Technique Magazine - March 2008

NATIONAL CONGR!;SS & TRAD!;:SI-lOW "GyrmastlC5 Excellence Throud> Education"

EVENTS 2008 MARCH

JUNE

8-9 8-9 13-16 28-29 28-30 29-30

5-7 7-9 13-15 19-21 19-22 20-21 30

Maia International Aero Cup (AG) Italy Exchange (W) Grenzland Cup (TT) USA Gymnastics Men's Collegiate Championships (M) Pacific Alliance Gymnastics Championships (M, W,R, T) Level 9/ 10 State Championships (W)

Maia, Portugal Jesolo, Italy Aachen, Germany Springfield, MA San Jose, CA Various sites

Level 9/ 10 State Championships (W)

Various s~es

APRIL 4-6 ? J,~ l U ~

0." '('

In ~.o.nin.nnl rhnmninn~hinc:: 1M'

VnrinllC d to(

Visa Championships (W) Junior Olympic Compulsory Championships (R) TeamGym Nationals National Gym Fest (GG) USA Gymnastics National Congress U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics World Cup (TR) Final Olympic Selection Event (T)

Boston, MA TBD Las Vegas, NV Philadelphia, PA Philadelphia, PA Switzerland Kansas City, MO

1-6

J.O. National Championships (T)

18-20 25-31

Region 3 Congress National Championships (AG)

Kansas City, MO Coralville,l A Jacksonville, FL Oklahoma City, OK Des Moines, IA

Olympic Games Region 6 Congress Region 1 Congress

Beijing, CHN Burlington, MA Santa Clara, CA

National Gymnastics Day Region 5 Congress

All Over Indianapolis, IN

National TOPs Testing Region 2 Congress Glasgow Grand Prix (W) DTB (W)

Huntsville, TX Portland, OR Glasgow, GBR StuHgart, GER

High Performance Coaching Seminar (W) TOP National Team Training Camp (W) TOP National BTeam Troining Camp (WI

Huntsville, TX Huntsville, TX Huntsville, TX

GG == Group Gymnaslics

TU == Tumbling

JULY

IH.~n.m

ml

{TI r

l'1

18-20 or 25路27 20-23 21-23 22-27 24-26 24-27 24-28

u)A Gymnaslics Collegiate Championships (W)

Level 9/ 10 Regional Championships (W) JO SpoHing Coaches Oinic (Level 8-9) (W) National Qualifier to Visa Champs. (M) Cup of Flanders (TTl NCAA Championships (W) Junior Olympic OpHonal Championships (R) TOPs Open Training Camp (W)

JIUIlIUIU, VI.

Mobile, AL Shreveport, LA Various sites Huntsville, TX Colorado Springs, CO Belgium Athens, GA Deerfield, IL Huntsville, TX

3-4 3-4 6-11 8-11

National Qualifier (R) National Qualifier (W) JO National Championships (M) level 9 East & West Championships (W)

16-18 22-24 23-24 23-25 23-26 27-30 31 -June 3

JO National Championships (W) Visa Championships (M,R,T) World Cup Series of the lemon (AG) U.S. Classic/ Challenge (W) Festival Rhythmic Nationals & Gymfest (GG) JO Compulsory level Training Camp (W) JO SpoHing Coaches Clinic (Levels up to 7) (W)

W== Women AG == Acrobalic Gymnaslics

R== Rhythmic B== Business

NOTE: Dates and erents sullied to change or cancellation.

2 TECHNIQUE路

MA RC H 2008

TBD Dallas, TX BaHlecreek, MI Dayton, OH & St. louis, MO Kissimmee, Fl Houston, TX Publier -Amphion, FRA Houston, TX Crossville, TN Huntsville, TX Huntsville

TR == Trampoline IT == Trampoline/Tumbling

\"VII~I(:;,)l

AUGUST 8-24 15-17 22-24

SEPTEMBER 13 26-28

MAY

'"

OCTOBER 3-5 10-12 16-19 23-26

NOVEMBER 12-16 3-7 7-11

M== Men

MARCH

2008

•

VOLUME

28 •

#3

PUBLISHER

Steve Penny EDITOR

Luan Peszek

FEATURES 6 The Olympic Opportunity

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Zemetria Barnes-Perry us. GYMNASTICS IXICunVI COMMITTII (HAIR: Ron Froehlich; PRESIDENT: Sieve Penny; VICE (HAIR WOMEN: Tom KolI; VI(E (HAIR MEN: YoichiTom~a; VICE (HAIR RHYTHMIC: Andrea xhmid, VICE (HAIR TRAMPOLlN[ Shoun Kemplon; VICE (HAIR A(RO-GYMNASTlCS: Tanya Case; SE(RETARY: Gary Ande"on; TREASURER: Bob Wood; FIG REPS: Bob (olarDlSi (Ex"u1ive (ommitt .. ), Ron Froeh(Kh (Aud~or), Tonya (...

(AG T"hnKol (ommitt.. ) and John Roelhl~berger (Alhlele RepJ AT lARGE MEMBERS: Sieve Bulcher, David Holcomb; ATilLETE DIREaORS: Kim lmeslcal-BurdeHe, John Roelhlisberger, JOISico Howard, Karl Heger. USO( ATilLm DIREaOR: Larissa Fonloine.

US. GYMNASTICS .O.RD O. DIRICTORS (HAIR: Ron Froehlich; PRESIDENT: Sieve Penny; PRESIDENT EMERnuS: Sandy Knapp, Mike Donahue; TREASURER: Bob Wood; SE(RETARY: Gary Ande"on; VICE (HAIR WOMEN: Tom Koll; VI(E (HAIR MEN: Yokhi Tom~o; VICE (HAIR RHYTHMIC: Andrea xhmid, VICE (HAIR TRAMPOLINE: Shoun Kemplon; VICE (HAIR AeRO-GYMNASTICS: Tanya (...; PUBU( SEaOR: Fronk Mo"holl, Bob Wood; AMATEUR ATIILETI( UNION: Ron Ferr~; AMERICAN SOKOL ORGANIZATION: Jerry Milon; AMERICAN TURNERS: Michelle Lasperonce; COLLEGE GYMNASTICS ASSO(IATION-MEN: Fontis Allen; NATIONAL ASSO(IATION OF COLLEGIATE COA(HES-WOMEN: Mark (ook; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORT: Mori~n Sirowbridge; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN'S GYMNASTI(S JUDGES: (orale Ide; NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATIILETI( ASSO(IATiON-MEN: Yoshi Hoyasoki; NATIONAL FEDERATION OF STATE HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS: Becky Oakes; NATIONAL GYMNASTICS JUDGES ASSOCIATION-MEN: Bulch lunKh; NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASTI(S COACHES ASSO(IATlON: open; u.s. ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT GYMNASTICS (LUBS: Paul liert; U.S. EUTE COA(HES ASSO(IATION-MEN: Thorn Glielmi; U_S_EUTE COA(HES ASSOCIATION-WOMEN: Sieve Rybacki and Tony Gehman; U.S. MEN'S GYMNASTI(S COA(HES ASSOCIATION: Tim Klempnauer; U.S. RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS COA(HES ASSO(IATION: Suzie DiTullio; YOUNG MEN'S (HRISTIAN ASSO(IATION OF TIlE USA: (osey Koenig; NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATIILETI( ASSOCIATION-WOMEN: Meg Slephenson; NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP DIREOORS MEN: Mike Burns, Abie Gross/eld; RHYTHMIC: Ivanko Kirov, Michelle La,,"n; WOMEN: Kelli Hill, Tom Forster; TRAMPOUNE: xoH Uneberry, Dr. George Drew; AeRO·GYMNASTICS: Undo Porter, Jay Binder.

AIHLmS COUN(IL: Dominique DOWti, Dan Gill, Mary Sand"", Shonnon Miller, Michael Rodrigues, Joy Thomlon, ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: JEWISH (DMMUNITY (EHlERS, Lari Katz; SPECIAL OLYMPICS, Gndy Bickmon; U.S. COMPETITIVE AEROBICS FEDERATION, Howard xhwortz

14 Force Absorption- Force Production Continuum 1 8 Tyson Fitness Challenge & National Gymnastics Day

DEPARTMENTS 2 4 20 22 24 26 28 29 30 34 38 46 48

Event Schedule USA Gymnastics Message Business Tips Member Services Education Congress Facts Congress Registration Form Congress Additional Course Form Hall of Fame Inductees Hall of Fame Ceremony Luncheon What's New Classifieds Safety Certification Schedule

18

(HANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBS(RIPTION INQUIRIES: In order 10 ensure uninlerrupled delivery 01 TE(HNIQUE magazine, nolice 01 change 01 address should be mode eighl w.. ks in advance. For lastest service, ~eose endose your presenl moiling label. Direct all subscriplion moil 10 TE(HNIQUE Subscriplions, USA Gymnosli", 201 S. (apilol Ave., Sle. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

Tf(JfNIQUE ~ published monthly excepl bimonthly in Sept/Oct and Nov/De< by USA Gymnastics, Pan AmOliron Plaza, Suite 300, 201 South Capitol Avenue, loolOnapolis, IN 46225 (phone: 317-237-S050) 01 oM on5ne @ www~tiu.or! Subscription prices: U.S.-525 per yeor; (onodo/Mexico-548 per year; all olher foreign counlries-560 per year. If available, bock issue ~ngle copies 54 pi", posloge/hondling.

All reosonable core will be loken, bUI no responsibility can be assumed lor unsolic~ed moteriol; endose relurn posloge. (opyrighl 2006 by USA Gymnasti" and TE(HNIQUE All rights reserved. Prinled by Sport Graphi", Indianapolis, IN. Member Services 1-800-345-4719

Uoless upress'y ;H.tlf/.d 10 tho cOfItrllry, 01/ ..,;cl.., ,t.,_ts """ v;,ws fIrlr!ted Hr';" or, """"'ted solely to "" """"" ..J USA Gy_Slks txprfSses rIO opi_ """ .._ s • res,..siilty tHrlOf.

www.usa-gymnastics.org MARCH 2008 • rECHHIQUE

3

GYMNASTICS MESSAGE

t the season-the Junior OLympic competition season, that is.

T i gs are in full swing throughout the country with gymnastics invitationals taking place in local g s, convention centers, sports facilities and hotel ballrooms in every state.

Although many competitions still take place in local gyms, a growing number of Invitationals are using large venues to accommodate the huge number of competitors. What used to be a short drive across town to compete with a neighboring gym club is now a team trip that often requires air travel to reach the destination.

Gymnastics invitationals have grown into a big business; a great sign that our industry is maturing and prospering . Some of the larger invitationals host close to 4,000 gymnasts. That's a lot of gymnastics routines!

It's exciting to see the economic impact these invitationals have on a community and it's wonderful to see our sport thrive. Keep up the great work!

USA Gymnastics recently established a club task force with the goal of increasing the relationship between our organization and the clubs, which are at the core of all gymnastics programs. A group of six club owners, representing various types and sizes of clubs from around the country were invited to the USA Gymnastics national office to participate in a two-day working group session with USA Gymnastics staff members. Among the topics of discussion were the services and benefits provided to our individual and club members, marketing the sport, education, and development at the grassroots level.

The spirit of the dialogue was to gain a greater understanding of the benefits and programs USA Gymnastics offers to members and to share thoughts about the ways in which greater collaboration could be mutually beneficial to clubs, gymnastics participants, and USA Gymnastics.

