Technique - April 2011 - Vol. 31 #4

Learn how to Combine Movement and Education for Greater Profits APRIL 2011 – VOL. 31 – #4

EVENTS 2011 APRIL 8-10 8-10 14-16 15-17 15-17 28-May 1 29-May 1

USA Gym Collegiate Champs. (W) JO Regional Championships (M) NCAA Championships (M) L 9/10 Regional Championships (W) NCAA Championships (W) TOPs Invitational Training Camp (W) Elite Challenge (TT)

SEPTEMBER Colorado Springs, CO Various Locations Columbus, OH various locations Cleveland, OH Houston, TX Ft. Worth, TX

MAY 4-8 JO National Championships (M) 6-8 L 9 Eastern/Western Champs. (W)

7 USA Gymnastics Special Olympics Champs.

(M/W/R/GG) 13-14 JO National Championships (W) 15 National Invitational Tournament (W)

Long Beach, CA Worcester, MA/ San Diego, CA Marietta, GA Long Beach, CA Long Beach, CA

JUNE 2-5 5 8-11 10-12 11-12 17-26 23 24 - 26 30-July 1

USA Gymnastics Open Championships (W/R) National Elite Qualifier (W) JO National Championships (R) US Rhythmic International Classic (R) Region 3 Congress Olympic Gymnastics Week Olympic Day Region 7 Congress American Classic (W)

Orlando, FL Orlando, FL Orlando, FL Orlando, FL Vail, CO various locations various locations Baltimore, MD Houston, TX

National Elite Qualifier (W) National Qualifier (M) Trampoline & Tumbling U.S. Champs.

JO Championships (TT) World Gymnaestrada (GG) Region 8 Congress Covergirl Classic/Challenge (W) Acrobactic National Championships TOPs Invitational Training Camp (W)

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

JULY 2-3 9 8-10 10-15 10-16 15-17 22-24 22-27 28-31

AUGUST 5-7

Region 6 Congress

Boston, MA

5-8

JO Begin. Optional Open Training Camp (W)

Houston, TX

9-11

JO Inter./Adv. Optional Open Training Camp (W)

17-20

Visa Championships (M/W/R)

Saint Paul, MN

18-20

National Congress and Trade Show

Saint Paul, MN

25-28

ODP Selection Camp (TT)

26-28

Region 1 Congress

Houston, TX

Houston, TX Santa Clara, CA

8-11 9-11

State and Regional Chairman’s Workshop (M) Region 2 Congress

13-26

Rhythmic World Championships

17

National Gymnastics Day

23-25

Region 5 Congress

30-Oct. 2

National TOP Testing (W)

TBD Everett, WA Montpellier, France various locations Indianapolis,IN Houston, TX

OCTOBER 1-3

National TOP Testing (W)

Houston, TX

7-16

World Artistic Championships (M/W)

Tokyo, Japan

22-25

JO National Team Training Camp (W)

Houston, TX

27-30

Level 9/10 Training Camp (W)

14-30

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

Houston, TX Guadalajara, MX

NOVEMBER 10-13

Fut. Stars Champs./Coaches Wrkshp.(M)

Colo. Springs, CO

16-19

T & T World Championships

Birmingham, ENG

20-26

World Age Group Championships (TT)

Birmingham, ENG

30-Dec. 4

National TOP Team Training Camp (W)

Houston, TX

DECEMBER 4-8

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

MAY 7

USA Gymnastics Special Olympics Championships (M/W/R/GG)

7-13

JO National Championships (M)

Marietta, GA

Cincinnati, OH

JUNE 6-9

Visa Championships

St. Louis, MO

28-July1

USA Gymn. Nat. Congress and Trade Show

San Jose, CA

28-July1

U.S. Olympic Team Trials-Gymn.(M/W)

San Jose, CA

W = Women, R = Rhythmic, TR = Trampoline, M = Men, GG = Group Gymnastics, TU = Tumbling, AG = Acrobatic Gymnastics, B = Business, TT = Trampoline/Tumbling

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

TECHNIQUE



an official publication of USA Gymnastics University

APRIL

PUBLISHER

Steve Penny

F E AT U R E S

EDITOR

Luan Peszek

2011 • VOLUME 31 • #4

6 Are We Losing the Artistry in Artistic Gymnastics?

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jeannie Shaw

USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS 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 .

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Combining Movement & Education

14

How to Start a Boys’ Gymnastics Program

18

Performance & Asymmetries

22

USA Gymnastics Fitness Program Launches!

10

D E PA R T M E N T S 2

Event Schedule

4

USA Gymnastics Message

30

Member Services Update

36

Proposed Elements for the 20132020 Jr. Olympic Compulsory Exercises for Women

40

Trampoline & Tumbling Committee Minutes

46

Classified Ads

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.usagym.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 2011 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.

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14 18

22 Collage

of handstand photos:

Peter Vidmar on China and bottom is Rebecca Sereda by

center photo the

Wall

of

right photo

Diane Bidermann

www.usagym.org MARCH 2011 • TECHNIQUE

3

I

t’s no secret that to excel in gymnastics, athletes must be fit and master the basics to move up the ladder. Oftentimes, basic fitness and conditioning techniques can be overlooked when preparing and training athletes. During the past few years, USA Gymnastics has emphasized “fitness” as a core benefit of participation in gymnastics. This year, we are taking it to a whole new level. The newly revamped USA Gymnastics Fitness Program is designed to meet the needs of many different groups, including schools, class students and team gymnasts.

USA Gymnastics is fortunate to partner with St. Vincent Sports Performance, which is based in Indianapolis. St. Vincent Sports Performance provides state-of-the-art training services to athletes at all levels. With the help of their expertise, we have created a year-round program based on the basic elements of gymnastics that encourages conditioning and physical fitness with an emphasis on strength training, cardiovascular exercise, flexibility and good nutrition.

This year’s program features updated exercises for three fitness and conditioning levels, new cardio games, baseline measurements for fitness progression, and a handstand training plan. The program also includes important nutrition handouts, which highlight portion size and healthy food options, as well as online video instruction for each exercise and convenient printing options so you can download and distribute everything you need.

2011 is the “Year of the Handstand” at USA Gymnastics, and we are encouraging everyone to show off their abilities. The handstand represents one of the core elements of fitness and is a fundamental teaching component of our sport. USA Gymnastics will teach handstands on the concourse at our major events and also did so at the recent NBA All-Star weekend in Los Angeles.

You can send your handstand photos to webmaster@usagym.org with “handstand” as the subject and they will be featured in our online “Year of the Handstand” photo gallery.

The official date and time for our record-setting handstand attempt will be announced on www. usagym.org/fitness in mid-May. We recommend making the handstand a focal point of your preparations for National Gymnastics Day on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011, and using it for your fundraising efforts to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

USA Gymnastics encourages gymnastics clubs to be the experts on fitness and conditioning in their community. Simply go to the website www.usagym.org/fitness and register for the USA Gymnastics Fitness Program, where you can download all of the needed materials. There is no fee – this is a service we are offering to all of our gymnastics clubs.

Also, there is only a short time left to register for the 2011 USA Gymnastics Open Championships at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, June 2-5, for women’s and rhythmic gymnastics. This competition is a nationwide invitational for Women’s Levels 4-8 and the Junior Olympic National Championships for Rhythmic Levels 4-6. The event will name both individual and club team champions for women’s and rhythmic gymnastics. To register for the event or learn more about it, go to www.usagym.org/openchampionships. Also, see the full page ad in this issue of Technique.

