Technique Magazine - September/October 1997

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

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VOL U MEl 7

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TO

USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Progrp路.....

an official publication of USA Gymnastics Technique an official publication of USA Gymnastics

Publisher Editor Graphic Designer Men's Program Director Women's Program Director Rhythmic Program Director

Kathy Scanlan luan Peszek Billy Huys Ron Galimore Kathy Kelly Nora Campbell

FEATURES The Ultimate Secrets of Goal Setting

..... .. ..... .... .. . ... . .6

Are You Training Your Mental Game or

USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS (hair: Sandy Knapp; Presidenl: Kalhy lconlan; Presidenl Emerilus: Mike Oanahue; Amaleur Alhlelic Union: Mike Ilanner; Americon Sokol Organization: Jerry Milan; USA Trampoline & Tumbling: Wayne Downing; American Turners: 8elly Heppner; Jewish Community Centers: Lori Katz; College Gymnastics AssociationM: Roy Johnson; Nalionol Association of (oliegiale Gymnaslics Coaches for Women: Gail Do vi~; National Association for Girls and Women in Sport: Marilyn Strawbridge; National Association of Women's Gymnoslics Judges: Yvonne Hodge; National (oliegiale Alhletic Associalion: Chris Voelz, Tom Ounn; Nalional Federalion of Siale High School Associations: SusanTrue; National Gymnastics Judges Associalion: John Irheer; Nalional High Srhaol Gymnaslics (oarhes Associalion: John 8rinkworth; Special Olympics, I".: Kale Fober·Hirkie; U.S. RhYlhmir Gymnaslics (oarhes Associalion: Suzie OiTul1io; U.S. Association of Independent Gym Clubs: Lonce Crowley; U.S. Elile (oarhes Assaria lion for Men's Gymnastics: Mark Williams; U.S. Elile (oaches Association for Women's Gymnastics: Gory Ander5on, Roe Kreu tzer; U.S. Men's Gymnastics Coaches Association: Mar c Yancey; U.S. Sports Acrobatics Federation: Bonnie Davidson; U.S. Competitive Sports Aerobics Federation: Howard Shcwortz;Young Men's Christian Association of Ihe USA: Rirk Oadson; USA Gymnoslics Nalional Membership Directors: Men's: , Roy Guro, Jim HolI; Women's: Undo Chen<inski, Oavid HollOmb; Rhylhmi!: Alia Ivirsky, Tomaro Oasso; Alhlele's Advisory (ommillee: Tanya lervi" Choplin, choir; Chris Woller, vire rhoir; Krislen Kenoyer Woodland, sec; Wendy Hilliard, Vanesso Va nder Pluym, Peler Vidmar, Conrad Voorsonger, Kim Zmeskal; USa( Alhlele Represenlalive:IMelleOulSerre.Forreli.

Just Thinking About It? ..

.10

Q&A with Steve McCain

.12

Cross-Training May Prompt More Injuries

.15

A Progression for Teaching the Stalder Handstand

.16

John Hancock Schedule . .. .. .. .

.24

USA Gymnastics Club Membership

.26

Technique Reader's Survey

.43

DEPARTMENTS President's Message

. .4

Question and Answer

.21

Book Review

.22

What's New

.42

Classifieds .

.45

Event Schedule

.47

Safety Certification Schedule

.48

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (hair: londy Knopp; Special Advisor 10 Ihe (hairman of Ihe Board: Roe Kreulzer; Presidenl: Kolhy SlOnlan; Secrelory: Mike Milidanis; Vi" (hair Women: Joon Moore Gnol; Vire (hair Men: Tim Oaggell; Vire (hair Rhylhmi!: Condo" Feinberg; FIG ExelUlive (ommillee: Joy Ashmore; FIG Women's Terhnicol (ommillee: Jorkie Fie; FIG Rhylhmir Techniral (ommillee: Andrea Irhmid·lhapiro; FIG Men's Terhniral (ommillee: George 8erksleod; AI Large Members: Jim Hartung, luson True; Alhlele Directors: Tanya lervi" Choplin, Wendy Hilliard, Peler Vidmar; USO( Alhlele Represenlotive: IMeile OUlSerre· Farrell; Pre sid en I Emerilus: Mike Oonahue.

PROGRAM UPDATE

CHAIIGE DF AOOREII ANO SU81CRIPTIOII INQUIRIEI: In arder 10 ensure uninlerrupled delivery 01 TECHNIQUE magazine, noli" 01 rhange of addrelS should be mode six to eight weeks in odvance. For fastest service, pleose endase your presenl moiling label. Oirerl all subsrriplionmoil 10 TECHIIIOUf Subscriptions, UIA Gymnaslirs, 201 Soulh Copilol Avenue, luite 300, Indianapolis, 111 46225. ffCHIIIOU f IIISil 0748·S9999) is published 10 limes per year by UIA Gymnoslics, Pan American Plozo, Suile 300, 201 S. Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, III 46225 Iphone:317.237.5050). Third dass paslage paid 01 Indianapolis, III. lubsrriplian pri,," U.I.·S2S per year; Conodo/ MexilO' S48 per yeor; all olher foreign lOunlries·S6Dper year. " available, bork ilSue single IOpies S4 plus poslage/hondling. All reasonable lOre will be token, but no responsibility (on be ossumed for unsoliciled moteriol; enc1ase relurn posloge. Copyrighl 1997 by UIA Gymnaslirs and TECHIIIOUf. All righlsreserv"'. Prinled by Iparl Grophirs, Indianapolis, III.

Unle\S expressly idenlified 10 the [onlrory, all articles, slalemenls and views prinled herein are aHribuled solely 10 Ihe aUlhor and USA GymnastiCS expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility Ihereof.

Women's Collegiate Rules

.30

Safety Certification Requirements

.32

Jr. Olympic Element Supplement

.34

Rhythmic Minutes

.36

The Spirit of the Rhythmic Code 1997

.38

r"( (over Photo©Dave Black (over Design by Billy Huys

VOLUME 17

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ADMINISTRATION

~RESIDENT'S Kathy Scanlan

Tlu'ough the NCAA Conference Grant program, the United States Olympic Committee awarded a $1.5 million grant to provide four years of funding for the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference Men's Gymnastics programs. The grant was a joint request from USA Gymnastics and the ECAC. It will help stabilize 11 of the remaining 27 NCAA men's programs, and provide funding for potential programs in the future.

Kathy Feldmann, who has been Chair of the Women's Administrative Board for eight years and a Collegiate Coordinator for the Women's Program, has agreed to join the staff of USA Gymnastics as Member Services Director starting Sept. 22. I am extremely pleased that Kathy has agreed to move to Indianapolis.

She brings a wealth of in-depth knowledge of our largest program, a commitment to improved member services and a devotion to the growth of men's, rhythmic and general gymnastics as well as women's gymnastics. The Member Services Department includes publications, merchandise, club services and the member processing center, so Kathy will have her hands fulL I am confident she will continue to contribute to the success of USA Gymnastics and its volunteers, as she has so successfully in the past.

The United States sent a full delegation to the PAGU (Pan American Gymnastics Union) Senior Championships and Congress in Medellin, Colombia, June 30-July 7. The teams did well, with the women taking a silver medal behind Brazil and the men taking a silver medal just behind Cuba. Our Colombian hosts were graciouseven playing the National Anthem on the 4th of July at the start of the competition to honor our Independence Day. The level of competition within PAGU continues to improve. The Continental Unions are very important in the structure of the FIG, with increasing emphasis on continental competitions. The Continental Unions are the PAGU, the African Union, the European Union and the Asian Union. Of these, the largest and most active has been the European Union. We continue to work with PAGU to ensure that the number of countries involved in high level gymnastics in PAGU increases and that PAGU nations are well represented in the FIG. In October, we will host the first PAGU Inter-Club Championships in Houston. In March 1998, again in Houston, we will host the fourth Pan American Women's Training Camp and the second Women's Pan American Invitational. In July 1998, we will host the PAGU Junior Championships in San Antonio. Our Chair, Sandy Knapp, has been named as a Assistant Chef de Mission for the entire United States team at the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg.

The John Hancock 1997 Tour of World Gymnastics Champions will get underway at the end of September, visiting 35 cities. The show choreography has been revised and promises to be as exciting and audience-pleasing as the 1996 Tour. The Magnificent Seven are back together on the Tour.

The fourth cycle safety program revisions are underway with the assistance of Dave Moskovitz, serving as a consultant on the project, under the leadership of Steve Whitlock. Each revision is intended to last for four years, so this is a critical project. We are committed to improving the quality of the safety certification program, in particular, focusing on course presentation. The Safety Certifiers do a great job, but every now and then we hear of difficulties with a particular presenter. Please let Dave or Steve know if you have suggestions for the Safety Program revisions.

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I am very pleased to announce that Reebok has renewed its sponsorship with USA Gymnastics and our National Teams for an additional four-year period.

Reebok has consistently been a terrific sponsor-going above and beyond the bounds of its contractual commitment to support our programs and efforts. As part of the sponsorship, Reebok will be the title sponsor of the International Team Championships, an event which we host in March with a team from Asia and a team from Europe. The meet includes competition with both Juniors and Seniors.

The John. Hancock 1997 Tour of World Gymnastics Champions will get underway at the end of September, visiting 35 cities. The show choreography has been revised and promises to be as exciting and audiencepleasing as the 1996 Tour. The Magnificent Seven are back together on the Tour. Loree Galimore, our Club Services Manager, is coordinating the pre-school and other local athlete appearances at each Tour stop. She will be working with the State Directors in making these selections. It is a great opportunity for clubs and athletes.

We are anxious to see how this Tour is welcomed in each city, since it's the first time in the history of USA Gymnastics that we have had a Tour in a non-Olympic year.

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The

Ultimate Secrets of

oa Sellin

by Dr. Kevin Elleo

At

Planet Hollywood in New York City, there is a letter hanging on the wall that actor and martial artist Bruce Lee wrote to himself. The top of the letter, which Lee wrote in 1970, has stamped on it "secret." It starts out, "By 1980 I will be the best known oriental movie star in the United States and will have secured 10 million dollars." The most interesting part of this letter, however, was the second part-the part often omitted when we sit down with our gymnasts to set goals. Lee goes on to write, "And in return I will give the very best acting I could possibly give every single time I am in front of the camera and I will live in peace and harmony." How fascinating that Lee wrote he would have peace and harmony after he said what he would do to obtain his goal.

Similarly, Michael Johnson, the Olympic champion sprinter, had a goal to win the 200 and 400 meters sprint at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. The problem, however, was that the 200 and the 400 were traditionally run on the same day. This would have made it almost impossible for him to win because of recovery time.

After setting this goal, Johnson remembered something his father asked him every time he set a goal w hen he was a young person. "What are you going to do about it? and "Now that you have a goal, how are you going to achieve it?" Johnson developed a workout regime with his coach that involved specific weight training, stretching and running intervals five days a week. In addition, he petitioned the Olympic Committee daily to move the 200 and the 400 meters to different days.

There are two kinds of goals: product and process.

A product goal is what you are going to achieve, such as, "I will become a Level 8 by next season," or "I will

be the regional all-around champion." A process goal is what we will do to get it, which means developing a "prescription for success." This is a plan that the gymnasts will follow very closely in their daily work habits and periodically evaluate themselves on. The gymnasts need to fall in love, not with what they are trying to accomplish, but with the process of accomplishing it. All the great ones have. Not that they always love the work, but they have regard for the process.

After winning, most champions do not talk about what they accomplished, but w hat they have learned from the process and how that has helped them become more of a person. They have thought more about the process of what they achieved that brings about growth of self and community than anything else.

Hopefully, we, as gymnastics coaches, are teachers of something much larger than gymnastics. If we could teach our gymnasts about the importance of process, as opposed to product, that tool would help them obtain success with life. "You do not focus on your destination until you get there. Until then, you keep your eye on the map."

Has this ever happened to you? When I was a child I got together with a few of my friends to build a tree house. When we were building and collecting scraps of wood we were so excited. We were running here and there to get what we could. Then we started building and the excitement kept growing while we were constructing, eagerly awaiting to see the end product. And, finally, it was done. Not anything Donald Trump would claim, but it was as well as we could do. Then there was a let down. Without knowing it, we were more interested in building something, and the excitement of the process, than we were the product. Teach to love the process. Explain to your gymnasts what you mean when you use the phrase, "The Process." It is what champions are made of.

Be Specific Two ministers died and went to heaven and had to wait for their condos to be built. St. Peter came and told them they had to wait and could return to earth and be w hatever they wanted until he called for them.

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The fir st minister said, "I want to be an eagle flying all day long over the Grand Canyon." Poof!

He was gone. The second minister said, "I want to be a cool stud."

Poof! He was gone. Some time later St. Peter asked his assistant to retrieve the two ministers because their condos were done. The assistant asked where he could find them. St. Peter replied, "The first will be easy. He is soaring above the Grand Canyon. The second will be a little harder. He is spinning around on some snow tire in Detroit."

The product goal and, more importantly, the process goal need to be very specific. The gymnasts need to develop the discipline of specifically focusing on exactly what they are to do every time they enter the gym. Abstract goals could be deadly.

The United Way was studying goal setting and motivation with giving. They went in and asked companies to 'do the best they could.

They asked other companies to specifically do "10 percent better than last year." The companies that were asked to do 10 percent better than last year, on an average, did 24 percent better. The companies that were told to do the best they could did worse. I think when we say we are going to do the best we can, it becomes the best as soon as we become uncomfortable. If we have a specific goat we push to reach it.