In addition to reviewing current programs, brainstorming sessions took place on new initiatives particularly in the area of Member Club benefits, national marketing campaigns, and grassroots/ recreational programs. The meeting was extremely productive, supported the goal of greater collaboration, provided valuable feedback regarding current programs, and launched discussions on future initiatives.

For the third straight year, USA Gymnastics and Tyson Foods are proud partners of the Tyson Fitness Challenge, a fitness initiative geared to help today's youth achieve healthy, active lifestyles. The program's first two years were very successful, and we have refreshed the Tyson Fitness Challenge to provide the elements needed to make it an even greater success this year.

We've added new games for the cardiovascular section and updated the strength and flexibility exercises for the upper body, core and lower body. We're also giving you an extra month to hold the Tyson Fitness Challenge as part of your curricu lum.

This year's program can be held anytime between March 1 and Sept. 13, and clubs can host the program whenever it is convenient for them within that time frame. The culmination of the program is voluntary participation in National Gymnastics Day's fundraising efforts for Children's Miracle Network. Since partnering in 2001, USA Gymnastics and its member clubs across the country have raised more than $816,000 for Children's Miracle Network. USA Gymnastics announced last year its goal to raise that total to $1 million by the end of 2008. We are 82% at our goal of $1 million and we need everyone's help to achieve our goal by year end.

To learn more about the Tyson Fitness Challenge and to register your club for participation in this year's program, please visit www.usa-gymnastics/tysonfitnesschaLLenge.

See you in the gym!

President of USA Gymnastics

4

TECHNIQUE. MARCH 2008

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Visit us at www.AlphaFadorAerials.com

6

TECHNIQUE路 MARCH 2008

he YMPIC PORTUNlrY "'."-,,

Is Your Business Ready for Those Rings?

~eff Lulla, President

C

Fun & Fit Gymnastics in Burbank" CA Photography by Larry Gibson

Here we are again - another Olympic year is upon us and, while our National Teams have been preparing for years, we need to ask ourselves if our businesses are ready to make the most of this once in four years opportunity to market gymnastics in our communities, and fill our gyms with children.

When USA Gymnastics asked me again to write my thoughts on what a business must do to take advantage of the Olympic coverage, my first response was to look at what we have done so far leading up to the Games. USA Gymnastics has done a GREAT job marketing our National Teams with terrific coverage of key events. And its new "Behind the Team" internet videos have introduced us to our athletes and kept us informed on the lives of the men and women who will represent us in Beijing this summer.

Now it is up to all of us to help those watching the Summer Games understand the connection that will bring more children into our gyms and from there, into our sport. With the difficulty of elite level gymnastics today, it's easy for people to believe that gymnastics is a sport for

H

the talented few. Without our help, most viewers won't understand that gymnastics can be great for their average or even unfit child . We all must make a concerted effort to show gymnastics is more than just a sport for exceptional athletes. We have to let them know that gymnastics is also a healthy and fun activity that anyone can enjoy.

We can do this in our marketing by showing our elite athletes when they were young beginners having fun learning gymnastics. And we can highlight our athletes in the gym training while beginners in the background learn the basics.

Member Clubs literature and advertising can sell the benefits gymnastics provides to all children. It's far too often that I see clubs struggling with low enrollments while their advertising is focused on a few gold medal winners.

While we are proud of our athletes accomplishments, we must ask ourselves, what do we ultimately want to achieve as a result of our marketing? Do we want only to inform or do we want our marketing leading up to the Summer Games to influence people to action? And who do we want to influence and what action do we want them to take? Do we want to

recruit talented kids interested in joining the "sport" or do we want to"recruit ALL children into our classes - talent~CI- and average, fit and unfit. Remember, what" keeps our "industry" alive is not the sport of competitive gymnastics, it's the PLeo.. schoolers and recreational students-filling /' our classes that are paying oud5ills.

As the Olympics ap{roach, it is everyone's job in the gymnastics industry to educate parents to appreciate the many benefits that gymnastics provides to children, as well as how saf~ a. quality gymnastics program can be for kids~ " So, let's ask ourselves, "What are most parents looking for?" and focus our marketing to meet their needs. ,/ - -

WHEN A PARENT CALlS/"

Very often, when a prosp'ecti~e customer calls your gym for inforrl},'a(i on, what they "think they want" is the c ~ apest and most convenient class they can find for their child. Gymnastics profe'ssionills know that investing in safety, instruct;r'-training, sanitation, customer service and quality drives the cost of classes up.

We also know that the most convenient.. -" class may not be the most edu<;.ati~ lIy appropriate class. This ~ continue on p.8

/

MARCH 200S / â&#x20AC;˘ TECHNIQUE I

/

"

'"

7

~ con tinu ed

fro m p.7

makes it very difficult to compete in price with a gym that doesn't invest in safety and quality unless parents are educated to appreciate the difference.

The uninformed parent, shopping for the best bargain and convenience, often thinks that all gymnastics programs are the same. While nobody wants to spend more - ~ is neces sarY, most people will spend more if they know they are getting greater value for their money.

There are two parts to our image development. They are; The External Image - the image and general impression that people have of your business from your marketing, advertising and public relations,butwithout experiencing your business directly.

The Internal Image - the image of your business that people have when they first make contact with you by calling and/ or steppingwithinyourdoorsandexperiencing your business. This involves your staff and customer service procedures, policies and office systems, your documentation, facility and equipment, and your curriculum and teaching systems.

THE EXTERNAL IMAGE - ADVERTISING & PUBLIC RELATIONS Youmustpurposefullymanagetheexternal image through your advertising and public relations. Advertising is a product of cost while public relations is a product of time. Either way you look at it, we are talking about an investment; a very important and necessary investment.

Ultimately, if you do not invest in managing your external image, the people who talk about your business will manage it for you . And keep in mind, people talk more when they are upset than when they are happy.

PUBLIC RELATIONS Since a new business on a tight budget usually can't afford to spend much on advertising, it is important to spend time on public relations. There are several suggestions I have in this area.

Develop Relationships - It is very important to get to know business and community leaders in your town . Some of the best ways to do this are:

The Chamber of Commerce - Become [

.an ACTIVE member on one of their co~mittees

(I recommend the Education Committee). Attend its monthly "mixers" and shake a lot of hands. Make sure that

8

TECHNIQUE路 MARCH 2008

they see you as a valuable community businessperson. Ask about its "Partnership Program" with the local schools and offer to support it.

assistance. When the City Council holds a groundbreaking ceremony, BE THERE. Make yourself present at the local functions, and don't forget to dress for the occasion (gym clothes may be your work uniform, but everyone else wears a dress or coat and tie).

The Local Newspaper - Walk right and introduce yourself. Offer to ake a reporter, or the editor, out to lunch Donate Free Gymnastics & Parties or to your gym to educate them on what your business is all about and how many \:'~:- (jetting people in your gym to lives you have impacted. Let them know in xperience your program is the best way advance about all the special events you to get them enrolled. Let it be known that will be hosting, and that cute kids make you can be relied upon to donate free great photo opportunities. Offer to submit gymnastics scholarships and/ or parties articles to the paper on parenting, fitness, for local fund-raising groups to auction or or gymnastics. Remember, you are a local raffle at their events. This promotes your expert or you would not be doing what business, creates a perception of value to you're doing. your service, and brings new people in The Local Schools and PTA - to try your program that otherwise may never have sought you out. After all, if .Introduce yourself to the principal f each school. Let them know that you you are doing your teaching job well, you are also dealing with their students and will get these scholarship students hooked that you care about the quality of their on gymnastics and they will become long- term paying clients when their education. Offer to do free assemblies and demonstrations to educate the students scholarship runs out. (I recommend that about fitness and self-esteem. Offer to you donate a free month of classes and become a "Partner" and support them with give in a professionally printed certificate donations of free gymnastics for teachers form) . Make it your duty to never say "No" to use to reward students for good work when asked for help, and encourage more opportunities to give. and behavior.

2 .in

fs

(j

Civic Participation - If the Park .and Recreation Department in your own is holding a 10K Run or an event of some kind, offer to provide gymnastics entertainment and professional

4

GiVeClientsA Referral Fee ForTelling .A Friend Who Enrolls - Most people nroll due to a friend 's recommendation.

It is always a nice gesture, and a great incentive investment, ~ continue on p.lO

~

I

WHen PERFORMANCE is everything ... ... relyon SA SPORT! Like our new 228 Performance Series Single Bar Used and endorsed by Liang Chow - World renowned gymnast, U.s. National Team Coach, and the personal coach of the 2007 Women's World AA Champion

"This bar is great for teaching skills at all levels for boys and girls. It is easier for a coach to spot and the bar provides excellent response to the athlete ... )) - Liang Chow,

u.s. Narional Team Coach

The new 228 offers the flexibility that coaches and athletes demand • Designed to work over pits or over training mats.

• Quick and easy change out of men's or women's rail, with secure safety pin locking devise.

• Easy height adjustments in 20cm increments from 130cm to 230cm (51 .25"-90 .5"), and in Scm increments from 2S0cm to 280cm (98 .5"-110 .25").

• New anchoring and cable system keeps upright from bowing when bar is used in lower positions .

• Step ladder on both sides and a spotting platform that can be used on either side .

NEW WEBSITE at www.sasportonline.com Visit our

or call 1-800-331-8068 to speak with a representative

©2007 - Spieth Anderson Internatio nal Inc.

~ con tinued

from p.8

to thank clients for referring their friends to your gym by giving them a discount on their next tuition payment. I have found that taking $10.00 off their next payment is effective.

ADVERTISING

on than words. A good photo will show fun, learning, socialization, professional supervision, age and gender of students, level of program(s) offered, facility and equipment. And the prospect gets it all in a split second without reading one word!

The phone number should be easy to find. There should be lots of open space so the eye enjoys looking at the ad.

There are many adverti sing choices availabl e to us today. Tracking results is the most important thing that you Be Consistent. Your ad may need can do when investing in anything and • to be seen several times before a advertising is an investment. You are Rrospect takes action. Perhaps they like literally buying clients. You must move what they see but are not able to enroll your advertising money around to see for several weeks.They will recognize your what works for you in your community. ad if it appears often and looks similar.

Keep doing what works and stop doing Avoid changing photos or the general what doesn't work, no matter how cheap appearance of the ad. or effective you thought the advertising ASk For Action. Provide some would be.

• incentive for them to act now. A Fun & Fit Gymnastics tracks results by asking every walk-in and caller how they . discount coupon with a deadline is a great motivator. This will also help you to track found out about us. Our enrollment form results and see how effective your ad is. asks this same question.

In designing and laying out your ad, One FREE month with two months paid enrollment has been very effective for me. try these basic advertising guidelines and suggestions: sell Benefits Over Features. In our • business, saying "the student/ teacher Create An Ad That Catches The ~ is 8 to 1" may be a feature that means • Reader's Eye. We are fortunate that nothing tothe parent. But if you say "classes we can use photos of happy ch ildren are small so every child receives lots of in our advertising. I am amazed at the personal attention and many turns on the number of gymnastics businesses across apparatus, the parent will recognize that the country that fail to take advantage of as important and of value. Selling benefits this incredible opportunity. A photo can should be the focu s of your advertising. say so much more about what is going

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C 10

TECHHIQUE. MARCH 2008

@

@:

Remove Risk From The Purchase. By • providing a money back guarantee YQu remove all risk of enrolling that a parent may have. Of course, you must have enough faith in your operation to justify the belief that your program is worth what you are charging in tuition . And you must have a belief about people in general that most of them are not out to take advantage of you. But then again, if your program is truly great, they will not want to take their child out just to get something for nothing.

