantee a net profit of $80,000 per year and that Nissan will assume all associated appearance costs. The contract must include a definition of the terms " shows and appearances ." Second by Mr. M. Milidonis. Motion Passed. The members discussed the concern of the involvement of the National Coaches and their appearance arrangements. Agenda Item VII . The International Invitation Contract. Mr. R. Counsil announced the proposed terms of the NBC Contract for the International Invitational. The members expressed a concern for the change in team size and the number of participants. The committee recommended the team size be increased from four to six gymnasts and that the partiCipants be selected representing three of the top eight gymnasts or two of the top six gymnasts. The committee recommended that Mr. R. Counsil represent the concerns of the committee in the negotiations of the NBC contract for the International Invitational.

Proposed by Mr. M. Milidonis that the Executive Committee direct Mr. R Counsil to continue negotiations with the Albuquerque Journal Representatives in order to arrive at agreeable contract terms. Second by Mr. L. Sasvary.

Mr. M. Milidonis announced the proposed Men 's Program Committee Minutes and the proposed Rhythmic Gymnastics Policies and Guidelines wh ich have been mailed for Executive Committee approval.

Motion Passed.

On motion duly made and seconded the meeting of the Executive Committee was adjourned at 9:50 PM .

Agenda Item III. USGF Office Location. Mr. R. Counsil commented on the related costs of the insurance program in regards to office location and program location within the office. Mr. B. Wilkinson expressed the concerns of the current USGF financial situation related to a relocation of the USGF Office. The present assets , contracts, and guaranteed income must support the conduct of the national office.

Submitted for Consideration by :

Michael J. Milidonis Secretary to the Executive Committee

CALENDAR Schedule of Events NOVEMBER 1983 2-10

FIG Congress Strassbourg, France

11 - 12

South African International (MIW) Durbin, South Africa

3-8

Chunichi Cup Nagoya & Tokyo, Japan 10-11

FEBRUARY 1983 17- 18

First Elite Zone Meet TBA Various Sites

Coca Cola International ment (MIW) London, England

USGF Technical Journal

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Expl anallon of Benefit s, Terms and Conditions Holiday Inn-. hotels shall provide you andyourimmediate lamilywilhadisc.ountof 25% oU tl'leapplicable R:aCk Rate lor hotel accommodalions at Her:tz Renl A Car shall provide YOl! or one designated m~mber 01 your imme.diate lamity (provided Hertz standard a~e , credit and driver each parlicipahng Holiday Inn hotel nationwide in accordance with Holiday Inns, Inc. agreement With USAATU , Inc . To reserve your quahllcationsaremet). inaccordancewltl'lHerlz·sagreementwlthUSAATU.lnC .. wlthcarrentalweekendcontractratesstarllnglromS15.96upto

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Holiday Inn& 1I0tei when registering. Discounts are b~sed onavailabihty and do not apply to locallaXes . Tl'liscard cannat be used in conJ:Jnction wilh other speCial rates. promotions , voucllers or group discounts ollered by Holiday Inns. Inc . Per standard hotel policy. all late arrivals and deposits must be guaranteed witll a major credit card .

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m~urance . drop·oll charges and reluehng service charges. where applicable . Weekend contract rates and discounts may be mo(lIl1ed or terminated without nolice to individual USAmateur members. USAATU, Inc .r~serves tile rigllttomodily: Improve . substituteordisconlinueanymembersllipbenefitswitllout prior nolice. All reservations and dlscDt!nts are SUbject to availability and service routes or locations . By accepting the USAmateur AthletiC Travet Card . I agree that I will be bound by and Will comply with tile terms and conditions in all USAATU , Inc. agreements . m this USAATU application and in the Explanation 01 Benelits, Terms and Conditions as they may be amended Irom time to time

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NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID Indianapolis, IN PERMIT NO. 6466

UNITED STATES GYMNASTICS FEDERATION Gymnastics Safety Guidelines 1. ASSUMPTION OF RISK. Participation in gymnastics activities involves motion,

rotation, and height in a unique environment and as such carries with it a reasonable assumption of risk.

8. 9.

10.

WARNINGI Catastrophic injury, paralysis or even death can result from improper conduct of the activity. COMPETENT SUPERVISION. Do not partiCipate in any gymnastics activity without competent supervision. POTENTIAL MEDICAL EMERGENCIES. Instructors/ supervisors should be aware of the potential medical emergencies that could occur in gymnastics and be prepared to adequately respond to them in an appropriate manner. BE PREPARED TO PARTICIPATE. Dress appropriately, follow accepted warmup practices, and be mentally prepared to engage in the activity. CAREFULLY CHECK EQUIPMENT. Before directly engaging in any gymnastics activity, make sure the equipment is adjusted and secured properly and that adequate matting appropriate to the activity is in the correct position. CARELESSNESS CANNOT BE TOLERATED. Gymnastics is an activity requiring active concentration. Horseplay or any other form of carelessness cannot be tolerated at any time for any reason. Consult your instructor. FOLLOW PROPER SKILL PROGRESSIONS. A safe learning environment includes a correct understanding of the skill being performed and following proper skill progressions. When in doubt, always consult your instructor. MASTERING BASIC SKILLS. Safe learning practices demand mastering basic skills before progressing to new and/ or more difficult levels. ATTEMPTING NEW AND/OR DIFFICULT SKILLS. The readiness and ability level of the performer, the nature of the task, and the competency of the spotter all must be taken into consideration when attempting a new or difficult skill. PROPER LANDING TECHNIQUE. Safe dismounts, as well as unintentional falls, require proper landing techniques. No amount of matting can be a fail-safe. Avoid landing on head or neck at all costs as serious catastrophic injuries may result.

For more information about gymnastics or additional educational materials, write the USGF Education Department, Merchants Plaza Suite 1144E, 101 West Washington St., Indiariapolis, Indiana 46204.

NOW AVAILABLE--First Of A Series USGF Safety Posters-IS x 24 inch Printed In Two Colors Please make a check payable to the USGF for $2 per poster plus $.50 postage and handling cost. Quantity discounts available upon request.

USGF Technical Journal

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