Have the gymnasts reach, when both of you feel they can. Be very carefut however, not to reach beyond what they are capable of or you'll be asking for injury. To reach the process goals, make the reaching specific. Define together exactly what they are going to do every workout. Plan your work and work the plan, specifically.

The 3 to 5 Method I have had success with gymnastics teams setting three to five process goals every time they practice and compete.

For example, when a gymnast goes into a meet she can set the process goal ot "I will specifically increase my breathing and focus out of my head and on the task when initiating my vault." And conversely, " I will slow down my breathing and relax my body using the self-talk phrase focus when attempting and performing on the beam."

These goals are not worried about results or product-that will take care of itself. They are focused on what to do.

This has not only been effective in increasing performance, it has also been a relief-an anxiety catharsis for the gymnasts. If a gymnast tells her body to win, it produces anxiety. The mind says, "Win, what is that? What specifically does that mean? What if my mom comes? "What if she brings my aunt and they expect m e to win? Oh my

The gymnasts need to fall in love not with what they are trying to accomplish, but with the process of accomplishing it.

All the great ones have.

Not that they always love the work, but they have regard for the process.

I'm so nervous." It is too abstract and the mind can not react to the instruction. It is like putting yourself in a car and saying, "Drive to New York. No map, just get to New York."

When a gymnast walks into a meet with three to five process goals, she will usually increase performance. She can do three to five specific things in a meet. It gives her something to focus on-simple instructions the gymnast can give her brain three to five times a meet.

The same should be true in the gym. Every time they walk in, they should have specifics in what they are reaching for. There should be three to five things they are trying to get done so they are not spending time in the gym, but investing time. Specific goals may be, "Develop self-talk to focus on the beam after my balance is lost, or develop a system of cue words on bars that prepares successfully for each skill." How will the gymnast progress and grow, if she is not mastering specific techniques during every workout?

Visualizing The Product Movie star Jim Carey set a product goal to sign a movie deal for 12 million dollars. The problem was, he was a stand-up comic in Los Angeles. When he set the goal, he wrote a 12 million dollar check to himself and carried it with him. He left stand-up comedy, which his friends thought he was crazy to do, and went on the show "In Living Color." He kept locked in his mind the product, a 12 million dollar movie deal. He kept moving up and finally signed a major motion picture deal, Batman Forever. How much? 12 million, of course.

In the attempt to reach the end result, it is the process that gets us there. It is seeing the product that keeps us hungry. Seeing the reward and even writing a check out to yourself in the mind's eye, has a strange way of helping dreams become a reality.

Everything that was ever built-buildings, careers and champions-first existed as a thought. Holding on to the thought has a strange way of inviting people and places

into our lives to "make it happen." I can't explain it, but I know it is true.

I was working with a woman who wanted to be a motivational trainer in her company. She taped a picture of a woman training on her mirror. She locked the picture in her mind and kept working the process to make it happen. Finally, she got the position she had dreamed of.

When she went out to buy the dress she would wear for her first training, she got home, put it on and realized something-it was the exact same dress the woman was wearing in the picture!

Seeing Themselves Better Than They Are Research says there is something valuable about being a bit delusional. Actually, those who inflate the view they have of themselves tend to be happier. In comparison, those who see themselves realistically tend to be depressed. Moreover, when someone sees herself in a positive light she tends to eventually become it. How many high paying stars have you watched and thought, "This person doesn't have any talent." Evidently they think they do. So do their bank accounts.

For gymnasts, seeing themselves in a positive light and believing they are good helps them become that vision.

They strive for being what they think they are. They do not become champions. They are champions and simply are being what they think they are.

This all boils down to this, gymnasts must think highly of themselves to become champions. To do this, have them visualize being champions. Have them write it somewhere so they can see it constantly. Let them know a champion isn't something they will become, it is something they already are. We just need to climb up the steps of the process to help them get there.

Dr. P. Kevin Elko, from McDonald, Pa. , has been a performance consultant for the Pittsburgh Steeiers, The University of Miami Hurrican e Football Team, and the University of Pittsburgh Athletic Department.

He has worked with athletes in Taekwondo, Boxing and Gymnastics.

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are

you training ~~~ your MENTAL

GAMEorjust

thinking about it ?

by Dr. Julie Ness

After years of training in sport p sychology, I began working with individual athletes and teams on the mental side of their game. My efforts focus on helping athletes learn how to use their minds to help, rather than hurt, performance. Each session typically includes a "homework" assignment-one or more mental exercises the athletes are to complete before we meet again.

As we review their homework in the next session, a curious pattern often begins to emerge. Almost every athlete will affirm that they did the assignment.

However, few can really describe in detail what they accomplished. My conclusion is that many of these athletes are not really practicing mental training-they are simply thinking about mental training. They know that the mental side of their game is important, but they don't have the tools, experience or structure to actually make it happen.

Writing down your thoughts in an organized, systematic way, you are actively training your mind. And w hen you train your mind, you can develop a habit of mental toughness.

This process of carefully recording your thoughts (or "journaling") after a practice session will help you : . ignore distractions lengthen your attention span improve your focusing skills keep you accountable Each daily entry should include three parts. First, you warm up your mind. Just as you need to warm up your body before practice, you need to warm up your mind before mental training. This warm up period is simply a time to "free-write." Stretch your mind by jotting down any thoughts that occur to you-whatever may be on your mind at the time. For example, "I feel excited to do bars today. I hope I make my Stalder. " Next, you write specifically about the successes in that day's practice. For example, "I really got the hang of my Yurchenko today. I made all my attempts with no problems./I Some days, your accomplishments might be limited. Other days, they m ay be stunning. Either way, you need to write down the positive results. This step is crucial because you have to develop the habit of

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remembering what you do right-you might say, remembering the reality of your talent. After all, when a pressure situation arises in competition, you will either trust your talent. ..or trust your doubt. This step in the journaling process helps train the mind so that your natural reaction in those situations will be to remember and trust your talent.

My efforts focus on helping athletes learn how to use their minds to help, rather than hurt, performance.

•

The third step is to begin thinking-correctly-about your mistakes. The goal is to move your mind from "what I did wrong" to "what I need to do to correct this mistake." After you identify and write down the required correction, you next write about the experience you will have the next time. What does it look like when you make the correction? For example, "1 need to twist later on my double full. I'm whipping my head back and twisting too early. Next time I will set first and then twist."

Based on the theory that it takes 28 experiences to create a habit, spend ten minutes with your journal after

each practice for 28 practices and you can create a habit of mental toughness.

By the time you have completed the journal, you should see several tangible results. Specifically, you will: • Understand the difference between thinking and mental training and actually doing mental training.

Have a habit of turning mistakes into corrections and remaining focused on the correction.

Be able to choose confidence at any time.

Do you ever practice better than you perform? Have you ever sensed that some of your mistakes were more mental than physical? Do you think you could improve your performance by improving your mental toughness?

Remember, only when you have the mind of a champion can your physical skills really shine to their maximum potential. Begin to train your mind for success!

Dr. Julie Ness received her Ph.D. in sport psychology from the Universitlj of Virginia. She was a competitive gymnast, diver, and cheerleader and also has an extensive coaching background.

In her field of sport psychology, she has worked with athletes in a variety of team and individual sports, including baseball, basketball, football, gymnastics, golf, cheerleading, hockey, tennis, and soccer. For more information on Dr. Ness' ideas, read Play to Win ... The Journal to Keep You a Step Ahead which is available from Source Publications (1-800-4 77-6698) .

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Steve

with â&#x20AC;˘

Interview by Peter Kormann, article by Luan Peszek

Steve McCain, 23, is from Houston, Texas, but trains at UCLA. He's coached by Doug Macey, and has been a member of the USA Men's National Team for six years. McCain is a twotime World Championships team member, and was a semi-finalist at the 1996 World Championships on floor and parallel bars. He's also the 1997 Winter Cup Challenge Champion.

At a recent training camp, USA Gymnastics Men's National Team Coordinator Peter Kormann, sat down with Steve to discuss his training and success. Here's what Steve had to say: Q: Describe a typical week in your gym at UCLA in terms of training.

A: I do three days a week in the morning, usually conditioning and body positions and maybe some cardiovascular or cross training. In the evening, we do about four hours of gymnastics workout six days a week. Depending on the time of year, we focus on routines, routines and skills, new skills, timers for skills, basics or whatever.

Q: Do you train six events per day?

A: Again, it depends on the time of year. Usually we do four events a day or three events on one day and three on the other. But, if we're doing routines, we'll usually do all six events in one day.

Q: What has been the hardest period of training for you?

A: About a month before this year's Winter Cup. I felt like I went into every single practice and reached a level of complete exhaustion. I kept pushing through it and pushing through it. I got to another level, like a heightened state where my energy level was up and I felt lighter. I went into Winter Cup feeling like I had worked harder than anyone else.

Q: And you won the all-around title at the 1997 Winter Cup Challenge, so that training pattern obviously helped you in the meet?

A: Oh yes, definitely. At first I was nervous but once I got settled in, and in my mode, it was so easy for me.

Q: Everyone experiences stale times when their training isn' t going well. Is there anything you can do to get yourself out of that?

A: Yes, I try to remember that there is going to be a stale time. If you don't have any lows, then you won't have any highs either. You're going to have peaks and valleys in

0 ................... .

gymnastics. There's a time when you're going to be tired or your timing is off, but the best thing to do is relax and try not to get frustrated .

Take a look at what is going on. Go back and work on the basics and build your confidence. Take it one step at a time. If I'm having trouble with a skill, I'll say, "Okay I need to go back to the basics." If I'm having trouble on Kovacs, I'll go back to basic giant swings, then timers without letting go of the bar, then I'll take a look at the video to see what's happening. I'll patiently work back up to the Kovacs. I used to always get frustrated and that's definitely not the right way to handle it!

Q: If you had to identify the single skill in gymnastics that took the longest time to learn what would it be?

A: Well, when I was younger I couldn't do a Stutz with my legs together. For years and years, I could do Diamidovs, back toss, and double backs. I could do just about everything, but I couldn't do a Stutz with my legs together. I found out later the reason I was having trouble was because I didn't go back to the basics. I didn't take the time to break it down. Everyone always said, "make the Stutz to handstand," it was all that anyone ever cared about. But actually it's the person that pays attention to detail the most, who is going to come out ahead. Everyone has the same tricks, optionals are becoming like compulsories now, so if someone takes the time to really make everything look good and work on something others don't, it will help him out a lot. If you take the time to learn a skill the right way, you're going to be better off than if you rush to learn it just so you can compete it quicker.

Q: There are a lot of little guys and some older gymnasts who do Stutz with their feet apart, but you went back and did some turning drills and some one-arm handstand drills in order to learn it the right way.

Can you discuss this?

A: Yes, I started doing the swing half turn on the parallel bars and I got to where I could do a swing half turn all the way up to a handstand. With my coach spotting me, I would go from a handstand, swing all the way down and up to a one arm handstand, and my coach would hold me there. I would put my hand back on the bar, pirouette, and repeat the drill several times. Finally I would just go right to that same position, hop and do a Stutz. I kept doing it, patiently, and finally it just came. It was so easy after doing all those steps. I think that's what the guys at the training center do really well.

Sometimes I look at a trick and think "there's no way," "that's impossible," ''I'm going to get hurt if I try that." But then I watch them break it down little by little and finally do it. It's easy for them. So I think it's very important not to look at a skill like it's impossible. Just figure out the right steps, have patience and it will come.

Q: A big problem with gymnasts is injuries. To reach the level that you've reached, I'm sure you've had to overcome some nagging injuries. What's the key?

A: I've been real fortunate not to have been plagued with injuries compared to a lot of other gymnasts. But, I've definitely had some. I think the biggest thing is to be honest with yourself and ask yourself it if you're really hurt or just don't want to workout. If something is really bugging you, then there's always something you can do during workout that won't affect that area. Gymnastics is so diverse and there are so many things you can do. If you're injured in one area that's just an opportunity for you to polish up another area and get stronger. Pay attention to your body and do the right things. When I had a wrist

Block

injury, I would put straps, which were attached to the rings, on my forearms to train the cross position. It definitely helped. The doctor told me I wasn't allowed to put weight on my wrist for six months but I didn' t miss a day in the gym. I would come in and work trampoline all day and work on improving my air sense. Now, as I'm oldel~ I'm really glad I spent so much time on the trampoline because I can twist and flip so well.

Q: Okay, here's the scenario, it's late in the week, you 're really tired and sore, you really don't want to be in the gym but you have a meet coming up. You walk in, what do you tell yourself to get through the workout that day?

A: Don't think about that workout all day before you get there. I used to sit around and worry about workout all day long. By the time I walked into the gym I had already prejudged everything, I knew what I was going to fall on and what I was too tired to even try. Just trust yourself. When I walk in, I know there are a finite number of things I have to do. It's important to plan your workout so you know what you have to do. I love working out. Sometimes I'll be at the gym and I'll be tired, but then I think, "what else could I be doing. If I was home, I would be sitting on the couch or eating dinner-and I'd rather be working out in the gym." I love playing music in the gym and that really gets me pumped up. Don' t think about how bad the gym is, think about the good you're getting out of it because you are pushing yourself to the limit. Also, just be glad you're able to do gymnastics. I've seen guys get frustrated and leave the gym and say, "forget it, I'm going home." But, if I ever did that just once, it would be twice as easy to leave the next time. Don't give into fatigue, it's just your mind. Keep pushing.

Q: At Winter Cup, you appeared like you were in the zone and you looked so confident. What were you thinking about?

A: The first day was tough because it was the first meet back for me and I was worried about what others were thinking.