What has worked for me: Yellow page advertising When your business is young, and you don't have a reputation in the community, you literally have to buy one. It's important to be in every book and have the dominant ad in each. Keep in mind that everything you do in advertising and public relations is focused on getting a prospect to call you . Most of the time, even when they call due to word of mouth, they usually look up your number in the yellow pages and your competitors' phone numbers are right next to yours. If you were a parent, wouldn't you call the others for information if their ad looked interesting?

Local direct mail coupons "Val Pak" or "Money Mailer" have been effective for me in varying degrees, depending on what I am saying in the ad and what I'm giving ~ co ntinue on p. 12

cno!ose from one or all product lines to fill vour pro shop with the honest selling apparel in the gvmnastics industrv. ,

Call GK at 1-800-345-4081

for more information.

Club Owners Call to receive free catalogs for your pro shop needs. Ask how you can become a Dealer and take advantage of our G K Dealer Exclusives.

-Receive Wholesale prices on all merchandise.

-Electronic Invoices.

-Shipment Notification .

-Broadcast Emails.

-Bargain Basement Closeouts.

-Visit our website, www.GKELlTE.com to get more information on our Dealer Program.

~continued

from p.10

away. The most effective ad to date offers one month free with a two month paid enrollment. It also has our Mission Statement (which clearly communicates our philosophy) and our 100% money back guarantee (which removes any risk from the decision to try us out). Color photos of happy kids are dominant and, whenever possible, visible through a window in the envelope.

Target Market Media Ads -In Los Angeles there is a publication called "L.A. Parent" which is geared towards parents of young children. I was a regular advertiser in this publication for more than seven years. I no longer continue to advertise with them since the maturity of the business no longer requires it, and the cost to advertise has gone up due to expanded circulation outside my service area. (Never pay for wasted advertising in areas outside your service area).

fact, if you are in the yellow pages today, you are probably already on the Internet in your local phone book's online listings.

With the help of USA Gymnastics, advertising on the Internet has been successful for Fun & Fit Gymnastics in getting the word out about the Curriculum Poster Reward System we have licensed to hundreds of gymnastics schools since 1991 .

We have a web page for ourthree facilities in the Los Angeles area as well as our licensing program, and a link to our web site from the USA Gymnastics Member Club listing.

In-House Mailing List - It took several years to develop a computer base of significant size to be effective, but the wait was worth it. Every caller, every person who attends a birthday party, every person who sees our Demonstration Teams perform at a local event (and fills out a card for a drawing to win free gymnastics) goes into our computer. At this time we use this list to mail cards two months prior to the child's birthday inviting them to have their party at our facility. This is very effective, and brings in many new students.

Advertising Specialties - Free T-shirts are given to every new student at the time of enrollment. Our annual registration fee more than covers the cost of the shirt. This is a great advertising tool. Nothing is better than having children in your community doing cartwheels all over the place wearing your gym logo.

The Internet - Every day more people rely on the Internet to find answers to their questions and children are introduced to "The Net" in school. And with new technology already available, the Internet is being integrated into living room television as another option for families' attention and entertainment as well as a source of information. Being on th e Internet is as important as being in the yellow pages. In

12

TECHNIQUE路 MAR CH 1008

contact is, almost always, handled over the phone. Having trained and knowledgeable Customer Service Representatives (CSR) will determine what kind of impression the caller will have of your business and, even more importantly, whether or not they will come in to experience your program.

Phone Skills - Your telephone is literally the lifeline for your business. The goal of every prospect inquiry call must be an appointment to come visit the facility.

Whatever else is said or done, for the call to be successful, it must end with an appoi ntment. The most effective way to do this is to have a phone scriptthat guides the "CSR" through a call, allowing the "CSR" to take control of the conversation (sell instead of answer questions) and promotes the benefits of the program specific to the caller.

Big money has been invested in telemarketing technology in America to determine exactly what works in selling over the phone. There are many seminars one can attend to learn what will be most effective for your business. It was one of these seminars, hosted

by AT&T, where I got information important in developing the Fun & Fit phone script. Three key points to answering the phone at Fun & Fit include: Taking control of the .conversation so that you can ask t questions necessary to give pertinent information, and sell the program(s) specific to the caller. Most callers have two things in mind -"How Much"and "When."The answers to these questions should be of secondary importance to a parent looking for a quality operation that will place their child in a class that is best educationally for that child.

But, if the parent is ignorant to the fact that there are many different ways to teach gymnastics, they will not know to ask about class size, instructor education, certifications and qualifications, available equipment, or curriculum planning. If you put time and energy into running a quality gymnastics business that may be more expensive than a local recreation program, it is important that you communicate AND SELL it.

A

THE INTERNAL IMAGE PEOPLE, FACILITY, AND DOCUMENTATION The internal image is created by your facility, your staff (both on the floor and in the office), and your in-house literature and documentation. Hopefully, after reading and hearing about your business, clients are impressed with what they experience when they call and/ or arrive for the first time. This first impression is critical. You only get one chance at a first impression so it's very important to make it a good one.

CUSTOMER SERVICE YOUR STAFF The obj ecti ve of everything you have done sofar has been to get the phone to ring. First

Sell Benefits instead of Features. It's .the benefit which fulfill s the "what's 'n it for me" thinking ~ co ntinue on p.44

B

Elevating Expectations .~I~ '~..

Designed to exceed your expectations, rely on Motionwear gymnastics apparel for quality, service, fit and comfort.

Our collections include fresh fabrics in trend-setting styles for class, practice, competition, and all your apparel needs.

Go ahead ... Expect more.

...

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.

,

. ~,

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GYNNASJICS

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FORCE ABSORPTION Force Production Continuum

By Robb Rogers, M.Ed., CSCS, MSCC

II athletes and coaches are interested in force production. How high, how far and how fast are critical to success in sport. In gymnastics the ability to run faster in the vault contributes greatly to the ability of the athlete to explode higher off of the vault in order to execute skills of increasing difficulty.

However, with total focus on force production we often lose sight of two critical elements in training and preparation that can impact performers and performances to a much greater degree than the ability to jump high, run fast and leap far. Many injuries occur during practice and performance due to a loss of stability and/or proprioception in a joint or group of levers in the system when the strength or force absorption level of the athlete is overcome. The torque and rotation through the joint system is too much for the athlete to control and/or the load at that particular joint angle is too great at that quick impulse moment of loading.

FORCE PRODUCTION STABILITYIPROPIOCEPTION FORCE REDUCTION

In training and preparation of athletes it is imperative to improve the ability to absorb force. The ability to absorb force is highly correlated to the ability to produce force. In addition, this aspect is critical to enhancing the ability of preventing injuries. Stopping strength or the ability to absorb force such as in landing from a dismount or vault is paramount to remaining injury free. Also, the ability to absorb that force in a short amount oftime (or impulse) is important in the scoring system of gymnastics. If the athlete does not possess the strength to absorb the force in a short impulse time then they may have to sit deeper into the squat, thus increasing the risk of a step or fall . ~

co nti nu e on p.16

~ St.vincent

.~ Sports Pe~fonl1ancc Center MARCH 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ TECHHIQUE

15

Airplanes require great balance, core, glute and rotational, single leg activity.

Proprioception is balance for lack of a better word. The balance through a movement, the balance through a lever system and the balance through a joint are keys to not only executing skills and solid landings but also to remaining injury free. Proprioception is enhanced by training on or in an environment that challenges your ba lance. Leg exercises on a soft surface, with your shoe off or with your eyes closed. Core drills on a physioball, balance training on a vibration platform and any upper body loading in which the joints are weight bearing such as crawling are all methods of developing joint stability and muscular proprioception.

Developing strength and power in the body in order to jump higher, run faster and leap farther involves enhancing the ability of the athlete to load the tendons and utilize the kinetic energy stored in those tendons in order to explode off the ground. A short impulse time of force transfer into the ground for height, distance and speed is critical to high level performance. Impulse power for take offs is enhanced by either unloading the athlete by having them jump while holding a rubber band attached to a piece of equipment or assisting them by towing them slightly faster than they are able to sprint. During these drills, coach the athlete to focus on putting force in the ground faster as the ground contact

'6

TECHNIQUE. MAR CH 2008

Swiss Ball Lateral Plan k's stress the lateral core above the hip and the inside and outside of the leg below the hip in a proprioceptive manner.

time decreases with the increased speed of sprinting and jumping.

The key to impulse loading is ensuring the athlete contacts the ground with the toe up or dorsi-flexed as they load the leg during jumping and sprinting. If the toe is down on contact the impulse time increases and the muscles are loaded and the movement is slower and less powerful.

During dismounts, vault and floor routines, once in the air the athlete must land and landing requires stopping strength.

Stopping strength is developed by loading the joint, lever system or body and moving in similar ranges of motion as the skill required in the demands of the sport or by holding in a variety of levels or joint angles for time with lesser loads. Impulse for landing is trained by asking the athlete to focus on absorbing the force in increasing shorter ranges of motion. Eventually impulse loading and landing are stressed within one dri ll with the add ition of either single response or repetitive depth jump box jumps. Teaching landing first and continuing to emphasize it as a part ofthe training regime is important as long as the gymnast is competitive:1( St. Vincent Hospital and St. Vincent Sports PeljOllllance in Indianapolis, Ind., are official service prolJidm to USA GYllJn(Jstics. Ca11317415-5747 or IJisit bttp:/ / sp0l1speljonJJtJnce.stvincent.org

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TYSON FITNESS CHALLENGE NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY

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USA GYMNASTICS

USA GYMNASTICS HAS PARTNERED WITH TYSON FOODS for the third straight year to create the Tyson Fitness Challenge, a tailor-made fitness program that provides the fundamentals for a healthy lifestyle. Another great aspect of the Tyson Fitness Challenge is the fund raising component for Children's Miracle Network.

Ha s your club signed up to host the Tyson Fitness Challenge in celebration of National Gymnastics Day? Is your gym raising money for your local Children's Miracle Network children's hospital?

The Tyson Fitness Challenge can take place anytime between now and National Gymnastics Day on Sept. 13, 2008. If you're a club owner, go to the link below to sign up for more information about hosting the Tyson Fitness Challenge in your gym club!

â&#x20AC;˘

FITNESS CHALLENGE

Below is a sample proclamation. We're asking club owners in each state to help get a signed proclamation fo r National Gymnastics Day from their state. The state processes will not allow USA Gymnastics to apply for these proclamations, so please do wnload the template from our Web site and send it to your governor. Once the proclamation has been signed and returned to you, please scan it and send to USA Gymnastics. We'll then post it on our Web site for other clubs in your state to use. Please send to Loree Ga limore at 19a1i@usa-gymnastics.org or mail to USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 .

DownLoad the proclamation at http://www.usa-gymnastics.org

http://www.usa-gymnastics.org/tysonfitnesschalLenge

THE TYSON FITNESS CHALLENGE WEB SITE has many more resources only available to clubs that have signed up to receive the password.

Have More Questions?

Call Loree Galimore

at 317-829-5654.

