Technique - Jan. 2011 - Vol. 31, #1

Austin White

Silver medalist in double mini at the 2010 Trampoline and Tumbling World Championships

The Junior Olympic Floor Exercise Dance Passage

Dealing with the Age-Old Issue of Fear

+

National gymnastics day winners

events 2011 JANUARY 21-23

JumpStart Testing (TT)

August Houston, TX

February 3-5 24-27

Winter Cup Challenge (M) JumpStart National Team Camp (TT)

Las Vegas, NV Houston, TX

March 2-6 4 5 25-26

Rhythmic Challenge

Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup (W) AT&T American Cup (M/W) USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships (M)

Colorado Springs, CO Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville, FL Springfield, MA

April 7-9 8-10 14-16 15-17 15-17

USA Gym Collegiate Championships (W) JO Regional Championships (M) NCAA Championships (M) L 9/10 Regional Championships (W) NCAA Championships (W)

May

4-8 6-8 13-14 15

JO National Championships (M) L 9 Eastern/Western Championships (W) JO National Championships (W) National Invitational Tournament (W)

Colorado Springs, CO Various Locations Columbus, OH various locations Cleveland, OH

18-20

National Congress and Trade Show

Saint Paul, MN

26-28

Region 1 Congress

Santa Clara, CA

September 8-11

State and Regional Chairman’s Workshop (M)

TBD

13-26

Rhythmic World Championships

Montpellier, France

17

National Gymnastics Day

various locations

30-Oct. 2 National TOP Testing (W)

Worcester, MA/San Diego, CA

8-16

World Artistic Championships (M/W)

Tokyo, Japan

14-30

Pan American Games (M/W/R/TR)

Guadalajara, Mexico

November

10-13

Future Stars Championships/Coaches Workshop (M) Colorado Springs, CO

16-19

Trampoline and Tumbling World Championships

June

July

9 8-10 10-15 10-16 15-17 21-24 22-27

National Qualifier (M) Trampoline & Tumbling U.S. Championships JO Championships (TT) World Gymnaestrada (GG) Region 8 Congress Covergirl Classic/Challenge (W) Acrobactic National Championships

TBD San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX Lausanne, SUI New Orleans, LA Chicago, IL San Jose, CA

W = Women R = Rhythmic AG = Acrobatic Gymnastics B = Business

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

Birmingham, ENG Houston, TX

DECEMBER 4-8

Long Beach, CA Long Beach, CA

USA Gymnastics Open Championships (W/R) Orlando, FL Region 3 Congress Vail, CO Olympic Gymnastics Week various locations JO National Championships (R) Chicago, IL Chicago Cup (R) Chicago, IL Olympic Day various locations American Classic Houston, TX

Houston, TX

October

Long Beach, CA

2-5 11-12 17-26 22-28 22-28 23 30-July 1

T E C H N I Q U E • january 2 0 1 1

Visa Championships (M/W/R) Saint Paul, MN

30-Dec. 4 National TOP Training Camp (W)

2

17-20

TOP B Training Camp (W)

Houston, TX

2012 January 10-18

Olympic Test Event

London, ENG

February 2-4

Winter Cup Challenge (M)

Las Vegas, NV

March 2

Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup (W)

TBD

3

AT&T American Cup (M/W)

TBD

16-18

Pacific Rim Championships (M/W/R/T)

TBD

23-24

USA Gymnastics Collegiate Champs. (M)

TBD

6-9

Visa Championships

28-30

USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show

June

28-July1 U.S. Olympic Team Trials-Gymnastics (M/W)

St. Louis, MO San Jose, CA San Jose, CA

TR = Trampoline M = Men GG = Group Gymnastics TU = Tumbling TT = Trampoline/Tumbling

TECHNIQUE



an official publication of USA Gymnastics University

JANUARY

Publisher

Steve Penny Editor

2011 • VOLUME 31 • #1

f e a t ur e s 6

The Junior Olympic Floor Exercise Dance Passage

Grant Glas

14

Dealing with the Age-Old Issue of Fear

USA Gymnastics Board of Directors

18

Cord Strength Exercises for Gymnasts

22

National Gymnastics Day Winners

Luan Peszek

6

Graphic Designer

Chair: Peter Vidmar Vice-Chair: Paul Parilla Secretary: Gary Anderson Treasurer: Morris Jim National Membership - Women: Tom Koll National Membership - Women: Steve Rybacki National Membership - Men: Yoichi Tomita National Membership - Men: Russ Fystrom National Membership - Rhythmic: Brooke Bushnell-Toohey National Membership - Trampoline & Tumbling: George Drew National Membership - Acrobatic Gymnastics: Dr. Jay Binder Advisory Council: Mike Burns Advisory Council: Ron Ferris Advisory Council: Carole Ide Athlete Director - Women: Terin Humphrey Athlete Director - Men: John Roethlisberger Athlete Director - Rhythmic: Jessica Howard Athlete Director - Trampoline & Tumbling: Karl Heger Athlete Director - Acrobatic Gymanstics: Michael Rodrigues Public Sector: Frank Marshall Public Sector: Bitsy Kelley Public Sector: Jim Morris Public Sector: Mary Lou Retton

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: In order to ensure uninterrupted delivery of TECHNIQUE magazine, notice of change of address should be made eight weeks in advance. For fastest service, please enclose your present mailing label. Direct all subscription mail to TECHNIQUE Subscriptions, USA Gymnastics, 132 E. Washington St., Suite 700, Indianapolis, IN 46204 .

14

d e p ar t m e n t s 2

Event Schedule

4

USA Gymnastics Message

28

Athlete Focus

33

Member Services

35

USA Gymnastics National Congress

36

Important Notice

37

Spotlight

40

Women’s Update

46

Classifieds

1018

14

22

TECHNIQUE is published monthly except bimonthly in Sept/ Oct and Nov/Dec by USA Gymnastics, 132 E. Washington St., Suite 700, Indianapolis, IN 46204 (phone: 317-2375050) or visit online @ www.usa-gymnastics.org Subscription prices: U.S.–$25 per year; Canada/Mexico–$48 per year; all other foreign countries–$60 per year. If available, back issue single copies $4 plus postage/handling. All reasonable care will be taken, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited material; enclose return postage.

Copyright 2010 by USA Gymnastics and TECHNIQUE. ­All rights reserved. Printed by Sport Graphics, Indianapolis, IN. Member Services 1-800-345-4719 Unless expressly identified to the contrary, all articles, statements and views printed herein are attributed solely to the author and USA Gymnastics expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility thereof.

Cover Photo

of

Austin White

by

Ron Wyatt

www.usagym.org Photographer © Philip Morton

january 2 0 1 1 • T E C H N I Q U E

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W

ith the beginning of a new year, an appropriate topic to discuss is “strengthening your core.”

This topic applies not only to our health and well-being, but it also relates to your gymnastics club and business practices. One particular area is evaluating the standard of care for your customers, along with new programs that can add a renewed sense of vitality to your business.

In today’s competitive environment, gymnastics clubs should be at the forefront of providing a safe and fun environment for children. USA Gymnastics is encouraging all gymnastics club owners to adopt best practices in the area of child welfare that improve and strengthen your policies and serve the best interests of our sport. This past year, USA Gymnastics implemented the Participant Welfare Policy, which is designed to promote a safe gymnastics environment. Your club can easily adopt a similar philosophy and follow the lead of USA Gymnastics through a few simple steps: 1. Adopt the principles of the Participant Welfare Policy for your club. (www.usagym.org/welfare) 2. Have your entire coaching staff background screened.

3. Educate your coaches through USA Gymnastics University – have them pass the safety certification course and take the Level 1 “Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction” online.

By incorporating these steps in your club, your coaches will be better educated and your club members will see the “standard of care” you provide for the children who participate in gymnastics.

It demonstrates your on-going commitment to high standards in these areas and provides a level of assurance to parents that you are doing everything you can to provide a safe environment.

All USA Gymnastics Member Clubs must sign an agreement that they will: promote a safe environment; adopt the Participant Welfare Policy; not hire or be associated with individuals permanently ineligible for membership; carry liability and associate comprehensive insurance; employ at least one person who is a USA Gymnastics professional member or holds a safety-certified USA Gymnastics instructor membership; and submit a mission statement that complements the USA Gymnastics mission statement. These are attributes that can be marketed within your community.

Another way to “strengthen your core” is to evaluate your curriculum and consider making changes that enhance the experience and opportunities for your athlete members. One of the fastest-growing programs in our sport is the women’s Prep-Op program (it is referred to as Xcel in Region 1). In the last year, USA Gymnastics has seen a 53% increase in the number of competitors at this level, helping to keep kids in the sport for a longer period of time. This program is designed to require fewer training hours, and is an attractive option to athletes who want to do both gymnastics and other school activities. In addition to keeping kids in the sport longer, it serves as a great opportunity within your recreational programs to introduce the fun and excitement of performing in front of others in a “low key” competitive experience. It is quite popular in certain parts of the country and represents one of the best growth areas for our sport. Your USA Gymnastics State Chair can provide more information on how to get involved or go to www.usagym.org/prepop.