It was hard for m e to get in the zone. The second day, what helped was that I did all m y warm-ups and then left the arena. It helped me to forget about all the little things that went wrong in warm-ups. I talked to m y coach, Doug Macey, and he said, "you can do any trick out there better than anyone's going to do it today. We've worked very hard. Don't worry about anything else in the meet. Just go out there and show off and make me happy about what we've done." So I went out there and I felt like it wasn't just me out there, but I had my coach on my side. I couldn't wait to get on the equipment. I tried to do exactly what I did at workouts. I would even listen to the same songs on each events as I did at practice. Once you're in the zone it's so easy. It was actually hard to come out of the zone. After the meet, I was ready to take on a new challenge. It's the best feeling in the world once you're in the zone.

Q: There are coaches out there trying to train young guys going through just what you went through. What can these coaches tell their gymnasts?

A: Tell them not to ever be ashamed and afraid of giving stuff up for gymnastics. Before I came to college I had never missed a day of practice. I had a lot of friends who would try to get me to skip and go out and do other things. But, I knew I loved it and wanted to do gymnastics. As I got older I realized that I was almost giving too much to the sport. So, now I know, I have to have something outside of gymnastics to go to, but something that doesn't sacrifice my time in the gym. Also, I try to remember how the gym looked when I was 10 years old. I walked in and sawall the equipment and thought it was a big playground. I was so excited to get in the gym and workout. I think about how fun it really is.

Sometime I feel like a little kid in the gym. Coaches should tell their gymnasts that they will have bad times and great times but they should not forget why they do the sport and how much they love it.

Cross-Training May Prompt More Injuries Reprinted from the Penn State News

C ross-training, in which gymnasts run or play another sport, could be counterproductive or even dangerous for the athlete.

The July issue of the Penn State Sports Medicine Newsletter notes that cross training has its advantages. It breaks the monotony of only one physical discipline, sometimes serves as physical rehabilitation for the injured athlete and allows athletes an alternative activity for staying fit when they are not able to train in their primary sport. However, there is reason to question the value and even the safety of cross training.

Edward G. McFarland, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at John Hopkins University, and Mike Wasik, A.T.e., a trainer at the University of Florida, studied the frequency of training and cross training injuries sustained by 68 women collegiate swimmers over a seven-year period.

They discovered that 45 percent of the injuries were due to swimming and 44 percent to cross training, the rest of the injuries resulting from everyday activities. The McFarlandWasik study was the first to show that cross training injuries can present difficulties for competitive swimmers. It also suggested that athletes who train in activities other than their primary sports are more susceptible to injuries than those who do not.

"Serious athletes think that cross training will give them an extra edge over competitors," McFarland told the newsletter. "They go out and try to run further or faster than others as part of a training program, but end up getting injured.

Those injuries frequently prevent elite athletes from performing in their primary sports."

The weekend or recreational athlete can also have problems with cross training because their bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments are not used to the type of stress put on the body by a second or third form of exercise.

McFarland advises the recreation athlete, "Whatever you think you can do in the first day of a new sport, cut it in half. Too much stress, too fast, results in injuries.

Exercisers need to be very careful about new activities or sports that they have not played for a long time." " An athlete in one sport is not going to get better as a result of playing another one," notes William T. Bates, M.s., R.P.T., former head trainer with the New England Patriots. "There are coaches without a sports science background who choose inappropriate cross training methods and often put their athlete at risk of injury. I'm not saying a baseball player shouldn't run to improve aerobic fitness, but that player would be better off working on upper body strength training and actually swinging the bat to get stronger or quicker."

Professional football teams probably do the best job of designing sports-specific exercises, Bates told the newsletter. Linemen work on quick burst strength and power training, while receivers are doing 20-30 second sprints. Coaches in other sports should follow football's model in planning their training programs.

athlete in one sport is not going to get better as a result of playing another one, " notes William T. Bates, M.S., R.P. T. J~n

Daniel Monthley, MS., A.T.S., assistant athletic trainer at Penn State, says, "We see a good number of injuries that are not related to primary sports. The most common occur among football players who sprain their ankles or twist their knees playing pickup or intramural basketball.

"At Penn State, we have to look at recreational sports as a form of off-season conditioning because athletes are going to find something to play," Monthley says. "On the other hand, coaches and trainers talk with their athletes about their responsibilities to avoid injuries. Some coaches are becoming strict on this issue. They can't afford to lose an athlete because of an unnecessary injury, regardless of how it happened."

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AProgression lor Teaching the Stalder Handstand

By John Wojtcz uk

North Stars Gymnastics Academy, NJ

The Stalder1 circle may well become an important element in the new Code. With the proposed devaluation of the back giant "blind change" to a "B", many of the old combinations for connection bonus have just been eliminated. The Stalder to HS is to maintain "C" value and a 1/2 in HS will allow it to be used for connection bonus. A Stalder 1/1 turn in HS is proposed to maintain its "D" value. So this skill may be increasing in popularity over the next year. This article presents one possible progression for teaching the Stalder to HS, and is based on the progressions I use to teach this skill.

The "model" I used to study this skill and pattern these progressions after is still what I consider to be the best performance, even after 18 years. If anyone still has a film (yes, film) of Marcia Frederick's gold medal bar routine at Strasbourg, France, in '78, that's the one I'm talking about.

She performs both a Stalder HS and back toe circle to HS in the same sequence, as well as a Stalder blind change full (not reverse pirouette-she finishes the first 1/2 turn as a blind change turning on the way up into the HS-beautiful.) For most gymnasts, the traditional opening of hips and arms together is the most feasible and what I have geared these drills toward. The early "legs together shoot" has the advantage of allowing that true "blind change" action to occur, but is extremely difficult to do and may be considered an 1. Joseph Siaider of Swilzerlalld pel/onlled

Ihe firsl crediled "backward" Siaider. A '11'0111 slalder" is lechllically called all "Elida" or "Elldo-sllOol" afler Ihe Japanese gymllas l who firsl pel/onlled il.

advanced style of the skill, not something for the first steps in learning it.

The key here is the technique of the entry into the skill, what has been called a "late drop ." There was also a study by Cord Osbourne (University of Alberta) in Canada that compared the two techniques on entering into the Stalder for men's horizontal bar, and indicates that biomechanically the late drop was a better technique. It was watching the Stalder HS/toe HS sequence that was key for me. The absolute similarity of the drop for the two skills gave me the ideas for these progressions, and a key to performing the skill well. The advantage of the "late drop" is that it forces the maximum extension away (for swing) from the bar with the best control. It parallels the drop from a HS for a clearhip circle or glide kip, so there is some "carry-over" from those skills.

On page 17 is a chart to show a possible progression for teaching the Stalder.

The First Line of Drills Now let's take the top line of the chart. The first step from left to right are the flexibility requirements for this skill, an excellent pike and straddle compression. The lower back may be susceptible to strains if not stretched well. There will be a good amount of force stretching the lower back at the "bottom" of the circle, so excellent lower back flexibility is as important as leg and hip fle xibility to "get into" the proper straddle position to perform the skill.

The second element over is a specific" strength" drill for the last phase of the skill-the HS. Using a floor bar, first straddle press HS with the feet behind the bar. Later on, the feet will be placed slightly "in front" of the bar with the hands having to reach slightly between the legs and under the body to press to the HS, partially simulating one of the opening techniques for the Stalder.

Steps "3" and" 4" across are two simple drills that don't need too much explaining. I feel it would be good to teach both the sole circle" arounds" as well as a good pike seat circle to teach h olding compression as the gymnast goes around as well as circling the hands to the top of the bar without the support of the feet as occurs in the sole circle.

The last drill in this line is performed off raised blocks or mats and is very similar to a "rocking" drill used to teach the "drop" for clearhips. The blocks are set back from a lowered rail about two feet and are about 18" high. The gymnast starts with hands on the bal~ shoulders about a foot above the level of the bal~ and the body in a "straight-round" position, with the shoulders extended into a round back and the hips flat but with a tight flat stomach and squeezed "glutes" (Bill Sands described it as a "rainbow" position). The gymnast jumps from the blocks maintaining the round position in the shoulders and performs a piked sole circle dismount.

Emphasis is placed on jumping straight first, al1d then piking onto the bar late.

1. Pike and straddle •••••••••• Jump to straddled •••••••••• Sole circle around •••••••••• Seat circle around •••••••••• Jump to late toe-on compressions press half HS on (straddled and piked) ("l" to'1"; partially sole circle off r compressed) \ floot 2. Jump to straddled •••••• Straddle press half •••••• Sole circle around Seat circle straddled cast to late toe-on, horizontal "basket" HS over floor bar piked ond straddled (hold compression) sole circle off swing ("rock drill") \ \ \

!

I

!

I

3. Jump to straddled circle •••••• Straddle press HS around bor (with spot)

Seat circle straddled (hold compression)

over floor bar

\

\

cast, to late toe-on sole circle around

\ I

4. Jump to stalder circle •••••••••• straddled press HS •••••••••• cast to stalder around bar to stand on bar (with spot)

on floor bor

(spotted, then alone)

\

I

S. Jump to stalder circle to half •••••• cast to stalder around to straddled staddled HS ("hip lift") (spotted)

\

stand on bar (spotted, then alone)

I

6. Jump to stalder circle ••••• cast to stalder circle to half to HS (with spot)

HS ("hip lift", like a press)

\ I

7. Cast stalder circle to HS

This phase of the drill is critical for the gymnast who may just try to pike onto the bar" off the block." What this drill is d esigned to do is teach the proper body position for the drop phase, but by reducing the amount of force/swing generated from a cast. The standing start position simulates the cast, while the jump to a straight position and then to the sole circle is the actual movement pattern the gymnast would like to perform for the late drop. I strongly suggest teaching the pike to further reinforce the extension through the shoulders and the positions of the hips in relation to the bar for the drop. Again, it simulates the correct position for the drop accurately.

The last drill in this line takes what they learned off the blocks and transfers it to a cast. The cast should be about horizontal to start and then work its way up to about 30Q â&#x20AC;˘ The sole circle should still be piked or least a very narrow straddle. Since the Stalder comes in at about horizontal or a little below, I would teach the toe-on to come in about the same. Too late and they' ll never get into the correct stalder position, legs and back parallel to the floor at the "bottom" of the skill. Less than this they will struggle with an early opening, too much and it will be too late.

Maintain and continue to improve flexibility and strength for the skill.

The Third Line of Drills The Second Line of Drills H ere, the first drill is similar to what we've just discussed but the gymnast can do it jumping from floor or blocks and performing either piked or straddled. (Some of us may remember learning how to swing for "baskets" and kips on parallel bars-this is the same drill done on the uneven bars.)

Emphasis is on teaching the gymnast some control of body position without a great deal of swing, as well as "feeling the bottom" of the swing. There is a slight opening of the compression at the top of both sides of the swing and a marked compression directly under the bar. The result is they are learning a little about "pumping" the swing here, too . Also, it is a phase in preparing the lower back to handle the stretch of the swing by gradually building up the force of the swing and further improving fle xibility and range of movement.

The second" strength" drill is the same as the first, except they aren't jumping any more. The third is the same as its counterpart in the first line, except what I call a "disengage" at the top of the bar-they now must rotate their hands to the top faster to allow the feet to slightly press off the bar at this point and then come right back on for the next circle.

(Tony Gehman had a great variation-have the kids disengage/ press from straddle circle to pike circle and back again.)

The fourth drill is now a straddled seat circle. This is a good deal more difficult for the gymnast to maintain and do straddled. Make sure they are spotted at first and have a skill cushion underneath them. They may "stall out" and fall forwards, so teach them to do a straddled % circle and drop to their feet straddle/piked, like the old " p each" drop to low bar in the '80 Olympic Compulsory.

The first drill takes the jump off the block and with a spot starts to do a "stalder start" to a straddle seat circle. Here is where a crucial change starts. The jump starts out piking into the bar but then straddles to the straddled seat circle. This straddle is late and narrow, with the legs brushing the arms on the way in-it is important. The piked start is to reinforce the open push of the shoulders into the drop. The narrow straddle helps this but also helps prevent the gymnast from pulling in too soon to the straddle position. The legs/hips must rotate through quickly to get to the "bottom" of the skill. If they straddle early, there are two problems. One is the early pull of the arms, and the second is a wide straddle doesn' t get you into the correct Stalder position.

Even though you may be spotting them over the bal~ the goal of this drill is still to reinforce and teach better teclmique of the drop into the skill.

The rest of the drills are the same as line two, emphasize the cast to 30Q on the last one. Still emphasize the piked start, but you can also let them try to do the late, narrow straddle to a straddled sale circle as well.

Maintain and continue to improve flexibility and strength for the skill.

The Fourth Line of Drills The first drill here is the same as line three, but now we're going to circle the hips up at the end to place the feet on the bar at the top. This must be spotted and have proper matting underneath in case of a "stall and falL" Very often the gymnast won't

have enough swing at the start so expect them to stall out a little too soon . Hold them, let them get their feet on the bar and push them up to the top where they can jump off safely.

(Spotting the shoulders here works well for me.) The jump is still emphasizing the " piked start" and narrow straddle of the drop .

Now, we take this and try adding the stalder part of the drop to the cast. They've been doing the piked drop so far.

Now they can try to add the narrow straddle into the Stalder position. The toes are "in" about horizontal or a little below, just like they trained in the previous line, but just as they are getting there, they now straddle the feet past the bar (narrow straddle) and into the Stalder position. You may also have to tell them to let their arms fold into the proper bottom position, but most of the time, if they have done the drills properly, they do it pretty naturally. As they come around in the circle first have them do a straddle seat circle to get over.