Sign up at www.usa-gymnastics.orgjtysonfitnesschallenge and receive the password to Log in to the administrator's Web site.

jmn USA Gynumlll~ Jod it'> du~

On behal! of lhe Sl,m of I, Governor ----.- - - - - ; ; ; proclaim\,,\: s~pl~mb<'r \},

:;~:Ii:~~ G~moasti(i D3Y

Current items availabLe onLy on the administrator's Web site include a sampLe press reLease, taLking points and sampLe Letters to send to physicians and schooL administrators about the program. Check back on a reguLar basis because additionaL resources wiLL be added.

TeLL us your pLans for your Tyson Fitness Challenge and your club wiLL be Listed on the Web site. Don't Leave your club out!

10

• • BUSINESS TIPS

A Word About Discipline This document was written specifically for Kids First competitive coaches. The principles apply at home as well.

At Kids First, our goal is to inspire selfdiscipline, the kind of discipline that leads to productive behavior that is chosen because the student sees the inherent benefit of the behavior.

To this end, the 3rd, 4th , and 5th Kids First Teaching Principles work as a trilogy: The 3rd Principle puts the burden squarely on the teacher or parent to clearLy communicate his or her expectations for behavior, work ethic and skill development.

There is a word for when a child behaves as desired in the absence of clear expectations: it is called a miracle! There is no substitute for clear, no-nonsense, in-advance words asking for whatever behavior a coach or parent wants. The coach or parent who fails here, fails completely.

The 4th Principle emphasizes focusing on things gone right. There are three main benefits to stressing the positive (things gone right) rather than the negative (things

gone wrong):ORecognition or acknowledgment of a desired behavior encourages more of the same behavior*; positive environment is uplifting and enjoyable which tends to encourage everyone generally to give their best self;. Focusing on things gone right communicates a desired goal or idea with absolute efficiency, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

Conversely, bringing attention to an incorrect behavior leaves an unlimited number of incorrect behaviors yet to try.

A master coach or parent knows the difference between recognlZlng or acknowledging a desirable behavior versus offering mindless, empty praises. Praise for the sake of praise tends to encourage a dependency on the external reward, the antithesis of our goal self-discipline. In its extreme, empty praise is condescending.

etA

The 5th Principle stresses the wisdom of allowing naturaL consequences to be the disciplinary agent rather than any number of unrelated "imposed punishments" such as humiliation, anger, withholding attention, pushups, laps, kicking someone out of practice, etc. This 5th principle is universally difficult to grasp for coaches and parents alike, probably because at PHOTO lARRY GIBSON

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first blush negative natural consequences resulting from an unproductive behavior triggers guilt and a temptation to protect or rescue. Parents are especially vulnerable to thi s in their impulse to protect th eir child from disappointments. A young child who is habitually protected from child-like disappointments will fail to de velop the coping skills necessary to deal with adolescent-type and , later, adulttype disappointments. Similarly, a child who is habitually rescued from perceived unfair t reatment-rather than taught and guided through the necessary skills to appropriately deal with such themselveswill come to view themselves as not competent to deal with life's challenges, a condition that destroys self-esteem and, sadly, in some circles, is almost pandemic in today's society.

Coaches and parents can be vulnerable to anger. The master coach or parent has disciplined herself to allow natural consequences to be the teaching agent while remaining 100% free of the negative emotion of anger and 100% filled with the positive emotion of empathy. The coach or parent who allows anger to dominate after a child's unproductive behavior, is virtually ensuring that the child will opt to spend his/ her energy reciprocating with anger (or rage) rather than reflecting on the cause of the negative consequences:

hi s/her own unproducti ve behavior. Without reflection there will be no perm anent shift away from unproducti ve beh avior toward productive behavior and reflection is virtually impossible when anger is front and center. By empathy, we mean a coach or parent must remain emotionally suppo rtive throughout the child's pain of the negative natural consequences ca used by his/ her own unproductive behavior.

To add balance to this discussion, it is important we remind ourselves that the opposite dynamic is equally true; productive behavior leads to positive natural cons~quence s . In a healthy environment led by a skilled coach or parent, productive behavior and positive natu ral consequences will dominate and unproductive behavior will be minimal and self-corrected.

Example 1 : - - - - - - - - - - , On the sports floor, the natural consequences of poo r work habits are hampered individual successes. A young child who has not previously been exposed to "pushiness" by Coach , Mom or Dad will "figure this out" and gravitate toward better work habits in order to keep up with his peers. With a child who has been conditioned to "pushiness," improved work habits are likely to take longer. However, with consistency and patience in the right environment, progress toward better work habits is almost always made.

Example 2 : - - - - - - - - - . , The natural consequences of poor work habits (o r other unproductive behavior, for that matter) that negatively affects safety or team goals are of a different nature. The natural consequences of such behavior are to be denied participation temporarily or, if the behavior persists, permanently. Since to be permanently denied participation is harsh, it is critical to keep in mind that unproductive behavior virtually never prog resses to this point unless Coach, Mom or Dad has habitually protected or rescued the child along the way.

We remain well aware that there are parents who disagree with our approach , yet it is the approach that best mimics "real life," builds self-esteem and it is the one we have chosen at Kids First. Suggestion for every coach and parent: subscribe to Marvin Marshall's free monthly ezine at: www.marvinmarshall.com . Another great sou rce of wisdom is www.loveandlogic.com.

The remaining Kids First 11 Teach ing Principles can be viewed at www.kidsfirstsports.com/ principles.htm . J( Make it a great month! Jeff Metzger

Jeff Metzger USA Gymnastics Business Development Partner President, GymClub Owners Boot Camp President, Kids First Sports Center

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•

MEMBER SERVICES

SM£TV PDP KAT .ocIMaPDCflnl~ICATIONS

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SKILL [VALUATall C [IHIr leA liONS

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MEMBER SERVICES

Background Check/ Screening Updates

or information disputes.

The phone number is 1-866-833-7100 Ext 109.

ALthough many years of research went into selecting a way and means to conduct screening for USA Gymnastics, as with any new process there will be an evolution of change due to recommendations, new and updated information, and customer/ client/ member concerns and comments.

The issue of members having to contact the various providers who had a dispute with the information from their social security number trace has been researched.

A change and resolution is now in place.

Although the number of members who had a dispute of the information was less than .05%, NCSI and USA Gymnastics believe it was necessary to improve the experience for the USA Gymnastics member.

It is important to note the member must contact NCSI with any questions, concerns

Social Security Number (SSN) Trace NCSI uses two commercial providers to perform SSN traces on applicants. Using two providers strengthens the scope of the search and reduces any gaps or deficiencies of a single sourced trace. The name and address information does not come from the social security administration and is not meant to verify an applicant's identity. The trace provides prior addresses and names associated with the SSN. This name and address information is derived from credit headers which comes from credit cards, utilities, banks, etc. Although the SSN trace cannot be presumed as a roadmap for a person's history, it should be used to supplement the address and name information provided by the applicant.

SSN Trace Dispute There are times when the SSN trace contains information that does not apply to the applicant. For example, an entirely different name may appear on a trace. This may be caused by human error when the credit bureau gathered or input their information or may be due to identity theft. An applicant may dispute the accuracy of the information in their trace. NCSI is not a commercia l data provider and does not maintain the so urce information . If an applicant disputes the information, NCSI will contact the sourced provider to conduct an investigation. Once the investigation is completed by the sourced provider, NCSI will eva luate the

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TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2008

outcome and proceed based on the results.

Information that is removed or updated by the commercial provider will be sent to NCSL If necessary, NCSI will adjust the search requested and complete the overall review. Although NCSI will work as quickly as possible, this investigation may take up to 30 days.

Steps of a SSN Trace Dispute

II SSN/name and address disputes to come directly to NCSI, effective immediately. will correspond with providers in dispute process and communicate an outcome to the applicant(s) directly.

II Upon receipt of dispute, NCSI will develop a form based on information provided to us from Applicant. (Note: Applicant may need to sign form, depending on provider requirements.)

91 NCSI will send dispute to provider(s) and follow through to resolution .

1:1 If information is changed, provider will send updated report directly to NCSI and NCSI will contact applicant.

[I NCSI will proceed with background screening, based on updated report from provider.

fJ NCSI

PI If

no change, applicant will be expected to respond to the need for additional counties.

USA Gymnastics & SSN Trace NCSI uses the SSN trace to confirm the information provided by the applicant. The criminal record search is an entirely separate process from identity verification. The SSN trace is used to confirm the applicants' information as criminal records are searched using name and date of birth. A "Green Light" determination is worthless if issued to an applicant that submitted an incorrect name or date of birth.

NCSI also uses two commercial providers to request the additional county searches in locations and using names to comply with an organization's screening program.

The dates associated with the names and addresses are from the dates the credit bureaus receive the information. Addresses may appear on the trace that are not the applicant's residence - for example, a business owner will likely have their office address on a trace. In addition, women that have used a prior name may continue to have the name reported as "active" if an

account includes the maiden name or was opened while using the prior name.

Information may appear on the trace that requires an additional search or investigation. These investigations typically result in verification or correction of an applicants' typo during registration.

However, applicants may believe the information contained in the SSN trace is incorrect whether it is an additional name or address. If an applicant disputes the content of the information contained in the SSN trace, NCSI will file a dispute with the provider on the applicants' behalf.

NCSI utilizes a network of commercial providers that have been vetted and monitored for their track record of accuracy, timeliness, and service. The dual sources used in the SSN trace of the full service check have an obligation to investigate applicant disputes and correct inaccurate information internally. It is not acceptable for the providers to deviate from their legal responsibility regarding consumer reporting disputes.

Information is constantly updated and posted on www.usa-gymnastics.org. -r.

MARCH 1008 â&#x20AC;˘ TECHNIQUE

23

••• E Due A T ION

USA GYMNASTICS UNIVERSITYGYMNASTICS EDUCATION USA Gymnastics University offers a variety of educational opportunities for all gymnastics professionals. Take the time to explore our offerings and get started today. Earn USA Gymnastics University credits with all courses. Additiona l offerings, detailed course information and registration are available on our we bsite at www.usa-gymnastics.org.

• Safety/Risk Management Certification Thi s course focuses on safety and risk management, including enviro nmental, program and legal factors, as well as sports injury prevention and care and special gymnastics safety factors. This course is offered as a live course and as an online co urse. The online course is always available from our website and t he schedule for upcoming live Safteyj Risk Management courses is on the back cover.

• First Aid Basics - Thi s online course provides basic first aid information for all gymnastics professionals. It covers injury prevention, common types of gymnastics inju ries and risks and the sym ptoms and treatment of those injuries. It also includes general information on other life threateni ng conditions.

• Preschool Fundamentals - The Preschool Fundamentals course is comprised of two parts. Part 1, Preschool Fundamentals: Theory, is an online course that wi ll focu s on the theory and concepts of preschool education. Part 2, Preschool Fundamentals: Hand on Training (HOT), is a live course that focuses on the practical application of the concepts lea rned in Part 1. See the schedu le to the right for dates and times of upcoming HOT courses.

• National & Regional Congresses - Threeday conferences held throughout the country. National Congress includes up to 130 lectures and Regional Congresses include up to 75 lectures covering topics in competitive gymnastics, recreational and preschool gymnastics, spo rts science, business and leadership topics and more. X Preschool Fundamentals: HOT Course Schedule

April 5 .u ..... u. Puyallup, WA June 18 . .. . .... ..... .......

Philadelphia, PA June 22....... ... u......... . . ...... Philadelphia, PA July 13 ..... u.u.... ....... Coralville,IA July 20 ............... Jacksonville, FL July 20 ." .... ........ ..... ..... Oklahoma City, OK August 17 .....................