These are just a couple of ways that you can enter the New Year with an optimistic approach and fresh ideas. We look forward to sharing more about strengthening the vibrancy and business success for gymnastics throughout 2011. Have a great year!

See you in the gym,

Steve Penny President and CEO

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The Junior Olympic Floor Exercise Dance Passage The purpose of this article is to provide additional background and clarification regarding the dance passage, which is a special requirement on floor exercise for optional levels in the Junior Olympic program. The focus will include the intent behind the dance passage, guidelines for composing and judging a dance passage, and options for integrating bonus into the dance passage.

By Linda Johnson, RJOCC Women’s Artistic Gymnastics

Background: Why a Dance Passage?

T

he Women’s Junior Olympic and Technical committees conceived of the idea of replacing the dance series in the previous (2005-09) cycle with a dance passage in the current (2009-13) cycle for many reasons. Among the considerations for making this change were to replace the focus of connecting dance elements with a focus on technical mastery of the dance elements integrated into a moving passage, expand options for creativity between dance elements, and provide a “FIG-friendly” option for gymnasts who compete in both Elite and Junior Olympic competitions.

The philosophy of the Junior Olympic program is the technical mastery of skill and art in an overall linear structure (http://usa-gymnastics. org/PDFs/Women/Rules/J.O.%20Code%20 of%20Points/2009-13JOCodePreview.pdf ). In the previous (2005-09) cycle, there was a special requirement on floor that required the gymnast to directly connect two dance elements (one of

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which was a leap requiring a 180° cross or side split position). Over time it was observed that there was less variety of dance elements used for this Special Requirement. Coaches and gymnasts were opting to “play it safe” when choosing dance elements for this series rather than risk taking a .5 deduction for missing the Special Requirement of a dance series. The evaluation of this special requirement focused on the connection between dance elements in a series.

When looking forward to the 2009-13 cycle the committees agreed that, in line with the philosophy of mastery of skill and art, it would benefit the gymnasts in the Junior Olympic program to create a different focus on how to integrate dance elements into a Special Requirement on floor exercise. It was agreed that the mastery of integrating dance elements in the floor exercise routine was not necessarily measured by how well these elements are connected, but rather how well the elements are performed and integrated into the choreography

as a whole. By adopting the dance passage, the focus would be taken away from the connection between dance elements and subsequently coaches and gymnasts would see more options when choosing elements for the dance passage. The idea was that the dance passage would encourage a large, flowing and traveling movement pattern, where elements could be connected directly OR indirectly. By allowing either directly connected elements OR elements connected indirectly with traveling steps, there is more room for creativity and variety. This would allow coaches and gymnasts to stretch the boundaries of what is possible for this passage. The passage also followed the overall philosophy adopted by the Junior Olympic committee for the 2009-2013 cycle. Gymnasts could focus on mastering dance elements in a balance between skill and art. Judges could focus on the overall quality of movement and skill in the moving passage rather than watching the feet for a direct connection. The intent was to simplify the evaluation of the Special Requirement.

With time, and as coaches and judges become accustomed to the guidelines for the passage, the evaluation of the passage should become easier.

During the previous cycle we received feedback from the gymnastics community that gymnasts who were involved in the Elite program (Hopes, Pre-Elite, Elite) and who were also competing within the Junior Olympic program (whether invitationals or qualification meets), had to change their routines to meet the requirements of each respective program. By designing a special requirement that was in line with the FIG scoring system, these gymnasts would not have to change their routines or risk taking deductions for missing special requirements when competing in the Junior Olympic program.

Guidelines for the Dance Passage:

T

he guidelines for the dance passage were created to provide coaches and choreographers direction when composing the special requirement into a floor exercise routine, and to assist judges with the evaluation of this special requirement. Again, the overall intent of the passage is to provide coaches and gymnasts more options, thus stretching their boundaries of

what is possible to meet the special requirement.

After receiving additional feedback after the first year of implementation of the dance passage, and in keeping with the philosophy behind the dance passage, the committees decided to further simplify the guidelines for this requirement.

Hopefully, these changes will help coaches and choreographers seek even more creativity and variety in performance, and there will be more consistency with how the dance passage is evaluated.

Elements Within the Dance Passage: The dance passage must contain 2 different Group 1 elements, directly or indirectly connected, one of which is a leap (one foot take-off ) requiring a 180° cross or side split position.

The intent with the dance passage is for the gymnast to continue to move between dance elements, whether they are connected directly or indirectly. When formulating guidelines for the dance passage, it was agreed that Group 1 elements would be most suitable for inclusion in the dance passage since they inherently travel.

Leap with a 180º Split in Cross or Side Position The requirement of a leap (one foot take-off ) element as part of this special requirement was carried over from the previous cycle. There are many options that the coach can choose from in Group 1 to fulfill this element. Examples include split leap (forward or side), switch leg leap, tour jeté, and turning leap. There are many variations of these leaps that will fulfill the requirement, provided that the athlete shows the required 180° split (forward or side). The split element must show the forward leg extended. If the rear leg only is in a stag position, it may be used as the leap element. The guidelines in the Junior Olympic

january 2 0 1 1 • T E C H N I Q U E

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Code of Points for counting value parts apply to the dance passage. An element may be used for value part credit twice in a routine provided that it is performed in a different connection.

The following are instances when the leap element requiring a 180º split is NOT fulfilled, resulting in a .5 deduction for not fulfilling the special requirement of a dance passage: • The gymnast does not include a leap with a 180° split (forward or side) in the dance passage.

• The gymnast attempts a leap within the dance passage however the leap does not meet the technical requirements for receiving the value part credit of a leap. An example of this might be if the leap performed has insufficient split (greater than 46° split missing). In this case, the technical requirement of the value part for a leap with 180º split is not met. Another example is if the forward leg is maintained in a stag position throughout the leap. In this instance the leap would not fulfill the requirement that the passage must include a leap with a 180º split in cross or side position. The Code of Points lists specific technical requirements for many Group 1 elements. This is a resource that coaches can use when choosing elements for their

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gymnasts. Likewise, judges should refer to these guidelines for the technical evaluation of elements.

• In the counting of value parts, an element used in the dance passage is performed a second time in the routine, and is not performed in a different connection. For example, if a gymnast performs an isolated switch leg leap early in the routine, then later performs a switch leg leap indirectly connected to another Group 1 element, the second switch leg leap will not receive value part credit because it is performed a second time without a different connection (Page 216, Junior Olympic Code of Points). If, in this example, the athlete performed the switch leg leap directly connected to another element in her dance passage, she would receive value part credit for the leap. Guidelines for the counting of value parts apply to the dance passage.

2 Different Group 1 Elements Within the Passage

A

leap element with a 180° split may be performed as the first and/or second element within the dance series. The other element may be any element within Group 1 provided that the 2 elements in the passage are not the same.

• Both elements within the dance passage must come from Group 1. It is acceptable to

vary the Group 1 elements provided that the root skill is recognizable. For example, if a gymnast performs a tuck jump to prone, and the root skill of a tuck jump is recognized, it would fulfill the Special Requirement. Another example would be if a wolf hop is performed, and the orientation of the body is sideward rather than forward, the value part credit for the wolf hop would be awarded. Variations of value part elements should not be penalized or discouraged as long as the root skill is recognized as a Group 1 element.

• The Group 1 elements used within the dance passage must be different. For example, if the gymnast performs a split leap followed by a chassé, assemblé, straddle jump, the special requirement is fulfilled. Guidelines for recognizing that a skill is different are outlined in the Junior Olympic Code of Points.

• The gymnast may perform the Group 1 elements in the passage in any order. The one exception is a Group 1 element that lands in prone or split-sit, which may be used ONLY as the 2nd element of the dance passage. The leap requirement may be performed as the 1st and/ or 2nd element in the passage.

The following are instances where the dance elements used in the dance passage would NOT fulfill the special requirement: • If the elements performed are considered the same. For example, if a gymnast directly connects two turning leaps, the special requirement will not be fulfilled since the elements are the same. Also, if the gymnast performs an element that is technically the same as the second element in the passage, the special requirement is not fulfilled. For example, if the gymnast attempts to perform a switch leg leap indirectly connected to a switch-ring leap, however does not release her head during the switch-ring leap, she has essentially performed two switch leg leaps. In this instance, she would also not receive value part credit for the second switch leg leap since it is not in a different connection. Remember that the guidelines for counting value parts apply to the dance passage. It is important for the coaches to choose elements that the

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gymnast can master and perform technically so that the elements are recognized as different.

• A Group 1 element that finishes in prone or split-sit is used as the first element within the dance passage.

• Acrobatic elements are not allowed within the dance passage. If an acrobatic element is performed within the dance passage, then the Special Requirement is NOT fulfilled. For example, if a gymnast performs a switch leg leap, then performs a round-off straddle jump, the Special Requirement is not fulfilled because of the Round off within the dance passage.

Direct vs. Indirect Connections

T

he elements within the dance passage may be connected directly or indirectly. This is a major change from the previous cycle. The emphasis of the dance passage is on the technical execution of the elements and the integration of the elements into a moving and traveling passage. The choice of whether to directly or indirectly connect the dance elements within the passage is given to the coach and the gymnast.