The Fifth Line of Drills The first drill is the same as line four, but now we spot the gymnast to a straddled HS from the jump on the blocks. This is still spotted and emphasis is still placed on the proper drop technique, but now we add the opening of the arms toward a HS position for the skill.

The straddled press drill can now be used to teach pirouetting if the press is done correctly.

The cast to 30Q or higher now changes to the skill being performed to a stand on the bar, just one step behind the drill we're having them learn jumping off the blocks. Still emphasis is placed on proper technique of the drop and bottom.

Maintain and continue to improve flexibility and strength for the skill.

The Sixth and Seventh Lines of Drills Well, at this point, things are starting to come together (if you' ve noticed the lines getting smaller). The jump drill is now getting spotted to HS, and the casting drill is finally a Stalder to a straddled HS. The seventh line here is finally the skill, a Stalder to HS, spotted at first and then alone. From a HS into

the skill the drop is similar to the drop to a clearhip or glide, at about 30Q above horizontal, everything we drilled comes into play. If we've done the drills well, it will be a little easier to perform out of the HS since there is more speed behind it.

Some Final Notes When I first presented this lecture at Congress it was called "Developing Uneven Bar Progressions" and the stalder was the example I used . In the Proceedings Book, the chart of the drill didn' t quite come out the way it was sent in (sort of an upside-down pyramid leading to the skill), but was listed in a numbered order that didn' t fit the purpose and most certainly confused some people who read it (" 29 Steps to Stalder" -sounds like an old Hitchcock movie). I am glad to have a chance to clear that up and explain that chart a little more fully.

As I stated earlier, there are other ways of teaching the Stalder. There is the multiple circle drill, similar to w hat we use for clearhips, but I found that for some kids it may reinforce straddling early, so I use that selectively. There is an additional use for the Tumble-Trak here. Pad the bar on the sides and let the gymnast compress to a straddle and then open the hips and arms to a HS to simulate the opening of the Stalder to a HS (or even just over the bar).

This is only one possible progression for teaching the skill.

You w ill have to adapt these drills (as well as others) to the needs of the gymnasts you are teaching. The more ways you have of teaching it, the better your success rate will be. The last two pages list in the format for the late toe on and Stalder.

Good luck, and have a great season .

References: Barham, Jerry N. and Wooten, Edna P. (19 73), Structural Kinesiologt), New York, NY: MacMillan Publ. Co., In c.

Dyson, G., (1977), The Mechanics of Athletics., London, 7th Ed. Hodder & Stoughton George, G.S. (1969), Anyone For A ll-Around-Horizontal Bar. Modern Gymnast 11, 10: pp. 19 George, G.S. (1980), Biomechanics of Women 's Gymnastics.

Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc. Osbourne, G., A Comparison : Two Styles of Straddle Staldershoots Photocopy of papel; no date or publisher

Technical Preparation lor the Back Stalder and Late Toe-On

By John Wojtczuk

North Stars Gymnastics Academy, NJ

Backward Stalder Circle

Late Toe On, Sole Circle

(Note: The late toe-on is an excellent progression to teach this drop for stalders. I would strongly suggest teaching a good late toe on first.)

From a horizontal position with shoulders over the bar, feet pike onto bar just below horizontal (the angle in the shoulders becomes the pike in the hips). A progression for stalder circles as well as other toe-on skills.

Prerequisites: all from late toe-on, plus: Flexibility: Pike and straddle Compressions requires good hamstring and lower back flexibility; proper position of shoulders in HS; proper position of back in a press HS. Strength: V-ups, crunchers, leg lifts (piked and stradIed), abdominal curls, "V" -hang on low bar, straddle press to HS, slow pike down from HS, sitting pike and straddle "leg-raises".

Drills: "Rock" on parallettes to feel the shoulders opening as the hips flex into the drop Piked and straddled "basket" swings.

Straddle and piked sole and seat circles around the bar. Jump from floor to pike sole circle off, and around- increase height of starting surface to the same; add a late straddle through to a stalder "rock" and return; then to around the bar and then progressively working up to a straddled HS. Common Errors: "Straddling" on top of the bar (early entry) before the COG has started to fall back into the circle. Not compressing deep enough to stay in position at the "bottom" of the swing (coming out too soon); not keeping shoulders over the bar to control the body shape into the drop.

Spotting: To spot the" drop" catch the gymnast at the top of a horizontal cast and hold; round the hips and help them into the "round" pike position and help their legs into a narrow straddle around the bar-body is at 90Q, or horizontal.

To spot the stalder around, stand in front of the bar; when the gymnast begins to circle up; spot the lower back and/ or shoulders and help them around the bar until standing on top of the bar again. Teach them at this phase how to jump off properly if they are" short" in the circle and how to "roll" their grasp back under the bar if they cannot jump off. Eventually finish in a straddle "half-HS", like halfway through a press.

Teaching Hints: Use the pike sole to encourage full extension of the body in the toe on (a narrow straddle will do also.)

速 ..................................... <,,___

Prerequisites: Flexibility: Proper position of shoulders in HS; excellent pike compression (chest flat on thighs) Strength: V-ups, crunchers, leg lifts, abdominal curls, "V" -hang on low bar, slow pike down from HS, rocking kips.

Drills: "Rock" on parallettes to feel the shoulders opening as the hips flex into the toe on Jump from floor to pike sole circle off and aroundincrease height of starting surface to the same; develop to full circle around (spotted).

Cast to horizontal and alternate toe-on to pike sole circle-(alternate legs here, don' t let them get a favorite side they overwork); cast horizontal and manipulate them through the position to the toe-on.

Common Errors: "Standing" on top of the bar (early pike) before the COG has started to fall back into the circle. Not pointing feet to keep toes-on the bar at the "bottom" of the swing (coming off too soon); not keeping shoulders over the bar to control the body shape into the drop.

Spotting: To spot the" drop" catch the gymnast at the top of a horizontal cast and hold; round the hips and help them into the "round" pike position and help their feet onto the bar. (Stand on the side of the bar where the toe-on would occur) .

To spot the sole around, stand on the side of the bar where the gymnast begins to circle up; spot the lower back and shoulder and help them around the bar until standing on top of the bar again. Teach them at this phase how to jump off properly if they are "short" in the circle and how to "roll" their grasp back under the bar if they cannot jump off.

Teaching Hints: Use a pike sole to encourage full extension of the body in the toe-on (a narrow straddle will do also.)

Note: This is also an excellent progression to teach the drop for stalders.

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QUESTION

& ANSWER

Q: Is there any record or research related to any health problems associated with chalk into a little girl's lung? This can't be good, even in small amounts.

A: According to Dr. William A. Sands, who is an exercise physiologist at the University of Utah, magnesium carbonate is an inert water insoluble matter that the body will flush normally. It does not appear to have adverse affects on most people. Of course, there are some who may have problems in a high chalk dust environment.

There are several things that gyms can do to reduce the volume of chalk dust: Regular cleaning of the gym (industrial type vacuum cleaner) .

Periodic professional carpet cleaning.

Limit the use of chalk to "where necessary."

Train the gymnasts in how to use chalk to reduce dust.

Use of covered chalk bins.

Humidifiers (higher humidity makes the dust "heavier."

Better Ventilation.

Ventilation filters Some heating/ cooling systems handle this better than others.

USA Gymnastics frequently receives questions from members like the one listed above. Do you have a gymnastics-related question that you would like answered?

Send your question to USA Gymnastics, attn: Technique, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225; or fax to (317)237-5069.

Encyclopedia of World Sport

Positive Coaching Jim 77lOmpson

David Levinson and Karen Christensen

Review by Dawn Alice Rogers

This book is a must-have for coaches of all levels!

There are many valuable points made, Positive Coaching contains practical information presented in a personal account format. It is easy to read and easy to comprehend. Positive Coaching is written for team sports but the reader can easily insert the words (for example) gyrrmast where the author has written player, or competition in place of game. There are many stories and antidotes used to enhance understanding of positive coaching for youth athletes.

Topics include: Ideas and Inspiration The Coach's Role in Increasing Self-Esteem Making the Most of Mistakes Making Practice Time Productive (and Fun!) Coaching During a Game Handling Parents What About Winning?

Learning from Losing Nurturing Outstanding Individual Competitors Positive Coaching provides suggestions for coaches who care about their athletes. The book emphasizes the need to train child athletes to reach their best potential without losing their ability to think for themselves. It shows you how to create a technically demanding environment that is also nurturing, fun, and healthy. Positive Coaching also gives inspiration for creating rewarding participation for all athletes, not just the star, and developing strength of character. This book provides empowering and inspirational reading.

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ISBN 0-87436-819-7 (set) Look for the Encyclopedia of World Sport at your local library.

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BUSINESS

.....................................

路 路 路 路

~ Attention Club Owners:

Quantifying Key Person Insurance In today's complex business world, companies strive for the right mix of people and technology in order to compete. However, it is the ability of people to use technology profitably that in all likelihood determines how successful the enterprise will be. Consequently, the sudden death of a key employee may not only impact your company's ability to use its technology, but may also affect the important business relationships that have been built and nurtured over time. The end result can often be devastating for the future of the business.

Businesses can protect against sudden loss with a life insurance policy on certain key people. Key person insurance indemnifies a business for the loss of a valuable team member's skill and experience. Generally, the company owns the policy, the premiums are not deductible, and the death proceeds are received income tax-free by the company. But, how do you place a value on the life of a key employee in terms of that employee's contributions to the success of the company?

Putting Dollars on a Face The most common method for determining the amount of insurance needed is the" multiple" approach which simply uses a multiple of the key person's total annual compensation including bonuses and deferred compensation. This approach is identical to the" rule of thumb" formula for determining life insurance for family protection needs (e.g., 5 to 7 times annual salary) and produces the same result-an estimate that may, or may not, relate to the actual needs. This method's popularity may be nothing more than the' default' approach, in that it may reflect the difficulty business owners have in quantifying a key employee's value.

A more sophisticated method is the business profits approach which is similar to the needs-based approach used for determining family life insurance needs. This method tries to quantify the portion of the business's net profit that is directly attributable to the efforts of the key person, and multiplies that amount by the number of

years estimated for a replacement to become as productive as the person insured. For example, if the estimate of net profit attributable to the key employee is $50,000 annually, and it is estimated that it would take 5 years to hire and train a replacement, the policy's face value under this method would be $250,000.

A third approach determines the present value of the profit contributions of the key employee over a specified number of years. The amount of the policy under this approach is the discounted cash flows . For (a simplified) example, using anticipated profit contributions of $250,000, over the next five years and a discount rate of 8 percent, the policy's face value would be about $1 million using this method. This approach assumes the insurance proceeds can be invested at some rate of return and will be expended over a period of years.

.. .the sudden death of akey employee may not only impact your company's ability to use its technology, but may also affect the important business relationships that have been built and nurtured over time.

The end result can onen be devastating for the future of the business.

Regardless of which approach may be best suited for your business, key person insurance is vital to help protect your business from the loss of your most valuable assets-the people who make it work. In addition to providing the cash to recruit, hire and train replacements, it can help replace lost profits and assure your customers of business continuity.

Permission to reprint this article has been granted exclusively to John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company, Boston, MA 02117, by Liberty Publishing, Inc., Danvers, Massachusetts, for Technique. Reprinted from Business Planning Solutions, Second Quartel~ 1997. For more information on this topic, please caI/1-800-562-4429, ext. 300.

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"The Gym Force Athletlc Training Center joined the USA GYmnastics Member Club program for three reasons. First, lNe wanted to support USA Gymnastics, OUr sports National Governing Body. Second, lNe lNanted to have the a bility to dis. play the USA GYmnastics togo as Our professional assOciation to the participants and Possible future participants in OUr facil. ity. Third, lNe lNanted to take advantage of a ll the great benefits offered to the USA GYmnastics Member ClUbs. The member. ship even provided OUr club lNith the opportunity to share a memorable experience this past Winter, a s 10 of OUr l(indergYm children and three of Our competitive team m embers performed routines at the John Hancock Tour of World Champ ions When it was in Tallahassee."

•

Jim Hisey Gym Force Athletic Training Center Talla hassee, Florida

take pride .In b' eln 9 the best .

At GTC bwe We are a bl e to a ccomphsh we can e. . our students the this goal by offerl~gble When the USA . s POSSI . best service CI b program was Gymnastics ~e:;;:;i:tel~ joined to conformed, we 1m bers added benff our mem tinue to 0 er. nts on merchanefits such as dlsco~ . . 9 we were able dise. Shortly after !~~Ii~t~rnet to USA to link our web on then able to t ake We were t· Gymnas ICS. I'ne employf the free on I advantage 0 ery fortunate to d We were v ment a s. tential employee have received a ~o USA Gymnastics through t.his serv~f~icient way to keep also provides a~ b members through up with othe~ c u sletter. The highthe informative n~w. n with US A light of our assoclatlo f 1997 . in January 0 • Gymnasticsere wa~Invi't e d to participate In when we w f World ck Tour 0 the John Hanco . s when it ca m e t · Champion .

Gymnas ICS h Ie involvement In to Rochester. Our w 0 f the highlights the tour was truly one 0 of my life.

Cl'fford Sarah Jane' ..

L _____ . . .u with coach 1996 Olympian Mihal Bagl

Ed Burch.

Ed Burch, Gold Cup . . Albuquerque, Gymnastics In New Mexico

Center

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The Gymnastics of Rochester, Inc. e

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"A club without the membership program is like a gymnast without a proper spot-we all ed support every ne h.1 once in a w I e.