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CONGRESS FACTS NATIONAL 44th ANNUAL CONGR~SS USA GYMNASTICS USA & TRAD~SJ..lOW GYMNASTICS NATIONAL CONGRESS 'Gymnastics Excellence Through Education' Philadelphia' 2008 and TRADE SHOW

1\

June 19-21, 2008 • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania held in conjunction with the 2008 Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics WHO SHOU LD ATTEND? All USA Gymnastics Professional members, Instructor members, coaches, judges and instructors of all levels. Recreational and preschool teachers, business managers, administrators, club owners, high school and college coaches WHAT IS OFFERED? Three days of education with more than 135 sessions offered. Lectures given by recognized individuals in the field. Sessions on coaching, judging, business, preschool, recreational, sports science, and fitness. Presentations given daily from the leading experts in Women, Men, Rhythmic, Trampoline and Tumbling, Acrobatic Gymnastics and Group Gymnastics Programs. Trade Show exhibit hall will feature 200 booths of products and services from more than 85 different USA Gymnastics Industry members.

WHERE: Philadelphia Convention Center Congress Sessions begin at 8:30 a.m HOTEL/TRAVEL RESERVATIONS: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown National Travel Systems 888-603-8747 Email: sportsinfo @nationaltravelsystems.com Website: www.ntssportstravel. com CONGRESS DATES: June 19-21, 2008 - Philadelphia Conve ntion Center OLYMPIC TRIALS: June 19-22, 2008 - Wachovia Center Men's and Women's Artistic events

JUNE 18

PRE-CONGRESS EVENTS: Risk Management/Safety course, Hands on Training preschool fundamentals (H.O.T.) course, Business Conference, NAWGJ National board meeting, National Congress Registration opens at 12:30 p.m.

JUNE 22 : Hall of Fame Class of 2008 Induction Ceremony Luncheon.

JUNE 22

U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS - GYMNASTICS, JUNE 19-22: Special rate for All-Session tickets to U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics for all Congress attendees. To secu re early bird discount order by March 15 (see form pg 38).

POST-CONGRESS EVENTS: Risk Management/Safety course, Hands on Training presc hool fundam enta ls (H.O.T.) course, Women's State and Reg ional Ch ai r Workshop, Women's Judge's exams

REGISTRATION FORM : In Technique and on Website www.usagymnasti cs.org Special discounted gro up registration for Member Clubs. Special Early Bird Pricing X

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Early Bird Ends March 15. Complete one form per person. Photocopy for additional regi stratio ns . Your confirmation will be sent by email. Plea se provide valid ema il address . On-site registration desk open s June 18 . Congress sessions and Exhibit Hall open June 19-21 . To become an Instructor Member to receive the member di scount, simply check "please sign me up" and include an additional $50 ($70, Foreign Instructor Member) in your total amount enclosed .

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$ 199 Congress Registration $449 Congress and O lympi c Tria ls all-sess ion ticket package P1

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$2 35 Congress Registra tion $4 85 Congress and O lym pic Trials all-session ticket package P1 $4 10 Congress and Olympic Trials all-sess ion ticket package P2

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Other Member Types

(Ends March 15) (Ends May 26)

$300 Early Bi rd Congress Registration $33 5 Congress Registration $400 On-s ite Reg istration

Onsite Registration - $300 P1 - Lower Level Sides (lower to upper rows) • P2 - Lower Level End (lower and upper rows) Special rate for all sessions is fo r Congress attendees. • VIP seoting is also available for $500 per all-session ticket.

All-session tickets are non·refundable. • Please contact USA Gymnastics at 3 17.237. 5050 for additional ticket information.

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Email Address _ ________________ _ ___ (Email address must be provided in order to receive confirmation.)

Ma iling Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _

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Zip _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ Ci~------------------­ State Day Phone ( Evening Phone ( Club Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ __ Club Number _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _

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Card Number Signature _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Print Cardholder Name

Telephone # _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ _

Please return this registration form to: USA Gymnastics Congress, Pan American Plaza , 201 S. Capitol Ave ., Ste 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 • FAX: 317.692.5212 Attention: Member Services THE INDIVIDUAL CONGRESS FEE INCLUDES: •

Credential for entrance to Congress sessions, June 19-2 1.

•

Entrance to the Exhibit Hall featuring the industry's finest products and services.

• One ticket to the Congress Dance Party on Saturday, June 2 1. IMust be 18+ years to oHend. Addi tional Congress Dance Party tickets for spouse/guests are $35 each-ova ilable at on·site regi stration. j

Videotaping: Videotaping of Congress sessions is permiHed FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY unless the session presente rs announce that his/her/ their session may not be videotaped .

Language: The official language of Congress is English. USA Gymnastics wi ll make no special provisions for translation of sessions in to oth er languages.

Congress attendees with special needs must noti fy USA Gymnastics in writing in this regard prior to M ay 26 .

We suggest thi s information be included wi th the Congress registration form.

sussmunON POUCY To tronsfer registration to another person, the new Cangress attendee must also have a Professional or Instructor membership.

After May 26 - $30 per substitution Submit request in writing to USA Gymnastics, Attention Cathy Allen

CANCEUAnoN POUCY All reg istrotion cancellations must be in writing . Submit written requesl 10 USA Gymnastics, Allention Cathy Allen Before May 26 - Registration fee less $30 service fee per person cancelling.

After May 26 - 50% of reg istration fee per person cancelling .

NO REFUNDS AfTER JUNE 30, 2008

Additional Congress Educational Opportunities Registration Form Mailed and faxed registrations for pre- and post-congress courses must be recieved by June 4 unless otherwise noted below.

After June 4 you must register on-site and an on-site registration fee of $25 will be charged.

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NOTE: Due to limited space and materials, admission is not guaranteed unless pre-registered. Due to time constraints, several courses may overlap. Please be aware of this when scheduling.

One form per person . Photocopy for additional registrations.

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DEPOSIT

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CRCD APP #

NOTE: Your Pro or Instructor Address (listed in the USA Gymnastics member database) will be used for all correspondence.

Nome ...

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DATE RECV'D AMT. PD.

............ Social Security No ... .

Birth dote ............................................ USA Gymnastics Pro/lnst. # .......................................... Safety Expiration Dote ...

0 THIS IS ANEW ADDRESS

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State .

Day Phone (

. ................................. Zip .. .

Night Phone (

Email ...

Check appropriate space for the courses you wish to attend.

ALL COURSES WILL BE HELD AT THE PHILADELPHIA MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN

POST. CONGRESS EVENTS

PRE·CONGRESS EVENTS SAFETY CERTIFICATION/RISK MANAGEMENT COURSE Minimum age for Safety Certification is 15

SAFETY CERTIFICATION/RISK MANAGEMENT COURSE Minimum age for Safety Certification is 15

Wed. June 18, 1:30·7:00 p.m. o Pro:Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to recertify at live course .. o Pro-Member or Junior Pro with Expired or New Safety Certification. ... . .. o Instructor, Athlete, Intro Coach Member ...... ... .... .. .. .. .. .... .... ... ... .. . o Non-Member .. ..... . . . .

Sun. June 22, 8:45 a.m.·2:00 p.m. o Pro-Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to recertify at live course No charge o Pro-Member or Junior Pro with Expired or New Safety Certification. ... ... $65 o Instructor, Athlete, Intro Coach Member .. .. $65 o Non-Member . ... . . ....$115

No charge $65 $65 $115

PRESCHOOL FUNDAMENTALS: Hands on Training (H.O.T.) Course:

Minimum age is 15 Wed. June 18, 2:00 • 6:30 p.m. o $65 (Instructor/Pro/Athlete) o $115 (Non-Member, and other member types) Early Bird ends April 18

: EARlYBIRD : :NON : MEMBER : MEMBER :MEMBER

iClUB

BUSINESS OWNERS CONFERENCE

CLUB #;-;-----=-=--=~_-=-=

o Wed. June 18, 8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

PRESCHOOL FUNDAMENTALS: Hands on Training (H.O.T.) Course

: Minimum age is 15 Sun. June 22,8:45 a.m.· 1:00 p.m. o $65 (Instructor/Pro/Athlete) o $115 (Non-Member, and other member types)

: $125 8 -8:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast. Limited enrollment. : No on-site registration. .

: ClUB

iClUB

WOMEN'S JUDGES CERTIFICATION TESTS

Sun. June 22, Time TID

o Written 0 5/6 0 7/8 0 9 0 10 o Practical 0 7/8 0 9 0 10 Choose Exam and level

Cost: $20 per test part TImes:TBD

' You must have your USA Gymnastics number or date applied for on the registration form in order to qualify for the member discount.

Language: The Official Language of Congress is English. USA Gymnastics will make no special provisions for translation of sessions into other languages.

Videotaping: Videotaping of Congress sessions is permitted FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY unless the Session Presenters announce that his/her session may not be videotaped.

Travel & Hotel: For hotel and travel needs, visit Please return this USA Gymnastics Congress www.ntssportstravel.com or call National Trovel Systems registration farm ta: Pan American Plaza at 1-800-603-8747.

201 South Capitol, Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 FAX: 317-692-5212 ATTENTION: Member Services

TOTAL PAYMENT MAKE CHECK/MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO USA GYMNASTICS Amount Enclosed Charge to:

LI$::!:....-_ _ _ _ _--'I VISA

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FA M E

USA GYMNASTICS NAMES 2008 HALL OF FAMEINDUCTEES USA Gymnastics announced the 2008 class of inductees for the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame: the 2003 U.S. Women's World Championships Team; Olympians Jessica Davis of San Anselmo, Calif. (rhythmic) , Marie Walther Bilski of Tempe, Ariz. (women's), and Wayne Young of Pleasant Grove, Utah (men's); synchronized trampoline and double mini-tra mpoline world champion Stuart Ransom of Southaven, Miss.; two-time NCAA champion Brent Simmons of Columbus, Ind. (men's); women's artistic gymnastics coach Mary Lee Tracy of West Chester,

Ohio; and contributor Wendy Hilliard of New York City. Kenneth Allen of Oshkosh , Wis., is the 2008 Lifetime Achievement recipient in recognition of his contributions to gymnastics.

The 2008 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame luncheon and induction ceremony are scheduled for Sunday, June 22, at 11:30 a.m. at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. Tickets are $45 per person or $400 for a table of 10 people. For more information , visit www.usa-gymnastics.org.

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The 2003 U.S. Women's World Championships Team claimed the USA's

first team world title, as well as three individual event medals. The members of the team were: Terin Humphrey of Bates City, Mo.; Courtney - . If - ' "'J I . ' . ""J \ ~" :'~i .. .,.. Kupets of Gaithersburg, Md.; Chellsie Memmel of West Allis, Top Row (l to R) : Ashley Postell, Courtney Kupets, Tosho Wis.; Carly Patterson of Allen, 5chwikert ond Annio Hotch. Bottom Row (l to R): Chellsie Texas; Tasha Schwikert of Las Memmel, Hollie Vise, Corly Potterson ond Terin Humphrey Vegas, Nev.; Hollie Vise of Dallas, Texas; and alternates Annia Hatch of West Haven, Conn., and Ashley Postell of Dallas, Texas. Humphrey, Kupets, Patterson and Hatch went on to compete at the 2004 Olympic Games, where they won the team silver medal. Memmel currently is a member of the U.S. National Team and the 2005 all-around world champion.