Some gymnasts might want to incorporate bonus connections into the dance passage. This is common at the higher optional levels where athletes are attempting to include a balance of tumbling and dance combinations to fulfill both special requirements and bonus and reach a higher start value. The flexibility of allowing either direct or indirect connections provides the possibility of fulfilling the special requirement and bonus in one passage, thus allowing more time and energy in the routine for creative choreography to integrate the routine as a whole. Of course, the direct connection is not just limited to those incorporating bonus. Having the option of either provides the coach and gymnast freedom of choice based on the goals of the gymnast.

Elements may be indirectly connected using running steps, small leaps, hops, chassés, assemblés, or chainé turns. The idea here was to have the gymnast connect the elements with locomotor, traveling steps. It would be impossible to list all of the possible variations of these steps into the Code of Points. There are many traveling steps used in dance vocabulary that

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would certainly apply provided that the gymnast continues to travel. A STOP or PAUSE within the dance passage, whether the elements are connected directly or indirectly, would NOT fulfill the Special Requirement. If the feet are stationary, even if the arms or torso are moving, it is considered a STOP OR PAUSE. A pause can be defined as a brief stop of the feet. Coaches should choose elements and/ or connections that the gymnast is able to perform well, without a STOP OR PAUSE during direct or indirect connections, in order to avoid receiving a deduction for not fulfilling the Special Requirement.

It is possible to incorporate these traveling steps in a variety of directions, characterizations and rhythms to integrate the dance passage into the choreography. Again, as long as there is no STOP or PAUSE within the dance passage connections or elements, and the technical requirements of the elements are met, the Special Requirement will be fulfilled.

A gymnast may “rebound” out of an element or connection (such as an assemblé) provided she continues to move and does not STOP or PAUSE. A Group 2 element (turn) or turning steps (chainés, piqué, pivots, etc.) may be performed within the dance passage as part of an indirect connection between the Group 1 elements, however will NOT count as one of the two required elements since these elements do not come from Group 1 (leaps, jumps, hops). The gymnast may use a preparation to enter a turn; however there may not be any STOP or PAUSE during the preparation or the turn. Again, as long as there is not STOP or PAUSE in the dance passage, the dance passage will be fulfilled.

If a gymnast attempts to directly connect the elements and has a balance error, however continues to move, the Special Requirement would be fulfilled since it is not required that the gymnast directly connect the elements. A rhythm deduction may be appropriate in this case.

Bonus Connections:

I

t is possible for a gymnast to attempt to use a direct connection of dance elements from Group 1 for both the dance passage and for a bonus connection. The use of bonus connections may be used within the dance passage provided that the guidelines for the dance passage (as outlined above) are met. For example, a switchring leap directly connected to a tour jeté ½ would

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fulfill the requirements of the dance passage AND be eligible for bonus.

It is also possible for a gymnast to add elements before or after the dance passage for bonus. For example, she may perform a sissonne (first Group 1 element), chassé, run, switch-ring leap (2nd Group 1 element), which is directly connected to a double (2/1) turn. In this case, the dance passage is fulfilled by the indirect connection between the sissonne and switch-ring leap, and bonus is achieved by directly connecting the switch-ring leap to the double (2/1) turn. Another example may be that a gymnast performs a double (2/1) turn directly connected to a tour jeté ½ (first Group 1 element), rebounds and runs to an assemblé, straddle jump (2nd Group 1 element). Bonus may be awarded for the direct connection between the double (2/1) turn and the tour jeté ½. The dance passage is fulfilled by the indirect connection between the tour jeté ½ and the straddle jump.

Another example may be if a gymnast performs a Switch-ring leap directly connected to a double turn directly connected to a tour jeté ½. Provided there are no pauses or stops in this passage, there would be 3 “C” elements directly connected and eligible for bonus. In this case the gymnast opted to use a turn element within the passage. This turn may now be performed within the dance passage as a connection.

Summary:

A

rtistry has always been an integral component of women’s artistic gymnastics.

The change to a dance passage opens new possibilities for gymnasts to perform required dance elements in an artistic form. This change has challenged coaches and judges to re-align expectations from the previous cycle and to understand the goals and direction of the new cycle.

Hopefully, the background and clarification of this article will help everyone embrace the possibilities that this change will bring to the choreography and performance of floor exercise routines.

Dealing with the Age-Old Issue of Fear

By John Geddert, co-owner of Gedderts’ Twistars USA Gymnastics Club in Lansing, Mich., USA Women’s National Team Coach, Region 5 Hall of Fame Inductee, and creator of new website for coaches: www.JohnGeddert.com

W

ithout a doubt, fear is on every gymnastics coach’s top five list of most frustrating coaching issues. It can drive you to drink, beat your head against the chalk box, or consider coaching soccer (I can’t ever recall being afraid to dribble and score).

The nature of the beast is that our sport is scary… plain and simple! Athletes quickly learn that landing on your head hurts, straddling the beam leaves ugly marks, and slamming your shins into the bar or table has a tendency to stop rotation. Fear is inevitable in gymnastics.

If coaches can grasp the foreign idea that fear is actually the friend of the gymnast, perhaps patience in dealing with the periodic problem will be easier to offer. Fear keeps things real. It fosters consistent effort and focus. Actually, we all probably use fear as a motivator more often than we would care to admit. How many times have you warned an athlete “you’re going to get hurt if you don’t try harder, concentrate, or focus?”

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Bridling fear is the key. Teaching kids how to control the fear is an art that some gymnastics coaches simply miss the boat on. From experience I can tell you that regardless of how infantile you may think the fear issue is -- the fear is real to the gymnast. I hear the term “irrational fear” all the time. It may be irrational to YOU, but to the athlete the notions of crashing, bruising, scraping are not irrational thoughts.

The short cut method of dealing with fear is to punish the athlete into submission …. “stay on beam until you finish,” “come back after practice,” yell and scream at them, ridicule and humiliate them (as I write this blog, I have a faint recollection of a coach using these tactics long ago and, coincidentally, he resembled the likeness of ME. Many say I’ve mellowed over the years, I say I’ve just gotten smarter). Short term tactics don’t solve the problem and, in fact, just create others like fear of the coach, hating gymnastics, hating practice, enforcing bad habits, lowering self-image etc..

Dealing with the Age-Old Issue of Fear

If I had to condense dealing with fear into an allencompassing solution here is how I would start: • Know what the fear is. Have the gymnast verbalize her particular issue.

• Let the gymnast know that fear is OK, as long as there are efforts to overcome it.

• Set the guidelines of acceptable behavior. No crying, no standing shaking in her boots, no lying about requirements, etc.

• Make the gymnast comfortable and assure her that you are there to assist her with her problem.

• Have the gymnast give input to the solution.

Ask what she needs to take the appropriate steps to progress. (5 back walkovers on the floor line, 5 on the low beam with mats, 25 with a double\spot, etc.) You, of course, accept her ideas or offer a compromise … how about 5 with a single spot.)

• Set a time line contract for advancing. “Okay, this week we will stay on the floor and low beam, next week the medium beam with a pad, and the following week high beam with a spot.”

• As a coach, it’s important to look in the mirror and ask “What can I do better? Or what could I have done better? Many fears are the result of moving too fast with progressions, progressing beyond the physical or mental abilities of the gymnast, or technical imperfections that lead to problems and therefore a lack of confidence.

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As a coach you need to: • Check the lead-ups for the skill(s) in question.

Can they break the skill down into smaller components with success?

• Floor drills are very important. Isn’t it ridiculous to ask a kid to do something on beam that she struggles with on the floor?

• Check the physical abilities. Are they strong enough? Can they achieve the required shapes as an isolated element?

• Check your progressions. Did you allow enough time to master confidence in less intimidating training situations, i.e. with spotted skills, padded skills, line drill basics, etc.?

• Check your attitude in dealing with fear. Do you show anger, frustration, lack of patience?

This could be adding to the stress level for the gymnast.

• Check the technique. Little things like alignment, head position, eye focal points, etc.

• Perhaps outside mental coaching is needed.

There are many great sports psychologists that work wonders with the bridling of fear.

As a final thought: When in doubt, back up a step or two and fix any technical problems. Even if the technique seems fine, reviewing the basic lead-ups to reinforce the gymnast’s confidence never hurts.

Often times the toughest issues have the simplest answers. Such is the case when dealing with fear.

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Cord Strength Exercises for Gymnasts

By Natasha Ringenberg, MS, CSCS, USAW

S

trength training outside of gymnastic specific training or conditioning is important for gymnasts to include in their regular training programs.

The amount of relative strength , (the type of strength characteristic that factors in one’s body weight or muscle size) that gymnasts must have in order to project their bodies around in space is substantial, thus requiring strength training with an additional load. Body weight training is a great way to teach athletes how to perform squats, lunges and push-ups correctly. It’s also a great way to condition on the road or when equipment is limited. However, the gymnast will eventually become used to strength training with his/her own body weight and an additional load will be required in order to continue developing strength gains.