See you in the gym,

Steve Penny President and CEO

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

A r t i Art A

Are we Losing the in

By Nancy Roach

S

Artistic Gym

ince the late 80’s and early 90’s, Women’s Artistic gymnastics has experienced an evolution of change with the new Code of Points every four years and the new scoring system which began in 2005. Those of us who have been around prior to the 80’s can REALLY reminisce and talk about change. Now our focus needs to be on the present. In 1996, the “Magnificent Seven” set the stage for a strong international presence. In the years that followed, with the exception of a few “execution errors” leading up to Sydney, the rest of the gymnastics world has been chasing the U.S. women’s team. This has given the American girls the confidence to be part of the greatest gymnastics program in the world. There are, however, a few details that have been lost or forgotten as we

are developing the ultimate ARTISTIC gymnast. There are two comments that I personally hear from coaches repeatedly. #1: We do not have the time to dedicate to the dance details and presentation when we need to be so focused on the tumbling and dance requirements.

6

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

#2: The scores do not seem to reflect enough differentiation between the gymnasts who perform to the music, express and interact with the audience, and those who just fulfill the basic requirements.

I am not inclined to critique the Code of Points or tell the judging professionals how to do their job. Collectively we must find a way to better identify and reward the gymnasts and their coaches who are taking the extra time to work on performance, presentation, theatrics or however you choose to describe an expressive and artistic masterpiece. Without this emphasis, we will lose the beautiful artistry on floor which keeps audiences watching and waiting to “dance along” with all the

unique creative routines, whether it is a Level 7 or Elite floor exercise.

How do we accomplish this at a very early level and give our athletes an edge over the next gymnast or team?

This development can be fun and be implemented in the earliest stages. If the girls are trained to project and express their own personality in compulsories, it will be an easier transition into optionals. Early intervention of

Photos by John Cheng

istry rtistry

ymnastics? dance disciplines and styles will enhance the gymnasts’ movement and develop their own style. Classical ballet will facilitate execution, create better alignment and give the gymnast a wonderful foundation for more than just floor exercise. It is imperative to have a coach, choreographer, or dance master available to make the necessary corrections as the athlete moves through

her developmental years. This attention to detail takes time and all too often is compromised in the daily training schedule.

The process begins with music selection and should be collaboration between the gymnast and her coach or choreographer. It helps for the gymnast to like her music and be inspired to work on her presentation. The judges

and audience must also be considered in this process.

Many times it is advantageous to choose a piece that is familiar to your audience, one which will catch the audience attention. Great floor music will enhance the overall routine and ultimately lend more artistry to the performance. Audience participation will also increase confidence to the gymnast and showcase her individuality. Of course, the music must suit the gymnast’s style, personality, age, and body type. Now the creative process begins.

Music interpretation with dance elements is the first priority. This begins with and is accomplished by interesting dance moves that match the gymnast’s style

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

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A r t i s t r y Artistry ...

Ar

continued

and the musical theme. Many floor routines have a variety of innovative and original movements. The lack of fluidity in the transition from one movement to the next is an area which needs attention and detail work. These transitions must be trained with repetition just as a new skill is mastered. Check for “unnatural” arm movements with relation to direction changes. It is especially obvious in the corners before the tumbling pass. A focus change, isolated arm and hand movement can make the corners more

the lower half of the body working.

For example, do the entire routine on the knees or just standing still. Practicing in front of a mirror will help give the gymnast confidence as well as an opportunity to practice expression with good alignment and technique. Finally the finishing touches come with expression all the here should way to the fingertips. Unfortunately, some of the girls wear the wrist not be a time in the guards which inhibit the flexion of floor routine where the wrist and therefore limit the full interesting without range of motion. The fingers must be compromising the gymnast does extended for maximum expression. the stamina or The use of the arms and hands concentration needed not know what along with strong focus can create a for the tumbling pass. position her arms masterpiece. Expressive hands can Following the arm be showcased in all styles: jazz, movements with are in or where her classical, character, folk, modern focus creates beautiful lines and focus should be. or in combination. If presentation is trained in the developmental years, it smooth connections. will become natural and the end result will be a beautiful floor performance.

There should not be a time in the floor routine where the gymnast Once again, we need to reward those gymnasts who does not know what position her spend the extra time and encourage this attention to arms are in or where her focus detail. This will preserve the artistry in our sport and should be. This can be trained keep the audiences in love with our beautiful sport which and broken down by isolating we know as “artistic gymnastics.” just the arms and focus without

T

Nancy Roach is a four-time Elite Choreographer of the Year and founder/former owner of Flips Gymnastics in Reno. Roach is available for choreography or fine tuning on beam and floor and can be reached at nancyroachdance@gmail.com or 775-721-1610.

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

C

ombining

Movement

& Education

by Nancy Bates

“Times, they are a changing.” Technology has impacted our lives and our businesses in ways we never dreamed and to a degree that many of us are still trying to understand. Many of these changes have gone unnoticed because our attention was drawn to bigger or more immediate and obvious changes (Wall Street, for instance).

However, many gradual changes have occurred in the activities of our children that really haven’t received much notice but are now gaining

some notoriety as we deal with some of the consequences of these changes – changes that actually affect our children’s education and their ability to learn.

Do your kids play outdoors? Are they running and jumping, skipping and climbing until the sun goes down? If you ask the parents in your gym, you may find that very few kids are playing outside anymore. When asked why, parents most often respond that they just don’t feel it is safe outdoors.

So where are the kids?

What are they doing? They are inside watching TV, playing games and spending more time in front of a screen than they do in a classroom.

Researchers found that graduating seniors have logged in more hours watching TV than the total number of hours spent in a classroom – an impressive stat when you consider the total number of hours in 12 years of school.

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

Besides the obvious lack of exercise and resulting weight problems, there are also unsuspected consequences on learning when physical movement is replaced by so much time in front of a screen (TV, computer or gaming devices). Our brain uses physical movement to develop and organize itself. A child’s brain (especially the first 5 years of life) is very different than an adult brain, which is probably why we didn’t connect the dots much earlier. Many of us spend hours and hours working on computers without learning delays or problems. However, our brains are already wired from childhood activities unlike many children today.

A child’s brain evolves through coordinated, integrative movement. Neurologists have found a strong connection between movement and learning. Scientists agree that coordinated movement integrates and organizes the brain for learning!

We learn best through movement; our brain depends on movement to develop the brain, not just our muscles!

“Despite what we think, learning is not ‘all from our head.’ It is the movements of our body…that form the pathways in our mind that we later use to read, write, and think in an imaginative and creative way,” states Susan R. Johnson, MD, FAAP (2006).

The fact that our children are not playing outdoors actually has far reaching consequences for their education and their ability to learn. Consider the following quote from noted neurobiologist, Carla Hannaford, PhD: “The more closely we consider the elaborate interplay of brain and body, the more clearly one compelling theme emerges: Movement is essential to learning. Movement awakens and activates many of our mental capacities.”

Less outdoor play time would not necessarily bring to mind difficulties in reading and math unless you

considered the connection between movement and learning. Neurologists have spent decades examining the role of the cerebellum in the brain and have discovered that the cerebellum not only coordinates physical movement but also coordinates the movement of thought (John Ratey, MD).