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Jessica Davis, a 1996 Olympian, won two U.S. rhythmic gymnastics all-around titles in 1995-96 and 10 individual event titles from 1993-96. At the 1995 Pan American Games, she won the team gold medal, claimed the silver medal in clubs and ribbon, and the bronze medal in the all-

30

TECHNIQUE. MARCH 2008

around. She represented the USA at three World Championships from 1993-95. She was coached by Jan Exner Heise, former rhythmic program ~i rector for USA Gymnastics. Davis received a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California and a master's degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. She has lived allover the world and currently resides in Geneva, Switzerland, where she works for an organization that helps companies improve their policies and actions in developing countries.

Marie Walther Bilski was a member of the women's 1964 U.S. Olympic Team and was the 1964 U.S. all-around champion. She also won the balance beam crown in 1965.

Bilski competed in two Pan American Games, winning the team gold medal in 1963 and 1967, as well as the bronze medal on vault in 1967. She was a two-time All-American for Arizona State University and the 1969 uneven bars collegiate national champion.

Bilski received a bachelor's degree in education from ASU in 1970, a master's degree in physical education from ASU in 1977 and an associate's degree in art from Western Nevada Community College. Bilski currently resides in Tempe, Ariz., and is the mother of two sons. ~ continue on p.32

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FA M E

p.30

Wayne Young

was the captain of the U.S. Men's Team at the 1976 Olympic Games, where he placed 12th in the all-around.

He also was a member of the 1974 World Championships Team. He won the 1975 NCAA all-around title and earned All-American status in 197475 as a.me!!!be! ..0-f R.ri-Q b.2 ~ Y.0-!.!r!.g University's men's gymnastics team.

He coached men's gymnastics at BYU from 1979-87 and at Odessa Junior College from 1977-79. Young received a bachelor's degree from BYU in 1975, a master's degree in biomechanics from Penn State in 1977 and a medical degree from the University of Utah in 1991. He is a doctor in obstetrics and gynecology for Intermountain Healthcare. Young, who lives in Pleasant Grove, Utah, is married and has seven children. Young's son, Guard, was a member of the 2004 U.S. Men's Olympic Team that won the team silver medal.

Stuart Ransom competed in four World Championships for the United States, winning the double mini title in 1978 and the synchronized trampoline crown with Mark Calderon in 1982. He won four AAU national titles from 1975-78 and eight USAF national titles from 1979-82. Ransom currently lives in Southaven, Miss.

Brent Simmons

was a member of the men's U.S. World Championships Teams in 1970 and 1974, and won U.S. titles on the parallel bars in 1971 and on the horizontal bar in 1974. He competed in the 1971 Pan American Games and earned the team silver medal and the bronze medal on the horizontal bar. In 1971, Simmons led the Iowa State men's team to the NCAA team title, as well as won the parallel bars and the horizontal bar titles. He was the 1971 recipient of the Nissen Award and was an All-American on four events. He has been a national or brevet judge for 25 years and served as the master scorer on men's vault at the 1996 Olympic Games. Simmons earned a bachelor's degree from Iowa State and a master's degree in sport management from East Stroudsburg University. He currently works in regional sales for Midwest Gymnastics Supply, Inc., and resides in Columbus, Ind.

Mary Lee Tracy

has coached numerous gymnasts to the U.S. National Team, including two members of the 1996 goldmedal Olympic team (Amanda Borden and Jaycie Phelps). Tracy was named USA Gymnastics' Women's Coach of the Year three consecutive years (1994-96), and is a seven-time Region 5 Coach

32

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2008

of the Year. In addition to coaching, Tracy has served on regional and national committees for USA Gymnastics. Tracy, the president and head coach of Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy, lives in West Chester, Ohio , and has one daughter, Rachael.

Wendy Hilliard became the first African-American to make the U.S. Rhythmic Gymnastics Senior National Team when she was named to the team in 1978, the first of nine years spent on the national team. Among the many positions Hilliard has held are chair of the Athletes' Council of USA Gymnastics, USA Gymnastics' vice president for rhyth mic gym nastics and athlete representative to the U.S. Olympic Committee. From 1995-97, Hilliard served as the president of the Women's Sports Foundation, the first AfricanAmerican and gymnast to hold that position. She formed the Wendy Hilliard Foundation in 1995 to provide funding for rhythmic gymnastics programs for inner city children. She was the personal coach of 1996 Olympian Aliane Baquerot and has served as an analyst, host and reporter for several television networks. Hilliard studied broadcasting and Russian at Wayne State University and graduated with honors from New York University. A native of Detroit, Mich., she currently lives in New York City.

Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

.';. ;

Kenneth Allen has served on the NAIA Rules Committee (chair, 1972, 1976, 1979-82), the NAIA Coach Association (president, 197576), USA Gymnastics Board of Directors (1976-81), USA Gymnastics Foreign Relations Committee (1977-81) and the U.S. Elite Compulsory Committee (chair, 1984-88). A national and international judge, he was a U.5. delegate to the FIG Congress and a Men's Program Committee delegate to the FIG. From 196992, Allen coached the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh gymnastics team, where he was the chair of the physical education department from 1996-2000. He received his bachelor's degree from Montclair State College in 1966 and his master's from the University of Wisconsin in 1968. Allen served as chair of USA Gymnastics Grievance Committee from 1996 to 2006.

He lives in Oshkosh, Wis. X

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Limil one per person. Firsllime guests and local residenls only. Musl use some club for enlire lerm. Days musl be used conseculively, and between lt1e hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. only. No olt1er discounls can be used wilt1lt1is offer. Musl be alleosl 18 years old ( 19 in NE) ar 12 wilt1 parent. Incenlives may be offered for enrolling in olt1er memberships. Personal Training and Kids' Club available for an addilional fee. Facililies and amenilies vary. Nol all clubs open 24 hours. Participating localions only. Nailor re-sale. No cash value. Offer may expire wilt10ul prior nolice. See club for delails. ©2007 24 Hour Filness USA, Inc.

2008 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon

From here, it's possible.

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800.692.6877

34

TECHNIOUE· MARCH 2008

HALL OF FAME CEREMONY AND LUNCHEON When: Sunday, June 22nd, 2008 11:30am-l:3Cpm Where: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Philadelphia, PA Cost: Individual $45; Table $400 (table)

(Courtney Kupets, Terin Humphrey, Carly Patterson, Tasha Schwikert, Hollie Vise, Annie Hat ch*, ,Ashley Postell*)

HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2008 Jessica Davis-Ath lete (Rhythmic) Stuart Ransom-Athlete (Trampoline and Tumbling) Brent Simmons-Athlete (Men) Marie Walther Bilski-Athlete (Women) Wayne Young-Athlete (Men) Mary Lee Tracy-Coach (Women) Wendy Hilliard-Contributor (Rhythmic) 2003 Gold Medal Women's World Team

REGISTRATION/TICKET FORM: Individual Tickets: $45 per personIndividuals will be open seating .

Reserved Table: $400 (10 people) Full tables will be reserved.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER Kenneth Allen

Tickets will be mailed out to the address provided on the order form. Orders must be received NO LATER than May 14th to ensure proper delivery time.

PLEASE PRINT: Please submit email address. Confirmation will be sent via email

r--------------------------------------------, II

Name _______________________________________________

I I

Address _______________________________________________________________

I I

City _____________________________ State _______________ Zip Code __________

I I I

* Email Address._ _________________________________________ (Requi red for confi rmation)

Phone: Daytime' ______________________ Credit card: Type_ _ _ Number____________________ Exp. Name (print) on card : ________________

Signature _ ___________________________

# of tickets ___ @ $45 each . • # tables _ _ @ $400 (table of 10) • # tables ___ Donation to HOF * __________________ Total amount due: Table(s) reserved in the name of ______________________________________________ * All donations of $50 or above will be listed in the Hall of Fame Program, Congress Information Guide and Technique magazine. Must be received by May 1st in order to be in publications.

Fax form with credit card information to 317-692-5212 or mail form and check (made out of USA Gymnastics) to: USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame Ceremony - Erica Koven 201 S. Capitol Ave, Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 or download at usa-gymnastics.org/HOF/

Who wants to see another first?

The people of Chevron know about being first. Chevron was the first to be designated TOPTIER gasoline by BMW, GM, Honda and Toyota. $0 it makes sense that Chevron has been, and will continue to be, a proud sponsor of U.s.A. Gymnastics, a team that tirelessly strives for top tier performance. Their success is inspirational and we wish them all the best.

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SUPPORT TEAM USA! The Road to Beijing begins with 2008 USA Gymnastics events ...

If history serves, looking at 2004 as a guide, an Olym pic Champion may very well emerge in 2008 at a USA Gymnastics event.

Terin Humphrey 2004 Olympic si lver medal u

, neven bars

Pa ul Hamm 2.004 Olympic AII-Arou Sflve r meda l. high bar nd Cha mpion

2008 USA Gymnastics Events Schedu le

(Artistic)

2008 Tyson American Cup ..... ... .... ............ .......... ... .. .... ........ ...... ..... New York City. Ny .. .. .. .. .. .... ......... March 1.2008 2008 Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships Presented by Gillette Venus ....... ... .. .. .. ............ ..... .... ..... ... .... ........... San Jose. CA .... ... ........... ....... March 28-30. 2008 2008 Visa Championships Men路s ................... .. .... ..... ... ... .. .. .... .. .. ..... .................. .. ....... .. .... .. .... Houston. TX .. .... .. .. .. .. .. .... ....... . May 22-24.2008 Women路s ......... .... ...... ... ...... ... .................... ......... ........ ... .. ..... ......... Boston. MA .... ......... .. ... .. ........ ... .. June 5-7. 2008

2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Gymnastics .... .. .. ...... .... ........ ...... . Philadelphia. PA .. .. .. .... .. ....... .. . June 19-22. 2008 Schedule subject to change.

Visit usa-gymnastics.org for the latest information about these events, including your opportunity to secure your seats to all the exciting 2008 action.

The Road to Beijing goes through Philadelphia ...

o t PHILADELPHIA, PA â&#x20AC;˘ JUNE 19 - 22, 2008

Event Schedule Thursday, June 19 7:00 pm Men's Preliminary All-Around Competition Friday, June 20 7:00 pm Women's Preliminary All-Around Competition

Saturday, June 21 3:00 pm Men's All-Around Finals Sunday, June 22 6:00 pm Women's All-Around Finals

•

WHAT'S

NEW

NOTICE TO MEMBERSHIP The following Membership Statement has been adopted by the Board of Directors of USA Gymnastics: Membership in USA Gymnastics is a privilege granted by USA Gymnastics. That privilege can be withdrawn by USA Gymnastics at any time where a member's conduct is determined to be inconsistent with the best interest of the sport of gymnastics and of the athletes we are servicing.