That's the reason · .ned for extra" I JOI, "support.

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, , Gymnastics "The Parkette Nat\ona ameaUSA Training Center b ec 'cs Member C'ub to take Gymnast I , t f \inking our WebsIte 0 advantage 0 , e think USA Gymnastics Onbne, W this is a fantastic resource f~r our d in thIs new , b keeping us a hea cu , f cs and techno'ogy, era of gym nas I t d sharing the 'ove of our spor an ommunl't'Ies" ' with the on Ine c "

Bill & Oonna Strauss 0' National GYmnast' 'r ,~e~tors of Parkette ICS raInIng Center

, Webmaster , Eric HarrIS, nastics Parkette Nationa' Gym Training Center , A"entown , Pennsy'vanla

"I'm so thrilled with the Member Club services USA Gymnastics is providing. This is exactly what this industry has needed for a long time. I belot;lg to the National Swim School Association and they have many benefits for their members as does the aerobic industry. I particularly like the newsletter (it's exactly what we need) and the fact we can get USA Gymnastics apparel for Blow-out Sale prices shipped right to our door... unbelievable!"

Patti Komara, The Tumblebear Gym Program, Dyer, Indiana

If you would like to join as a Member Club, contact Loree Galimore at USA Gymnastics, 1-800-345-4719 today!

Annual membership in the USA Gymnastics Member Club Program costs $100, and includes the following benefits: 1. Right to display marketing materials provided by USA Gymnastics (official logo, 3'X5' banner) 2. Rebate on USA Gymnastics General Members 3, Professional Development Program (PDP) materials ($70 value)

4. USA Gymnastics member service support.

Marketing materials, business education resources and the quarterly newsletter GNN (Gymnastics Network News).

5. Special Recognition and benefits on the Website.

Club listing and free link to your club's website.

Also, free advertising for employee openings.

6. Special Member Club discount. Discounts on products and services in the industry from various companies serving the gymnastics community. Qualify for special pricing and exclusive access to several items offered through USA Gymnastics.

7. 20% discount on the Wholesale Program with Snap Promotions.

Plus other unique benefits as opportunities arise such as being invited to participate in the John Hancock Tour of World Gymnastics Champions.

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NO~ "O(J CAN B~ ~ M~MBEROF USA GY~NASTICS! Now anyone who loves the sport of gymnastics... whether you are a former gymnast or official, taking gymnastics classes, have children or grandchildren involved in the sport, or just plain love to watch ... you can become a member of USA Gymnastics!

As a member of USA Gymnastics, you will receive:

•

>- Official USA Gymnastics Member Kit. Disp lay your

membersh ip w ith pride!

• • •• • Member kit includes a fanny pack, wrist bands, photo magnet, and decal.

>- USA Gymnastics Membership Card. This

card entitles you to a 10% discount off all gymnastics apparel sold through the USA Gymnastics merchandising department.

>- USA Gymnastics Magazine.

Enjoy a one-year subscription (6 issues) to the official

magazine of USA Gymnastics, featuring personality profiles of U.S. gymnasts, training tips, coverage of major competitions, information on gymnastics camps, the latest in merchandise and more! Plus you'll get Sideline Support, the USAGymnastics Parents News letter, which will include information and features geared specifically to parents of gymnasts ... preschool through elite ... on topics ranging from safety to nutrition to choosing the right club or coach.

r--------------------------~ o YES! Sign me up as a USA Gymnastics Member $20.00 o

If you are already a USA Gymnastics Team Member (registered athelete) but want a Member Kit, just check here and send $10 to order your kit.

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•• • • • • • USA • • • • • • • • • • • • GYMNASTICS MEMBER

••• • • • • • • •••••••••• • • y

Name Address City

USA GYMNASTICS

Male

Zip

o

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Club #

Club Name Member category (check all that apply) :

o Recreation al gymnast o Former Coach/official

o

0 Parent 0 Gymnastics fan

o Former gymnast o Other

My check is enclosed Charge my: 0 MasterCard 0 Visa 0 Discover 0 American Express

SIGN UP

NOW!···· .. ~

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Signature Make _ checks payable to_ USA Mail Gymnastics Member L _ __ __ _Gymnastics. ____ _to: _USA __ ____ _ _Services, ___ p.o._Box 5365, Indianapol is, IN 46255.

~

It's for Everyone!

Reminder to USA Gymnastics Member Clubs: You receive $ 1 rebate on every General Member you sign up.

Be sure to put your club name and number on the application, before you copy and hand out to your students.

WOMEN'S PROGRAM

Women's Collegiate Rule Modifications for 1997-98 Season Collegiate Competition w ill be conducted according to the FIG Code of Points/Optional Rule Modifications for the Women's Jr. Olympic Program as of November 1, 1997. (Note: JO skill values which are raised after November 1 will be in effect immediately.) All rules and guidelines for execution and compositional deductions as directed by the USAG-JO program (Level 10) will be utilized with the following additional modifications: Vault:

See Table.

Beam:

#8.305 SaIto backward stretched with step-out will be valued at a "D" #8.306 Gainer saIto backward stretched, also with leg change in flight will be valued at a "D" #8.405 SaIto backward stretched with legs together will be valued at an "E" Exception to Special Connection Rules: Any flic flac to any salto backward stretched in a 2 element series will not receive Special Connections Bonus Points. #2.307 Stag-ring leap or jump will be valued at a "D" #7.302 Free (aerial) walkover forward will be valued at a "D" #7.310 Flic flac with 1/4 twist (90) to side handstand will be valued at a "D"

Intermediate (Fall) Time will be 30 seconds.

Floor:

All 1 %Saltos to a prone landing will be valued at one level higher than landing on the feet.

Clarification: All variations of the Popa landing in a prone position will be valued at a "D." General:

Deduction for competing out-of-order will be .3 (Taken from team score).

Uniforms:

There will be no deduction for a matching sports bra that is exposed. Backless leotards are permissible.

Equipment:

1/2" Plywood may be used under the spring board for mounting bars and beam.

Broken/Torn Grip:

Gymnast may repeat her routine as the last team competitor. If this does not allow for a sufficient amount of time to change grips or enough time to prepare, the gymnast will repeat the routine as soon as it is safe to do so. However, the time should not exceed five minutes. (Note: common sense and safety must always prevail).

Scoring:

Open scoring is required. All judges scores will be flashed but only the average score will be raised and rotated. Start Values must also be flashed.

Collegiate Vault Table

(Effective August 1, 1997)

Group 1 Handsprings, Yamashitas & Cartwheels 1.101 1.102 1.104 1.105 1.106 1.202 1.205

Handspring Handspring 1/2 turn Yamashita Yamashita 1/2 turn '/2 on 1/2 off Handspring 1/1 Yamashita 1/1

8.6 8.7 8.7 8.8 8.9 9.3 9.4

1.206 1.207 Sl.210 1.302 1.306 1.307 1.402 1.406 Sl.410 1.502 1.503

1/2 on 1/1 1/1 on Handspring 1/1 on 1/2 Handspring 1 1/2 1/2 on 11/2 1/1 on 1/1 off (H/V) Handspring 2/1 1/2 on 2/1 1/2 on 11/2 Handspring 2'/2 Handspring 3/ 1

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9.3 9.6 9.6 9.5 9.5 9.7 9.9 9.9 9.9 10.0 10.0

\

Collegiate Vault Table

Group 2 Cuervos & Saltos Forward 2.301 2.302 2.303 2.402 2.403 2.404 2.405 2.406 2.501 2 .507 2.508 2.509 2.510 2.511 2.512 2.513 2.514 2.515

Handspring Front Tuck Handspring Front Tuck V2 Handspring 1/2 Back Tuck Handspring Front Tuck V, Handspring V2 off, back w /V2+ Handspring Front Pike Handspring Front Pike V2 Handspring V2 Back Pike Handspring Double Front Handspring Front Layout Handspring Front Layout 1/2 Handspring V2' Back Layout Handspring Front Layout V1 Handspring Front Layout 1'/2 Handspring Front Layout 2/, V1 on Front Tuck 1/, on Front Pike 1/1 on Front Layout

9.8 9.9 9.9 10.0 10.0 9.9 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0

Group 3 Tsukaharas* & 1/ 2 Turn Entry Phase 3.201 3.303 3.305 53.310 53.311 53.312 3.402 3.403 3.405 3.407 3 .408 3.501 3.504 3.505

Tsukahara-Tuck Tsukahara-Pike Tsukahara-Layout Tsukahara-Tuck V2 Tsukahara-Pike V2 Tsukahara-Layout V2 Tsukahara Tuck VI Tsukahara Tuck 1 V2 Tsukahara Layout V1 V2 on V2 off, Front Tuck V2 on V2 off, Front Pike Tsukahara Double Back Tuck Tsukahara Double Back Pike Tsukahara Back Layout 1V2

9.5 9.6 9.8 9.7 9.8 9.9 9.9 10.0 10.0 9.9 9.9 10.0 10.0 10.0

3.506 Tsukahara Back Layout 2/1 V2 on 1/2 off, Front Layout 3.508 *A Il Tsukahams may be pelfonned with 90 to 180 degree longitudinal axis turn in first flight phase

10.0 10.0

Group 4 Round-off Entry (Yurchenko) 4.201 54.210 54.211 4.302 4.303 4.304 4.306 4.307 4.315 54.320 54.321 54.322 4 .402 4.404 4.407 4.408 4.409 4.410 4 .411 4.415 54420 4.501 4.502 4.503 4.504 4.505 4.511 4.512 4.513 4.514 4.515 4.516

RO, FF Back Tuck RO, FF V2' VI Twist off RO, FF V2' 1V2 Twist off RO, FE Back Tuck V1 RO, FF Back Pike RO, FF Back Layout RO, FF V2 off, Front Tuck RO, FF 1/2 off, Front Pike RO, FF 1/1 Handspring VI RO, FF, Back Tuck V2 RO, FF, Back Pike 1/2 RO, FE Back Layout V2 RO, FF, Back Tuck 1V2 RO, FF, Back Layout VI RO, FE V2 off, Front Layout RO, FF V2' Front Tuck RO, FF V2' Front Tuck 1/2 RO, FF V2' V2 off, Back Tuck RO, FF V2' Front Pike RO, FF V1' Back Tuck RO, FF 1/2,2/1 Twist off RO, FF, Double Back Tuck RO, FE Back Tuck 2/1 RO, FF, Double Back Pike RO, FF, Back Layout 1V2 RO, FE Back Layout 2/1 RO, FF V2' Front Pike V2 RO, FF V2' 1/2 off, Back Pike RO, FF 1/2, Front Layou t RO, FF 1/2, Front Layout 1/2 RO, FF 1 /1, Back Pike RO, FF 1 / 1, Back Layout

9.5 9.3 9.5 9.8 9.6 9.8 9.8 9.9 9.8 9.6 9.7 9.8 10.0 9.9 10.0 9.9 10.0 10.0 10.0 9.9 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0

Call Tiffin for Summer Camp Specials on Landing Mats, Training Mats and Floor Ex Foam Email: tiffin@tiffinmats.com http://www.tiffinmats.com

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SAFETY AND EDUCATION

Safety Certification Required for State and Above Competitions

By Lual1 Peszek

As of August 1,1997, Safety Certification is required for all coaches and officials on the floor at state-level competitions or above in the men's, women's and rhythmic programs. Technique magazine spoke with Steve Whitlock, USA Gymnastics Director of Safety and Education, and Tina Sunier, Safety Services Coordinator, to answer some frequently asked questions.

Q: Can you explain this new requirement?

A: Several years ago, the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors voted to gradually implement safety certification as a requirement for professional members. We started by requiring coaches and officials participating in international competitions to be safety certified. Each year thereafter, the requirement has been broadened.

Next came a requirement for safety certification at national competitions and above, followed by regional competitions and above. Finally, this year begins state level competitions and above. For the 1998-99 season, safety certification will be a requirement for professional membership. Since you must be a professional member to be on the floor at all USA Gymnastics competitions, we will have finally reached our goal of having all professional members safety certified. The reason we've gone through this long process is to allow the membership time to get safety certified.

Q: Why is it important to have Professional Members safety certified?

A: The primary goal of the safety program is to reduce the number and severity of injuries in the sport of gymnastics. The Safety Certification program contributes to this goal in several ways. First, the program raises the level of awareness for safety on the part of participants, coaches, officials and administrators. It creates standards for the safe conduct of gymnastics activities. Second, The USA Gymnastics Handbook has become a standard of care recognized both nationally and internationally and used as a standard for safety in gymnastics. Last, safety certification is an important part of the coaches professional credentials, it is not only recognized in the gymnastics

community, but it is also expected. Many gymnastics clubs display their coaches safety certificates in their lobby to draw attention to the professionalism of their staff.

Q: Where can I get safety certified?

A: There is a list of courses printed on the back cover of each issue of Technique magazine and posted on USA Gymnastics Online http://www • usa - gymnast ics • argo Once you find the course you're interested in attending, complete the registration form and mail or fax to the address or number listed on the form.

Q: I've looked on the back of Technique magazine and there are no courses in my area. What should I do?

A: Contact Tina Sunier at USA Gymnastics (317-237-5050, ext. 238) for the most up-to-date list of courses or contact a certifier in your area.

Q: How much is a Safety Certification course?

A: Professional Members with current Safety Certification may recertify at no charge. Professional Members with expired Safety Certification or who need a new Safety Certification may take the course for $50. Instructor Members may also take the course for $50. Non-Members or General Members may take the course for $100.

Q: How far in advance should I register, or can I register on site?

