Technique Magazine – February 2006 by USA Gymnastics

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

SCHEDULE

an official publication of USA Gymnastics PUBLISHER

Steve Penny EDITOR

Luan Peszek

FEATURES Fitness Through Gymnastics

.. 6

How to Size and Break-in Grips

.. 8

Splint My Aching Shins . .. .. .

.12

The Inverted Cross - A Case Study With Training Implications.

.22

GRAPH IC DESIGNER

Adam Braden Jay Bilunas USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMlnEE CHAIR: Ron Froehlich; PRESIDENT: Sieve Penny; VICE CHAIR WOMEN: Tom KolI; VICE CHAIR MEN: YoichiTomilo; VICE CHAIR RHYTHMIC: Andrea Schmid, VICE CHAIR TRAMPOLINE: Paul Parillo; VICE CHAIR ACRO·GYMNASTlCS: Tanya Case; SECRETARY: Gory And",on; TREASURER: Bob Wood; FIG REPS: Bob Colarossi (Execulive CommiHeel, Ron Froehlich (AudilorJ, Tanya Case (Sports Aero Technical CommiHeel and John Roelhlisberger (Alhlele Rep.l. AT lARGE MEMBERS: Sieve Bulcher, Oovid Holcamb; ATHLETE OIRECTORS: Shannon Miller, John Roelhlisberger, Vanessa Vander Pluym, Karl Heger, USOC ATHLflE DIREGOR: Lorissa Fonloine. USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR: Ron Froehlich; PRESIDENT: Sieve Penny; PRESIDENT EMERITUS: Sandy Knopp, Mike Donohue; TREASURER: Bob Wood; SECRETARY: Gary And",on; VICE CHAIR WOMEN: Tom KolI; VICE CHAIR MEN: Yoichi Tomilo; VICE CHAIR RHYTHMIC: Andrea Schmid, VICE CHAIR TRAMPOLINE: Paul Parillo; VICE CHAIR ACRO·GYMNASTICS: Tanya Case; PUBLIC SECTOR: Bill Hybl, Bob Wood; AMATEUR ATHLETIC UNION: Ron Ferris; AMERICAN SOKOL ORGANIZATION: Jerry Milan; AMERICAN TURNERS: Beny Heppner; COLLEGE GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION·MEN: fancis Allen; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Of COLLEGIATE COACHES·WOMEN: Mark Cook; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION fOR GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORT: Marilyn Slrowbridge; NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Of WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS JUDGES: Carole Ide; NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION·MEN: Mark Williams; NATIONAL fEDERATION Of STATE HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS: Becky Oakes; NATIONALGYMNASTICS JUDGES ASSOCIATION·MEN: Bulch Zunich; NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: Margie Canfield; U.S. ASSOCIATION Of INDEPENDENT GYMNASTICS CLUBS: Paul Spadaro; U.S. ELITE COACHES ASSOCIATION·MEN: Thom Glielmi; U.S. ELITE COACHES ASSOCIATION· WOMEN: Sieve Rybacki; U.S. MEN'S GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: TIm Klempnouer; U.S. RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: Suzie DiTullio; YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION Of THE USA: Cosey Koenig; NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSDCIATlON·WOMEN: Meg Slephen"n; NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORS MEN: Mike Burns, Abie Grassfeld; RHYTHMIC: Ivonko Kirov, Michelle Lorson; WOMEN: Kelli Hill, Tom forsler; TRAMPOllN~ Shoun Kemplon, Dr. George Drew; ACRO· GYMNASTICS: Undo Porter, Joy Binder; ATHLflES COUNCil Vanessa Vander Pluym, Caroline Hunl, Larissa fonlaine, Shannon Miller, Kim Zmeskal· BurdeHe, Jamie Marshik, Karl Heger, Jay Thornlon, Sieve McCain, Arthur Davis, USOC Alhlele Rep.; Larissa fonlaine, Execulive Board Member John Roelhlisberger. ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTERS, Lari Kon; SPECIAL OLYMPICS, Kale Fober·Hickie; U.S. COMPETITIVE AEROBICS FEDERATION, Howard Schwartz CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: In arder 10 ensure uninlerrupled delivery of TECHNIQUE magazine, nolice of change of address should be made eighl weeks in advance. For faslesl service, please endose your presenl moiling label. Direct all submiplian moil 10 TECHNIQUE Subseriplions, USA Gymnasli", 201 S. Copilol Ave., Sle. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225. TECHNIQUE is published monlh~ excepl bimonlh~ in 5epl/ Oct and Novl Dec by USA Gymnasli", Pan Arnericon PI.zo, Suile 300, 201 Saulh Copnol Avenue, Indionopot,s, IN 46225 (phone: 317·237·50501 or visil online @ www .usa-gyonastics .org Subscriplion prices: U.S.-S25 per year; Canada/ Mexico-S4B per year; all olher foreign counlries--S60 per year. If available, back issue single copies S4 plus pasloge/hondling. All reasonable core will be loken, bUI no responsibilily can be ossumed for unsoliciled moleriol; endose relurn posloge. Copyrighl 2006 by USA Gymnosli" ond TECHNIQUE. All righ~ reserved. Prinled by Sport Graphi", Indionopolis, IN. Member Services 1·800·345·4719

Unless expressly identified to th. con'rary, all articl.s, statements and views printed herein are attributed solely to the author and USA Gymnastics expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility thereof.

Developing a Program to Protect Children ....

. .28

2006 National Congress .. ... .

. .36

Member Club Invitational Listing.

.. 42

FEBRUARY

2006

•

VOLUME

•

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\..

DEPARTMENTS Event Schedule .............. ... .... ... .......... 2 USA Gymnastics Message .. .......... .... .. 4 Athlete Focus ........ .. .... ....... ..... ... .... .. 18

What's New .................................... 37 Classifieds ................. ....... ......... ...... 46 Safety Certification Schedule ............ 48

Business Tips ................... ........ ........ . 20

PROGRAM UPDATE

Member Service Update ... ............... 26 KAT/MELPD .................................... 30

Women's Program Update ............... 37 Women's Call for Nominations ......... 41

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY OF ALICIA SACRAMONE • PHOTO

www.usa-gymnastics.org

Steve Lange

USA GYMNASTICS Message The "Fitness" message is a top priority for USA Gymnastics in 2006, and we are in the process of creating ways to promote fitness throughout the organization and the entire gymnastics community. Our network of clubs, coaches, and other professionals is the perfect means for getting the message to the general public that the sport of gymnastics is a great way to stay fit. Whether we do so through our current programming or we diversify with unique opportunities like fitness classes, we need to encourage kids to "Get in the Gym" and start moving. Pick up any magazine or newspaper and there is a new report or study showing alarming statistics on the lack of physical fitness among Americans, especially children. Statistics in the American College of Sports Medicine newsletter indicate that childhood obesity in the U.S. has more than doubled in the past 20 years, and today almost half of U.S . children and adolescents are at a weight that increases their risk for a variety of health problems.

Steve Penny USA Gymnastics President

TV and radio talk shows are filled with discussions on how this has happened. They place the blame on everything from fast food and drive-through restaurants to video games, DVDs and IPODs, to fewer gym classes and sports programs in sc hools all across the co untry. Corporate America has reacted, offering a wide range of fitness-related products and services, from nutrition drinks and bars, fitness equipment and pedometers, to health clubs and other services including online fitness and nutrition programs. The sport of gymnastics is one of the best for fighting the challenges presented above. Unfortunately, many people believe that gymnastics by its nature is beyond the ability of most average individuals. As a community, we must become pro-active in the effort to make America more physically fit by developing "fitness" oriented programs for our young people and their families.

egin Here. Go Anywhere.

The time to act is now, and USA Gymnastics is taking a leadership position in this effort.

It only takes a minute to understand what gymnastics can do for the body. Our athletes are livin g testament to the type of physical fitness the sport provides. Lean muscle mass is produced by working out in the gym. Conditioning and fitness are key components to our sport - every gymnastics team, from Levell to elite, more than likely has some sort of a fitness/ conditioning program that accompanies its gymnastics training.

The USA Gymnastics Fitness program is on our Web site and ready to use free of charge at http://www.usagymnastics.org/ fitness/. The site is a great resource with ideas and links. Marketing materia ls are available for a nomina l fee to help you launch your fitness program. USA Gymnastics has even more in store for our 2006 Fitness campaign. Among our plans we wi ll be publishing fitness -related articles in both Technique and USA Gymnastics, as well as online; expanding the established USA Gymnastics Fitness program; adding a fitness-related component to American Cup in Philadelphia and other premier events; and having fitness playa key role in National Gymnastics Day this year. We'll communicate our plans for each of these events and others during the coming year. We sincerely hope you wi ll join us in making 2006 the year of fitness. By wo rking together, we can make a positive impact on fitness levels, while promoting the health related benefits of gymnastics.

GIVI US YOUI 'IIDBACK USA Gymnastics is evaluating both its Web site and publications, and your input will help us in our plans to make both the Web site and our publications more fun and informative! Please visit www.usa-gymnastics.org/survey/ to give us your ideas. Survey participants may enter into a drawing to win several different prizes.