This necessity follows the principle of overload, in order for a training adaptation to occur an athlete needs to be worked at a level greater than what they are currently used to. To make strength gains gymnasts need to train their muscles at an intensity greater than what they are used to, which is typically their own body weight.

So how can this be achieved when the following limitations are present: no access to a weight room or weight lifting equipment, on the road training, the athlete is too young to lift heavy weights? Fortunately, the overload training stimulus can be achieved through such inexpensive training tools as medicine balls, physioballs, light hand weights, and rubber tubing or elastic cords. The scope of this article will focus on strength training with elastic cords.

Cords serve as a relatively simple tool for strength training.

They are easy to travel with, they do not take up much space, all that is needed is a sturdy edge or a fixed loop to place the cord through or around, and they are relatively inexpensive.

The amount of resistance rubber tubing or elastic cords provide vary on the length and thickness of the tubing or cord.

Typically the manufacturer will provide an idea or approximate amount of resistance of the tubing or cord within the packaged information.

Tubing and cords provide what is called variable resistance.

When performing an exercise, you will notice the amount of resistance change as you go through varying ranges of motion.

For example, an athlete is performing a standing bicep curl.

The athlete will stand with both feet together, and the cord securely held down with one foot. The ends or the handles of the cord are held tight in both the right and left hand, with the athlete’s palms facing outward. The athlete will then flex both elbows, pulling on the ends of the cord up until their elbows are as closed as the athlete can get them. This will be followed by the athlete slowly, and under control, allowing their elbows to extend back open to the start position. While the athlete performs this movement, the amount of resistance that the cord gives back to the athlete will increase as the athlete’s elbow moves towards 90-degrees of flexion (forearm parallel

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to the floor). As rubber tubing or elastic cord is stretched the resistance increases, the amount of increase lessens as the diameter (or length of the cord from the fixed point) decreases.

One needs to understand these principles and use care with utilizing tubing or cords at the end range of movement. As the tubing or cord reaches its elastic limit the resistance increases quite a bit thus possibly leading to more instability in the joint.

Use caution at the end ranges of motion in all exercises and adjust the amount of resistance accordingly. This can be as simple as moving the athlete closer towards the tubing or cord’s attachment point, thus shortening the elastic limit.

There are a limitless amount of exercises that can be performed with rubber tubing or elastic cords, and all span multiple areas of the body utilizing multiple muscles. The following are just a few exercises that utilize these implements as external resistance, and can be performed solo or in a circuitstyle fashion, (one right after the other with minimal rest between exercises).

1. Overhead Resisted Elevation/Depression

Have the athlete stand on the middle of the cord with either one foot or two feet. One foot on the cord will offer less resistance than two feet on the cord. Have the athlete safely extend their arms over their head with elbows locked. Perform the movement by having the athlete shrug their shoulders upward followed by pulling their shoulders back down. The elbows should stay fully extended throughout the movement (don’t allow the athlete to bend his/her elbows). When the exercise set is completed, and the athlete is done make sure the athlete bends his/her elbows and slowly lowers the cord handles back down towards the floor. For the circuit have the athlete perform this for 20-30 seconds for 2-3 rounds.

2. Plank & Pull A C B

body (against a fair amount of resistance) with a bent elbow until the fist lines up approximately under the shoulder. Allow both the arm and leg to extend again under control. Do not allow the athlete to let his/her hips sag or rotate. Also watch to make sure that the athlete’s lower back does not excessively flex or drop when the leg flexes and extends -- the idea is for the athlete to control his/her core (trunk) without allowing arm and limb movement to change the position of his/ her spine (the spine needs to remain neutral or stable).

For the circuit have the athlete perform this exercise for 20-30 seconds with his/her right arm/left leg, and 20-30 seconds with his/her left arm/right leg for 2-3 rounds.

4. Body-weight supported 1-arm cord row A

Have the athlete position themselves prone on his/ her forearms and on the balls of the feet as pictured.

The cord should be looped around a sturdy fixture and placed in the athlete’s hand. Have the athlete perform a one-arm row or one-arm pull by drawing the handle in towards their body with an extended arm. Pull the cord in towards the body (against a fair amount of resistance) with a bent elbow until the fist lines up approximately under the shoulder. Allow the arm to extend again-under good muscular control (never let the cord yank you back in)-and repeat. Do not allow the athlete to let his/ her hips sag or rotate towards the support side. For the circuit have the athlete perform this exercise for 20-30 seconds with his/her right arm, and 20-30 seconds with his/her left arm for 2-3 rounds.

3. Birddog Resisted arm pull

A

B

Have the athlete position himself/herself prone on hands and knees as pictured. The cord should be looped around a sturdy fixture and placed in the athlete’s hand.

Have the athlete perform a one-arm row or one-arm pull by drawing the handle in towards his/her body with an extended arm while simultaneously flexing the opposite knee in towards the elbow. Pull the cord in towards the

B

Have the athlete fix one end of the cord to a sturdy box with the free end pulled underneath the opposite end as pictured. The body needs to be set up in a prone push-up position with the athlete’s hand aligned directly underneath his/her shoulder and elbow. The shoulder should not be elevated, or shrugged up, but pulled down in towards the body with the shoulder blade held firm against the rib cage. The free hand grasps the cord handle. With the arm initially extended, pull against the resistance of the cord with a bent elbow. Allow the elbow to extend again under control and repeat. Make sure that the athlete’s body holds a straight line, do not allow the athlete to sag his/her hips or rotate his/her hips in towards the cord. The goal is for the athlete to fight the rotational pull inwards and hold his/her hips in a straight line. For the circuit, have the athlete perform this exercise for 20-30 seconds with his/her right arm/left leg, and 20-30 seconds with his/her left arm/right leg for 2-3 rounds.

T

here are a few key points to remember when training with rubber tubing or elastic cords.

Again, one needs to keep in mind and respect the properties of elastic. As the tubing or cord reaches its elastic limit the resistance increases quite a bit thus possibly leading to more instability in the joint. Always

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5. Pull-thrus

A

B

C

D

use caution at the end ranges of motion in all exercises and adjust the amount of resistance accordingly. If at the end of a movement, the athlete feels like the resistance has become too much to handle, or begins to feel unstable have him/her move back towards the fixed point of the tubing or cord, thus shortening the length of the device and releasing some of the tension. When returning the cord or tubing back to its resting length (either within the set or when finishing a set) do not let the cord “yank� you. Allow the cord to return to its normal resting length under steady muscular control. This will aid in preventing injury to a joint or muscle tear.

Finally, however foremost, always check your tubing or cords for wear and tear. Observe the surface of the rubber or elastic both in its resting length and when pulled out to its terminal end. Check the full length of the implement for any signs of damage, wear, or weakening. If there are signs of distress, throw it away and purchase a new one. Enjoy these exercises and try them both for time and for repetition sets.

Have the athlete attach or loop the cord around a sturdy fixture. The athlete will then straddle the cord and squat down to place the handles in both hands as pictured. The athlete will start in a squatted position with his/her back straight, and hips flexed, and knees slightly bent. Have the athlete apply pressure to the floor, and while keeping his/her back straight, extend the hips open against the resistance. Do not allow the athlete to pull the cord with his/her arms, the arms need to stay straight and fixed. Make sure the athlete keeps his/her shoulder blades pulled back -- do not allow him/her to round the upper back.

Another version pictured has the athlete starting in more of a dead lift position with less bend in the knees more flexion at the hips (his/her nose is positioned out in front of his/her toes). This version will target the athlete’s high hamstrings a little more than the squat version will. With either version, do not allow the athlete to bend or extend his/her lower back -- all movement should be done at the hips, while his/her back remains neutral throughout the movement. For the circuit have the athlete perform this exercise for 20-30 seconds for 2-3 rounds.

St. Vincent Hospital and St. Vincent Sports Performance in Indianapolis, Ind., are official service providers to USA Gymnastics.

Call 317-415-5747 or visit sportsperformance.stvincent.org

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1.866.MOBILITY – ATT.COM/WINDOWSPHONE – VISIT A STORE AT&T IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF USA GYMNASTICS. Phones subject to availability. Microsoft Windows® Phone and the Windows logo are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. ©2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. Service provided by AT&T Mobility. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Gymnastics World, Broadview Heights, Ohio

Gymnastics comm Children’s Mira

S

ince 2001, gymnastics clubs across the country have raised more than $1.3 million for Children’s Miracle Network. This year, gym clubs and their members raised nearly $116,000 as part of their celebrations for National Gymnastics Day through open house events and the Tyson Fitness Challenge, a joint initiative of USA Gymnastics and Tyson Foods that helps kids become more physically active through fun activities. The monies raised are distributed to each gym club’s local Children’s Miracle Network hospital, which helps children around the country who are fighting illness.

For the fourth consecutive year, the top fundraising club is Gymnastics World, Inc. of

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Broadview Heights, Ohio, which raised $26,925 for Children’s Miracle Network this year. The club’s efforts again were led by Abby Villenauve, the individual fundraising winner for the last two years who brought in $9,630 of this year’s total.