A: It is important that you pre-register at least 10 days in advance to ensure that the certifier has enough course materials. At each course, attendees are provided with their personal copy of The USA Gymnastics Safety Handbook and a course workbook as part of their registration fee. We strongly discourage on-site registration.

Q: Once I find a course and sign up, what can I expect?

A: The course is approximately four hours, utilizing a lecture/ discussion format. The course covers philosophy of safety certification, environmental factors affecting safe

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SAFETY AND EDUCATION

participation, performer readiness, program factors such as rules and curriculum that affect safety, and other areas such as medical, nutritional and psychological factors. The course not only focuses on artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, but also addresses safety regarding many other types of sport activity that are now provided in gymnastics facilities. For example, preschool, trampoline, martial arts, cheerleading, dance and so forth. At the completion of the course, a 50-question, multiple choice, open book test is given. All participants must complete the test, even if recertifying. You must score an 84 percent on the test in order to pass and gain your safety certification, which is good for four years.

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Q: Do I need to study prior to the course or read any materials?

A: No, since you will receive your copy of The USA Gymnastics Safeh) Handbook on site. But don't worry, the exam is an open book test and your instructor will provide you with additional information during the lecture.

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Q: How far in advance can I recertify? There's a course in my town being offered now, but m y safety certification does not expire for another year.

A: You must be within eight months of your safety expiration date in order to recertify.

Q: I have a 16-year-old coach who I would like to have participate in the safety course. Can she become Safety Certified?

See for yourself

A: No, coaches must be 18 years or older to be safety cer-

Woodward Gymnastics Camp University of Nebraska Vitaly Scherbo's Gymnastics School International Gymnastics Camp University of Oklahoma North Carolina State University Illinois Gymnastics Institute Chris Waller's Summer Gymn'astics Jam Byers' Gymnastics Center Gold Cup Gymnastics School Milwaukee Gymnastics Center Twin City Twisters Illinois High School Association Porter Gymnastics Camp Freemont YMCA University of Maryland Texas Tumblers Gymnastics Kentucky Power Tumbling Emerald City Gymnastics Wood land Gymnastics American Academy of Gymnastics

tified. However, for a $25 fee, she may audit the course and receive an audit certificate.

Q: If I'm a professional member with current Safety Certification taking the course at no charge, do I need to pre-register?

A: Yes. This is necessary in order for the certifier to have an adequate number of materials. Also, be sure to include your professional number and current Safety Certfication expiration date on the form.

Q: Do you have to be safety certified at a Level 4 State Meet?

A: Yes, if the meet is a sanctioned competition at the state

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WOMEN'S PROGRAM

*5.505

Jaeger saito piked

51.312

5TALDER CIRCLE5 56.304 Clear straddle circle forward on HB, front salta to catch HB 56.401 Stalder circle forward with regular (over) grip (Boniforti)

C D

CIRCLE SWINGS/HECHTS *7.207 Front seat circle with straddle cut to hang on same bar 57.404 Underswing (backward sole circle to a reverse hecht)

B D

DISMOUNTS 58.111 Counterswing to saito forward tucked, piked or stretched; also with 1/1 turn 58.201 From front support on HB, underswing with 11/1 or 1/1 twist 58.208 From handstand, circleswing down forward in reverse grip or clear straddle circle forward between the bars to saito forward tucked, piked, or stretched with 1/1 twist *8.209 Clear hip hecht 58.210 From a cast, uprise or backswing to straddle cut, saito backward tucked, piked or stretched (Whipsalto-Tanac) on LB or HB 58.211 Counterswing to saito forward tucked with 1/1 or 11/1twist *8.301 Underswing front saito tucked or piked *8.302 Underswing 1/1 turn to saito backward tucked or piked (Comaneci) *8.305 Flyaway with double saito backward tucked 58.308 From a handstand on HB clear straddle circle forward to saito forward tucked with 11/1 twist 58.310 From a cast, uprise or backswing, straddle cut to saito backward tucked or stretched with 1/1 or 11/1twist (LB or HB) 58.405 Flyaway, double salta backward in layout/pike or pikellayout 58.408 From handstand on HB, swing down forward between the bars with reverse grip to a saito forward stretched with 1/1 or 21/1 twist 58.410 From a cast, uprise or backswing to straddle cut, saito backward tucked or stretched with 1/1 twist 58.414 Giant circle backward (facing LB) to saito backward tucked over HB with 1/1 twist (Harriman) *8.505 Flyaway, double saito backward stretched *8.506 Flyaway, double saito backward tucked with 1/1 twist on 1st or 2nd saito *8.508 From handstand on HB, swing down forward to double saito forward tucked

A

B B

D

D D D

51.1 07 51.109 51.201 51 .208 51.216 51.301 51.301 51.306

Free jump to straddle stand (90 0 approach) Split leap forward with leg change to straddle split sit sideways with support on one hand Straddle cut forward to rear support Chest or head stand Straddle jump onto end of beam (150 0 leg separation) Free forward roll at end of beam Round-off onto end of beam with hecht phase before hand support Free split leap forward with leg change onto end of beam Straddle jump onto end of beam (180 0 leg separation) Free jump to cross split sit with 1/1 turn

(

LEAPS/JUMPS 52.104 5tag路split leap forward with leg change (180 0 leg separation on 2nd split) 52.108 5traight jump with change of legs (front, bock, front) Cabriole (front or back) 52.11 0 Tour Jete with 90 0 leg separation 52.203 Split leap forward with 1800 leg separation, switch legs to 52.211 tuck position with one leg extended horizontally *2.302 Side split jump in cross position-Clarification: the Henrich jump-may be performed with the back leg bent or straight) Side split jump (180 0 leg separation) with 3/4 turn, landing 52.302 in front support or cross straddle sit (Companionil *2.306 Straddle pike jump in cross position Tuck jump (hop) with one leg extended horizontally 52.311 forward with 3/ 4 turn (take-off from one leg) 52.401 Cross split jump with 1/1 turn *2.402 Side split jump with 1/1turn in cross position 52.402 Side split jump with %(cross or side) *2.406 Straddle pike jump with 1/1turn in cross position Straddle pike jump with 3/ 4 turn (cross or side) 52.406 52.410 Cat leap with 11/1 turn Tuck jump (hop) with one leg extended horizontally 52.411 forward with 3/ 4 turn (take-off from both legs) 52.502 5ide split jump with 1/1turn Tour Jete with an additional 1/1 turn or more to land on two feet 52.503 52.506 Straddle pike jump with 1/1 turn TURNS *3.304 *3.504

A A A A B B B C C C

A A A B

D D D D D D D

1/1Illusion 1/1Illusion

HANDSTANDS 55.208 Cross handstand with 1/1turn on one arm to tuck sit (Healy twirl) Rolls 56.102 56.202

BALANCE BEAM MOUNT5 51.105 51.1 06

51.518 51.520

Jump, press or swing to cross or side handstand with 1/1 turn in handstand Saito forward tucked with 1/1 turn to stand Round路off onto board路 Arabian saito to stand

56.204 56.304

Shoulder roll forward with hand support Shoulder roll forward with hand support and extension of body through vertical to arrive in a tuck stand or stand (Garrison roll with hand support) From a tuck stand, free backward roll to feet Free backward shoulder roll (backward Garrison roll) (Kreifels)

WALKOVER5 57.101 Front walkover to bridge, 1/1turn on one foot (one hand support) to sit 57.104 Back walkover to bridge, 1/1 turn on one foot (one hand support) to sit 57.106 Valdez with 1/1 turn in handstand 57.3.3 Free/Aerial Round-off (baranil to straddle sit (Companionil Free (aerial) cartwheel in side position 57.403

TECHNIQUE, VOLUME 17, # 9

A

B C

A A A

C D

} .................................... 庐

RHYTHMIC PROGRAM

1997 JR. OLYMPIC ELEMENT SUPPLEMENT con tin ued *7.502 Saltos S8.404 58.504 58.506

Jump with 1/1 turn to front walkover (Onodi with no flight off hands) Saito backward tucked in side position Arabian saito (take路off backward with 1/1 turn to saito forward) Gainer saito backward with 1/1 twist

D

Rhythmic Gymnastics FIG Technical Committee Minutes April 13-16, 1997 Berlin, Germany

flOOR EXERCISE

I. Roll Call

LEAPS/ JUMPS (Iarification: All leaps and turning jumps finishing in a split sit will be valued the some as the some element landing in a stand.

Any leap with 1800 leg separation and a 1/1 (360 0 turn will be awarded (value part credil.)

51.414 *1.416

Split leap landing on one foot to on immediate forward roll Side split jump (#1.102 in (ode is in error..should soy "jump" not leap) Straddle pike jump Tour Jete with on additional 1/1 turn to land on one leg (at leap with 1/1 turn Switch side leap with 1/1 turn (in horizontal plane) to land in prone (Kosowski) Split leap forward with leg change and 1/4 turn to side split jump and land in front lying support position Pike jump with 1/1 turn (legs at horizontal) Tour Jete with on additional 1/4 turn to side split leap (total of 270 0 turn) Stretched jump with 21/1turn (at leap with 11/1 turn Switch路side leap with additional 3/4turn (Switch leg leap with 1/1 turn) (8arger) Stretched jump with 3/1turn (at leap with 1/1 turn

D D D

ROLLS 53.101

Handstand forward roll

A

51.101 *1.202 *1.209 51.211 *1.216 51.307 51.307 51.308 51.311 51.314 *1.316 51.407

A

B B B B (

( ( (

HANDSTANDS Clarification: All handstands (optional entry) with 11/1 turn or more are valued at B WALKOVERS *5.202 Flyspring SALTOS *6.201 56.205 *6.301 *6.401 *6.401 *6.407 *6.501 *6.508

Front saito piked, also with 1/1 turn Saito backward stretched with 1/1 twist Front saito stretched, also with 1/1 twist Front saito stretched with 1/1 twist Front saito tucked or stretched with 11/1 twist Double saito backward tucked Front saito stretched with 1/1 twist Double saito backward tucked or piked with 1/1twist

庐 ..................................... <'-___

(

D D D E

President Ms. Egle Abruzzini Maria Szyszkowska Andrea Schmid Yoshi ko Kamo Irina Viner.

Ms. Elisabeth Laffrnnchi and Manuela Fernandez Del Pozo regret they were unable to attend due to health reasons.

II. Approval of the minutes from the meeting in Rome, Jan. 30路Feb. 2, 1997 The minutes are approved unanimously.

III. Information from the President a) Code of Points-organization of judges tasks There are differences between the systems adop ted by artistic gymnastics and those of the RSG. The EC has decided to synchroruze the systems. RSG w ill maintain its present system. b) Basic Value The EC h as decided that the basic value will no longer be applicable during FIG championships. This applies to all disciplines. c) Longines and the American Joe system for the controlling of judges The Longines and Joe systems will be integrated during championships for the controlling of judges work.

A meeting with the 3 Technical presidents together with Longines and Joe experts IS foreseen. Work should be completed for the World Cliampionships in Lausanne. Furthermore, after each championships there will be a video control, executed by the TC or by expert judges. d) The Olympic Games in Sydney, 2000 The lac did not offer the possibilit)' of raising the number of total gymnas ts. The EC agrees w ith the TC/RSG to increase the number of groups (10 instead of 8) ana, consequently, to diminish the number of indiviaual gymnasts. e) Groups World Championships, 1998 The Championships w ill take place in Seville, Spain, May 8-10, 1998. f) Grand Prix 1998, Artistic Gymnastics A Grand Prix in Artistic Gymnastics w ill be held in Spain to celebrate the Spanish Federation's Centenary. g) RSG Clubs Championships President Bruno Grandi has assigned Ms. Abruzzini the task of participating in the next Clubs Competition, which will take place in J apan in September, as well as prepanng a project for the orgaruzation 0 a Clubs World Championships as soon as possible. At the time of her journey to Japan, Ms. Abruzzini will organize a meeting wi th the OC of the World Cf1ampionships 1999 in Osaka. h) Diploma of Honor for judges The EC has decided to attribute Diplomas of Honor to judges w ith lengthy careers, as well as to the best judges of each cycle. Criteria and lists w iIl be presented to the EC at the next meeting.

I) Europe-Asia Competition The EC has authorized the European Union to organize a competition between the European Unions ana Asia. j) Master in Paris A competi tion following the format of a new program will be held in Paris, April 26-27. k) Circular regarding March 10, 1997 In response to numerous questions directed to Ms. Abruzzini, a circular will

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be sent out to the TC women and, simultaneously, to all Federations.

I) Preparation of the Code 1997 in CD No videos have been sent by Mr. James A. Major. A Fax from the secretarygeneral aIU10unced that a second offer w ill be made in regards to this subJect. The TC does not agree, as time is passing and if we continue to wait it will be too late. Ms. A15ruzzini will inquire of the EC at the nex t meeting.

IV. Visits to the competition/training halls in Berlin-meeting with the OC. Prior to their visit of the compe tition and training halls, Mr. Zacharias relates general information to the TC. The TC visits the halls and discusses various difficulties posed by one of the halls in which a large part of Competition I w ill take place. The TC notes that the hall is 8 meters high, which may cause a problem for tlu·ows.

Since there are no other possibilities and since the hall conforms to the regulations, the FIG w ill Inform participating Federations that the hall m which Competition I is to take place, involvmg rope, hoop and clubs exercises, maintains a height of 8 meters.

Members of the TC had an opportunity to meet with OC members. A list of those responsible for various sectors has been distributed.