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TEe HNIOU E â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 2006

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Remember when gymnastics was just a sport for the talented few? Wow - how things have changed! The industry of gymnastics is now in full bloom and millions of children in almost every city in America are enrolled in clubs, mobile programs or recreational centers offering gymnastics classes for kids. One of the reasons so many kids today are loving gymnastics classes is the fun and excitement they experience while learning new skills and getting in shape. It's no secret that gymnastics develops your body in a positive way - just look at a gymnast! Every muscle in your body is used when doing gymnastics. And, unlike some sports that use one side of the body more than the other for throwing a ball or swinging a club, gymnastics can help children develop healthy posture while increasing flexibility, coordination, agility, balance and strength in ways that improve performance in all other sports. But, as much as our industry has grown, so has the youth fitness crisis in America. Sadly, there are more kids today that are unfit, out of shape and overweight than ever before. These kids are also at risk of developing serious health related problems as a result of their obesity and sedentary lifestyles. And, year after year, the Surgeon General of the United States informs us that the problem is getting worse. In fact, with all we know about health and fitness, many kids today have a shorter life expectancy than their parents.

Fitness through

Gymnastics Making a

positive difference in the lives of children

Why are so many kids unhealthy? And what can we in the gymnastics industry do about it? Well if you ask me, we ca n do a lot about it! In fact, we may be in a better position to make a positive difference than almost anyone else because we start kids in gymnastics at such a you ng age.

â&#x20AC;˘ By Jeff Lulla Founder and President of Fun & Fit Gymnastics

There are two factors to consider: the quality and quantity of food kids eat and their level of activity (or inactivity).

â&#x20AC;˘ NUTRITION: Clearly the quality and quantity of food we eat affects us. And the unhealthy fast food marketed to children impacts their lives in a negative FEB RUARY 2006 0)>---- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

way. Whatever we can do in our clubs to increase awareness of healthy eating habits for children (and their parents) we certainly should be doing. It's exciting to learn that USA Gymnastics is committed to help us get the word out in this area. â&#x20AC;˘ ACTIVITY: Why do so many kids drop out of sports and live sedentary inactive lifestyles? Research tells us the main reason kids participate in sports is to have fun, while the reason they quit is that it's not fun anymore. Clearly, the focus on competition in sport can have a negative impact on those who are not successful (it's no fun to lose). So, to keep kids enrolled, we have to keep it fun. And to keep it fun, we have to help kids feel successful. KEEPING IT FUN WITH PROGRESSIONS AND ACHIEVABLE GOALS Did you know the entertainment industry makes more money from video games than from movies? Ask yourself, why are so many kids hooked on video games? I believe it has a lot to do with how they are designed to allow kids to succeed easily at level 1 and progressively get more challenging. (Hey, did I say progressively? Aren't "progressions" how we teach gymnastics?) And, just like in gymnastics, when you challenge yourself with achievable goals and then reach them, the feeling of accomplishment and success you experience is fun and exciting. And it's addicting. You get hooked and want to play again.

Successful gymnastics clubs today know how to make learning successful, fun and exciting for all children. They are in the business of recreational gym nastics for the masses, focusi ng on the benefits gymnastics education provides children, and making lots of money in the process. Because their students are happy and learning, they stay enrolled for years and, as a result, develop greater fitness and lasting fitness habits. Many clubs today offer competitive teams while a growing number do not. Those clubs with competitive teams and profitable recreational programs are usually more successful at competitions because they have the resources to provide for the needs of the team members. Parents used to think enrolling their child in a gymnastics program necessitated a desire to eventually compete in the sport of gymnastics (if the child was talented and/or lucky enough). And it was that kind of thinking that kept our industry small. As parents learn that gymnastics is an activity that kids need to participate in to have fun, get fit and be safe with movement, and that gymnastics education results in a healthier lifestyle and better performance in all sports (as well as improved cognitive ability and better grades in school), enrollment in gymnastics schools increases. After years of educating parents on the many benefits gymnastics education provides to children, we are only now beginning to experience the fruits of that effort. And as we move forward with our thoughts on fitness for kids, even more opportunity awaits us.

Jeff Lulla earned a B.A. degree in PhysicaL Education and has over 30 years of coaching experience. Lulla owns and operates two Fun & Fit Gymnastics Centers in CaLif., and aLso contracts with private schooLs and their locaL city Park and Recreation Departments teaching gymnastics. Lulla aLso Licenses a seLf-esteem buiLding curricuLum called the Fun & Fit Gymnastics Program. As a member of the NationaL PreschooL Committee, Jeff co-authored the KAT course, is a member of the NationaL Safety Review Board and is a NationaL Safety Instructor for USA Gymnastics.

By Mike Jacobs from US Glove and edited by John Deary of Deary's Gymnastics Supply DGS & Gymsupply.com and other suppliers and manufacturers of handgrips are often asked how to size and break-in handgrips. Hopefully, this information will be helpful to novice and expert grip users alike.

Dowel Grip

The first thing to consider is the type of handgrip needed for the level of gymnastics being performed. Always consult with your coach to determine if a palm guard or dowel grip is appropriate. Palm guards are unisex and come with a velcro or buckle wrist closure and are used for gymnasts typically Level 4-5 or below. They are used to protect the palms from possib le blistering while working on the bars. The best way to size palm guards is to measure the palm section of the hand (from where the hand and wrist intersect to where the fingers and palm intersect).

Palm Guard

Men's high bar grips are sized somewhat differently. The best way to size high bar grips is to measure from where the hand and wrist intersect to the middle of the middle finger (exactly in between the two joints of the middle finger). On an adult this would be approximately 1.5 inches below the tip of the middle finger.

Always keep in mind that improperly sized dowel grips or wearing a grip not designed for the appropriate apparatus is very dangerous and can lead to catastrophic injury. Also, for this reason, never borrow a teammate's grips - it's always a good idea to have a backup pair of grips broken in and ready for use in case of untimely breakage. Always consult your coach when making grip decisions.

Dowel grips are typically used when an athlete is performing somewhat higher-level ski lls that may make it harder to hold onto the bars. Women's uneven bars and men's rings grips are sized similarly. The best way to size these two types of handgrips is to measure the entire hand (from where the hand and wrist intersect to the tip of the middle finger).

Some pitfalls to avoid are: when ordering grips novice gymnastics parents wi ll usually, at their athlete's request, not follow the size chart accurately and measure down on the wrist below the intersection of the hand and wrist. This is because many gymnasts will find handgrips uncomfortable around the wrist and will want to slide them down on the wrist toward the elbow to alleviate this discomfort. What they don't realize is that if the grips slide down, they are defeating the purpose of a do wel grip. Dowel grips are designed to (continued on page IOJ

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TEe HN I QUE â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 2006

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New for 2005-2006 Coaches/Club Owners: Call to receive the new free catalogs for your team apparel or pro shop needs. Ask about our custom design services, the GK Risk Free Program and how you can receive wholesa le prices on all GK apparel.

Dealer Inquiries Welcome

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(continued from page 8)

transfer the gymnast's body weig ht from his/her hand ( to the wrist. When an athlete slides the handgrip down on the wrist and then swings on the bars the handgrip will slide back to the intersection of the hand and wrist every time because that is where they were designed to be worn. If an S71cs athlete has severe chafing or sores around the wrist he/s he will try to move the handgrip up the wrist. This method will not correct the problem because the grip will slide back to the correct . position when in use. Over time this creates friction on the wrist with undesirable results. Wearing handgrips in the proper location and a good pair of wristbands should solve this problem. It is a good idea to keep your wristbands clean and in good condition and to discard worn or thin wristbands. Clean wristbands cause less friction and less blistering and will help prevent infection when blistering does occur.

o~~,.J"' Deary's

Supplie rs are also often asked to recommend velcro or buckle closure. This decision is a personal choice. What does the athlete or coach prefer? Velcro is easier for younger athletes, but many higher-level coaches prefer buckles because they are more secure and the athlete does not have a tendency to wrap and unwrap the velcro closure constantly throughout a workout. Constant wrapping and unwrapping the velcro stra ps on their handgrips causes the velcro to wear out long before the useful life of the grip. Athletes often complain about breaking in new handgrips. The tendency to strap on handgrips and start swinging as a method of breaking them in is not recommended . A baseball player wou ld never take a new baseball glove and start playing baseball with it witho ut first following a break-in process that wi ll soften and shape the glove for use. The same applies to gymnastics grips. When leather is tanned it is soaked in various tanning agents, and when it dries, it becomes fairly stiff or firm in temper. A gymnast needs to break the stiffness out of the handgrips. The procedure for doing this is fairly simple. Start with the finger holes pointing upward and the dowel facing you, wrap the leather around the dowel and roll the grip down to the cuff. Follow this procedure again with the dowel facing away from you . You will notice an immediate difference in the softening of the leather. Perform this step several times on each handgrip and the wrist cuffs as well. Never pinch the leather sharply together. This could be detrimental to the leather. It is then okay to start usi ng your handgrips in slow under swings until the grips feel comfortable enough for more advanced stunts and full giant swings. The res ults should be surprising. Regarding the finger holes, the rolling process above should soften them to a comfortable fit. But if they are still too small or tight for your fingers, follow this procedure. Use a small piece of sandpaper (many brands supply it with the grips). Wrap it around a pencil and slowly and carefully sand around the finger holes. This wi ll open the hole consistently around the opening without tears. Never stretch the opening by hooking it on so mething and pulling and never cut the holes with a knife. This can weaken or damage the leather beyond repair or safe use. When not in use it is a good idea to store your grips in a separate bag to protect t hem from damage from other items in your gym bag. This will also keep the chalk and smell of the grips from transferring to the other items in your gym bag. Another accessory that is useful --==--=-----------------ÂŤ 110