The following former professional members are permanently ineligible for membership within USA Gymnastics:

Name

State

Name

Charles Theodore Bates James Bell Joseph Bowers Vince Brown Edward Trey Con iff ThadCypher larry Dutch Steven Elliott Anthony Engelke Matthew H. Erichsen William Alexander Etheridge Rick Feuerstein William Foster

MN WA OH SC TX MI ME TX PA WA TN CA Al

Joseph Fountain Roy larry Gallaqher Robert Allen (Bob)Garner Timothy Glas Ricardo "Chico" Goddard Paul Haqan Robert Dean Head Ted Hicks Michael Hinton Robert Hoefer Frank Hohman, Jr. Milos Hroch Steven l. Infante

State MD PA TN NE NY MI

KY TN TN Fl PA CA CT

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Name Dana Koppendrayer Ronnie lewis William McCabe Robert Mollock John S. Moore William Munsinqer Jeena Nilson Paul O'Neill Patrick Okopinski Marian Penev William M. Permenter David Pyles Jeffrey Richards

State Fl AR GA OR WV MN UT CA WI NY Fl AZ Fl

Name

State

Rudy Rodriquez John H. Row Gabriel Salazar Robert Shawler Steve Shirley Steven Todd Siegel Blake Steven Starr Paul Summers Mark Swift Freddie Euqene Tafoya, Jr. Jon Oliver Kenneth Thomas Jay Thomas Brent Trottier Anthony Van Kirk Joel Velasquez David Paul Waage Brooklyn Walters Steve Waples Donald Watts Mike West Lyf Christian Wildenberg Joel Woodruff

CA DE TX CA MO

CO UT OK FL CA VA LA WA CA OR OR IN TX KY WA MN TX

CLUB TASK FORCE MEETING .

Thank you to the members of the club task force for sharing your thoughts on marketing, education, and other member benefits. Your feedback on USA Gymnastics programs is invaluable. USA Gymnastics looks forward to fostering new growth and improvements in our services to the entire community. 1\

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Acrobatic Gymnastics Everything You Need to Know to Start an Acrobatics Pre-team in Your Gym

• Detailed Lesson Plans (How-to-Incorporate Aero into a recreational/pre-competitive program) • 14 Week Session Overview (beginner, intermediate, and advanced)

V'

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2008 USA Gymnastics National Business Conference June 18, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. - Early Bird registration ends April 18 • Seating is limited.

Keynote Speaker, Nancy J-Iunter Denney "Zing! Your life and Leadership" Ever notice' how some people have "it" and some wonder what "it" is? Have you started to wonder why some people get noticed and you only get passed by and passed up. In a highly humorous and engaging presentation style, Nancy Hunter Denney presents her original Zing! Impact Equation demonstrating it's never just one thing, rather a combination of the person, environment, skill level and minimization of distractions that determine the level of one's potential influence or charisma. Zing! is the thing that allows others to "override competing forces to positively influence others." Zing! is living life and leadership with an exclamation point and comes from the fundamental belief, "the energy you put out there, is the energy you get to draw from." From self-inspection to humility, insights are shared suggesting any person has the potential to increase their influence by recognizing another fundamental belief, "you can't expect different results by repeating the same behaviors."

It's time to live life and leadership with an exclamation point. Audience members are challenged to use their aptitude to show their gratitude and turn the many opportunities afforded them into a personal sense of obligation to serve a greater social good. What time is it? It's Zing! time.

This keynote is based upon Nancy's third book: How to Zing! Your Life and Leadership : 21 Insights Nancy Hunter Denney is a nationally recognized keynote speaker, author, leadership trainer and educator. Although her goal is one of inspiration, she does not consider herself a "motivational" speaker. She is an educator who seeks to inspire in others a personal sense of responsibility (and obligation) for serving a greater social good. She passionately presents her own original definitions, theories and lessons on life and leadership whi le possessing a unique ability to teach audience members how to apply them. Prior to starting her own speaking business in 1993, Nancy Hunter Denney worked in higher education student affairs - an experience which differentiates her from many other speakers and speaks to her love of helping others learn and grow.

Invited guest speakers include Steve Penny President of USA Gymnastics, David Holcomb, Jeff Metzger, Tom Forster, Frank Sahlein, Patti Komara and Mark Mahoney.

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TECHNIQUE' MARCH 2008

Business Conference registration fee includes: continental breakfast, business sessions, plated lunch, special keynote with Nancy Hunter Denney, w ine reception, Nancy Hunter Denney's Book Zing! , and goodie bag courtesy of the United States Gymnastics Suppliers Association.

Name ________________________________________________________ Club No. ______________________________________ :~

USA Gymnastics Pro/lnst. # ___________________________________________________________________________________________ M ailing Add ress _______________________________________________________________

D THI S IS A NEW ADDRESS

City _________________________________________________ State __________________ Zip ___________________________ Day Phone ( __________________________________________ Night Phone ( Email

Early IIrtI r,.utntlol eIICIs AprIll

,WlYlIRD

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TOTAL PAYMENT MAKE CHECK/MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO USA GYMNASTICS

BUSINESS OWNERS CONFERENCE

Amount Enclosed

CLUB #~~:--::--=-=---=--=-c

Charge to:

o Wed. June 18, 8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

$125*

$150*

8 -8:30 a.m.Conlinental Breakfast.

Limited enrollment. No on-site registration. * Price per person BUSINESS CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD AT THE DOWNTOWN PHILADELPHIA MARRIOTT

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Please return this registration form to: USA Gymnastics Congress Pan American Plaza 20 I South Capitol Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 FAX: 317·692·5212 ATTENTION: Member Services

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DATE RECV'D AMT. PD. CHECK

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DEPOSIT

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Language: The Oflidollonguoge is English. UIA Gymnaslies will mo ke no spedol provisions for lro nslolion of ""ions inlo olher longuog". Attendees wllh speclOl needs musl nOllfy UIA Gymnasl"s In Willing In IhIS regard p"or 10 Ihe Aplll 18 early bird reglSlrolion deadline. We sugg" llhol lhis inlolmolion be included wilh Ihe Regisl"lion form. Videotaping: Videotoping 01""ions is permiNed FORPERIO NAl USEONlY unless the lession Pre" nlers onnounce Ihol his/her session moy not be videoloped.

MAR CH 200 8 • TECHNIQUE

43

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always want the best for

all my gyms.

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of the customer. As discussed earlier under advertising, telling a parent that "the maximum student/ teacher ratio in a class is 8 to 1" may not mean anything of value. However, if you tell them "classes are small so your child will receive lots of personal attention from our instructor and many turns on the apparatus, this may be perceived as of value. The first example is that of explaining a feature while the second was the benefit.

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ProSchool, "simply the best '-.. '-.. gym management '-.. software-period.

Ask the caller to take action. Everything we do and say â&#x20AC;˘ mu st lead to scheduling an appointment. When asking for ctiQn make sure your question is structured so that a "no" answer is not an option. For example, "Would you prefer to come in for an evaluation during the week or on Saturday?" instead of "Would you like to make an appointment for an evaluation?"

A phone log is an important t ool the office manager can use to monitor the effectiveness of the "CSR" and/ or the script as well as any current advertisi ng prog rams. The difference between t he number of cal ls received, and the number of appoi ntm ents set up, is a direct measurement of the effectiveness of the "CSR" and the phone script.

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Empowering Office Staff To "Make It Right." Mistakes happen.

How you deal with t hem will reflect on the image clients have of your business. It's important that your office people are authorized to make exceptions to your business procedures. When I say exceptions I mean just that. I'm not suggesting that you fail to enforce procedures. That would be a tragic mistake. I'm saying that making an exception, and informing the client t hat this is what you are doing for them (and logging this exception in a permanent record) will go a long way in helping to build rapport and a bonding relationship with the client. You should use this exception as an opportunity to learn where you may have failed in the past in communicating your procedures. And by keeping records of the exceptions that you have made, you are able to avoid being taken advantage of by repeat offenders.

Client-Friendly Procedures - If you want your clients to perceive your business in a positive way, it's important that you take a look at your procedures to see what you can do to make them better.

44

TECHNIQUE¡ MARCH 2008

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Enrollment Procedures - Instead of mailing a "schedule • of classes" that causes parents to select what they perceive as the best and most convenient lessons for their child, make an appointment to personally evaluate each child to insure placement in the very best class. Not only will this raise the level of professionalism of the gym, but it will also help to insure that the child receives a positive experience. In addition, you may be losing potential clients by mailing them a schedule. If they don't see any times and days that fit their needs, they may never call back, or worse yet, may call your competitor.

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Payment Procedures - By offering parents a "discount" and • "priority enrollment" as an incentive for paying in advance, ou create an opportunity for yourself to schedule classes that are full before a session, or month, even begins. As opposed to charging a "late fee" and trying to collect after the fact, your clients will perceive this as a reward instead of a penalty, enhancing positive feelings about your business.

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Make-Up Lessons - If parents are made to understand that • a place in class is like a seat at a concert, and that whether they show up or not t he show goes on as schedu led, t hey will understand the importance of calling in advance if they wish a make-up cred it. Why is calling in advance important? Because it allows you to provide this space to another student. And that way, make-up lessons cost you nothing except the time spent in the office to schedule them.

FACILITY We already know the importance of maintaining a clean, bright, colorful and safe looking facility. We must also make sure that the

facility conforms to whatever expectations we have created in our advertising and publicity. If your business is represented as an Olympic training center, and people see is pre-school movement equipment and teddy bears on the walls, you can bet there will be some disappointment of un-met expectations. And, on the other hand, if you claim to specialize in recreational gymnastics (which is where the lion's share of the business is) but your facility is filled with regulation equipment and instructors that are "coaching" as opposed to "teaching," their expectation s may also be un-fulfilled.

DOCUMENTATION Everything you hand out reflects on the professiona lism of your business. It is the small details that make a difference. In our industry, brochures, flyers, curriculum materials and enrollment documents are an important part of communication . They should be proof-read and spell-checked (it's amazing how many gym's materials have typographical errors and misspelled words) prior to being professionally printed. And the quality of paper is also important. See to it that your literature makes you look great!

SUMMARY As our industry matures, our advertising, public relations, facil ities, people and literature must all function to create an image of quality. Our commitment, industry-wide, to furthering the professional image of gymnastics, will bring with it justifiably higher tuitions and, as a result, increased profits and greater success.X

USA

O~0 GYMNASTICS

800.339.0859 • usagstore.com

M A RCH 2 00 8 • TE CHNIQUE

45

CLASSIFIEDS for sale · po s ition a va i l a bl e· s eek ing emplo y m e nt· educat io n · consignmen t

POSITION AVAILABLE Optional/Compulsory /Tumbling Coaches Needed: lynchburg Academy of Gymnastics & Power Tumbling opened a new 16,000 sq. h. facility in Sept. 2005 and needs additional coaching stoff. We are seeking highly motivated, well organized and enthusiastic professionals for the following positions: GYMNASTICS OPTIONAL COACH: Experienced individual to work with girls through level 10, emphasis on bars and vault with strong spotting skills. COMPULSORY COACH: Knowledge of JO compulsory routines. TUMBLING COACH: Experience on floor, OM and trampoline. Salary commensurate with experience. Send resumes to: Lori Darter/ Sandy Moon, 20106 leesville Rd., lynchburg, VA 24502. Phone: 434-239-B900, fox: 434-239-8912, email: gldarter@aol.com ASSISTANT DIRECTOR NEEDED. A large Northern NJ gymnastics school is looking for on assistant director. Duties would include: Teom Coaching and trovel, closs monogement, employee supervision, program development. Excellent solary and benefits. fox resume to 973-492-9337.

Queen City Gymnastics at Kids First Sports Center - Girl's Team Coach. Queen City Gymnasti(s, on industry leader in Cincinnoti, Ohio, is currently looking for on experienced, enthusiosti(, professional (oO!h to ioin our occomplished and growing girl's (ompetitive program. A minimum of two years (oO!hing experience is required, with (apability of (oO!hing developmental through lower level optionals. A full-time position is available at our 86,000 sq_ h. facility with 36,000 sq. h_dedicated to gymnastics.