Movement lays the foundation for our learning, and our gyms offer the best form of integrative movement, all within a playful, fun and safe environment. Deb Wilson, reading specialist and co-author of S’cool Moves for Learning, has stated that gymnastics is the best form of integrative movement. It’s time to seriously look at the combination of movement and education.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR GYMS AND OUR COMMUNITIES Who is best situated in your community to offer a safe, fun environment that promotes coordinated, integrative movement known for its beneficial effects on learning and brain development? What if integrative movement was combined with classroom instruction to help students improve their reading or math? Who in your community is best suited to provide this service to struggling students who have fallen behind? Are parents more interested in the education of their children or in the fitness level of their children? What if we could do both – help educate while improving fitness? Educational offerings may not only help your community and many struggling students, it may also put more dollars toward your bottom line than you might imagine.

Learning Foundations, a program designed by Gym Magic Sports Center & Preschool, is just that – a multi-level tutoring program designed to promote integrative movement in conjunction with classroom instruction in academics. Learning Foundations takes advantage of another brain phenomenon called ‘plasticity,’ the ability of the brain to change.

Brain plasticity allows the brain to constantly change and develop; plasticity gives us both the ability to learn and the ability

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

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Combining

Movement

& Education ...continued

to adapt, according to Dr. Carla Hannaford.

It’s never too late to develop the sensory/motor connections that might have been missed earlier.

This is where the ‘magic’ begins!

Gym Magic has offered tutoring in reading and language arts for the past three years through a Title 1 supplemental educational services grant. The program utilizes both certified reading teachers and gymnastics instructors. Classes begin in the gym (integrative movement) and then flow into a dance room set up with tables and chairs for reading. Not only have the students improved their reading skills, many have a new found appreciation that learning can be FUN!

Our industry is in a unique position.

Gyms can offer a ‘fun’ playful approach to learning that addresses the basic process of learning. Gymnastics and integrative movement can provide the stimulation the brain needs (through sensory/motor connections) to organize and develop the brain for learning! When a dedicated, proven reading program is combined with movement, students have a unique opportunity to improve, and gyms have an opportunity to add another stream of income.

For more information, please see www.gymmagic.com. or www.learningfoundations.info Gym Magic Sports Center and Preschool (Las Cruces, NM) is owned by Nancy L. Bates, PhD, MT(ASCP).

Move Learn Grow Research documents that MOVEMENT is connected to learning!

Experts know KIDS learn best when they’re having FUN! YOUR GYM can offer more than any other tutoring program in your community!

We offer a proven tutoring program in reading and language arts that is specifically designed for GYMS! TO ADD THIS PROFIT CENTER TO YOUR GYM, CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION:

575.644.3493

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

OR VISIT: www.learningfoundations.info

BOYS’ GYM How to Start A Boys’ QUOTE from Jim Hisey: “Any

gymnastics club that doesn’t offer boys recreational and competitive gymnastics to the community is missing out on a great opportunity. Boys strive for competition and love to flip. Parents desire for their sons to develop discipline and self confidence! All sports need safe landings and spatial awareness!

Over the 15 years of Gym Force Gymnastics, we have enrolled numerous students who have had various desires, which can be addressed by the sport. Some desire to be competitive gymnasts.

Some have realized the benefit of the sport for cross training into football, baseball, basketball, soccer, pole vaulting, diving, and much more.

An orthopedic doctor who is a former NCAA football recruit enrolled his son in the gym to learn safe landings and spatial awareness for preventative injury measures. His son competed through the Level 10 USA Gymnastics program and now is part of the Florida State University football team! Many NCAA pole vaulters and divers also have benefited from the sport, with scholarships, as it teaches them the mechanics of their sport, in an alternative mode.

The USA Gymnastics program has been extremely proactive in creating fantastic lesson plans/ progressions for nearly any male to advance and succeed! The Basic Skills Achievement Program (BSAP), along with the Level 4 competitive program, enables any boy to be able to progress from Level 1-4, with safe and fun progressions, with just 1-2 hours per week.

Boys and parents want to compete.

Other sports require many more hours, without safety and progressions as a factor. Team vs. Individual results is the focus, at all costs. In order for any team to succeed, each individual must do his part! This is what gymnastics instills!”

Photo by Larry Gibson

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

Only basic gymnastics equipment, which can be easily acquired at a low cost, is needed to begin a boys’ program and supplement introductory tumbling and fitness activities. Most basic gymnastics skills are learned on these inexpensive training devices rather than the more commonly known traditional gymnastics apparatus.

Using this approach it is easy for any facility to implement a program and simply grow with the needs of the clientele. In this way a boys’ gymnastics program pays for itself and can provide a source of revenue for any business. Clubs can provide a wide variety of challenging and motivational contests for boys, as well as team-oriented games, prior to the introduction of competitive gymnastics.

Marketing for boys should also focus on the fact that gymnastics activities are the foundation for all sports, and the skills learned in your gym will readily transfer to all other boys’ sports. Essentially gymnastics classes for boys provide advanced physical preparation and a more successful experience regardless of the sport.

THE BEST TIME TO START A PROGRAM IS NOW! How are boys different? Boys are unique in that they are more interested in exploring their athletic potential and are highly motivated to build their self-image through strength and fitness. Any activities that challenge them to improve upon their ‘personal best’ involving time or strength achievements will be highly motivating for boys. Men’s gymnastics requires the development of upper body strength for many of the events. Clubs can build a successful boys’

Jim Hisey runs a very successful boys’ program, Gym Force, in Tallahassee, Fla., and has many years of experience providing programs which supplement and crossover boys interests in other sports.

14

Anyone who has space and some mats can start a gymnastics program for boys. At the basic level, boys’ gymnastics is all about developing physical fitness, agility, strength, and flexibility. Using just a few mats and the basic skills program curriculum, instructors can provide young boys with a series of skill progressions, challenging fitness contests, and team-building activities, which are fun for boys of all ages and ability.

MNASTICS ’ Gymnastics Program program focusing on these fitness goals until boys develop the strength to begin learning competitive routines.

Boys also thrive in a team atmosphere. Clubs can provide extracurricular activities for all boys to build a team environment by tracking their fitness goals and

HOW DO I START A PROGRAM? Basic equipment and apparatus could include: Mats (or spring floor area)  climbing rope  springboard  mini-trampoline  hanging (ceiling-mounted)  rings vaulting or parallel boxes  (trapezoids)  mushroom training pod  single bar system

“Offering a boys program helps my business because I now have a larger client base, another market, and it enables my business to be more balanced offering activities for the whole family.”

All of this equipment is economical and easily installed in most any space.

providing creative contests such as obstacle courses and team contests while they are learning their basic gymnastics skills.

WHY PARTICIPATE IN GYMNASTICS? Boys can benefit from gymnastics participation in the following ways:

• It’s fun and great exercise! fitness development – especially in the areas of • Physical strength, flexibility, agility, balance, and coordination skill development – such as listening and • Cognitive following directions skills development – particularly self-confidence, • Life teamwork, responsibility, friendship, and sportsmanship of goals – setting goals and working to • Accomplishment achieve them a great developmental activity, whether the goal is • It’sadvancement in gymnastics or preparation for another sport

CLASS STRUCTURE A typical session, or term, may run eight to 12 weeks.