GYmnaSblOS SUPPlY IS namBD

'usa GumnaSIiIGS' OPPIClal griP SUPPIIBr USA Gymnastics has named Deary's Gymnastics Supply of Danielson, Conn., as the official supplier of grips to the men's and women's U.S. National Teams. "USA Gymnastics is proud to add Deary's Gymnastics Supply to our corporate supplier family," said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. "John Deary is well-known and respected for

his commitment to customer service and understanding of the needs of gymnasts." As such, Deary's Gymnastics Supply will provide grips to members of the u.S. Men's and Women's National Teams through 2008. "I am proud to have grown our company to a point where we are able to provide this service to the National Team Members," said Deary, whose company is also known as DGS 9.9. "Following the athletes' lead of hard work and dedication to excellence, all of the staff at DGS 9.9 continues to strive for perfection." Deary's Gymnastics Supply, a full-service gymnastics supply company that includes www.gymsupply.com. was started in 1993 by brothers John and Peter Deary as a small regional supply company for gymnastics clubs and programs in New England that needed help with equipment and mats. DGS 9.9 provides service and support for gymnastics equipment, mats, training aids, medical supplies, chalk and gymnastics merchandise. In 1995, Deary's expanded nationally to sell mailorder home-use gymnastics equipment, gymnastics merchandise and products directly to athletes and fans. DGS 9.9 has grown into one of the largest gymnastics supply companies in the country through its dedication to customer service, quick delivery and quality products.

TECH N I QUE â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 2006

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HowTo Measure Grips and Wrist Supports Palm Guard Grips Measure the right hand from the base of the palm (where palm meets the wrist) to the base of the middle finger (where middle finger and palm meet.) Measurements

Up - 2.5" 2.5" - 3" 3" - 3.5" 3.5" - 4" 4" & Up

III always want the best for

all my gyms. Acet Sum

Size XXS XS SM MED

Dowel Grips

Measure the right hand from the base of the palm (where palm meets the wrist) to the tip of the middle finger.

5" - 5.5" 5.5 -- 6" 6" - 6.5" 6.5" - 7.25" 7.25" - 8" 8" - 8.75"

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Women's Dowel Grips Measurements 4.5" - 5"

Charge;

Size 000 - xxxs 00 - xxs 0-- xs

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Men's Dowel Grips

Measurements

Size

Up to 5.25" 5.25" -- 6.25" 6.25" - 7.25" 7.25" - 8" 8" & Up

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To answer the question of water usage on handgrips, we defer to Mike Jacobs, the author of this article and the founder of US Glove Grips and the manufacturer of such popular brands as US Glove, RKO, Millennium, Omega and Hot Shot Gri ps. He is recognized as an expert in the leather business for 35 years and in the handgrip business for 20 years. He has spoken with several tanneries about leather and without exception all have said that water usage is not recommended. Water can cause deterioration and rotting, as well as stretching of the leather. This can shorten the life of your grips.

\ I \ /

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\ \ \ "is a grip brush that is used to carefully brush any excess chalk build up on the front of the grip. Use a grip brush in moderation and be careful not to damage the leather.

/ /

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--- - -

Rita Brown, President "Brown's Gymnastics ""Training Centers "-

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

Follow these suggestions and gymnasts should have a long-lasting, safe, co mfortable use of their gymnastics handgrips.

---------------~c TEe HNIOU E â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 2006 ) > - - - - - - ----------=-1-=-1--..

By: Gina M. Pongetti, MPT, MA, CSCS, ART-Cert.

EIPUNATI6N 6' INJIJRY AND TREATMENT 6' INJIJRIES IN TBE 16WER LEG re your gymnasts having problems with their shins? Recently, I've seen more shins wrapped, taped, braced and iced down at meets and in gymnastics clubs. After seeing first-hand many workouts and conditioning programs throughout the country, this article was written to educate coaches and athletes about potential injuries within their gym.

a muscle-based diagnosis, so that is why it follows true. Increased pounding and repetitions make it worse. The more stress on the muscles, the more pain is perceived. This is caused from a multitude of issues, including build-up of lactic acid in the muscles, accelerated calf muscle growth with strengthening, fascial adhesions within and

DESCBIPTI6N

MI- - - - - m. plantaris

The words "s hin splints" often refer to injury anywhere below the knee and above the ankle. Coaches oftentimes think the discomfort to the athlete is from growing pains, and tell the athletes just to work through the injury. Some coaches also think that the ca lves are just tight. There are truly three different medical diagnoses that fall under this umbrella term: 1. Tibial Stress fractures, whether microfractures or worse

2. Exertional Compartment Syndrome (ECS) 3. Bone injury (encompassing small avulsion fractures to syndesmosis irritation) or Osteoporosis-related injuries (regarding bone mineral density) The first, Tibial stress fractures are probably the most severe, requiring quick attention, and most often overlooked. This can be a stress injury, bone fracture or other bone injury. Orthopedic testing for this includes, but is not limited to, tap tests, vibration exams, compression (squeeze) tests and other bone exams performed by a physician. The next step, if stress injury is assumed, is diagnostic examination. X-rays will show bony changes, including signs of increased calcium uptake. This means that the body is trying to fight injury and makes areas stronger which are experiencing increased stress. This stress can be from weight bearing (i.e. landings, takeoffs) or misaligned body positions (for example hips, knees and ankles not in line). It may show hairline fractures, depending on the quality of the films. The next step would be a DEXA scan or bone scan. This shows more in-depth calcium changes, bone density changes and fractures. Although more expensive and involved, this test is the standard for diagnosis. The second medical diagnosis is ECS. Shin muscle pain is experienced with activity, and lessens when weight bearing and activity are not present. The more intense the activity, the worse the pain. This is

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between muscles and swelling of the muscle belly encouraging fascial tension from the bone itself. Athletes will often say that they cannot pin-point the pain. When looking at activity patterns, it is common to find pain with jumping and take-offs, and less pain with heel raises and landings. However, many times pain, especially with short landings, is common. This is secondary to quick and unprepared stretching of the calf muscles when the gymnast lands and "feet" are

â&#x20AC;˘ fEB RUARY 2006 ) . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

forced to flex. This all happens in the closed chain position, meaning that the feet are stable and the shins are moving over the feet. This motion then creates compression of the tibia and fibular muscles and connective tissue. Although normal, this is puzzling to some coaches. Most think that calf muscles are only in the back of the leg. However, in this position of increased "flexed feet" landings, certain ca lf muscles are essentially "stretched" off of the sides of the shins. Volume and intensity are the two factors here, above the predisposing factors of flexibility, hydration and rest cycles. If volume is increased to 100 repetitions but intensity is low (i.e. jump roping), you get the formula for 100 reps x intensity of 2 (for example) = 200. If the volume is low (4) and the intensity is high (50) then you still get the end result of 200. An example of this would be four Tsukahara vaults or similar, or four double layout passes. Coaches wi ll oftentimes decrease the number of reps, thinking this is the problem, or decrease intensity, but increase volume. Both repetitions and intensity need to be considered. Bone injury is the next possibility. Stress fractures can be caused from pounding on the bone with an intensity and pressure that the body cannot sustain. Fractures then can occur in the bone from this vertical pressure. Sometimes, however, trauma to the bone to weaken the bone strength and density will not show up on diagnostic testing. This weakness makes the athlete more susceptib le to injury in the future if not taken care of properly. Growth plate injuries also fall under this category, especially if there is a minor injury. They can be detected by more pin -point pain and can last for long lengths of time when untreated. Some people are also under the impression that "growing pains" should just be dealt with, ignored, and managed - but not treated. Quite the contrary, when the growth plate area is disturbed, the tendons and ligaments that attach in the area then become weak. This is from multiple factors including bone weakness, swelling and localized tissue irritation. Lastly, it is important to monitor bone health in athletes who have intense workout schedules, especially lower extremity weight bearing sports such as gymnasts, tumbling, cheerleading, etc. Calcium intake is very important for children, both male and female. Of course, it is more important for females to be consistent with intake as they age to prepubescent and pubescent years. The recommended dosage is 1200-1500 mg/day. Encourage your athletes to check their multivitamins and their intake of dairy foods such as milk, yogurt, cheese, etc. Water consumption is also important in muscle injuries, to hydrate the muscles, flush out lactic acid build-up, and encourage healthy flushing of the body's system.