Competitive salary and great benefits including health, dental, vision, paid va(ation, retirement plan, and more! for application and reference requirements go to: www.kidsfirstsports.(om or (011513-489-7575.

JOIN THE FASTEST GROWING TEAM IN MASSACHUSETTS. Massa(husetts Gymnasti(s Center has exciting (areer opportunities available.

MGC operates five "state of the art" gymnastics facilities in the Greater Boston/ Metro West/ South Shore area with programs ranging from, Tumbletot to Notional level J.O. girls and boys teams.

We are looking for "The Best" instructors and (oa(hes in the industry. We offer a competitive (ompensotion package and fantasti( growth potential. We have immediote lull and part-time openings for the following positions: USAG girls (oo(h, USAG boys (oa(h, ReI. Team Coaches.

Cheerleading (oa(hes, Recreationol Progrom Director, Pre-s(hool and Closs Instru(tors. Interested (andidates should forward their resumes to: Mike Colo rossi, MGC, P.O. Box 856, Stow MA 02043 www.mike(olarossi@massgymnasti(s.(om

46

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2008

INSTRUCTORS/COACHES. Parogon Gymnasti(s of Norwood (Bergen County), NJ is looking for instructors and coaches, PIT-fIT. Requirements: Positive attitude, responsible, reliable, love of children. Positions ovoilable for (ompetitive team coach level 6 ond up with flexible hours. Also pres(hool through intermediate instruction_Company sponsored (ertifications (Safety, CPR, first Aid) full benefits/ paid va(ation & sick days, (om pony matched retirement plan. Will troin. Solary (ommensurate with experience. NEW facility, state-of-the-art, apprax.

11,000 sq. h. located in the NY/ NJ Metropolitan area, easily accessible from all maior highwoys.

Contact Dof: email:dot@paragongym.(om., 201 767-6921 or fox resume to 201 -767-6693 or ot 49 Walnut Street, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 07648. www.paragongym.com.

FOR SALE CLASS CONTROL for Windows. Serving Gymnastics since 1990 with Closs Management and Accounts Re(eivable sohwore, including free training and te(hni(al support. Pa(ked with features, easy to use, and networkable. flexible setup, easy assignments, rosters, attendance, marketing analysis, automated tuition IOlculation, multiple discounts, additional/retail (harges, inventory management, sales tax support, late (harges, early payment discounts, invoi(es/statements, re(eivables reports, financial and enrollment summaries, instructor s(hedules, waiting and makeup lists, moiling labels, send messages and invoices bye-moil, support for bonk droh and credit (ard payments, and much more. Only $600 ($300/ additional workstation). Contact Vaughn Sohware Services at 800-821-8516, vaughnsohware@bellsouth.net, or www.vaughnsohware.(om MC/VISA/AMEX GK RISK FREE PROGRAM: Get with the program!

It's better than ever, with a terrific assortment of NEW styles and fabrics and incomparable sales potential. Plus, it's easier than ever to order, sell and return your RISK fREE garments. We offer customized packages for your pro shop, meets and summer IOmp. You only pay for what you've sold and may return the rest, there is absolutely NO RISK! If you haven't tried us lately, it's time you started earning extra profits with our RISK fREE merchandise. Call 1-800-345-4087 for more information on how you IOn get started today!

Email: customerservi(e@gkelite.com Score Master - S(orekeeping sohware interfaced to many different score boards: EliteScore, BetaBrites, TV's & Proie(tors. Download team rosters from the USAG website. features include: random draws, (reate rotations, assign #\ the most (omprehensive reporting and results (on go directly to your website. Supports: wamens/ mens, individual/team, artistic/ rhythmic/ trampoline, (ompulsory/ optional.

Download a fREE demo at www.S(ore-Master.cam.

EDUCATION Available now! The NEW GYMCERT Gymnastics training manuals (levels 1, 2, 3, & the NEW Skills & Drills for the Compulsory Coa(h level's 4, 5 & 6) a must for training your stoff; cut your lesson planning time significantly; use to coordinate closs progressions and skill training methods; and, best of all have a quick reference that is easy to use which includes lesson Planning forms and Closs Evaluation forms by level. The GYMCERT manuals provide !Oncise instruction, clear illustrations, and several coaching, spoffing, and safety tips. Will your stoff be ready for your fall students? Order direct by (oiling toll free: 1-866-591-8500 or online: www.GYMCERT.(om.

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD UYES 1-1 00 WOl~' = $100 101-200 WOld. = $200

YOlK od iI T«Iri,.oewil CIlIIomaIi!oIy be pIaad onh for 30 day! at no odIItionoI chirge. The ad<nss is: www.u.a-n-.lks.Ofg/doS.ifitds/ YOlK 30 day. wi begin on the next regilD postilg date.

DEADLINES

DIADlINE FOR AD AND PAYMENT

ISSUE

CONSIGNMENT LEOTARDS ON CONSIGNMENT: Would you like to expand your leotard sales? This is a good time of the year to introduce a new assortment of leotards. Rebe«a's Mom popular leotard consignment program is the solution. Our consignment selection features our newest styles and fabrics, including the framed Hologram style. Rebecca's Mom specializes in workout leotards and team worm-up leotards featuring Holograms, foils, Gliffer, Rhinestones and Nail Heads and our rainbow of soh Velvet fabrics. We also include a sensational selection of nylon Iy(ra designs featuring Hawaiian prints. Our leotards are designed with your Team Gymnasts in mind and are available in all sizes, 5/ 6 through adult large. We are currently accepting new appli(ations from Club Pro Shops, Parent Booster Groups, Retail Stores and Summer Camps. Please coli our toll free telephone number, 1-888-289-2536 or fox Rebec(a's Mom at 1-818-980-0119 ior credit application, terms, and prices. We also supply State and Regional Meet Packages as well as leotards for special events, so please lOll TODAY. X

SUBMit Ellllll1 your ad olld aedit card iIIformotion to: Ipeszek@usa·gymnostilS.org Or moil to: USA GymnostilS, Pan Ameri(an Plaza 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300 Indianapol~, IN 46225 or fox to 317-237-5069.

." you Ia", please iKIoode y.... ad card ........,

exp..lian dOte eM signature.

PI.... designate ~ your ad should oppear in Technique magazine USA Gyml1051ia magazine. ADS SUBMtmD WITHOUT PAYMENT WIll NOT BE PUBUSHED. USA Gymnastics reserves Ihe riglrt 10 vary format.

TedUJique is ,ocelved by mare thon 17.000 USA Gymnostics

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professionol membe"

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thoosonds 01 viewers will be expoled

10 yoor ad anUne. Advertise 100' employmenl opporIunify, product, servi<e, or (ompelilion here Jor 9,eal result.. Ilues!ions? CaDloon Pesze, 01317-829·5646.

FOR INFORMATION to pubfsh a dossified ad in TedJnique, go to Imp://www.Uso-gymlHlstics.org/pu6Icot/otu/ Or coN Luon Peslek at 317-829-5646.

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Call National Travel Systems today to book your next trip, whether it's a gymnastics competition or a vacation

"NTS

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(888) 603'-8747

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7) GYMNASTICS

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION u.s. Postage

USA Gymnastics 201 S. Capitol Avenue, Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225

PAID Indianapolis, IN

Permit No. 7867

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

2008

SAFETY CERTIFICATION SCHEDULE

March

JuLy

9 North Smithfield, RI 02896; 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. littfe Gems Gymnasfics 408 Eddie Dowling HWY Directions: Sondra Nicoll 401 ·597·5587 Course code: PM03092008RI Instructor: Patricio McDiarmid413·596·2313

10 Coralville, IA 52241; 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Region 4 Congress, Marrio" Coralville, 300 East 9th St Course code: XX071 020081A Instructor: Jim Schlo"

15 North Hoven, IT 06473; 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

East Coost Sports Directions: Jerry Nelson 203·392·8874 Course code: JN03152008IT Instructor: Jerry Ne~on 203·392·8874 16 Ennis,1X 79424; 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Go Academy, 1301 Kaufman St Course code: PC031620081X Instructor: Pa"i Conner 806·771 -2519 29 HackeHslown, NJ 07840; 4:00 p.m.to 9:00 p.m.

Giant Gymnosfics, 306 Sfiger St Directions: John Skorski 908·850·3746 Course code: CF03292008NJ Instructor: Cothy Finkel 973·335·1943

June 18 Philadelrhia, PA 19107; 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Nafiona Congress, Philadelphia Morrion Downtown, 1201 Market St Course code: XX06162008PA 22 Philadelrhia, PA 19107; 8:45 o.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Nofiona Congress, Philadelphia Marrio" Downtown, 1201 Morket St Course code: XX06222008PA

17 Jacksonville, Fl32202; 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Region 8 Congress, Omni Jacksonville Hotel, 245 Water Street Course code: XX07172008Fl Instructor: Christine Colvert 20 Oklahoma Gty, OK 73102; 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Region 3 Congress, The Skirvin Hihon Oklahoma Gty, 1 Pork Ave. Course code: XX072020080K Instructor: Jon Eyman

August 14 Burlington, MA 01803; 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Region 6 Congress, Marrion Boslon Burlington, One Moll Rood (Rt 128 & 3A) Course code: XX08142008MA 21 Santo aara, CA 95054; 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Region 1Congress, Marrion Santo Clara, 2700 Mission College Blvd Course code: XX08212008CA

September 25 Indianapolis, IN 46240; 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Region 5 Congress, Sheraton Indianapolis, 8787 Keystone Crossing Course code: XX092520081N Instructor: Bobbi Montanari

SAFETY CERTIFICATION IS REQUIRED FOR PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIp· PRE·REGISTRATION FORM (Minimum age lor Salety Certililation is

15 years)

Nome: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _Mole or Femole:_ _ _ _ __ Professional or Instructor #: _______ Current Safety Exp. Date: _ _ _ _ _ __ Soc. Sec. # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Birth Date:_ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State: _ _ _ _ __ Zip: Telephone: (H) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

(W) _ _ _ _ _ _ __

E·mail Address: Course Code:

--------------------------------

Course City/ State: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date: _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Form of Payment:

0 VISA

0 Other _________ Poyment Amount: ________

Name on Card: Number: _________ Exp. Date: _____

L__

Signature: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ __

COST: www.usa·gymnastics.org Pro-Member with Current Sofety Certificotion wishing to r~certi~ ot live course .............:.: ....:................ no chorge Pro-Member with Expired or New Sofety Cerllflcollon ............ $ 65.00 Instructor Member ................................................................ $ 65.00 Non·Member ........................................................................ $ 115.00 * You must hove your USA Gymnastics number or dote opplied for on the registration form in order to qualify for the discount.

All registrotions must be received ot USA Gymnostics two (2) weeks prior to the course dote*. lote registrotions incomplete registrotions, or registrotions without proper poyment wirI not ~e processed. lote registrotions ore not guoronteed 0 book or odmission to the course. On-site omllote registrotions will be chorged 0 $25 on-site/lote fee. All moteriols, inciudinJl the course book, ore provided ot the course ond ore port of the course fee. Certificotion is volid for four (4) yeors. Sofety Certificotion is non-refundoble ond con not be transferred to another individual. Safety Certificotion registration, however, may be transferred to another course within six (6) months with prior written notificotion. lote fee will apply if notificotion is received after course deadline. ' USA Gymnastics reserves the right to alter course deadline

Mail registration form and payment to: VISA USA Gymnastics Member Services P",d 5p,",., Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46225 or Fax to 317-692-5212

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GYMNASTICS