The top three clubs and individual participants receive prizes from AAI, Tyson and USA Gymnastics.

The top three clubs and individuals that raised the most money for Children’s Miracle Network in 2010 are listed below.

Clubs

Gymnastics World, Broadview Heights, Ohio, $26,925 Northern Elite, Flanders, N.J, $20,770 California Sports Centers, San Jose, Calif., $14,323

munity’s total donations to acle Network exceed $1.3M Mary Kate Cacchione,

Individuals

Flanders, N.J., Northern Elite, $7,445

Emma Timblin, Abby Villenauve, Broadview,

Oxford, N.J., Northern Elite, $4,428

Ohio, Gymnastics World, $9,630

january 2 0 1 1 • T E C H N I Q U E

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T

he top three clubs shared with us how they raised funds for such a great cause. Here’s what they had to say.

#1 Gymnastics World of Broadview Heights, Ohio

Owners: Joan and Ron Ganim Amount Earned: $26,925 USA Gymnastics: Your club is the top fundraising club for the fourth consecutive year. Do you have a favorite story from this year’s event?

Ganims: One of our athletes received permission from her school principal to have a contest for a dress-down day. Each home-room class had a jar where they collected money for CMN. The classroom that received the most money was allowed to have a dress-down day. She received nearly $200 in coins.

USA Gymnastics: Your gym had 150 gymnasts participate in this year’s event. Why is this fundraising effort a priority for you and your athletes?

Ganims: It has always been our belief that we are teachers first and coaches second. Part of being a teacher involves looking at the total child, not just the athlete. This responsibility as a teacher invokes the need to find ways that help parents and community raise the child to be a good person.

And, being a good person, in part, means helping others. CMN gave us the opportunity to teach the kids that when everyone does a little, we can make the world a better place to live.

USA Gymnastics: How do you explain to your athletes, parents, and staff the importance of fundraising?

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Ganims: Whenever the timing is right, we talk to the kids about being a good person and how their participation in the CMN effort will help their journey. We speak of obligation to help others; opportunity to grow; and how selfless acts help us feel good about ourselves.

USA Gymnastics: Summarize how you feel about the results of your fundraising through the eyes of your athletes and staff?

Ganims: They are athletes, so they are competitive.

They said that they wanted to continue to “defend their title of #1.” I see the pride these kids have in their eyes when we are at meets and when judges and other coaches come up to them and congratulate them for all of their hard work. It’s really great to see their pride in what they’ve accomplished.

#2 Northern Elite of Flanders, N.J.

Owner: Noreen Cacchione Amount Earned: $20,770 USA Gymnastics: What activities were involved in your fundraiser?

Noreen: Our activities included the Tyson Fitness Challenge, Miracles Benefit Performance including concessions and a raffle, Miracles Balloons, and Online Fundraising. We had at least 100 athletes participating this year!

USA Gymnastics: Why was this event a priority for you this year?

Noreen: Children’s Miracle Network is a priority because we have been in their hospital and have seen what impact our help can have. We have a gym full of healthy kids who realize how lucky they are.

We have a gym full of parents of healthy kids who also realize how lucky they are, so who better USA

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will host inaugural USA Gymnastics

OPEN ChAmPiONShiPS!

Dates: June 2-5, 2011 Site: HP Field House ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Lake Buena Vista, Florida What is the USA Gymnastics Open Championships?

USA Gymnastics is hosting a nationwide invitational for Women’s Levels 4-8 and Rhythmic Levels 4-6. We have partnered with Disney Sports at the newly re-imagined ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex to combine an outstanding competition experience in a family-friendly atmosphere.

This competition will feature both individual and club team champions, and will crown an overall 2011 Club Team Champion for both women and rhythmic.

A women’s artistic National Elite Qualifier will also be conducted in conjunction with this event.

How do I enter?

Register at www.usagym.org/openchampionships.

Note: You will need to register for the team competition in each level separately. The team fee will be applied to the first registered coach for each level.

Tentative Schedule: Thursday, June 2 Artistic – Prep-Op (Division C and above; will follow Region 8 Prep-Op Rules), and Level 4 Rhythmic – Future Stars Test Friday, June 3 Artistic – Levels 4-5, Rhythmic – Level 4 Saturday, June 4 Artistic – Levels 6-7, Rhythmic – Level 5 Sunday, June 5 Artistic – Levels 8 & Elite Qualifier, Rhythmic – Level 6 The above is a tentative schedule only. Depending on your competition draw, we recommend you arrive Thursday morning and plan on departing Sunday/Monday morning, to allow you to take full advantage of Walt Disney World vacation package options.

A finalized meet schedule will be available in April, 2011.

Equipment: AAI

Awards and Club Team Competition: Individual awards will be given for each age group in each session. Age groups will be established by dividing the athletes in each session into four approximately equal groups (determined by actual birth date).

Club teams will be comprised of a minimum of three (3) gymnasts per club. The top three club team champions will be awarded in each session. Team scores will be determined by adding the top three scores in each event.

The top three overall club team champions will be named at the conclusion of the event. Points will be awarded based upon the Team rankings per level in each session (1st place = 5 pts.; 2nd place = 3 pts. And 3rd place = 1 pt.)

Entry Fees: $50.00/gymnast – Artistic Prep-Op, $75.00/gymnast – Artistic Levels 4-8 $150.00/gymnast – Rhythmic Levels 4-6 $15.00/club team per level – Artistic $30.00/club team per level – Rhythmic Deadlines: Entry deadline is March 1, 2011.

Late fee is $25.00 per gymnast.

Refunds will be granted minus a $25.00 administrative fee per athlete. No refunds will be permitted after May 1, 2011.

Accommodations: A variety of accommodation and vacation packages are available through National Travel Systems. © Disney

Gymnastics: How did you explain to your athletes and their parents how important it is to help others?

Noreen: Our athletes and families totally get it. No explanation was necessary. The families were all super enthusiastic about helping.

USA Gymnastics: Do you have a favorite story about a particular event from this year’s event?

Noreen: Our feel good story is once again about our show, Miracles. 100% of our gym comes together and puts on a fun-filled, spectacular, high-energy show. Our audience grew from 100+ last year to 350--standing room only. Everyone who came loved it, and everyone who participated felt proud.

It’s a great experience. Hands down, my favorite charitable event we do here at Northern Elite.

#3 California Sports Centers of San Jose, Calif.

Owners: Dave & Anne Peterson Director Operations & Marketing: Christopher Brown Amount Earned: $14,323 USA Gymnastics: What activities were used for this year’s fundraising efforts?

Christopher: We collected some donations on event day through retail booths, face painting, a bounce house, and a dunk tank. A team parent also put together a leotard donation program for the event.

Lightly used leotards were sold at a great price and 100% of the sales were donated. The biggest portion of fundraising centered around a cartwheel-a-thon

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T E C H N I Q U E • january 2 0 1 1

also held on Sept. 18. Participants completed as many cartwheels as possible in two minutes and then, following the event, collected donations from family and friends.

USA Gymnastics: How many athletes and staff members participated?

Christopher: We had an estimated 600 visitors over the course of our three-hour event, including visits by local politicians, the San Jose Sports Authority, and varsity gymnasts from San Jose State University and U.C. Berkeley. Volunteer support was provided by our staff, parents, and athletes. At least 70 people helped out in different ways. We are lucky to have so many great staff and parents who are willing to support special events like National Gymnastics Day. USA Gymnastics: What did you tell the children and their parents about fundraising for the CMN? Christopher: We tell them about USA Gymnastics’ partnerships and the national campaign to support kids in need.

We mention that our fundraising efforts support our local Children’s Hospital of Oakland.

USA Gymnastics: Were you recognized by media? Did the athletes make flyer, posters, etc.?

Christopher: We promoted our event locally, and were the featured September event in a local parenting magazine. We had volunteer staff and athletes make event signs and posters.

For more information about National Gymnastics Day visit www.usagym.com!

Mark your calendars now for National Gymnastics Day 2011 on September 17.

Athlete Focus

Austin White Wins Silver

By Luan Peszek

A

ustin White, 22, won the silver medal on double-mini trampoline at the 2010 World Championships in Metz, France, which took place Nov. 11-13. When asked how it felt to win the silver medal, he said, “It was an incredible sense of achievement and something I’ve worked for my entire career. My goals have progressed over the years and this medal serves as a culmination of all of them.”

White is originally from Irvine, Calif., but now lives in Newport Coast, Calif., and trains at World Elite Gymnastics with his coaches Robert Null and Peter Dodd.

He is the 2010 U.S. Elite Challenge double mini champion and took third at the 2010 Visa Championships. White is also the double mini champion from the 2010 Pan American Championships in Daytona Beach, Fla. At the 2009 World Championships White was a member of the USA team that earned the bronze medal in double mini. He also placed eighth individually at

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that competition.

We asked White if this was his best accomplishment so far, and he said, “Yes. I’ve had my share of ups and downs and exciting moments along the way, but ultimately none can compare to the pride I have for bringing home a silver medal for the USA. White’s double mini routine was the highest total degree of difficulty of the World Championships competition. His routines included a total of six triple somersaults, some with half and full twists in tuck and pike positions.