Beginner classes may meet one or two times per week, enabling a boy to achieve tangible goals within his first term.

A term can begin at any time but usually starts as fall, winter, or spring terms.

Some gyms offer introductory summer programs when enrollment is generally lower.

LEARNING THE SKILLS/COACHING The materials referenced below provide a wealth of information to help get you started and are the best available for boys’ gymnastics.

Photo by Larry Gibson

Photo by Steve Lange

Brandy Wood runs a very successful boys’ program in Rio Rancho, N.M., and has been instrumental in designing programs for boys.

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

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Supplemental materials are available, however, the most important materials for starting a program for boys are the Basic Skills Achievement Program, the “How to Start” book, and the Junior Olympic Program Manual “Give your children for competitive Levels the gift of physical 4-10. fitness, confidence, and fun. Give them Don’t forget about contacting a mentor club. the gift of Gymnastics.

Utilize the list found on If you want the very the website at best for your child … www.usagym.org to nothing is better!” find a nearby club and Roger & Debbie Baldwin, who have reach out for assistance. run a boys’ gymnastics program at High Sierra Gymnastics in Reno, Nev., The list of mentor clubs for many years. that are listed on the

website at www.usagym.org/men are eager to help you develop your boys’ program!

REFERENCE MATERIALS How to Start a Boys Program – this publication provides general information on designing a basic program for boys starting with recreational classes.

•

Skills Achievement Program • Basic – the BSAP kit includes a booklet

and DVD with additional wall charts and patches (optional).

This resource lays out basic progressions for learning skills and developing fitness on the six gymnastics events for boys in preparation for beginning competitive gymnastics. Great resource for a pre-team program.

Junior Olympic Age Group • Men’s Competitive Program materials –

these program materials provide the information necessary to participate in sanctioned team and individual competitive gymnastics for ages 6 years-old and up. They include skills and rules for Levels 4-10.

Stars Manual - for information • Future regarding basic testing and routines at

State, Regional, & National levels for higher level training for boys 8 years old and up.

Preparation DVD by Roberto Pumpido – this • Physical DVD provides a wealth of educational information Photo by Steve Lange

for building physical fitness for gymnastics.

“At Buffalo Grove we feel strongly that offering gymnastics for both girls and boys adds real value to any program and helps create that one stop shopping for parents on the go.

Starting a new program can be difficult. Starting a boy’s program is a great way to expand your program with basically the same equipment. The program is essentially already started with equipment and space; just add boys and more income.

Besides, I’d rather have boys in the gym paying my bills than brothers in the lobby messing it up.”

Kelly Crumley is an owner and team coach for Buffalo Grove Gymnastics in the Chicago metropolitan area. The program has multiple locations all with boys’ programs.

This highly successful program offers preschool through elite boys’ gymnastics and is responsible for developing several “home grown” national team members at both the junior and senior levels.

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

Performance

Todd Arnold, MD Performance Medicine Specialist St.Vincent Sports Performance

Asymmetries

E

ver feel like there is just something preventing you from making it to the next level?

Sometimes there is the fear of doing the next complicated move. Sometimes the strength simply is not there, or the required flexibility. The root may lay deeper still.

Some athletes have imbalances and asymmetries that may be the limiting factor. Not the types of differences that may

be visible watching them walk. Not always the types of issues that lead to a limp while sprinting toward the vault, but subtle changes that are present. Imbalances of strength between the left and right sides, or flexibility that is limited on one side, creating an asymmetry.

These incorrect biomechanics can lead to decreased performance. An example of this might be the timing of firing for the gluteal and hamstring musculature. If the hamstring is a dominant force trying to “help” the gluteal muscles, this may lead to decreased speed and power and simply not allow the athlete to jump high enough or travel far enough to complete the skill. Training with a body that is not in balance regarding movement is putting fitness on dysfunction and may limit potential performance.

There are ways to identify these issues through screening examinations like the Functional Movement Screen

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

19

Performance Todd Arnold, MD Performance Medicine Specialist St.Vincent Sports Performance

Asymmetries ...continued

and the Y Balance test. These are evaluations that look at how an athlete moves and can identify limitations that are present.

But just identifying them is only half the battle. Corrective exercises are used to reset the biomechanics and lead to more symmetric and appropriate movement. Once accomplished, the fitness program is more productive and can give the strength or flexibility or muscle timing required to do the skill that have prevented the graduation to the next level. This is putting fitness on function.

This screening can also help reduce injury. Identifying and eliminating these asymmetries and poor movement patterns reduces the micro trauma that is occurring when muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons are faced with inappropriate movement. Micro trauma may lead to breakdown of that indi-

vidual structure or make the body more dependent on another structure, placing it at risk for failure. At a time where we consider nutrition and blended eastern medicine as treatment options for injury management, we must also look critically at how the whole body moves. This will ensure complete recovery from an injury and can help prevent future injuries.

Seek out medical professionals that think like this and take advantage of their unique skill sets. It may reduce injury, improve performance and lengthen an athletic career. *further information regarding FMS/SFMA screens can be found at www.FunctionalMovement.com or by contacting St. Vincent Sports Performance at www.DefiningSportsPerformance.com

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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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

USA GYMNASTICS FITNESS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

T

he handstand is a fundamental element in gymnastics. It is displayed on every event and in almost every exercise. It requires balance, strength, and core stability.

It is the symbol of gymnastics. Show the benefits of gymnastics and its conditioning to your community with a handstand! The new USA Gymnastics Fitness Program, available now, provides step-bystep exercise instruction to help your club build its conditioning focus and increase your students overall fitness.

And, as we head into spring and summer, what better time to incorporate this new program into your class and team program, then now.

Continued on pg. 32...

22

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

2011 NATIONAL CONGRESS & TRADE SHOW August 17 -20, 2011 Saint Paul, MN

T

A New Educational Experience for 2011!!

here are many new and exciting educational opportunities that will be offered at the 2011 National Congress & Trade Show in Saint Paul, Minn., Aug. 17–20. Some of the educational opportunities include: 5 “Hands-on” Spotting Clinics for women, men and trampoline & tumbling** Women’s Level 2 Certification** Business Level 1 & 2 Certification** Trampoline & Tumbling Level 2 Certification** Special Olympics Course & Certification USA Gymnastics Safety/Risk Management* USA Gymnastics Preschool Fundamentals Hands on Training (H.O.T.) * *available at additional fee ** All congress attendees are highly advised to complete the Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction Course prior to attending. For more information regarding the Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction please visit www.usagym.org/education

Along with the new certification opportunities, three days of education with more than 170 sessions are offered in a wide range of areas including judging, business, preschool, recreational, sports science, rhythmic, acrobatics, gymnastics for all, fitness, and cheerleading.

Full day session tracks will be offered in the areas of Recreational/Instruction, Women’s, Men’s, and Trampoline & Tumbling. There will be five sessions per day beginning at 8:30 a.m.

The 2010 National Congress and Trade Show has something for everyone: new preschool instructors, office managers, beginner/advanced coaches, and

24

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

club owners, with education and experience vital to continued growth of your staff, programs and business.

For registration details and more please visit www.usagymnasticsnationalcongress.org or refer to the individual registration form in this issue of Technique. Special discounted tiered pricing is available to Member Clubs.