CAUSES Most common causes:

• • • • •

Not stretching enough Poor biomechanics Overuse of the plantar flexors (calf muscles, jumping, toe point) Jumping program that is new or inconsistent Vault and tumbling in the same workout or two intense days backto-back for a period of weeks or months • Increase in muscle mass quicker than body can adapt internally • Return from injury (i.e. ankle sprain with rapid increase)

The causes for these injuries can vary from gym to gym, and athlete to athlete. Some gyms have more ca lf injuries due to poorly planned workout schedules, poor mats, improper conditioning, and others just have bad luck with injuries. Biomechanics, or alignment of muscles and bones with their relative functioning motions, is the most

ignored side of preventative medicine and diagnosis (See Figure 1). Health care professionals, coaches, and athletes should pay attention to what may cause the injury. This is not only to prevent injury from happening, but also to allow the body to function as efficiently as possible. From pronated (flat) feet to knee pain , shin injuries are often preceded or accompanied by a plethora of mechanical problems. Foot aLignment and thigh and shin position are contributing factors as well. When the foot is pronated, or flat, the thigh may be rotated in, the shin (or tibia and fibula) may be rotated in, making the shin bones sit malaligned on the ankle. This leads to landings that are not square, stress on the Achilles, and extraneous work for the shin muscles in the front and back of the leg. Hip rotation strength, hip abduction (outside kick motion and glute strength) as well as knee alignment over the toes with closed-chain landing positions can help incre·dibly. Another thing that can aid is muscle balance of front to back, such as front shin strength, can help alleviate pressure. Two simple exercises for this are toes raises (lifting the toes off the ground when the heels are sti ll on the ground) or walking on one's heels. Orthotics can also help with shin pain. Over the counter brands will not cost you an arm and a leg. However, these are not highstability orthotics that are casted, so they will wear down and need to be repla ced. (Check with your podiatrist or insurance company for personal coverage on custom orthotics). Orthotics can be made for the gymnastics shoe as well, custom fit, and thin but sturdy. There are few providers that can make these well, and you should make sure that you contact someone regarding referrals for an experienced gymnastics/ ballet physician or podiatrist. Even if you obtain this external support system, the internal support of your muscles and bones need to be worked on as well. Braces are never a curing option for injury, just support until you re-teach the body normal function .

TIEATMENT Treating these injuries is up to your orthopedic physician and physical therapist. However, short-term pain relieving options are available. Ice cup massage along the calf and front shin muscles often cause relief. Rest, (continued on page 14)

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TECHNIQUE· FEB RUARY 2006

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(continued from page 13)

varying from lowering workout load to crutches, is often recommended. Some physicians will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to relieve some symptoms, but contact your doctor before taking anything. Remember that many of the treatment options are just masking agents to get people "through" the pain (such as taping, bracing, compression wraps) and will not cure the underlying problem.

TIPS How to avoid: 1. Stretch regularly - before and after practice, holding the stretch

for at least 45 seconds on both calf muscles. Your gastrocnemius and soleus are both calf muscles. The gastroc is stretched with the knee in a straight position (See figure 2). The soleus is stretched with the knee in a bent position (See Figure 3). However, most gyms only encourage their athletes to stretch straight legged. One should stretch both ways since a calf stretch with the knee bent is the most common way to tear the calf. Stretch in the positions that will stress the body, to prepare and prevent injury.

4. Make sure you are strengthening the front of the shins as well as the back (calves). This will aid in shin injury prevention. You can have your gymnasts perform heel walking around the edge of the floor, or simply toe lifts (See Figure 4) when waiting in line for vault or bars. This will help to balance the musculature in the lower leg. 5. If the bone is sore, always err on the side of physician or physical therapist referral. Sore muscles are common in the sport, so the injury is often overlooked. The only way to tell for sure is to obtain diagnostic exams (i.e. X-rays, DEXA scans, etc.) If the condition is a stress fracture or minor muscle tears, the only way to get better is to remove the injury pattern (. i.e. rest, lower body weig ht bearing activities, or eliminating weight bearing in so me cases). Shin and calf injuries can cause other injuries and need to be attended to properly.

2. When performing a jumping program, make sure that it is consistent. Plyometrics is a high-force impact activity that the body has to be able to adapt to. If the body cannot adapt quickly enough, it will break down internally to ma ke sure that the external demands on the body are being met. Plyometrics programs need to be monitored by coaches so that the athletes are performing to their ability level. All Level lOs, for example, may not be single-leg jumping to equal height. Just as well, a new Level 10 will not have the bounding endurance that a more experienced Level 10 may have. A common mistake made by gym coaches is that they will incorporate a high-impact program one time per week, thinking that it will tire their gymnasts out or using it for reprimand purposes. It is not beneficial if the motion and exercise are not repeated for strength and conditioning purposes. Instead of getting stronger, the body will only break down and re build to the same position, if not worse. 3. If the muscles and tissues surrounding the muscles are breaking down , then the body will start to suffer in various other ways. It may become more susceptible to ankles sprains, knee injuries, etc. Knee injuries will come from calves being tight and sore, and when the walking/running gait landing positions are altered. They may also occur as the result of non-absorptive landings (deep short landings when the gymnast lacks the strength to prevent increased shin to foot angle secondary to lack of calf strength).

6. When returning from an injury, use the level rule or the percent rule. Start out at a level far below yours, and maintain the skills at that level for a week before moving up. For example, a returning Level 9 gymnast from an ankle sprain may do five back handsprings on beam the first week, then 10, and then progress to series on floor, then series on high beam, etc. If the muscles in the body are not given time to adapt to the "new" stress, (continued on page 16)

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re-injury or subsequent injuries will occur. This is important to consider in knee injuries, whether surgical or non-surgical. Many times knee patients are placed on limited running and jumping for Chondromalacia, meniscus injuries, dislocations, ACL surgery, etc. Lower back patients (disc injuries, fractures) are also placed on limited pounding schedules. The ankles and feet need to be considered in the return process as well Good luck with injury prevention at your gym. The best advice is to respect the body and what it tells you. Pain is felt after injury is already present. Remember to look at intensity, changes within the year, new tricks, tanding style, conditioning and adherence to exercise programs. If pain is present, the muscle is dysfunctional. A strict program of hands-on treatment with a physical therapist will aid in recovery and break up adhesions deep within the system. Exercise alone will not cure muscle and fascia adhesions, scar tissue and tendon irritation. Make sure that you are receiving intense hands-on treatment if you are in a rehabilitation program. If we are all more precautionary and add some prevention to our program design, we may be able to avoid these injuries! Remember that lower leg injuries can keep a gymnast out of a season and swinging only bars for months. Although t hat makes a good bar tea m for the state meet, it doesn't lead to a good all-around athlete!

Gina Pangetti is a former gymnast, physical therapist, strength and conditioning specialist, and certified Active Release Technique provider in Chicago, Ill., where she is an owner of OccuSport Physical Therapy. She is nationa(ly recognized through lectures and research as being a top provider for gymnastics and performing arts medicine. Gina also serves on the National Health Care Network for USA Gymnastics and can be contacted at adag iogymnastics@hotmail.com.

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Alicia Sacramone earned the world title on floor at the 2005 World Championships in Melbourne, Australia, and the bronze medal on vault. This 18-year-old powerhouse tfains at Brestyan's American Gymnastics in Ashland, Mass. , and is coached by Mihai and Silvia Brestyan. Now that she's had a chance for her accomplishments to sink in , we asked her how she felt about being a world champion . Alicia said, "It's great. We recently watched a video of the year in review and I remembered how much fun it was competing at the World Championships." When asked what she's been up to since the World Championships, Alicia said, "We took a little time off and now we're back in the gym and training for the new FIG Code of Points. We also went on a three-city tour to Boston, Dallas and Milwaukee which was a lot of fun. Nastia (Liukin), Chellsie (Memmel) , Jana (Bieger) and I have become really close since we travel and compete together a lot - we're like sisters."

Regarding her future plans, Alicia said, "I'm graduating this year from high school. Originally I was planning to attend and compete for UCLA. However, after the World Championships, I realized that I .wanted to continue my career in elite gymnastics. I plan to continue training at Brestyan's and I'm also applying to Brown Unive rsity and hope to begin classes in the fall of 2006." When asked what she plans to study, Alicia said, "I would like to major in business and minor in fashion design . I would love to get an internship with adidas and eventually have my own fashion line."

Christina packs a lot of power.