When asked about his goals for the future, he said, “I plan on competing again next year at World Championships in Birmingham, England. I will assume the responsibility of leading the team next year as we head into the team competition.

I’m looking forward to a very strong team since at this year’s World Championships we finished prelims in 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th, which is an outstanding result.”

Jordyn Wieber 2009 American Cup Champion photo © John Cheng

Rebecca Bross 2010 American Cup Champion photo © John Cheng

Nastia Liukin 2006 & 2008 American Cup Champion

Paul Hamm 2008 American Cup Champion

Shawn Johnson 2007 American Cup Champion photo © Voker Minkus

Jonathon Horton 2006 & 2007 American Cup Champion photo © John Cheng

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Safety/Risk Management Certification is required for all Professional, Junior Professional, and Introductory Coach Members.

Interested in hosting a Preschool Fundamentals Hands on Training course at your gym? Here’s how…

The H.O.T. course is a great follow-up to Part 1 (online portion) of the Preschool Fundamentals course. The Part 1 online course focuses on child development theory in the context of gymnastics movement education. Part 1 is not required prior to Part 2, but is highly recommended. Please note: both portions of the course provide a

certificate of completion, however both must be completed in order for an individual to receive USA Gymnastics University credit.

The Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training workshop is a great contribution to the education of gymnastics professionals and a convenient way to bring education to your staff!

The following is all the information you need to get started.

Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (H.O.T.) Course This course is a must have for preschool instructors and teachers as well as other recreational gymnastics instructors.

H.O.T. Course Host Club Overview Course Requirements • The H.O.T. course is scheduled 4.5hrs.

• Access to the gym equipment/apparatus, especially the floor exercise area and preschool equipment is necessary.

• Host Club should provide the following equipment: Computer (laptop preferable), LCD projector (if possible) and screen or wall space for projection, CD player, white board or flip charts and markers.

• A classroom setting is not necessary, as lectures and demonstrations will take place in the gym.

• It is best if the course can take place at a time when there are no other (or little) activities in the gym.

Course Fees • There is no charge to the host club to hold a course in their facility!

• Each participant will pay a registration fee to attend the course. Registration fees are as follows: • Members (professional, jr. pro, instructor, and athlete) - $70, save $5 by registering online.

• Other member types and non-members - $120 • Onsite or late registrations - $25 (in addition to above cost) • For hosting a workshop, your gym will receive one complimentary registration with a minimum of 10 paid participants. Two complimentary registrations if you are a Member Club.

•

The host club is responsible for transporting the course instructor to and from the airport, hotel and course, if necessary.

Registration Requirements • USA Gymnastics must receive a minimum of six paid pre-registrations in order to conduct a H.O.T. workshop, but 10 or more pre-registrants are preferred.

• If there are less than 6 pre-registrations for the course, the course will be cancelled.

Cancellations will be determined following the online registration deadline, which is Monday of the week of the course.

• USA Gymnastics will work with the course instructor to help promote the course). We also need your help in promoting the workshop among your staff and with other clubs in your area.

• Pre-registration is important to ensure the course can be held!

• All attendees MUST pre-register with USA Gymnastics. The registration deadline for faxed and mailed registrations is two weeks prior to the workshop and online registration closes one week prior to the course. Payment for the course is due at the time of registration.

Pre-registration is also REQUIRED for any free registrants that you might receive for hosting a workshop. Just send in their registration with “Free for Host Gym” written in the payment section. USA Gymnastics will NOT honor “free” registration to anyone not pre-registered. If your course does not reach the required participation level you will be billed after the course for remaining expenses.

• Onsite or late registrations $25 (in addition to cost of course) • Minimum age for participation is 15.

For more information regarding this course and all of the courses offered by USA Gymnastics University please visit our website at www.usagym.org then click on the education link, or contact Member Services at 800-345-4719 or membership@usagym.org.

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Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction Free Education for USA Gymnastics Professional Members and Member Clubs What: This course is designed to offer a formal foundation of gymnastics education. It focuses on teaching athletes at the recreational level – both school-age and preschool, and covers topics such as the role of a coach/instructor, tips to become a great teacher, gymnastics safety including injury prevention and care, organizing and running classes, and developing athletes. Additionally, a wealth of information is provided on basic gymnastics terminology, movements, skills, technique, drills and more. This is a core course for USA Gymnastics University Level 1 certification.

Who: The course is primarily designed for coaches and instructors that are new or have little experience in the sport. The course is also a good resource for more experienced coaches and instructors, regardless of level.

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member services Update Foreign Sanctioning What You Need To Know Each year USA Gymnastics sanctions 75-100 foreign sanctions. Foreign sanctions are events that are hosted

by U.S. clubs that are interested in having foreign countries participate.

Hosting a foreign sanction is a great opportunity for your club and its athletes to receive a unique competitive experience. However, the process of submitting for a foreign sanction can often seem complex or confusing for a meet director who has never hosted such an event in the past.

Below is an overview to the foreign sanctioning process. By reviewing the information below, you can ensure a smooth completion of your next foreign sanction request.

First Step-Submit the Request •

The first step is to submit a foreign sanction request form. Forms are available on the USA Gymnastics website at www. usagym.org click on Member Services, and then click on Sanction. You cannot submit a foreign sanction online. It is an in-house process ONLY.

•

A foreign sanction request must be received at least 120 days prior to the date of the event. Failure to follow the stated time requirements may result in additional fees or, under some circumstances, denial of the sanction.

•

The cost of a foreign sanction is $300, regardless of how many countries have been invited to participate in your event.

However, if you have additional countries

to add after the sanction has been submitted, there is an added $25 fee for each additional country.

•

A foreign sanction requires a meet director with a current professional membership.

However, unlike a domestic sanction, you may have multiple disciplines under the one foreign sanction. Therefore, if you are having both women and men disciplines competing you only need to submit the one sanction.

•

Once a foreign sanction request has been received, the National Office must then notify each of the countries’ gymnastics federations listed on the request. Once contacted, USA Gymnastics must allow 11 days for those countries to respond.

The countries have the right to deny their gymnasts from participating in the foreign sanctioned event. The National Office CANNOT release a sanction until the 11 days have concluded.

•

After 11 days, the sanction will then be released and the report forms must be sent to the meet director.

Second Step-Athletes, Coaches and Judges Once a foreign sanction request has been granted, the Foreign Athletes, Coaches and Judges may then be processed.

•

Foreign athletes, coaches and judges forms must be completed by each country that wishes to participate. Forms are available on the USA Gymnastics website at www. usagym.org, click on Member Services, and click on Sanction. You cannot submit a foreign athletes, coaches or judges form online. It is an in-house process ONLY.

•

The cost is $25/athlete, coach and judge.

Request must be submitted at least 45 days in advance. Forms received less than 45 days in advance will result in additional fees.

january 2 0 1 1 • T E C H N I Q U E

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member services UPdate •

Failure to use the proper form will result in a delay of processing. All payments are due at the time of the forms submission.

•

Character. Strength.

Reliability.

Please note- USA Gymnastics cannot process any foreign athlete/coach/judge form unless a foreign sanction request has been submitted and granted.

•

Once the forms have been processed, the athlete names and member numbers will be emailed to the participating meet director.

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Q: Is an Invitational considered a foreign sanction?

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Q: Can an Introductory Coach be the meet director of a foreign-sanctioned event?

A: No, the meet director MUST be a current Professional member in good standing Q: Can I change my domestic sanction to a foreign?

A: Yes, simply fax a foreign sanction request form to the national office with an explanation of changing your domestic sanction to a foreign sanction. Along with the form you will also submit the additional fees. Please also note, the time requirement is the same, therefore, if it is less than 120 days there will be additional fees.

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By following these steps and procedures you will ensure a smooth foreign sanctioning process. For more information please visit the USA Gymnastics website, www.usagym.org, click on Member Services, and then click on Sanction.

You may also contact the Member Services Department at 800-345-4719 or membership@usagym.org

Save the Date!

47th ANNUAL USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL CONGRESS and TRADE SHOW Held in conjunction with 2011 Visa Championships, August 17 -20, 2011

Saint Paul, MN

Who should attend? All USA Gymnastics Professional, Instructor and Introductory Coach Members; coaches, judges and instructors of all levels; recreational and preschool teachers, business managers, administrators, and club owners; high school and college coaches.

What is offered? Three days of education with more than 170 sessions. Lectures given by top individuals in the field. Sessions are provided on coaching, judging, business, preschool, recreational, sports science, fitness, and cheerleading. The opportunity to learn from leading experts in all six disciplines: Women’s, Men’s, Rhythmic, Acrobatics, Group Gymnastics and Trampoline and Tumbling. Along with sessions, the Trade Show exhibit hall will feature 200 booths of products and information from more than 90 different Industry Member vendors. Special events, such as the USGSA Mega Raffle, take place in the exhibit hall daily.

Congress: August 17-20, 2011 Where: Saint Paul River Center, Saint Paul, Minn. Sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. Five sessions offered per day.