Hotel/Travel Reservations: National Travel Systems: 888-603-8747 Email: sportsinfo@nationaltravelsystems.com Website: www.ntssportstravel.com Visa Championships is Aug. 17–21. Men’s and Women’s Artistic events take place at the Xcel Energy Center and Rhythmic competition is at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

With all that the 2011 National Congress has to offer, this is the best educational investment you will make all year. Early Bird pricing available until May 16. Don’t Delay! Register Today!

28

Te c h n i q u e • A P R I L 2 0 1 1

MEMBER MEMBER SERVICES UPDATE MEMBER SERVICES SERVICES UPDATE UPDATE ATTENTION USA GYMNASTICS MEMBERS! Have You Created Your Log-In Yet???

T

he first phase of enhancements will change the way members interact with USA Gymnastics’ online membership information. These changes, we believe, will revolutionize the way our members, club owners and meet directors use the USA Gymnastics website to search and update membership(s), not just their own membership, but those that are affiliated with their clubs.

One of the largest changes to our new online system is that members will no longer access information using their member number and 8 digit date of birth to log on. In conjunction, clubs will also no longer use their club number and club passwords to log on to add/renew athletes.

Please see next column for step-by-step Instructions on creating your new Log-In and Password.

30

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

Step 1: Go to www.usagym. org and click on the Log-in link located in the top right corner.

USA Gymnastics

launches NEW Online Membership System!

Step 2: Click on the “Click here to Register” Link Step 3: The first section of the form will ask for a member number. You will want to enter in your Individual member number (not club number).

Step 4: Proceed to enter the information requested.

Step 5: Once your user information has been created you will then click on Member Services.

Step 6: On the left-hand side you will notice white links. The white link that states, “My Membership” will provide you access to your personal membership information, renew your membership, print card, register for educational course, and criminal background check screening (Professional Members Only)

A key point to the club administrator feature is that it will allow for multiple individuals within a club to have the same functionality without the constant need of knowing the club number and club password. They need only know their own personal user id and password.

Special Note to Club Owners – Club Administration Feature

Each club will have a club administrator (up to 5) which are separate individuals with their own individual username and passwords that will have access to the club information. These individuals do not have to be current USA Gymnastics members.

A club’s office staff, president of booster clubs, etc., may create a username and password on the USA Gymnastics website.

USA Gymnastics acknowledges that many club owners assign their office managers and secretaries to the task of updating and renewing the memberships within their club. But, often these individuals encounter difficulties using the online registration system because they do not have the appropriate log in information required to do so.

With that said, no longer will the club number and club password be used to access the club information. Moving forward, only those individuals that have been given “permission” from the club owner/ primary contact will be able to access the club information.

The Club Administration feature will allow the club owner, primary contact, or anyone the club owner deems as a club administrator to access and update the club information, review and renew both their athlete and professional member roster(s) and print membership cards.

Once an individual has registered and created his/her own username and password, an existing club administrator may log in to his/her account and assign the individual as a new club administrator.

Initially, the club owner and primary contact listed on the club records are the club administrators. However, the club administrators have the ability to add or remove additional club administrators.

For additional information regarding the new online membership system, please visit http://www.usa-gymnastics.org/pages/post.html?PostID=7259&prog=

or contact Member Services at 800-345-4719 or membership@usagym.org

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

31

USA GYMNASTICS FITNESS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

...CONTINUED FROM PG. 22

Sign-up to be a part of the USA Gymnastics Fitness Program at www.usagym. org/fitness, and use its fundamentals of fitness to build your gymnastics club conditioning program.

Conditioning is the core of any fitness plan and the basis of any sport. Log on today to review the updated USA Gymnastics Fitness Program and find out how you can add more targeted conditioning workouts to your classes.

NEW THIS YEAR • Completely online USA Gymnastics Fitness Program with a printable PDF handbook for exercises and handouts • Updated exercises in strength, flexibility and movement for three levels of fitness – beginner, intermediate and advanced – Class students to Level 10’s • Instructional online videos for each exercise and exercise group that can be shared electronically to instructors and students

Continued on pg. 34

32

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

Coaching Youth GYMNASTICS Coaching Youth Gymnastics, a new book from the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) and USA Gymnastics, covers coaching basics in a concise style that is customized for entry-level gymnastics coaches. Featuring a foreword by Shannon Miller, this one-of-a-kind book offers a unique blend of general coaching and sport-specific information. Techniques and skills for bars, floor, beam, and vault are presented by skill level rather than by age group and are applicable to both boys and girls where appropriate. Information on developing a coaching philosophy, communicating with athletes and parents, and providing basic sport first aid are included as well as forms, safety checklists, sample lesson and practice plans to help you stay on task. Coaching Youth Gymnastics will help you to create an environment that promotes learning, enjoyment, safety, and motivation for youth gymnasts.

Call 1-800-345-4719 to order and push option 1 or order online at http://usagym.sportgraphics.biz/ for just $19.95. Â This book will be a new Member Club benefit and included in the 2011-2012 renewals or welcome kits!

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

33

USA GYMNASTICS FITNESS PROGRAM LAUNCHES

...CONTINUED FROM PG. 32

NEW THIS YEAR

...CONTINUED

• New cardio games • Baseline metrics for fitness development • Participant progress measurement charts Use the USA Gymnastics Fitness Program to teach others in your community that the benefits of gymnastics far exceed flexibility. Show them that at its core, gymnastics is fitness and conditioning.

Then follow the USA Gymnastics Fitness Program Handstand Training Plan to demonstrate that balance, strength, and core stability are keys to fitness, and are what gymnastics is all about. Register on the USA Gymnastics Fitness page to take part in the Year of

34

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

W

y n

the Handstand World Record Attempt, which will be held the week of National Gymnastics Day, Sat., Sept. 17, 2011.

WHY FITNESS? s plan

Conditioning is the core of any fitnes and the basis of any sport

Today’s children are considered the most inactive generation in histor y. environment and Gymnastics clubs are a fun and safe classes. and ties activi ted s-rela fitnes have eight, a Approximately one in five kids is overw the last 30 in led doub than more has percentage that the most common years. Childhood obesity is considered (American Obesity nutritional disorder of U.S. children. n) Associatio Gymnastics provides a solid foundation participate ming physically fit and preparing to beco for s. sport and ties activi in other

Have friends in your community that might want to get involved with the USA Gymnastics Fitness Program or its Handstand Training Plan?

They can take part too!

Send them to www. usagymclub.com to learn more about USA Gymnastics or sign-up for the program at www.usagym.org/ fitness.

In the sport of gymnastics fitness is important, and conditioning is key.

RE U S E K SO MA CLUB IS YOUR ED AND V INVOL THE USA START ASTICS GYMN ROGRAM SP S E N T I !

F Y A D O T

MARCH 2011 • TECHNIQUE

35

PROPOSED ELEMENTS FOR THE 2013-2020 JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY EXERCISES FOR WOMEN 5 Levels of Compulsory Exercises. Level 5 is comparable to the current level 6.