V. Preparation for the Championship in Berlin a) The drawing of lots The drawing of lots will take place in Berlin on July 30th, in Mercedes Hall. b) Registrations To date, 20 provisional registration forms have been received. c) Judges course The Judges course video has been prepared by Irina Viner and copies distributed to TC members in order that they might form a detailed analysis of the TV, AV and execution. The first analysis of rope and hoop exercises has been completed. d) Superior Juries In each of the 4 halls in which Competition I will take place, a superior jury composed of 3 members will be established (one or two TC members and one or two expert judges). A control value will be attributed to each mark given by the respective jury.

6. Results of the Continental judges course The follow ing course took place during the period of the end of January to mid-April: BUL, EST, MAS, CUB, HUN, JPN, CAN, BRA, GER. Ms. Abruzzini noticed mistakes in the awarding of brevets. Corrections have been given to the FIG, and all concerned Federations will be notified accordingly. Ms. Abruzzini stresses the importance of verifying judges registration forms for the course, which must be completed by the FederatIOn.

VI. Preparation for the 4 Continents Championships in Sydney a) Registration 21 provisional and 18 definitive registration forms have been received.

CUB, EGY, MEX, NAM and UZB have not yet turned in their definitive forms .

In total, there will be 59 individual senior gymnasts of which 16 countries are represented by teams and only two -by individuals; plus 7 senior groups, 36 individual junior gymnasts and 9 junior groups. b) The drawing of lots Drawing of lots will be carried out in Berlin, in the presence of the entry TC. c) Judges course Videos w ill be the same as those utilized at the World Championships in Berlin. Ms. Kamo will prepare as much as possible for the indivIdual junior exercises, as well as for the senior and junior team exercises. d) Meeting of the 4 Continents With the approval of Ms. Abruzzini, Ms. Sclunid wishes to mention the Clubs and Grand Prix Championships for countries included in the 4 Continents. The duration of tfie Championships should be reconsidered and possibly lengthened due to the increasing number of participating countries as well as of gymnasts and groups. e) Meeting of Delegation Chiefs The meeting should be held in the evening instead of in the morning. A review of the work schedule has been comp1eted by Mr. Zacharias andMs. Schmid. f) Superior Jury The superior jury and its controlling function w ill be organized in the same maIU1er as at the World Championships.

VII. Review of the 1st International Competitions a) Maria Szyszkowska GER-Schmiden: March 7-8 POL-Szozecin: April 5-6

Remarks: 1. More interesting routines.

2. A balance has not yet been well established, but the judges tend to evaluate equally.

3. The teclmical value judgement takes too long.

4. The junior gymnasts program must be modified.

5. At the first disagreement, she spoke wIth the Judges and forth with the judgem ent was excellent. b) Irina Viner UKR-Kiev: March 15-16 GRE-Kalamata: March 8-9 RUS-Moscow: April 4-5 Remarks: 1. Judges are not free to judge peacefully.

2. As usual, they made certain agreements in regards to the evaluation of the AV. 3. Results of this tournament are not very credible because of these agreements.

4. She thillks that the FIG should do something to better control the situation. c) Yoshiko Kamo She did not directly participate in any tournaments, but she did receive the judges' remarks.

Remarks: 1. In general, handling skills of the apparatus has been improved.

2. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between Band C difficulties, the balance of particular cases. d) Andrea Schmid USA-Fort Worth: March 2 Remarks: 1. Eight Federations participated in this tournament.

2. The 3 disciplines were included (Men's, Women's and RSG) .

According to the Secretariat, in addition to the above-mentioned tournaments, 12 other tournaments took place: USA-Ana..helln, DEN-Taastrup, POR-Funchal, FRA-Calais, FRA-Thiais, GER-Hannover, CUB-La Habana, SUI-Bern, RSA-Stellenbosch, YUG-Belgrad, POR-Portimao.

To date, the FIG has only received tournament documentation from POR-Funchal.

Ms. Abruzzini asks for input as to what could be done to make tournament results more credible. She w ill discuss the problem with Ms. Muller (UEG), for that w hich concerns tournaments in Europe, as well as with the EC and the Competitions Commission in search of a solutIon. Moreover, she invited the TC women to participate in all competitions to which they are invited, as member of the superior jury, in order to obtain direct information from the tournaments.

VIII. Brevets No 9th cycle brevets may be attributed, as tournament documentation has not yet arrived.

XI. Upcoming Continental Courses The following courses have already received dates and persons responsible: GBR April 25-May 1 Ms. Szyszkowska and Ms. Duncan VEN April 28-May 3 Ms. La..ffranchi COL June 25-30 Ms. La..ffranchi CHN July 14-18 Ms. Kamo and the CHN judge w ith 3rd degree brevet CYP Ms. Chichkova and Ms. Pantazudou July 2-8 ISR Ms. Sclunid and Ms. Viner July 10-14 Ms. Schmid and Ms. Chichkova Aug. 8-13 USA Ms. Kamo and Ms. Schmid THA Dec. 12-16 The course in RUS has been canceled. The UKR Federation has not yet contracted Ms. Viner (responsible). For the EGY and TUR courses, Ms. Sap and Ms. Duncan have been designated. a) Universiades-Sicily (ITA) Universiades will take place in Sicily during the period of August 19-31 .

RSG w ill be held in Catane. In the program: 2 gymnasts per country; the 4 apparatus from the World Championships program. b) Apparatus control Ms. Kamo notes that often problems have arisen regarding the apparatus control devises. Ms. Abruzzini finds that, as anticipatecf; FIG approval should be required for apparatus.

Rhythmic Sports Gymnastics Tee/micnl Committee Egle Abruzzini, Chairman Andrea Schmid, Secretary

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ALL NEW COMPULSORY MATERIALS!

themselves components as fundamental to our sport as difficulties, one must always remain concentrated on the unity of the exercise and of its interpretation. These are two completely different ways to consider the performance of an individual gymnast or group .

So that the judging itself may be as correct as possible and that we may simultaneously simplify the judges' task, the new Code has modified the two following duties: the evaluation of Technical Value and of Artistic Value.

Judges for Teclmical Value evaluate analytically the difficulty content of the exercise and add alternately the value of difficulties achieved by the gymnast, to a maximum of 5 points (4 points for group exercises) .

On the other hand, Judges for Artistic Value divulge the value of the exercise only after completion of the exercise. Therefore, it is exclusively at the end, with out forgetting the gymnast's performance in its entirety, that they may draw up the necessary assessments to establish eventual penalties to be deducted from the Start Value or any Bonus Points that may be added to this mark (4.70 + 0.30 for individual exercises and 5.50 + 0.50 for group exercises) .

The success of a code, be it the most perfect, always depends upon two factors: its respect and its application.

As for respect for the standards, the TC/RSG desires intense collaboration on the part of the coaches. They must understand the objectives of the standards in order that they respect not only the layout, but also the spirit (without contention or equivocations). In short, it is our coaches who are able to effectuate this technical and aesthetic quality which is fundamental in the enhancement of the RSG as well as in the guaranteeing of its success: a success of both general and public interest, as well as economic.

As for the application of the Code, the collaboration of the judges must be requested: with the new standards, there will be lighter tasks which will considerably reduce the possibilities of errors.

Judges must be aware that the nature and evolution of the sport, as well as of its success, depend largely on their behavior. To penalize or to refrain from penalizing certain defects, or to develop or refrain from developing positive aspects, directly influences the evolution of the sport.

By failing to correctly apply the Code and its standards, all credibility is stripped from the results and, consequently, from the sport itself.

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1995 Pan Americ::an

Garnes Straight from Mar Del Plata, Argentina: Men's Preliminaries and finals. See the U.S. men's team triumph! Camcorder footage taken from the stands. #2247 .. .... . . ....... $19.95

PLEASE NOTE: "All USA Gymnastics videos are designed to be used for educational purposes by gym nastics coaches and judges. All videos are produced with commercial equipment by amateur videographers unless otherwise stated. Our Olympic technical videos are presented from one camera angle and show the entire exercise without cues, close-ups or other effects and enhancements. Except for women's floor exercise, the videos do not have sound. The Atlanta technical videos are ava ilable for purchase to USA Gymnastics members only.

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World Championships Breaks Records

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97

~'V\~ L A USA NNE ~o WORLD GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sixty-six National Federations have confirmed their participation in the 33rd World Gymnastics Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland. This includes 38 men's teams and 26 women's teams or 319 male and 234 female gymnasts. This record number delights FIG authorities, and challenges the Swiss organizers!

Another record has been set in ticket sales. Two months prior to the opening ceremony, 80% of all tickets have been sold. The finals are already sold out. Fifty-two broadcasters have announced their participation to televise the event around the world. ABC Sports will televise the event in the U.S. An interesting note, three national Federations sent in their registrations to compete after the deadline and after the drawing of lots for teams and individuals and were denied participation. FIG authorities regret that this sanction effects the participation of gymnasts and, in particular, the current European Champion on high bar, Krasimir Dounev.

The opening ceremony of the International Olympic Committee session will be held on the site of the gymnastics World Championships, Sept. 2. In addition, on Sept. 5, the IOC will designate the host city for the Olympic Games 2004.

Manage~rl~·a~I~~ '.

Ip S- don task: managers ~Tr I

Suc~essful

"Did my staff do what it was supposed to today?" Instead, they ask, "Did I do what I was supposed to today to make sure my staff did what it was supposed to?"

Jack Gillespie

usac UNVEILS WEBSITE www.olympic-usa.org The United States Olympic Committee have unveiled their official website. Athletes, coaches and spectators are invited from across the country and around the world to visit the official online home of the USOC, the single organization dedicated to sustaining the Olympic Movement in the u.s. and promoting the success of America's teams and athletes in Olympic competition. www • 0 1 Ympic - usa·

r 9 will feature information about the different sports involved in the Olympic and Paralympic movements; the athletes of the games-past, present, and future; and the structure of the USOc. Visitors will also find the latest Olympic news; an online store offering official Olympic souvenirs; and much more.

0

RHYTHMIC ANNOUNCEMENT Newly Elected Rhythmic Regional Chairmen Region 1: Lydia Bree Region 3: Mary Panachia Lynne Miller Region 5: CONGRATULATIONS!

New Federations The Federation of Sao Tome and Principe (STP) has been admitted by the FIG, bringing the total number of affiliated federations to 124. (Africa-off the coast of Gabon.)

Doping Doping control completed at the RSG 4 Continents Championships in Sydney and the World Championships in Sports Aerobics in Perth all came up negative.

Tragedy Some top Brazilian gymnasts were involved in a horrible collision which caused 6 deaths and 15 injured people. Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the injured, particularly to Ursula Flores, Beatrice Martin Tonotti and their coach Georgette Vidor, all who were seriously hurt.

~ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• (:"------------~T~E~CH~N~/~Q~U~E--,~V~O~L~U~NI~E~1~7--,#~9~--------~)

* Tell Us What You Like! * Technique is a technical publication targeted to professional members in the sport of gymnastics. Through this publication, our goal is to update professional members about USA Gymnastics policies, program decisions and changes, upcoming educational opportunities, scientific research and studies, motivational techniques, technical breakdowns of skills, and much more.

USA Gymnastics would like to know what you, as professional members in the sport of gymnastics, want in this publication.

For your efforts in filling out this reader survey, we will randomly select one completed survey and that person will receive a $100 gift certificate from the USA Gymnastics Merchandise Department, good for a one-year time period.

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Rate Technique as an important source of information for the following: 1=Ieast important 2=somewhat important 3=important 4=most important Athlete training _ Selection procedures _ Program updates _ Athlete Well ness

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If you would like to be entered for the $100 USA Gymnastics Merchandise gift certificate giveaway, then please fill out the information requested below.

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Thanks for your help!

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POSITION AVAILABLE FULL/PART TIME POSITIONS, Bouncin' Bears Gymnastics, Streamwood, IL-is seeking a Program Director for our Preschool/Elementary aged programs. This person needs the knowledge and pride to build a successful program. Duties include instructing/teaching, curriculum development, client management, and some business development. This position pays what you want to earn. This position is ideal for an individual that can work independently. Send Resume FAX 630-575-0220 or snail mail to 2053 Essex Court, Streamwood, IL601 07 -291 Attn.: Shelley Harrison.

DIRECTOR/COACHING POSITIONS. Established but growing club in Phoenix area is looking for experienced teachers/coaches interested in becoming part of our positive, fun, energetic and goal oriented program. Must have a genuine love of children and teaching!

11,000 sq. ft. fully equipped facility. Administrative and teaching, full and part time positions available. Preschool, Recreational and Team opportunities available with growth potential. Agreat atmosphere and working environment. Area has much to offer-Lakes, Mtns., Pro Sports, Concerts ... Send resume with cover letter to: Aerials Gymnastics, 7724 N. 67th Ave., Ste. 10, Glendale, AZ 85301 . 602934-2007, attn: Bruce Seid.

HEAD WOMEN'S TEAM COACH NEEDED IN PACIFIC NORTHWEST. lilac City Gymnastics, Spokane, WA is in need of a Head Women's Team Coach for Levels 5 through 9. Strong technical skills and ability to choreograph floor and beam required. Sincere and demonstrated love for working with children absolutely necessary. lilac City Gymnastics is a well managed, financially sound organization with 2 facilities in Spokane, a very scenic, recreation-oriented part of the Pacific Northwest. Salary DOE. Please call/fax Fred Smith, Owner, 509-927-7574. E-mail TUMBLEUSA@wasuper1.net NEW YORK CITY-We are seeking experienced gymnastics instructors who LOVE kids to teach children ages 6 months-12 years.