Registration: Please visit www.usagym.org and click on Member Services to register now. Special discounted group registration for Member Clubs. Special Early Bird Pricing available for a limited time.

Hotel/Travel Reservations: National Travel Systems: 888-603-8747 Email: sportsinfo@nationaltravelsystems.com Website: www.ntssportstravel.com Visa Championships: August 17-20, 2011 Men’s and Women’s Artistic events at the Xcel Energy Center. Rhythmic competition at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium

important notice The following Membership Statement has been adopted by the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors: • 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

State

Name

State

Julian Amaro Charles Theodore Bates James Bell Phillip Bishop Patrick Bogan Douglas Boger Joseph Bowers Shawn Bowlden Vince Brown Edward Trey Coniff Thad Cypher Steven Elliott Anthony Engelke Matthew H. Erichsen Rick Feuerstein William Foster Joseph Fountain Roy Larry Gallagher Robert Allen (Bob) Garner Timothy Glas Ricardo “Chico” Goddard Paul Hagan Robert Dean Head Ted Hicks

CA MN WA MI MD CA OH IL SC TX MI TX PA WA CA AL MD PA TN NE NY MI KY TN

Michael Hinton Nicholas Hitchcock Robert Hoefer Frank Hohman, Jr. Milos Hroch Steven L. Infante Dana Koppendrayer Ronnie Lewis William McCabe Robert Mollock John S. Moore Gregory Muller William Munsinger Jeena Nilson Paul O’Neill Patrick Okopinski Marian Penev William M. Permenter Timothy Picquelle David Pyles Jeffrey Richards Rudy Rodriguez John H. Row Gabriel Salazar

TN MI FL PA CA CT FL AR GA OR WV ID MN UT CA WI NY FL CA AZ FL CA DE TX

Mark Schiefelbein Robert Shawler Steve Shirley Steven Todd Siegel Blake Steven Starr Paul Summers Mark Swift Freddie Eugene Tafoya, Jr. Jay Thomas Jon Oliver Kenneth Thomas Brent Trottier Jon Valdez Anthony Van Kirk Joel Velasquez David Paul Waage Chris Wagoner Brooklyn Walters Steve Waples Donald Watts Mike West Jonathan White Lyf Christian Wildenberg Joel Woodruff

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

SPOTLIGHT

Gymnastics community helps promote autism awareness

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r. Larry Nassar, USA Gymnastics Women’s National Team physician, has started The GymnasticsDoctor Autism Foundation to support the role of gymnastics with special needs children. Dr. Nassar and his foundation are dedicated to raising awareness, developing programs for special needs children for gymnastics clubs, and funding research to help these children reach their unique potential. According to Dr. Nassar, approximately one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism, a condition whose causes are still largely unknown. Dr. Nassar is teaming up with competitions around the country to raise funds to help accomplish these goals.

The first event to take part in this autism awareness campaign was the “Flip for Autism Awareness Meet,” held Nov. 13-14, in Plainfield, Ind., and hosted by The Flip Zone. Nearly 500 gymnasts from 24 gyms competed in the event that was for more

than just medals! Stephanie Stout, owner of Flip Zone, said, “Nearly 1,000 spectators attended, including Olympic team silvermedalist and 2009 World champion Bridget Sloan. The event raised $1,900 for autism awareness, plus an additional $1,000 for scholarships for the Gymstars program at The Flip Zone!”

Dr. Nassar said, “The special needs kids and their families enjoyed the competition, and it was well-received by all. This is just the beginning!”

Two other events are planned to benefit autism awareness -- Twistars Invitational in Lansing, Mich., Jan. 8 with Olympian Bridget Sloan as the special guest and the Michigan State University vs. University of Illinois collegiate meet on Feb. 25 in East Lansing, Mich. Olympian, Nastia Liukin will be the special guest for this event.

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SPOTLIGHT

People Helping People

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tlantic Coast Gymnastics in Williamstown, N.J. celebrated National Gymnastics Day in honor of Bella Tucker, an 8-year-old gymnast who lost her limbs due to a severe infection. The girls and boys competitive teams sold tickets to the event. They put on a gymnastics expo and invited members of the audience to try out the equipment. Team coaches, parents and gymnasts donated their time, money and food, which contributed to its’ success. Over $2500 was raised for the “Friends of Bella Fund.” Dana Jenkins, a Level 9 Gymnast was the top ticket seller and received a Visa Gift Card, which was donated by the Girls Team Booster Club.

Champion Tumbling & Cheer of Ada, Okla. Wins Grant

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hampion Tumbling & Cheer of Ada, Okla., was awarded a $25,000 grant in the Pepsi Refresh Project on October 1, 2010. The club made its way to the top 10 list, thanks to great people in its community and across the nation believing in the project to get kids off the couch and into the gym!

“We want our gym to do its part in the fight against childhood obesity by not just being a gymnastics facility, but also to be an all-around healthy outlet for the kids in our community,” said Karrie Flanagan. “By winning the grant we will be able to offer $5,000 in athlete scholarships to families in need to give children the opportunity to train at our gym for an entire year. We will also be purchasing needed equipment and safety matting to better train our students.”

According to Adam Flanagan, “We are a small town and want to give our gym the big city feel by offering our students the quality instruction we have always given but in a much better-equipped facility. We want the entire community to get involved, so we are hosting a FREE gym night once a month to everyone in our community. The gym night is for both kids and adults (adult exercise

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classes). We will also have a professional in the field of nutrition, health and physical fitness give a lecture on the importance of good nutrition and exercise!”

Champion Tumbling & Cheer was featured on Good Morning America on Oct. 26 for being a grant recipient of the Pepsi Refresh Project. Check out www.youtube.com/watch?v=14HlCA9BcK4 On Dec. 4, a grant party will be held

by Pepsi to officially award the check to Champion Tumbling & Cheer. This will also be the Free Gym Night for the community.

Congratulations Karrie and Adam Flanagan and your gym Champion Tumbling & Cheer. Go to www.championtumbling.com for more information.

SPOTLIGHT

Small gymnast has BIG idea Hawaii Gymnastics Food Drive

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aren Schaap, owner of Island Tumblers Gymnastics in Hawaii, shared an inspiring story of community involvement, and we want to share it with you.

Mari Domingo, a 13-year-old Level 8 gymnast at Island Tumblers Gymnastics, orchestrated a food drive in the Hawaii gymnastics community to benefit the Hawaii Food Bank. In late October, with the help of her optional teammates, parents, and the State Chairman Pam Zak, Mari decided to conduct a food drive on behalf of USA Gymnastics Hawaii. She distributed flyers, emailed clubs, rallied the recreational programs, and worked with Zak to coordinate

this event. The donations were collected at the 2010 USA Gymnastics Invitational, held Nov. 6-7, 2010. All the teams from Oahu, Hawaii and Maui participated, even clubs from other islands brought food donations to this event. USA Gymnastics Hawaii donated 567 pounds of food to the Hawaii Food Bank. It truly was an amazing effort from the entire Hawaii gymnastics community and a great way to give back. Karen said, “I am so impressed with this little girl’s efforts to raise awareness, and her continued effort to communicate and pull our gymnastics community together.”

A great community event, just in time for Thanksgiving!

Technical Committee Meeting Minutes November 6-7, 2010 I. Roll Call: Chairman Cheryl Hamilton called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. on Nov. 6.

I. ROLL CALL Region 1 Neela Nelson Region 2 Linda Mulvihill Region 3 Carole Bunge Region 4 Linda Thorberg Region 5 Char Christensen Region 6 Pat Panichas Region 7 Myra Elfenbein Region 8 Marian Dykes Asst. Tech. Comm. Chair Audrey Schweyer JO Program Director Connie Maloney II. GENERAL DEDUCTIONS Clarification on the application of the “up to 0.30” deduction for landing in a deep squat while performing ACRO ELEMENTS on BEAM: When an Acro element is landed in a deep squat on the beam, followed by a fall, deduct both the “up to 0.3” for deep squat and the “0.5” for the fall.

III. INQUIRIES As a reminder, no video review is allowed at any Jr. Olympic competition during the processing of inquiries, unless the Jury of Appeals is involved. Please refer to Women’s Rules and Policies, page 48. J. 5.

If all of the following inquiry procedures are met, a Jury of Appeals will not be considered. These procedures include: 1. Properly written inquiry by the coach 2. Inquiry submitted in a timely manner to Meet Referee or Meet Director 3. Inquiry reviewed/answered by the judging panel of the event in question 3. Inquiry returned to Meet Referee or Meet Director 3. MR or MD returns inquiry to coach by hand or by a predefined inquiry return procedure.

Only in the case that the proper procedures were not followed, would the Jury of Appeals become involved with the inquiry and could possibly allow a video review, if available.

IV. MEET OFFICIALS OBLIGATIONS/PROFESSIONALISM A. According to the R & P, page 12, II. E under Judges’ Obligations, judges can serve only in the capacity of an official during warm-up and competition. They may not act in a dual capacity (i.e., coach/judge, parent/judge). This ruling would also include a judge acting as the Meet Director or announcer.

• The Technical Committee requested that this statement be added to Judges’ Responsibilities on page 75 as I.