• Straight jump onto min. of 16” mat, then kick up to Handstand fall to flat back

VAULT LEVEL 1 Min. 4 yrs. old

• Jump to Handstand onto min. of 16” mat stack (no block required)

VAULT

• Jump to Handstand onto min. 32” mat stack (no block required)

VAULT

• Hand spring over vault table

LEVEL 2 Min. 5 yrs. old LEVEL 3 Min. 6 yrs. old

VAULT LEVEL 4 Min. 7 yrs. old

• Handspring over vault table

VAULT

• Pullover • Cast • Back hip circle • Cast

LEVEL 5 Min. 7 yrs. old

BARS LEVEL 1 Min. 4 yrs. old

• Dismount: Straddle on, sole circle OR Underswing • Pullover • Cast • Back hip circle • Single leg cut forward

BARS LEVEL 2 Min. 5 yrs. old

• Forward stride circle, OR • Single leg basket swing (hooking knee on the bar on the upswing to complete either element circle is allowable) • Single leg swing backward, cast

• Mount: Glide Kip (straddle or pike)

BARS

• Cast to horizontal and return to support Min. 7 yrs. old • Cast squat or pike on • Long hang kip • Cast to horizontal, Back hip circle • Underswing • Counter swing to 30º below horizontal • Tap Swing forward • Counter swing to 30º below horizontal • Dismount: Tap swing forward with ½ turn

LEVEL 4

• Mount: Glide Kip (straddle or pike) • Cast to above horizontal (no specific degree) • Clear hip circle to above horizontal (no specific degree)

BARS LEVEL 5 Min. 7 yrs. old

• Glide kip (straddle or pike), Cast, squat or pike on, back tuck sole circle, jump to high bar OR • Squat or pike on/jump to high bar • Long hang kip, Cast to above horizontal (no specific degree) • Long hang pullover • Underswing • Counterswing to 15º below horizontal • Dismount: Tap swing forward to Flyaway in tuck, pike, or layout • Mount: Jump to front support • Lie back to pike (L) position with legs straight – roll forward into tuck stand

BEAM LEVEL 1

Min. 4 yrs. old

• Arabesque (show – no hold)

• Dismount:

Squat on, piked sole circle OR Underswing • Mount: Glide swing out (straddle or pike) and return to stand with feet together – Pullover

OR Glide kip (both a 10.0 SV) • Front hip circle, small cast • Cast, single leg shoot thru • Stride circle forward OR • Single leg basket swing (both legs straight throughout) • Cast • Back hip circle • Dismount: Underswing

• Step, Leg swing, step, Leg swing • Lever – mark T position

BARS LEVEL 3 Min. 6 yrs. old

• Leg balance in forward passé on flat foot (mark) • Relevé – lock position – hold

• Dismount: From kneel on one leg, Cartwheel to partial handstand, lower to stand facing beam • Mount: Jump to front support • Swing to push up – jump to tuck stand

BEAM LEVEL 2

Min. 5 yrs. old

• Arabesque (>30º below horizontal)

• Front leg swing –close; back leg swing – close to stand. – relevé lock • Lever to beam – touch beam and return to stand • Leg balance in forward passé (hold 2 seconds) • Pivot turn (180°) • Stretch jump, pull to lock position • Dismount: Cartwheel to Handstand, lower to stand facing beam • Mount: Leg swing to cross sit • Arabesque (>45º below horizontal)

BEAM LEVEL 3

Min. 6 yrs. old

• Straight leg leap (90º) to plié arabesque – hold.

• Cross Handstand with legs in split position.

Mark (no angle requirement).

• Pivot turn – step, Pivot turn • Stretch jump, Stretch jump, pull to lock position • ½ (180°) heel snap turn in forward passé • Dismount: Cartwheel to side handstand, (mark the position), ¼ turn • Mount: Leg swing to cross sit

BEAM

• Cartwheel

LEVEL 4

Min. 7 yrs. old

• Arabesque (>45º below horiz.) – lift to Scale (at horizontal – hold 1 sec.).

• Straight leg leap (120º) to plié to lock position • Cross Handstand with legs together – hold 1 second • Leg swing forward-backward – close to pivot turn • Split jump (120º) to stretched jump • ½ (180°) turn in forward passé • Dismount: Cartwheel to side handstand, (hold 1 second), ¼ turn

• Stretch jump continued...

Safety/Risk Management Certification Course USA Gymnastics University is proud to announce the launch of the revised course and handbook.

• Available online • Valuable risk management information for everyone in the gym, from administrators to athletes, coaches to owners • Certification is valid for four years • Earn credits toward USA Gymnastics University Level 2 certification • 2009 Handbook available through the online technical materials store To register for a course, visit the USA Gymnastics website at www.usagym.org/university.

Register online or download the registration form. **Save $5 by registering online!**

APRIL 2011 • TECHNIQUE

37

PROPOSED ELEMENTS FOR THE 2013–2020 JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY EXERCISES FOR WOMEN continued • Mount: Leg swing to cross sit • Back walkover OR • Back extension OR • Back handspring step-out

BEAM LEVEL 5

Min. 7 yrs. old

• Arabesque slightly below horiz. – Lift to Scale (above horizontal – hold 1 sec.), • Straight leg leap (150º), stretch jump • Cross Handstand with legs together – hold 2 seconds, step down – backward relevé walks • Backward swing turn (min. of horiz.)

• Split jump (150º), Sissonne • Full (360°) turn in forward passé. Arms in crown • Dismount: Cartwheel to side handstand, (hold 2 seconds) – ¼ turn • ¾ Handstand (legs do not join) – step down to lunge

FLOOR LEVEL 1

• Forward entry – Cartwheel ¼ turn in

Min. 4 yrs. old

• Backward roll tuck

• Split jump (90°), Stretch jump • Handstand forward roll (with arms straight)

FLOOR LEVEL 3

Min. 6 yrs. old

• Handstand Bridge – Back Kickover

• Leg swings to the side R and L • Backward roll tuck with straight arms to push up position • Forward split • Chassé, Split leap (90°) to large step, leg swing in relevé • ½ (180°) turn in forward passé… arms in forward-middle or crown.

• Backward Swing turn • Round-off, Flic-flac, rebound-stick No specific # of running steps • Straddle jump (120º), stretched jump ½ (180°)

FLOOR LEVEL 4

• Front handspring , Min. 7 yrs. old rebound (no stick) No specific # of running steps • Back walkover (120°)

• Candlestick

• Running steps, Passé hop

• Forward roll tuck • Walks Right and Left

• Backward roll with straight arms to Handstand

• Forward passé balance – mark/press to relevé

• Forward split

• Forward Chassé Leg swing

• Sissonne, chassé, Split leap (120°) large step, leg swing hop

• Relevé balance Split jump

• Full (360°) turn in forward passé… arms in forward-middle or crown

• Handstand with legs together – step down to lunge

FLOOR

• 1-3 steps – hurdle, round-off

LEVEL 2

Min. 5 yrs. old

• Round-off, 2 flic-flacs – rebound to stick.

No specific # of running steps • Straddle Jump (150°), Stretched jump with full (360°) turn

FLOOR

• Candlestick, lie down, push up to bridge – kick over

LEVEL 5 • Front handspring Min. 7 yrs. old step-out, front handspring to 2 feet, rebound No specific # of running steps

• Pivot turn – step, Pivot turn

• Forward salto tucked

• 2 (two) ¼ (90°+ 90°) heel snap turns – leg position in forward passé… arms in forwardmiddle.