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TEe HN I QUE â&#x20AC;˘ FE BRUARY 2006

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5 Hiring Mantras: Part 4 of 5 For review, the first Kids First Hiring Mantra is hire the character, train the skill; #2 is we shaLL go short staffed before we go poorLy staffed; #3 is hire and promote from within. Each of the Kids First Hiring Mantras came about one at a time under different circumstances but using a singLe probLem-soLving model. We experienced pain due to an empLoyee who did not fit in; we stopped, reflected, identified why/how we went wrong and we captured a hiring principLe-a 'Mantra'-to offer us guidance and discipLine and to 'save us from ourseLves' in the future. Mantra #4: when in doubt, don't hire. In seminars across the USA and AustraLia, dozens of times I have asked the foLLowing series of questions:

(1) "When faced with a gap in staffing, have you ever interviewed a candidate who had a steLLar resume, deep and broad experience, and 'correctly' answered every question you asked; yet, despite this, after the interview, you had an uncomfortabLe feeLing or gnawing sensation in your gut about that person?" Usually about haLf of the group will acknowLedge they have been in that situation before. (2) "Of those who had their hands raised, how many went ahead and hired that person anyway?" Of that subgroup, about 80-100% will acknowLedge they went ahead and hired anyway. (3) "Of those who hired anyway, how many Later regretted their decision?" Of those who previousLy had their hand up, virtually

EVERYone again raised their hand with a groan or an acknowLedging chuckLe. It is LikeLy you have had your own simiLar experience. Why do we

business peopLe do this? For at Least a coupLe of reasons. One, for most peopLe, we tend to want to see the good in others. Two, probabLy the stronger reason is that our desire to fill the staffing gap is so great that we 'are willing' to risk the future Long-term pain that will resuLt from a cancerous empLoyee to sooth our immediate shortterm pain of being short-staffed. This tendency is the opposite of deLaying gratification, the most important discipLine for satisfaction in Life according to the Stanford Marshmallow study. Read (www. sybervision.com/Discipline/marshmallow.htm) What does Mantra #4 mean to Kids First Leaders in reaL Life? If, during the interview process, you have ANY doubts, any gnawing sensation about your candidate, any uncomfortabLe feeLings that you cannot articuLate or put your finger on, it is your responsibiLity to respond, "Thank you for your time ... next candidate, pLease." To Learn more about how to refine your intuition, may I recommend two books, Blink and/or Reading People, both availabLe at bookstores. Make it a great February! Jeff Metzger USA Gymna.stics Business Development Partner President, GymClub Owners Boot Camp President, Kids First Sports Center

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TECH N I QUE â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 200 6 )>------------------------------

August 16-19,2006

THE

IN~ERTED

Wm A. Sands, Ph.D. Head Sport Biomechanics and Engineering U.S. Olympic Com mittee - Sport Science

CROSS:

Jeni R. McNeal, Ph .D. Associate Professor Eastern Washington University

INTRODVCTION AND METHODS The inverted cross on men's still rings has always been a supremely challenging strength skill. Changes in the FIG Code of Points have elevated its importance to a very high level and have thereby encouraged gymnasts to train the skill with more intensity and focus than in the past. To prepare for this skill, gymnasts and coaches should have a good idea of muscle involvement in the inverted cross and in associated teaching/learning drills. Clearly, those drills that most closely mimic the muscle involvement of a real inverted cross are the most desirable for efficient training. Muscle involvement in a skill can be determined by simple anatomical analysis using known muscular alignments to determine which muscles might be most likely to contribute to a particular movement. However, the level of involvement of a particular muscle or group of muscles is often needed to ascertain the relative contributions of each muscle to the particular movement. For example, if a gymnast is performing a movement where the elbows flex against some kind of resistance (usually body weight), then one can assume that elbow flexors are involved in the movement (biceps brachii, brachialis, brachioradialis, and so forth). However, among the elbow flexors, we cannot be certain what level of contribution each of the muscles is providing without a more sophisticated form of measurement.

Figure 1. Gym nast shown with electrodes on anterior (front) muscles that were examined. Transmitter for electrical signals is held in a belt pack worn on the back of the gymnast. Electromyography (EMG) is the tool of choice to determine the level of muscle contribution for a particular movement. Electromyography works by detecting the electrical activity of a muscle (Figure 1). When the brain sends a message to muscles to tell them to produce force, the message is an electrochemical signal that can be detected by a sensitive instrument (electromyograph) using electrodes that are placed on the skin over the target muscles. The signals detected by the electrodes are amplified and then displayed and stored by a computer. The magnitude of electrical activity of a muscle is closely associated with the level of force the muscle is producing. A large level of electrical activity, as detected by EMG, translates to a large amount of force from the muscle. The raw electrical signal coming from the muscle must be processed before it can be used to make these types of judgments about muscle activity. The processing alters the signals so that it is easier to compare one muscle or movement with another. The purpose of this paper is to describe an initial look at the inverted cross on still rings and to compare muscle activity of the inverted cross with several drills that are commonly used to assist the gymnast in learning the skill. At the time of the investigation, only one gymnast was available and sufficiently close to performing the skill to merit assessment. This gymnast was quite close to performing the skill, but was unable to hold the position with arms precisely horizontal without some assistance.

Figure 1

Besides the inverted cross alone, we also examined an inverted cross with a spot, an inverted cross performed with an assisting belt attached to ropes and a 25lb. counterweight, an inverted cross with belt and 10lb. counterweight, a dumbbell shoulder abduction exercise, Therabandâ&#x201E;˘ shoulder abduction exercise, a wide-arm handstand on floor exercise, and a partner exercise where the coach pressed down on the gymnast's arms in a simulated inverted cross position. The muscles assessed were all on the right side, and included: upper

~1-2-2----------------<C TECHNIQUE â&#x20AC;˘ FEB RUARY 2006

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trapezius (R Upper Trap), posterior deltoid (R Posterior Deltoid), middle deltoid (R Middle Deltoid), anterior deltoid (R Anterior Deltoid), clavicular pectoralis major (R Clavicular Pectoralis), sternal pectoralis major (R Sternal Pectoralis) , and long head of biceps brachii (R Biceps LH) . These muscles were chosen based on an anatomical understanding of muscle location and line of pull. The gymnast was prepared for EMG assessment using standard methods that included rubbing the skin with alcohol and sandpaper, applying the electrodes in line with the muscle fibers, and capturing the EMG signal at a sampling rate of 1000 Hz. The gymnast performed each drill and skill with the EMG electrodes attached and connected to a small transmitter that was placed in a belt pack. The EMG signal was then transmitted to a nearby receiver and stored on computer.

RESVLTS I

Muscle electrical activity is shown in Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 shows the magnitude of muscle electrical activity in each of the muscles. Each line represents a particular skill or drill. Figure 3 shows the percentage contribution of each assessed muscle to the movement. Figure 3 shows the percentage of contribution for each muscle on each drill or skill. The value of Figure 3 lies in showing, from a percentage standpoint, the overall pattern of muscle use in these skills and drills.

Inverted Cross EMG Comparisons (Linear Envelope)

_Wlhoul Spol

-w-Belt IOlb

-ac-lnStraps _

Partner Arm Press

-+-Dumbbells _

Deltoid

R Mid Deltoid

R Anterior

R ClavSrular

Deltoid

Pedorab

R Sternal Pedorafis

Simply performing the inverted cross, with arms horizontal, for as long as the gymnast can hold it. Even though our gymnast could not hold the inverted cross in the correct position without assistance, as he passed through the position (albeit slowly) the muscle activation was both high and probably representative in its simulation of a held inverted cross.

• Just do it.

• Use a counterweight. The counterweighted attempts, consisting .....- \M1h spot ........ Be1l251b

R Posterior

With appropriate skepticism in place, the results of this investigation show that the majority of drills used to teach the inverted cross do a good to very good job of simulating the muscle activity of a "real" inverted cross. It appears that the "best" drills are:

probably adequately simulates the "real" inverted cross.

~ +-------~--~~----~

R Upper Trap

The overall results from this investigation should be considered cautiously. Only one gymnast was available for investigation. However, given the rareness of this skill, the ability to get a large group of gymnasts who can perform the inverted cross is probably impossible. In this investigation, the primary benefits are that we can begin to see the magnitude of muscle activation in the skill, but we suffer due to the lack of many gymnasts from which to make comparisons. Given the short amount of time available for training between now and the Beijing Games, we have elected to proceed with a simple initial investigation. The need to train this skill is high for male gymnasts who desire to be competitive on a world stage, and we believe, even a partial result is better than no result.

• Do it with a spot. The inverted cross with a spot from below also

3500...-_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _-,

2500 + -_ _ _ _ _~~~~~._---~

DISCVSSION

FX \Mde Arm Hdsld

R Biceps LH

Musel&!

Figure 2. Muscle electrical activity (EMG, area under the curve). Note the differences in specific muscles with particular skills/drills. Inverted Cross Input Percentage

of using a counterweighted spotting belt suspended from the ring frame helps counterbalance or reduce the total body weight the gymnast has to handle as he descends into the inverted cross position. However, we noted that the two weights used (lO-lb. and 25-lb.) bracketed the ideal weight. The gymnast couldn't quite hold the position with 10-lbs., and found that 25-lbs. made the skill too easy. The remaining drills and skills also showed that they were targeting the same muscles with differences mostly in the magnitude of the activation. It was apparent that the level of resistance provided by the drill or skill was critically important. For example, although the partner-push exercise largely targeted the same muscles, the level of activation was not as high as the levels achieved when performing variations of the actual inverted cross. In order to simulate the inverted cross most efficiently, the muscles and their level of activation should be close to what a real inverted cross elicits. The intensity of contraction (i .e., EMG activation level) of muscles is largely controlled by the resistance the muscles encounter. As such, it is important that athletes preparing the inverted cross train in the actual position (i.e., arms horizontal, body straight), and that the resistance be as close to maximal as possible.