Positions available for "mommy and me," pre-school, recreational, and Level I-V in a non-competitive atmosphere. Full and part time

positions available for enthusiastic, energetic, experienced, responsible and caring instructors. Please send resume to: Jodi's Gym, 244 E. 84th St., N.Y., NY 10028 or fax to 212-772-9558.

THE CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT is once again expanding its Gymnastics Program and is actively seeking GYMNASTICS COACHES for centers throughout the city of Chicago. Generally, coaches will instruct boys and girls from beginner to elite level. The starting salary is $30,224 per year. The benefits include pension, major medical, hospitalization, dental, 12 paid holidays, 12 paid vacation days and 4 paid personal days. The Chicago Park District is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Persons interested should contact J. White at (312)747-2024 or write Ms. White at 425 East McFerridge Drive, 3 West, Chicago, Illinois 60605.

GYMNASTIC ACADEMY OF BOSTON. Positions for full and part time experienced coaches for recreational and strong team programs.

Also Directors position available. Great facilities, pay and benefits. Send resume to: Nancy Ferraro, 5 Hawktree Drive, Westwood, Ma. 02090 or call (617)326-2287.

GYMNASTICS DIRECTOR needed for a YMCA program. Current enrollment of 260 children from preschool through Level 9 competitive team. Enthusiastic individual will join management team of a YMCA experiencing 15% growth annually. Great community located in between Nashville and Knoxville. Salary $21 ,500-$23,500. Send resumes with references to Tom Blackman, Executive Director, Putnam County Family YMCA, 235 Cavalier Drive, Cookeville, TN 38501.

TEAM COACHING POSITION AVAILABLE. We are located in Fairfax, Virginia, 20 minutes west of Washington, D.C. Coach must have experience with women's elite level gymnastics and enjoy working with lower levels as well. Also looking for QUALIFIED ClASS COACHES. We have a comprehensive gymnastics program which needs an enthusiastic coach who can work well with boys and girls. Please send your resume to Fairfax Gymnastics Academy, 3729 Pickett Road, Fairfax, VA 22031, ATTN Roger Nelson. (703)323-8050 or fax at (703)323-8050.

continued

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FOR SALE GYM SOFTWARE. ClassManager Software. For Windows 95 and Macintosh. Mac or Windows graphical interface with mouse control and on-line help, NOT a DOS program. System records all vital family information, class registration, schedules, team placement, instructor data, and schedules, class assignments, birthday parties, etc.

Maintains all tuition accounts, prints invoices and receipts, and a complete history of all payments and classes taken. Can include a built-in word processor for sending out customized letters for membership campaigns. Call for pricing: Atlantic Associates, 410 Boston Post Road, Suite 3, Sudbury, MA 01776; (508)443-0560 (voice) or (508)4437351 (fax).

SOFTWARE FOR DUMMIES! SCORE MASTER, the most widely used system in the U.S., scores the largest meet in the U.S., The Gasparilla, with over 2500 competitors. This score keeping system is very easy-to-use and has an on-line tutorial. Supports: mens/womens, individual/team, artistic/rhythmic, comp/optional competitions. It can graph scores over an entire season. Comes with a step-by-step user guide and a 90 day unconditional money back guarantee. For more info contact: Mark Mahoney, P.O. Box 31421, Charlotte, NC, 28231-1421, (704)333-7005 or web site: www.score-master.com (software demo, info guide and user listing on web site).

MATS (UCS) used in good to excellent condition. Large supply of 6 x 16, 6 x 14, and other sizes, inclines, crash pads, domes, rainbow mats, snap walls and other gym and play equipment from toddler programs. Excellent prices-must sell. FOB Port Washington, NY, Atlantic City, N.J. or Albany, NY. Call Mike 1-800-811-7529.

To ploce 0 clossified ad: 575 every 90 words. Deadline is the 10th of each month for the next published issue. Send payment to: USA Gymnastics, Classilieds Ads, PanAmerican PlaIa, Suite 300, 201 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225. Ads submitted without payment WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. USA Gymnastics reserves the right to vary format.

Technique is received by m ore than 12,000 USA Gymnas tics professional members, advertise your open position here for great results! Call Lu an Peszek at 317-237-5050, ext. 246.

* *

This is a must-have book featur.ing all of the new rules for the -Level 5-8 and Group JO Program. #1303 $10.00

• •

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SIGN UP AS r\

• •

•

\JS~ GYMNASTI~S · • · GENERAL ~EMBfJl· · • · • ~OD~Y!· . --\. • 4

: r.·"·IlidA:~ : · r· GYMNASTICS

· . It's for Everyone! • ~ Now anyone who loves the sport of gymnastics...

whether you are a former gymnast or oHicial, taking gymnastics classes, have children or grandchildren involved in the sport, or iust plain love to watch.•• you can become a member of USA Gymnastics!

For your $20 membership fee, you'll receive the following benefits:

'Official Member Kit • USA Gymnastics magazine .Apparel discounts ' Membership Card ' Decal ~UP~LI"£

www.usa-gymnastics.org OR CALL '·800·345·4719

® ..................................... <'-___ ....T...E_CH...N...';...;Q;...;U..;,E.:.,'....V..;,O...L...U_M...E....;1..;.7.:,.,#;..,9_____

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)

Event Schedule [NOTE: Dates and events subiect to chonge or cancellation]

DATE II OF DAYS

DISCIPLINE

EVENT

SITE

CONTACT

PHONEII

SEPTEMBER 1997 5 5 5

11 25

3 3 3 8 8

W MW MW MW MW

Region VII Congress GAT Convention Region I Congress - (Nor-Cal) International Jr. Gymnastics Competition Junior Pacific Alliance Championships

E. Stroudsburg, PA Austin, TX Santa Clara, CA Yokahama, JPN Colo. Spgs., CO

Steve Kass Cheryl Jarrett Chere Crowhurst Gary Alexander Gary Alexander

512-251-2439 408-238-7245 317-237-5050 317-237-5050

OCTOBER 1997

17

4 2 1 2 2 3

W W M R W W

Region V Congress National TOP Testing West USA vs. Germany Jr. Dual Meet J.O. Group Championships National TOP Testing East Region VIII Congress

Cincinnati, OH Reno, NV Colo. Spgs., CO Atlanta, GA Rochester, NY St. Petersburg, FL

Jeff Metzger Gary Warren Ron Galimore Nora Campbell Gary Warren Debby Kornegay

513-489-7575 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 205-951-0184 or

18 20

1 2

M

Various Sites Berlin, GER

Dennis Mcintyre Gary Alexander

317-237-5050 317-237-5050

22 24 25

5 3 2

R W

Berlin, GER Boxboro, MA Berlin, GER

Nora Campbell Kathy Feldmann Gary Alexander

317-237-5050 617-784-5830 317-237-5050

27 28 31

6 2 3

MW MWR

Regional Future Stars FIG Symposium-Development of Jr. Talent for Artistic & Rhythmic Gymnastics Rhythmic World Championships Region VI Congress FIG Symosium-Structure & Schedule of FIG Competitions PAGU Junior InterClub FIG Executive Committe Meeting USOC Board of Directors Meeting and Olympic Congress

Houston, TX Berlin, GER Orlando, FL

Gary Alexander Gary Alexander USOC

317-237-5050 317-237-5050 719-632-5551

National Gymnastics Foundation Board Meeting National Future Stars Championships USA Gymnastics Executive Committee Meeting USA Gymnastics Board of Directors Meeting

Indianapolis, IN Colo. Spgs., CO Indianapolis, IN Indianapolis, IN

Michelle Sherbun Dennis Mcintyre Julie Bejin Julie Bejin

317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050

National TOP Training Camp

Tulsa, OK

Gary Warren

317-237-5050

Reese's Gymnastics Cup

TBD

Jeff Olsen

317-237-5050

USA Gymnastics Winter Cup Challenge Rhythmic Challenge

TBD Colo. Spgs., CO

Ron Galimore Nora Campbell

317-237-5050 317-237-5050

FIG Technical Symposium VISA American Cup International 3 on 3 Gymnastics Championships American Challenge American Classic International Team Championships (Jr.jSr.) Level 10 State Meets

Venice, ITA Ft. Worth, TX Ft. Worth, TX TBD TBD TBD Various Sites

Gary Alexander Jeff Olsen Jeff Olsen Gary Warren Gary Warren Gary Alexander Connie Maloney

317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050 317-237-5050

USOC Executive Committee and Board of Directars Meeting NCAA Regionals NCAA National Championships Level 10 Regional Championships

Portland, OR Various Sites TBD Various Sites

USOC NCAA NCAA Connie Maloney

719-632-5551 913-339-1906 913-339-1906 317-237-5050

2 4 5

11 11

dkornegay@mindspring.cam

NOVEMBER 1997 7 13 21 22

1 4 1 2

M MWR MWR

DECEMBER 1997 4

W

4

JANUARY 1998 24

1

MWR

FEBRUARY 1998 13 14

M R

2 2

MARCH 1998 1 5 8 14 21 27 28

3 3 1 2 2 2 2

MWR MW MWR W W MW W

APRIL 1998 3

3

4 16 18

1 3 2

W W W

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Bulk Rate U.S. Postage

PAID Permit No. 7867 Indianapolis, IN

1997 SAFHY CERTIFICATION SCHEDULE Updated 7-JULY-97 Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18 years.

Pre-Registration required at USA Gymnastics.

Fax to 317-237-5069 with Credit Card Payment or mail registration with payment.

13

13

SEPTEMBER 1997 7

7

13

Santa Clara, CA; 9:00 a.m.-l :00 p.m.

Nor Cal Mini Congress Santa Clara Marriott Local contact: Chen! Crowhurst 408-238-7245 Course Dir: David Moskovitz

13

Austin, TX; 12:00 noon-4:00 p.m.

Wyndham Renaissance Hotel Course Dir: Jan Eyman 254-694-4214 Gig Harbor, WA; 12:00 noon-4:00 p.m.

NASA Gymnastics Local contact: Linda Smith 253-851-7061 Course Dir: Leigh Eaton 360-577-6274

14

14

Gainsville, FL 9:00a.m.-l :00 p.m.

Holiday Inn West Course Dir: Nelena Beck 352-378-8711 or 352-493-7512 Harahan, LA; 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Elmwood Fitness Center Local contact: Jay Thomas 504-733-4496 Course Dir: Caesar Garcia 504-924-1705 Edina, MN; check-in 3:30p.m., 4:00-8:00 p.m.

TAGS-Edina Gymnastics 5201 Eden Circle Course Dir: Scott Gay 612-953-1911 Topeka, KS; 10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m.

Capital City Gymnastics Club Course Dir: Wes Gedney 913-469-5554 East Brunswick, NJ; 9:00 a.m.-l :00 p.m.

Middlesex Gymnastics Academy; 33 McGulrest Local contact: Howard Bernstien 732-249-6422 Course Dir: Phil Frank 609-786-3977

21

21

Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Soc. Sec. # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Birth Date _ _ _ _ _ __ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State: Zip: _ _ _ __ Telephone: (H) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (W} _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Course Director: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Course Location: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date: _ _ _ _ __ Organization represented: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Professional or Instructor #: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Current Safety Exp. Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Form of Payment: 0 VISA 0 MasterCard 0 Discover 0 American Express Name on Card: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Signature:

Edison, NJ; 2:45 registration, 3:00-9:00 p.m. course Henderson's Gymnastics; 216 ligley Lane Course Dir: Cathy Finkel 201-586-1808

27

Fargo, ND; 4:00-8:00 p.m.

American Gold Gymnastics Local contact: 701-280-0400 Course Dir: Bill Allen 605-341 -5914

• All materials (including the Safety Handbook) for 3rd Cycle courses are provided at the course and are part of the course fee _ • Certification is good for four years_ • To achieve Safety Certification, the participant must be at least 18 years of age af the time of the course.

USA Gymnastics Safety Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 South Capitol Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225 or Fax to 317·237·5069 I

-------------------------------------------------- ~

T997

Brookfield, WI; 8:30a.m.-l :00 p.m.

Saito Gymnastics 1275 N. Banker Rd. Course Dir: Ralph Druecke 414-782-3430 18

Bath,ME; 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Bath YMCA Course Dir: Gerry Bellemare 207 -443-3134

19

Clearwater, FL; 9:00a.m. -1 :00 p.m.

Apollo School of Gymn; 2140 Range Rd., Unit G Course Dir: Karl Bishop 813-447-2108 Decatur, GA; 2:00-6:00p.m.

Varsity Gymnastic Course Dir: Chris Calvert 404-687-9911

19

Cost:

Pro-Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to recertify .... no charge Pro-Member with expired or new Safety Certification ...... . ...... $50.00 Instructor Member .. . .. . ... .. . . $50.00 Non-Member or General Member ...... .. ... .... $100.00 Please make checks payable, in ful" to * You must have your USA Gymnastics number USA Gymnastics Safety Certification on the registration form in order to qualify for Mail registration form and payment to: the discount.

Minimum age for safety Certification is 18 years.

/

27

OCTOBER 1997

TBA Conway, A1; lime: TBA Location: TBA Course Dir: Scott Wright 501-327-7742

r--------------------------------------------------, Participation Registration Form

Exp. Date:

Denver, CO; 1:00-5:30 p.m.

Site: TBA Course Dir: Betsy Sprague 303-750-3356 New York, NY; 9:00 a.m.-l :00 p.m.

Sutton Gymnastics Local contact: Joanne Sot res 212-533-9390 Course Dir: Ed Konopa 516-422-0116

~

PREFERS

VISA'

You may not register for a course to recertify any earlier than 8 months prior to your expiration date.

No on-site registration. You must pre-register no later than 10 days prior to the course.