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G. in the 2011-12 Women’s Rules and Policies.

B. A reminder to judges: - The use of cell phones (talking, texting, etc.) or any type of wireless communication device is prohibited while on the field of play.

- To be considerate of the Meet Director’s equipment by refraining from wearing footwear that could be damaging to the mats and/or floor.

C. Recommendation to add to Judges Obligations, page 12, P. in the Rules and Policies: “Refrain from soliciting invitations to judge specific competitions by making direct contact with Meet Directors.”

Motion: C. Christensen Second: L. Thorberg Passed.

V. CLARIFICATION OF THE MAY 2010 JOINT TECHNICAL AND JR. OLYMPIC COMMITTEE MINUTES REGARDING UNEVEN BARS A. EXTRA SWINGS: #VI, B stated “that whenever more than one extra swing is performed following a single element, the maximum deduction is 0.60.” This ruling applies to both compulsory and optional competition.

B. BACK UPRISE: The criteria for a “B” back uprise can be found in the May Joint TC and JOC minutes (VXI. A.3.). If the gymnast attempts a back uprise to handstand, but does not reach the handstand phase (within 20° of vertical) and there is no closed shoulder angle, there is no such value part listed in the JO Code of Points; therefore, the backward swing would be considered as a non-value part (0).

C. BAR CHANGES: #VXI. A. 2. stated that the wording regarding two bar changes for “Level 9”in the JO Code of Points, page 66, B.1.b. be changed to : “A fall from the high bar with continuation of the routine (performance of a listed value part element) on the Low Bar is considered as a bar change.”

Clarification: this statement also applies to Level 8 (for Special Requirement) and Level 10 (for composition).

Examples: After a fall, gymnast performs a jump to front support, climbs up on LB and jumps to HB: this is not considered a bar change; however, if from the front support, the gymnast performs a cast, squat on (an “A” value part) then jumps to the high bar, it will be considered a bar change.

VI. OPTIONAL BEAM A. Backward Acro Series clarification, page 146, III. 1. a. in

the JO Code of Points: Arms moving as low as the thighs or further back after landing will break the series.

If the second element in the connection of backward acro elements is a gainer flic-flac or gainer back layout, the arms are allowed to continue circling forward-upward and backwarddownward without automatically breaking the connection.

The circling action is an inherent arm pattern for gainer-type elements.

B. Clarification of elements listed under #7.403 in the JO Code of Points: If listed under the same number, elements can be considered as different if they land on one or both legs; therefore, the only element considered different from the Aerial Cartwheel and its variations is the Aerial Round-off, since it lands on both legs.

VII. FLOOR EXERCISE A. MUSIC- Please refer to the November 2009 JO Committee meeting minutes – “the musical accompaniment must be recorded with orchestration, piano, or other instruments (without singing). Human sounds are allowed, provided there are no words spoken or sung.” There is a 1.00 deduction for absence of music or for music with words.

B. Clarification regarding #1.305 (2nd description) switchside leap with ¾ turn (C) and #1.404 switch leap with 1/1 turn (D) as to why they have different values: the expectation of the #1.404 switch leap with 1/1 turn (D) requires a cross-split position only. If a side-straddle position is demonstrated, then it considered the C element.

C. A reminder that when a leap or jump is performed that is not found specifically in the JO Code of Points, the judge may award comparable Value Part credit if they can recognize the root skill. This includes variations of leg positions as well as landing positions of valued leaps/jumps.

VIII. COMPULSORY CONCERNS Clarification of the mounting surfaces for Levels 1-6 Bars and Beam: Change the R & P, page 82, 6. b. to read: “Any manufactured mat, skill cushion or padded spotting/skill block may be used to facilitate the mount.”

IX. 2013 USA GYMNASTICS BREVET AND NATIONAL JUDGES’ COURSES Many questions have arisen regarding the requirements for eligibility, especially concerning the volunteer credits. The Technical Committee believes that the people aspiring or wanting to maintain National or USA Gymnastics Brevet status must be willing to give back to the sport through volunteering at a minimum of two different functions for a total of 12 hours during the four-year cycle.

A. A specific form to record volunteer hours and Regional/ National Clinic hours will be posted online with these minutes as well as broadcast emailed to all judges currently eligible. CPE volunteer hours earned since June 2009 for this purpose may

also be used to fulfill an annual CPE requirement.

B. Exemption for volunteer hours: Only USA Gymnastics State, Regional and National Chairmen and NAWGJ State and Regional Judging Directors and National officers are exempt. State Committee/Board members, elected or not, do not qualify for exemption.

C. Volunteer credits may be earned by those who VOLUNTEER at: 1. USA Gymnastics State, Regional or National competitions by acting as an auxiliary judge (Master Scorer, Timer, Line Judge) or other assignment approved by the Meet Director or Meet Referee.

2. NCAA Conference, Regional or National Competitions as an auxiliary judge.

3. State or Regional Training Camps - volunteer positions are organized and assigned by the Regional Technical Chairman.

4. NAWGJ National Judges’ Cup; however, State Judges’ Cups do not qualify for volunteer hours.

5. A Regional Training Camp as a clinician. Volunteer clinicians earn an additional two credit-hours for preparation time for every one hour of lecture.

D. Clinic requirements 1. Must attend two of the following educational events within the current cycle (June 2009-Dec.31, 2013) a. Regional USA Gymnastics Congress b. Regional NAWGJ Symposium c. National USA Gymnasstics Congress d. National NAWGJ Symposium (July 2010) 2. Clinicians at Regional/National educational events will receive an additional two-credit hours for preparation time for every one hour of lecture.

X. The committee spent the majority of the meeting working on the evaluation and selection of skills to be used in creating Technique DVDs for the 2011 Congress presentations.

XI. The next meeting is scheduled for May 16-17, 2011, following JO Nationals in Long Beach, Calif.

Meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m.

WOMEN’S PROGRAM COMMITTEE Hartford, CT August 12, 2010 MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY THE CHAIRMAN, TOM KOLL AT 4:30 P.M. I.. ROLL CALL Chairman Tom Koll Administrative Chair Kathy Ostberg Technical Chair Cheryl Hamilton International Elite Chair Steve Rybacki Junior Olympic Chair Tom Koll Athlete Rep Terin Humphrey Vice Pres. Program Kathy Kelly I. Operating Code The committee reviewed the recommendations made by the committees for updates and changes to the Women’s Operating Code.

Recommendation to accept all the Operating Code changes as amended.

Motion Ostberg Second Hamilton PASSED II. Committee Reports The various committee Chairmen reported on the activities of their committees. Overall the committees are on task and the women’s program is functioning at a very high level.

III. Prep Op Discussion was held concerning the new Prep Op Program. The program is in place and all the updates are available in the Rules and Policies.

IV. Representation on the Board of Directors Tom explained to the committee the term limits for the Board of Directors. With the restructuring of the Board, all members of the current board have term limits. Currently, the women have two representatives on the Board. Both members are up for re-election in the same year.

Recommendation to bring forth this issue to the Board of Directors and request that the terms of the membership representatives be staggered.

Motion Hamilton Second Humphrey PASSED Motion to adjourn

INTERNATIONAL ELITE COMMITTEE September 16, 2010 Houston, Texas Chairman Steve Rybacki Coach Representatives Valeri Liukin Mihai Brestyan Mary Lee Tracy Alternate Marvin Sharp

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National Team Coordinator Martha Karolyi Athlete Representative Terin Humphrey Vice President Program Kathy Kelly

1. Committee Representative There was a tie for third place coach who will serve on the IEC for the 2010/2011 year. Since we have no written procedures to cover the tie vote, the committee agreed that the voting member would be determined by a coin toss. Mary Lee Tracy will serve as the voting member and Marvin Sharp will be the alternate. The committee will draft tie breaking procedures for the inclusion to the Operating Code.

2. Zone Administrators The Committee reviewed the activities/events of the Zones and decided to appoint the following: Justin Howell, Ashly Baker, Enrique Trabanino and Tami Harrison. Gary will contact the Zone Administrators to offer the position to the above individuals and update them on the duties and responsibilities.

3. Calendar for the Elite Classic Qualifiers There are 5 Qualification Operations Feb. 11-13, 2011 Gliders Covina, California Feb. 18-20, 2011 WOGA Dallas, Texas Feb. 25-27, 2011 Bieger Invitational (cancelled) June 6, 2011 Open Championships – Disney- Orlando, FL July 1-2, 2011 American Classic/Elite Classic Qualifier, TX

(National Training Center) 4. Minutes When the minutes are approved and posted on the website, they will also be distributed to the IEC and to the elite community.

5. Transition Plan Committee discussed the transition plan for the Program staff and gave feedback to Kathy for consideration.

Meeting adjourned

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USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show will be held in conjunction with the Visa Championships in Saint Paul, Minnesota. www.xcelenergycenter.com

USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show will be held in conjunction with the U.S. Olympic Team Trials–Gymnastics in San Jose, California.

June 28-July 1, 2012 www.sanjose2012.com

Event information on these and other upcoming events is available at www.usa-gymnastics.org

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