CONCLVSION R Upper

R Posterior

R Mid

R Anterior

R Clavicular

R Sternal

R Biceps

Trap

Deltoid

Pectoralis

Figure 3. Percentage of muscle activation. Note that each percentage is calculated based on the total activation for that particular skill or drill. Comparisons across skills and drills are not appropriate from this figure.

This initial project to investigate the inverted cross has shown that a variety of drills for this skill come reasonably close to the actual skill to merit inclusion in training. Moreover, it is also apparent that the training of the position should proceed in closely simulated body positions and with maximal or near maximal intensity.

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3. After you complete the form, you will receive your user id and password to register for and complete the online safety course, which is $65.00. 4. Upon completion and processing of your online safety course results, your Introductory Coach Membership will be released and a membership card will be e-mailed to you.

Update

Make certain your club mailing and e-mail addresses are up to date!

It's here! - . . ' . Introductory Coach Membership USA Gymnastics is offering the Introductory coach membership for all Level 1-3 coaches. All Introductory coaches must become safety certified. They must also complete the Introductory Coach application and keep it on file. The form can be located online in the forms section. This lower cost alternative allows coaches of Levels 1-3 with current safety certification to participate in sanctioned events. The membership is modeled after the Introductory Membership and is available for online registration. Here is how easy it is to register: 1. Locate the Introductory Coach application in the Forms section at www.usa-gymnastics.org, complete it and keep on file. 2. Go to the Member Services link on the website, locate the register now link and then the link to register for the Introductory Coach membership.

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• Make certain you are not missing out on the latest important information that your club needs to know. Keep your e-mail address current to ensure that you receive our informative broadcast e-mails. • In planning for the mailing of the 2006-2007 competitive seasons' forms, please be certain that we have your clubs current address on file with Member Services.

Membership Benefits Whether it is the best and latest in gymnastics educational offerings, member discounts, or the right to participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events, membership with USA Gymnastics offers you many benefits. Please take a moment to review our various membership offerings to ensure you are taking advantage of the benefits offered to you. (See table of membership benefits on page 33)

• fEB RUARY 2006

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Developing a Program Steps for Risk to Protect Children Management K & KInsurance as submitted by Patrick J. O'Connor, Executive Vice President, City Securities Corporation, for USA Gymnastics

robabLy the most quiet yet serious concern of those responsibLe for a community youth sports program is whether they have unknowingLy encouraged an aduLt to voLunteer who in fact is a chiLd moLester. Accompanying that serious concern is the concern among the good coaches and other aduLt Leaders of youth sports across the country that they may be wrongfully accused of child moLestation.

the program to have a seLect "committee" of reputabLe persons not necessariLy of that organization to be given the responsibiLity of "hearing" in confidence a compLaint, the evidence, and the due process response of the alleged offender, if the nature is not to be handLed in the criminaL courts (e.g., a voLunteer with a history of a chiLd moLestation offense).

SELECTION: AppLication materiaLs for "Staff" (paid or voLunteer duties) shouLd advise the appLicant of the program's position against chiLd sexuaL abuse and that aLL appLicants are subject to background checks for prior offenses and convictions. WhiLe the appLication cannot ask for personaL information, it can and shouLd ask whether the appLicant has ever been convicted of a crime(s) and the nature of the crime(s). Even if the appLicant Lies, the organization will have made the effort within its LegaL rights.

Whether a pLayer of minor age has indeed been sexuaLLy moLested or a coach has indeed been faLseLy aLLeged to have taken Liberties with a pLayer of minor age, a serious wrong has occurred. These may not aLways be preventabLe, but at Least the Leadership can have the satisfaction of having made reasonabLe efforts to that end with:

WRITTEN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Community programs that attract minors away from the custody and controL of their parents shouLd have written poLicies that confirm their position against "chiLd sexuaL abuse" in any form and procedures that enabLe reasonabLe effort to be made to minimize such occurrences in their program. These procedures shouLd include methods of seLecting, training, supervising, investigating, and firing empLoyees and voLunteers.

IN ADDITION

POINT PERSON (S) In doing so, the community program shouLd appoint and give authority to one person and one aLternate to be the point person(s) for representing the organization, confidentiaLLy and within its poLicies and procedures, when technicaL and sensitive issues arise. ALL compLaints, concerns, and staff training shouLd be funneLed through this point person to ensure action, due process, and awareness are kept to a "need to know" basis.

COMMUNITY LIAISON Through this point person, a functionaL Liaison with locaL Law enforcement and chiLd weLfare agencies should be deveLoped to ensure an awareness of LocaL resources and statutes for compLiant action if/w hen warranted, and the means for prompt and proper attention to a complaint if/when experienced. It is desirabLe for

TRAINING "Staff" (voLunteer and paid) shouLd be exposed to a training program that defines the organization's approach to these problems. At minimum is (a) an understanding of LocaL laws of relevance, including any obLigation there may be for reporting suspected domestic chiLd physicaL abuse; (b) an understanding of how to forward a compLaint; and methods of avoiding unnecessary compLaints against oneself while working with children.

.-12-=-=-8-------------~C TECHNIQUE路 FEB RUARY 2006

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PARENTS At the outset of that year's season or program, the Board may offer a Parents Night at which these policies (as well as others of importance) would be described as would any particular practices warranting common awareness. The extent to which the "to uching" of a player by a coach during the conduct of the game is and is not permissible in that community, for example, is best to be aired out in the open.

STAFF

not, ask your leadership now for advice. Most prefer to designate a "point person" to receive all complaints on behalf of the organization and to channel them confidentially to liaison people at loca l law enforcement and child protection agencies for investigation and assistance, keeping all others out of awareness and the potential for unnecessary problems. In some communities, youth work volunteers are required by law to report known or suspected cases of chi ld abuse to the authorities, and that system should be known and followed. The authorities are to do the investigating and invo lving the parents.

It typically is best for the parents to determine in advance of the season or program the extent to which normal sport-related "touching" and any similar coach/player behavior is and is not permissible. At a periodic staff meeting, these expectations can be reviewed as can the standard policies against circumstances in which a coach or other adult would be in the presence of a child player but unaccompanied by another adult.

SUPERVISION A plan for monitoring the staff's training and compliance with the program's plans should be written and followed.

INVESTIGATION Any complaint must by policy be "investigated," with the complainer being informed only that a confidential investigation will be made. All complaints must be kept confidential and directed immediately to the designated point person who in turn will turn the complaint over to the law enforcement liaison person or the select committee for obtaining qualified investigation of the claim of offensive behavior within the organization's program. All actions are to be reported to the Board in confidential manner. FIRING: Every disciplinary action must be handled within policy and in discreet accordance with the results of the investigation as well as the laws of the community if relevant. Firing or release from volunteer duties would follow a due process that enables the alleged offender to respond to the allegations before action is taken.

WHEN A MINOR TELLS YOU OF ABUSE Perhaps the greatest challenge to persons choosing to work with children and youth in sport and recreation is when one of them confides that they have been abused . Whether it is sexua l or otherwise, the trust and deep feelings that accompany must be respected. Know how you would respond shou ld it happen to you, because respond you must!

Among them are Know in advance your "point person," the one whom you would contact should you learn of or suspect child abuse. Then if confronted as a friend and trusted adult, allow the child to feel that you care, are listening, and will do what is necessary to be of help. It helps to sit at eye level, keeping the conversation away from being overheard by others. Take what is said with quiet concern and at face va lue. It is not your role to question or determine the facts or to suggest that he/she was or was not abused. Let the child know how much you admire the courage and confidence it took to share what has happened. Also, let the child know how important it is to have an expert in dealing with what was disclosed become involved (but no one else). Contact your point person and when bringing the two together, either let the child do the talking or offer to state in the child's presence what you were told with the understanding that the child will correct or add to what you are passing on.

Later, write yourself a confidential report of what the child told you (in his/her own words as much as possible), affirm to the child your continuing friendship, cooperate with the authorities as requested, and keep all of it your trusted secret.

Ideally, your organization has already established policies and procedures for such and informed you of them. If so, follow them. If - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - \ ( TEe HN10 UE

FEB RUARV 200 6 )r---------------2~9:;;-J11

USA GYMNASTICS 2006 KAT AND MELPD WORKSHOP AN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITV FOR YOUR CLUB A KAT workshop consists of seven productive hours of preschool teacher education. The workshop covers philosophy, understanding the preschool-age child, safety considerations, class management and much more!

meet the needs of the individual students and encourage adoption of lifelong physical activity. Attendance at a KAT certification course is highly recommended, but not required to attend a MELPD course.