• Backward roll with straight arms to Handstand

• Backward roll tuck with bent arms to pike stand

• Forward Chassé – Straight leg leap (60°) • Split jump press to relevé lock position

• Forward split • Sissonne, chasse, step Split leap (150°) OR • Switch-leg leap (150°), large step to leg swing hop • Full (360°) turn in forward passé… arms in crown

38

Te c h n i q u e • A P R I L 2 0 1 1

• Round-off , flic-flac , back salto tuck – stick No specific # of running steps

R

h

R

R

2. Raise the DD for Double mini and look at the other two disciplines as well.

3. Keep two qualification events

PROGRAM TRAMPOLINE & TUMBLING COMMITTEE CONFERENCE CALL January 5, 2011

4. Difficulty

Program Committee Conference Call January 5, 2011

5. Double mini – DD over 4 passes

6. #7 page 2 - Remove FIG judge and Program Committee – Add Program Director and coaches (per discipline), athlete rep. A coach that has an athlete in the pool will be recuesed from the process.

Chairman.................................. Megan Gearhart Elite Committee Chair................. Shaun Kempton JO Committee Chair................... Jill Milroy Board of Directors Member/ Scholarship Committee Chair...... Dr. George Drew Technical Committee Chair.......... Patti Conner Athlete Representative................ Karl Heger (joined the call at 12:15 pm) Program Director....................... Susan Jacobson Program Consultant.................... Ann Sims Called to order at 12:00 p.m.

I. Selection Procedures

7. Overview- 3 coaches are to be named and a 4th will be named as needed.

III. World Age Group Team Selection Procedures Suggestions: 1. Keep using Junior only 2. Coaches – name 3rd or a 4th will be named if necessary

The committee discussed the Selection Procedures for IV. Olympic Games 2011 with appropriate changes the document was Suggestion: changed to represent our new schedule.

II. World Championships Team Selection Procedures Suggestions: 1. If 4 or less participants there is no lock for athletes ranked one or two.

40

Te c h n i q u e • A P R I L 2 0 1 1

1. 3 domestics events to select the team.

Conference call adjourned 1:30 p.m.

Face to face meeting scheduled for February 5-6 (Chicago).

MARCH 2011 • TECHNIQUE

41

ELITE PROGRAM TRAMPOLINE & TUMBLING COMMITTEE MEETING January 19, 2011 Members Present:..............Shaun Kempton

...............Will Green

...............Jared Olsen

...............Brad Davis Others Present:..............George Drew

...............Susan Jacobson

...............Ann Sims Conference call convened at 10:00 a.m. CST

Recommendation to amend current policy (Sept. 1 – Jan. 31) to use competitions held since Visa Championships as method of ranking.

Motion Will Green Second Brad Davis PASSED Vote for funding recommendation tabled until ranking points can be verified.

Other criteria reviewed: Athlete funding only for Senior Elites at this time • 4 Men • Award Bonus to athletes and coaches at Visa Championships • Award Bonus to athletes at International Event Designation - Pan American Games • Annual Performance Bonus to include points from Visa Champs, World Cup Events, World Championships, and Olympic Selection event.

I. 2011 Budget overview • Clear directives pertaining to the distribution of funds • Securing places for the Olympic Games • Funding support from the USOC for trampoline III. Criteria for Athlete Funding Sept 1-Jan 31, 2012

Discussion of one set of guidelines to encompass a II. Athlete Funding Feb 1-Aug 30, 2011 whole year with voting for the eligible members on a • Retain Elite athletes in the sport 6 month cycle. Recommendation of who is funded at • Scholarships, funding, and success incentives the time.

• Leveled funding Discussion of ranking criteria to be used for Feb. Next meeting set for January 27, 2011, at 10:00 funding. a.m. CST via conference call to discuss.

Discussion regarding who is currently funded and if

Meeting adjourned 11:30 a.m. they are eligible for continued funding

42

TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011

ELITE TRAMPOLINE & TUMBLING COMMITTEE MEETING January 27, 2011 Members Present:.................. Shaun Kempton

................... Will Green

................... Brad Davis

................... Jared Olsen Others:.................. Dr. George Drew

................... Susan Jacobson

................... Ann Sims

IV.

Addition of criteria to include: • “Athlete must be training with an elite level coach that meets all USA Gymnastics Professional Criteria.”

• “Athletes must be in current ranking system.”

V.

Review of amended funding policy and vote to adopt.

Approve Exhibit D. The 2011-2012 Athlete funding policy with criteria presented.

Motion Jared Olsen Second Will Green PASSED

VI.

Discussion regarding minimum degrees of difficulty for mobilization, qualification, and selection processes (vote).

Conference call convened at 11:00 a.m.

I.

Approval of minutes Jan. 19, 2011 Motion Will Green Second Brad Davis PASSED

II.

Recommendation of 8 athletes to receive financial support February 1-August 31, based on rankings January 31, 2011 (vote)

Sr. Team Athletes with Points:

Men: Steven Gluckstein Logan Dooley Michael Devine Neal Gulati

54 48 22 18

points points points points

Women: Nani Vercruyssen 21 points Dakota Earnst 19 points Savannah Vinsant 11 points

Sr. Team Athletes with no points: – closed discussion

Recommendation for funding for Steven, Logan, Michael, Neal, Nani, Dakota, Savannah, and Jeffrey.

Motion Brad Davis

Second Jared Olsen PASSED III.

Athlete Funding Policy Addition of whole year performance bonus to funding policy.

Recommendation to accept the addition of an annual performance bonus.

Motion Will Green Second Dr. George Drew PASSED

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Te c h n i q u e • A P R I L 2 0 1 1

VII. Recommendation on Double Mini Trampoline mobilization of Jr. elite to Sr. Elite that DD stays the same but drop the total score by 1.1. Rebuilding the women’s double mini team.

Motion George Drew Second Will Green PASSED VIII. Mobility • Where are athletes permitted to mobilize?

• What types of meets should be eligible for elite mobilization?

• What CAT judge should be used without exception?

National Team selection procedures reviewed and distributed. Approved via email.

Meeting adjourned at 12:15 p.m.

CLASSIFIEDS

for sale • position available • seeking employment • education • consignment

POSITION AVAILABLE Gymnastics Apparel company located in the greater Los Angeles area, California is looking for commission based sales representatives throughout the USA. All our products are made in USA. The candidates we are looking for must have experience in Gymnastics wear sales, motivated, show sincere and genuine interest in sales to all gymnastics shops & at the key competition events. All applicants, please contact Simon Bibeau at 714-318 –6500 or 949-916-8787 fax resume: 866-719-1135 and email : sbibeau@socal.rr.com <http://sbibeau@socal.rr.com> INSTRUCTOR/COACHES. Paragon Gymnastics of Norwood, NJ (Bergen County), is looking for instructors and coaches, P/T – F/T. Requirements: Positive attitudes, responsible, reliable, and love of children. Position available for competitive team coach Level 6 and up with flexible hours. Also preschool through intermediate instruction. Company sponsored certifications (safety, CPR, First Aid). Benefits available, paid vacations & sick days. Salary commensurate with experience. NEW facility, state-of-the-art approx. 11,000 sq. ft. Located in the NY/NJ Metropolitan area, easily accessible from all major highways.