A Movement Education and Lesson Plan Development Workshop (MELPD) consists of five enlightening hours of preschool teacher education. This workshop is continuing education of the KAT Program. The overall emphasis of this workshop is to provide instructors with the necessary knowledge to deve lop preschool gymnastics lesson plans, emphasize developmentally appropriate practice s, fundamental skill development, and much more. This workshop is designed to help instructors

If there has never been a KAT or MELPD workshop in your area, 2006 is a great time to host a works hop. Any club can host a works hop and it's free. The only things you'll need are an empty room and a TV & VCR. If your workshop has 12 paid participants, your club will receive one free registration . Member Clubs receive two free registrations, with 12 paid participants. Complimentary registrations are non-transferable and will only be valid at the

workshop you are hosting. The workshop must maintain the minimum attendance of 12 for complimentary registrations. Courses that do not meet minimum participation levels are subject to rescheduli ng or cancellation. For more information on the KAT & MELPD courses caUl-800345-4719 or visit www.usa·gymnastics.org/membership/

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New CDmpetitiDn DVDs NOW AVAILABLE! #21402005 Visa Championships Junior Women's Preliminary Competition DVD

video volu nteers. It is a technical video to be used for educationa l purposes. It is not t he television broadcast of the competition. $25.00

This DVD contains the Jr. Women's Preliminary Competition from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug . 11, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R fo rmat. It ca n only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The foota ge was shot by amateur video volunteers. It is a technical video to be used for educational purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the competition . $25.00

#21412005 Visa Championships Senior Women's Preliminary Competition DVD This DVD contains the Sr. Women's Preliminary Competition from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug. 11, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R format. It can on ly be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateur video volunteers. It is a technical video to be used for educational purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the competition. $25.00

#2142 2005 Visa Championships Junior Women's Event & All-Around Finals Competition DVD Thi s DVD contai ns the Jr. Women's Event and All-Around Finals Competition from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug . 13, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R format . It ca n only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateur video volunteers. It is a technical video to be used for educational purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the competition. $40.00

#2143 2005 Visa Championships Senior Women's Event & All-Around Finals Competition DVD This DVD contains the Sr. Women's Event and All-Around Finals Competition from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug. 13, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R format. It ca n only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateu r video volunteers. It is a technical video to be used fo r educational purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the competition. $40.00

#22412005 Visa Championships Junior Men's Event & All-Around Finals Competition DVD This DVD contai ns the Jr. Men's Event and All-Around Competitio n from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug. 10, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD- Rformat. It can only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateur video volunteers. It is a tech nical video to be used for educational purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the com petition. $40.00

#2242 2005 Visa Championships Senior Men's Event & All-Around Finals Competition DVD This DVD contains the Sr. Men's Event and All-Around Competition fro m the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug. 12, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R format . It can only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateur video volunteers. It is a technical video to be used for educationa l purposes. It is not the television broadcast of the competition. $40.00

#4005 2004 T.J. Maxx Tour of Gymnastics Champions DVD Indianapolis, IN Bold. Dynamic. Completely Unrestrained. The 2004 T.J . Maxx Tour of Gymnastics Champions features the stars of Athens in a creative and entertaining atmosphere with lights, music & drama! This DVD is from the Indianapolis, IN stop on Oct. 15, 2004. It was film ed by video volunteers and is not the television broadcast. $30.00

#4100 New USA Gymnastics OHicial's Patch

#2240 2005 Visa Championships Senior Men's Preliminary Competition DVD

Description: This embroidered patch was designed for all gymnastics officials to add a professional look to their officia l attire. The patch can be attached to any garment by two pins that are included. The size of the patch is 2 1/4' by 3 '/2".

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This DVD contains the Sr. Men's Preliminary Competition from the 2005 Visa Championships held in Indianapolis, IN on Aug. 10, 2005. Please note that this disc is DVD-R format. It can only be viewed on a DVD-R compatible player. The footage was shot by amateur

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NAME ........... ;............................................................................................................................ PHONE ............................................................................. .. ADDRESS ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ .. CiTY .................................................................................................................................................................................................... STATE ...................... ZIP ................................................... . GYMNASTICS MEMBERSHIP #................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. . CHARGE:

o OTHER

0 VISA

Exp. DATE

CARD #................................................................................................................................

ITEM #

SEND ORDERS AND MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO:

SIGNATURE ....................................................................................................................................... .

DESCRIPTION

PRICE

SUBTOTAL

' DOMESTIC SHIPPING & HANDLING

Pro Members receive a 5%

USA GYMNASTICS discount on books &videos. EDUCATIONAL/TECHNICAL MATERIALS PO BOX 361147, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46236-5323, USA GYMNASTICS FAX TO (317) 899-7496 OR CALL

1\"

1-800-345-4719

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510 ANDUNDER SIO.01-S40 S40.01 -S60 S60.0l-SBO S80.01-S100 5100.01 -S150 OVER 5150.01

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tLESS MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT INDIANA RESIDENTS ADD 6% SALES TAX ' DOMESTIC SHIPPING &HANDLING TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE MEMBERSHIP #

TOTAL

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Member Type

Cost (2005-2006 Season)

Anyone that loves the sport of gymnastics

Who

None

Requirements

USA Gymnastics magazine, Welcome Letter, Official Member Gift, Membershi p Card, Discount on appa rel and novelty items, Member Decal, Member Bumper Sticker, Fun Website, Certificate of Support.

Benefits

Complimentary subscription to USA Gymnastics magazine, Membershi p Card, Member Decal. Right to participate in USA Gymnastics Sanctioned Events (Qualification, Age and Skill Level apply), Secondary Accident Insurance coverage at sanctioned events.

Team USA Gymnastics

Athlete membership is required to participate in any USA Gymnastics sanctioned event for which you are qualified by age and skill level

Right to participate in USA Gymnastics Sanctioned Events (Qualification, Age and Skill Level apply), Membership card through online Member Services, Secondary Accident Insurance Coverage at sanctioned USA Gymnastics events (USA Gymnastics Magazine available for additional $19.95).

$25.00 $40.00 (Canada/Mexico) $55.00 all other countries

Introductory membership required to participate in appropriate level USA Gymnastics sanctioned event

$50.00

$15.00

Level 1,2,3 and prep-opt and Group Gym nastics ath letes

None

Complimentary subscription to Technique magazine, Membership Card, Member Decal, Discounted rate for Safety Certification Course, National Congress and other educational courses, a portion of your membership fee helps support our National Team and Grassroots programs.

Athlete

$50.00

Instructors of pre-competitive, preschool or recreational gymnastics

Access to take Safety Course Online, Membership Card through online Member Services, Right to participate as a coach in USA Gymnastics Sanctioned Events for levels 1,2,3, prep . Opt and Group Gymnastics. Accident and liability insurance at such events.

Right to participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events as an Official, Coach, Judge, Meet Director or other professional ca pacity, Accident and liability insurance coverage at such events, Membership Card, Member Decal, 10% discount on USA Gym nastics apparel and novelty items, 5% discount on technical materials, One year complimentary subscriptions to USA Gymnastics and Technique magazines, state and regional newsletters, Access to Online Safety Course, Discounted rate for initial face to face, facilitated safety certification course, Complimentary safety recertification at face to face, facilitated courses (must keep both membershi p and safety certification current to qualify), Discounted rate on USA Gymnastics National Congress registration and other educational courses, a portion of your ~embership fee helps support our National Team and Grassroots programs.

Right to participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events as an Assistant Coach, Accident and liability insurance coverage at such events, Membership Card, Member Decal, 10% discount on USA Gymnastics apparel and novelty items, 5% discount on technical materials, One year complimentary subscriptio ns to USA Gymnastics and Technique magazines, state and regional newsletters, Access to Online Safety Course, Discounted rate for initial face to face, facilitated safety certification course, Complimentary safety recertification at face to face, facilitated courses (must keep both membership and safety certification current to qua lify), Discounted rate on USA Gymnastics National Congress registration and other educational courses, a portion of your membership fee helps support our National Team and Grassroots programs.

Safety Certification (Membership required to participate in any USA Gymnastics sanctioned event)

Free one page website, Use of Member Club logo in marketing materials, 3x5 Member Club Banner, Free on line employment ad, Access to Member Club only site, Discounts on Congress and business education seminars, Free invitational listing on line and in Technique magazine.

None

At least one employee must obtain and maintain Professional Membership Insurance Coverage Mission Statement

Safety Certification (Jr. Pro membership required to participate as assistant coach in any USA Gym nastics sanctioned event)

Safety Certification (membership required to participate in any USA Gymnastics sanctioned event)

$15.00

$62.00

Gymnastics club owners and directors that wish for services and resources to help run their businesses more efficiently and profitably

Competitive coaches, judges and other gymnastics professionals that participate in USA Gymnastics sa nctio ned events

$160.00

Businesses that wish to market thei r products or services · to the gymnastics community

$85.00 - One Discipline $15.00 dollars for each additional discipline

16-17 year old competitive assistance coaches and judges that participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events

Level 1,2,3 and Group Gymnastics coaches

Competitive ath letes participating in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events

Introductory Member

Instructor

Introductory Coach

Junior Professional

Professional

Member Club

Industry

$325 .00 $350.00 (Canada/Mexico)

Up to date mailing li st of all gymnastics clubs and programs registered with the USA Gymnastics database (Over 2,600), Listing on the USA Gymnastics Suppliers Directory on our website, Recognition - Industry members will be listed twice a year in Technique and once a year in USA Gymnastics magazine, Industry Member Certificate, Industry Member Banner, One year complimentary subscriptions to USA Gymnastics and Technique magazines, One free four-week classified ad when applying for or renewing your Industry membership.