Contact Dot via email: paragongymnastics@verizon.net, 201767-6921 or fax to 201-767-6693 or at 49 Walnut Steet, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 07648. www.paragongym.com Nashoba Gymnastics Academy at One Stop Fun, Westford, Massachusetts is looking for an enthusiastic, experienced, highly motivated Team Coaches for pre-team, compulsory and optional teams. Ideal candidates are team players, mature, careerminded, energetic and have a positive attitude. Compensation based upon experience. Benefits available to full time coaches.

Send resume to Glen Mair: onestopfun@charter.net New England Sports Academy (NESA) in Westwood, MA is looking to add a high energy team member to the already experienced and highly competitive staff. NESA is a state of the art multisport facility that is home to one of the most competitive girls and boys gymnastics teams in New England.

We are currently seeking an individual who is experienced in developing and implementing productive bar workouts.

Candidates must have experience spotting bars with all levels.

We are looking for part or full time depending on skill set. Hours will include working with developmental team, compulsory and optional levels as well as some adult classes. High energy and commitment to excellence is a must. Compensation is based on experience. Please contact Svetlana Leeds at 781-492-0719 or Svetlana.leeds83@gmail.com.

Twisters Gymnastics, Inc. in Mountain View, CA is looking for an experienced and highly qualified compulsory team director for our growing program. Must have a history of success at coaching compulsory gymnastics and directing a team of instructors. Salary is negotiable and based on experience.

Health benefits included. For more information contact Allan Fusilero at afusilero@hotmail.com or fax resume to 650967-7149.

The Rochester Gymnastics Academy: With demand driven team growth, we are looking for a Womens Team Coach. Part time or Full time position (with full benefits). 20000sf facility with VERY competitive team priding ourselves with results at the state, regional and National Level. Applicant must be energetic, have experience at both compulsory and optional level. Demonstrated strong spotting skills with evidence of successful coaching, ability to teach advanced gymnastics skills, work in a collaborative coaching atmosphere, be positive, enthusiastic , respectful and relate well to children. Salary to commensurate with experience. Visit us at www.rochesterGA. com . Email resume’s to mail@rochesterGA.com

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Te c h n i q u e • A P R I L 2 0 1 1

Live and work at the beach…Cape Cod Gymnastics of Yarmouthport, MA has just moved into a brand new 10,000 square foot building. It was built from the ground up for gymnastics. We have the facility and a great staff, now we are looking for the right professional coaches to help us continue to grow into one of the top gyms in the Northeast. Cape Cod Gymnastics is looking for gymnastics coaches for our girl’s team, our Prep-op program and a coach to run and expand our boys program. CCG is known as Cape Cod’s best, most professional and award winning gymnastics facility. We are certainly willing to “taylor” a position for the right person. Our facility is close to the South Shore, Providence, and Boston! If you are going to bust your butt all winter long, live in a place where you can truly enjoy your summer. Full or Part-time positions available; competitive benefits package and salary based on experience.

Please call or email Jen for more info. 508-744-7751 or tumble@capecodgymnastics.com GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTOR. We are looking for enthusiastic, qualified gymnastics, martial arts, and dance instructors, great with kids, a team player. Positions are available at our state of the art gymnastics, martial arts, and dance facility, MonSat, day and times vary depending on availability and our class schedules. Salary is based on experience. All interested instructors please call All American Gymnastics Academy at 413 596-0089 or email info@allamericangymnasticacademy.com.

Must be enthusiastic and great with kids.

Team Coach Levels 4-10. Premier Gymnastics Club of Tampa, FL is looking for a Vault and Bars team coach to join our competitive girls team program. We are looking for a strong spotter, very energetic and passionate coach who is qualified to coach levels 4-10. Our current team is competitive, successful and growing rapidly. We are hoping to find a positive and motivated coach to be a strong addition to our program. Pay is negotiable and based on experience. Please send resume to premiergym@gmail.com.

FOR SALE 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 camp. 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 can get started today! Email: customerservice@gkelite.com Score Master – Scorekeeping software interfaced to many different score boards: EliteScore, BetaBrites, TV’s & Projectors.

Download team rosters from the USAG website. Features include: random draws, create rotations, assign #’s, the most comprehensive reporting and results can go directly to your website. Supports: womens/mens, individual/team, artistic/ rhythmic/trampoline, compulsory/optional. Download a FREE demo at www.Score-Master.com The www.GetYourKidsOffTheCouch.com program eliminates the difficulty your prospective customers are having finding the best GYM by placing all facilities with activities for kids in one central location on the web and allows parents to narrow search results by zip code. Online marketing has become a MUST HAVE to compete in the Gymnastics Business but it is time consuming, cumbersome, intimidating and expensive. The internet is a FAST and a moving target! www.GetYourKidsOffTheCouch.com has taken aim and is dominating the search engines on your behalf. www.GetYourKidsOffTheCouch.com is the most innovative, automated, and cost effective online marketing platform for the kids’ Activities Industry. “Brian Foster is a student of this industry and is always innovating and creating new ways to further our sport and our bottom line. His knowledge of cutting edge marketing techniques and business practices makes him a stand-out

in the Kid’s Activity Centers industry. I trust Brian and have faith in his abilities.” -Patti Komara’s Tumblebear Gym Program - Patti’s AllAmerican “Brian Foster spawns outrageously innovative ideas and, most importantly, Brian delivers! I support Brian and this endeavor 100%!” -Randy Sikora,Twister Gymnastics, Boca Raton,FL “ ACTIVATE FREE LISTING NOW” go to www.

GetYourKidsOffTheCouch.comAll-American “Brian Foster spawns outrageously innovative ideas and, most importantly, Brian delivers! I support Brian and this endeavor 100%!” -Randy Sikora,Twister Gymnastics, Boca Raton,FL “ACTIVATE FREE LISTING NOW” go to www.GetYourKidsOffTheCouch.com.

CLASS CONTROL for Windows XP and Vista. Serving Gymnastics since 1990 with Class Management and Accounts Receivable software, including free training and technical support. Packed with features, easy to use, and networkable. Flexible setup, easy assignments, rosters, attendance tracking, marketing analysis, automated tuition calculation, multiple discounts, additional/retail charges, inventory management, sales tax support, invoices/statements, receivables reports, financial and enrollment summaries, instructor schedules, waiting and makeup lists, mailing labels, send messages and invoices by e-mail, support for online bank draft and credit card payments, and much more. Only $600 ($300/additional workstation).

Contact Vaughn Software Services at 800-821-8516, vaughnsoftware@bellsouth.net, or www.vaughnsoftware.com MC/VISA/AMEX.

EDUCATION Available now! The NEW GYMCERT Gymnastics training manuals (Levels 1, 2, 3, & the NEW Skills & Drills for the Compulsory Coach Level’s 4, 5 & 6) a must for training your staff; cut your lesson planning time significantly; use to coordinate class progressions and skill training methods; and, best of all have a quick reference that is easy to use which includes Lesson Planning Forms and Class Evaluation Forms by level. The GYMCERT manuals provide concise instruction, clear illustrations, and several coaching, spotting, and safety tips. Will your staff be ready for your fall students? Order direct by calling toll free: 1-866-591-8500 or online: www.GYMCERT.com.

FOR INFORMATION on how to publish a classified ad in Technique, go to http://www.usagym.org/publications Or call Luan Peszek at 317-829-5646.

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TECHNIQUE • APRIL 2011