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NATIONAL CONGRI;:SS "Gymnastics Excellence Through Education"

St. Paul, Minnesota • August 16-19, 2006

42nd ANNUAL USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL CONGRESS and TRADE SHOW Held in conjunction with 2006 Visa Championships August 16-19, 2006 St. Paul, Minnesota

Who should attend?

All USA Gymnastics Professional and Instructor members. Coaches, judges and instructors of all levels. Recreational and preschool teachers, business managers, administrators, club owners, high school and college coaches.

What is offered?

Three days of education with over 135 sessions offered. Lectures given by recognized top people in the field. Sessions on coaching, judging, business, preschool, recreational, sports science, fitness, Group Gymnastics and cheerleading. The leading experts in the areas of Women's, Men's, Rhythmic, Acrobatics and Trampoline and Tumbling programs will present. The Trade Show exhibit hall will feature 200 booths of products and information from over 85 different Industry Member vendors. Special events taking place in the exhibit hall daily.

Where?

Saint Paul RiverCentre - Congress & Trade Show Xcel Energy Center - Visa Championships-Artistic Roy Wilkins Auditorium- Visa Championships-Rhythmic and Acrobatics Gymnastics

All under one Roof

Hotels

Radisson Riverfront Hotel St. Paul Radisson City Centre Hotel All within walking distance

Travel Reservations:

National Travel Service 888-603-8747 Email atusagama@takeavacation .com

When?

August 16-19 - Visa Championships

Schedule August 16, 2006

• Congress Registration opens at 12:30-6:00 p.m. • Annual Business Conference, Safety/Risk Management course, KAT and MELPD courses

August 17-19,2006

• Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. - Saint Paul RiverCentre • Sessions 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m . • Trade Show Exhibit Hall Open

August 19, 2006

• Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Luncheon - TBD • Congress Dance Party at 9:00 p.m. at Radisson Riverfront Hotel

Event Tickets

Special rate for Strip tickets at $99.00 for Congress attendees. Rhythmic and Acrobatic Gymnastics events included in Congress registration fee. Special "Champions Club" for Congress attendees. Details coming soon.

Registration form:

In March 2006 Technique and on the USA Gymnastics website www.usa-gymnastics.org

Cost Early Bird Member $ 235.00 Early bird rlon-member $335 .00. Special discount rates for groups from Member Clubs.

This European-style city, nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, exudes old world charm but delivers everything you expect in a big city - modern attractions, grand shopping, abundant nightlife and quality hotels. The Saint Paul RiverCentre complex is a modern, state-of-theart convention center with incredible river views and upscale cuisine provided by award-winning Wildside Caterers.

--1-=-3-=6- - --=-- - - - - - - ,,..---==--- - ---«

TECH N' 0 UE • FEB RUARY 200 6 ")\---------'--.......:.=-----,-~=--""-'

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INTERNATIONAL ELITE COMMITTEE

II. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Houston, TX December 14, 2005

Recommendation to award $4,000.00 in support funds to Ashley Priess. Motion Donna Strauss Second Al Fong PASSED

ROLL CALL: Chairman Representatives:

Athlete Representative National Team Coordinator Vice President Program

Steve Rybacki Al Fong Mary Lee Tracy Valeri Liukin (absent) Donna Strauss Kim Zmeskal (absent) Martha Karolyi Kathy Kelly

Recommendation to purchase an Ice machine for the training center. Motion Al Fong Second Donna Strauss PASSED

I. PAN AMERICAN SELECTION PROCEDURES Steve Rybacki, Kim Zmeskal, and Valeri Liukin, members of the lEC, drafted the Pan American Games Selection Procedures in December and sent them to the committee for review and final approval.

Recommendation to accept the third draft as amended . Motion Al Fong Second Donna Strauss Passed

Recommendation to fund the purchase of additional equipment for the training center. Motion Al Fong Second Donna Strauss PASSED The committee requested that we look into pricing for a cleaning service. Meeting adjourned at 11 :30.

.......

......... .'

TEXAS SPORTS HALL OF FAME

Class of 2005 Announced! The Texas Sports Hall of Fame Selection Committee, chaired by legendary sports writer Dave Campbell, an nounced its 2005 class of inductees and includes the legendary husband/wife Olympic Gold Medal producing gymnastics coaches Bela and Martha Karolyi. The banquet is scheduled in Waco, Texas, Feb. 15 . Other inductees include: former Dallas Cowboys great and the NF~s all-time leading rusher, Emmitt Smith; former Notre Dame Heisman Trophy winner and Oakland Raider WR Tim Brown; Augie Garrido, head coach of the National Champion University of Texas baseball team; legendary Texas A&M football coach R.C. Slocum; former Tennis professional and Olympic medalist Zina Garrison; former Fort Worth Cats baseball player and coach Bobby Bragan; and Abilene Christian University track star and Odessa College track coach James Segrest. Congratulations to Bela and Martha Karolyi!

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TECHNIQUE路 FEB RUARV 200 6 )~--------------3==--71

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adidas Invites USA Gymnastics Professionals to Enroll in the 3-Stripes Instructor Program

...~~

adldas

adidas is excited to offer USA Gymnastics coaches and facility owners the opportunity to join the 3-Stripes Instructor Program, a discount program that provides fitness professionals with the chance to purchase a selection of the company's latest and most innovative footwear and apparel offerings. There is no cost to enroll - simply complete and return the application form available on-line at www. adidas3si.com. You will also find an application in the Spring 2006 catalog mailed to coaches and facility owners in January. Catalogs are mailed four times per year and emphasize adidas' newest items for training. The apparel selection features highly functional and breathable ClimaLite® and ClimaCool® fabric technologies to enhance co mfort and performance, while the footwear offering is designed to meet the demands of serious trainers, runners and athletes.

You may call adidas 3-Stripes Instructor Program Customer Service at 1-888-311-1995 if you wish to learn more about the program. Representatives are available from 8am to 5pm Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Complete program guidelines are also available on the web at www.adidas3si.com.

New from GymCert! Get the edge on your competition with GymCerts new "Skills & Drills" manual which contains:

* several alternate drills, * conditioning exercises, * coaching, safety, and spotting tips. * specific dance drills on beam and floor. Rita Brown ith Rik Feeney

..-.-=3-=8---------------«

TECHNIQUE·

Skill and strength tracking forms are also included for at a glance tracking throughout the season .

FEB RUARV 2006

)>----------------

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Three New Benefits to the POLICY FOR NON-CITIZENS Non-citizen USA Gymnastics athLete members who are residents, Living and training in this country are allowed to compete/participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events with fuLL privilege and receive awards up to and including the Junior Olympic NationaL Championships.

Member Club program in 2006

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1) New on the Member CLub onLy site. Each month USA Gymnastics wiLL initiate an interactive business forum on the Member CLub website for club owners to participate. USA Gymnastics wiLL ask USA a successfuL gym club owner to share GYMNASTICS some vaLuabLe business information he or she has Learned through triaL and Member Club error in the business. Then members can express their opinions as weLL, providing a forum of business knowLedge. USA Gymnastics hopes this interactive business forum wiLL allow club owners to gain vaLuabLe knowLedge within the industry and share heLpfuL information with others as weLl.

• USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic, National Training Squad and Junior or Senior Elite USA Team members must be United States citizens.

2) adidas wiLL offer Member Clubs the opportunity to order adidas products for 35-40% off the retaiL prices!

3) ALso a questionnaire wiLL go out to aLL the Member CLubs to see how we can service you better and what other benefits you wouLd Like to see.

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- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - l ( TEe HN10 UE • FEB RUARY 2006 )>----------------=-3-=-9--.

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attention member clubs Once again USA Gymnastics wou ld like to ask our Member Clubs if they have any high profile celebrities in their gyms to help us promote National Gymnastics Day. We would like to use their image on the 2006 Celebrity Poster. Please email Loree Galimore at club@usa-gymnastics.org if you have such a person within your facility and we'll send you a packet of information for them to review. This poster is NOT sold and is given to all USA Gymnastics Member Clubs in the marketing kit that goes out in the spring. Thanks for your help in promoting gymnastics!

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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR

WOMEN'S NATIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIR POSITIONS All nominees must be USA Gymnastics Women's Program Professional Members in good sta nding for a minimum of two consecutive years immediately prior to the nomination , be at least 21 years old, and meet the prerequisites in Article V of the Operating Code Sections A, B, C and D found posted on the USA Gymnastics website, Women's Program home page. The positions are four (4) yea r terms 2006-2010 .

Nominations are to be sent by March 15, 2006 to: Kathy KeLLy, Vice-President of Program, USA GYMNASTICS, Pan American PLaza, 201 S. CapitoL Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 Fax: 317-237-5069 E-mail: kkelly@usa-gymnastics.org

NationalJr. Olympic Committee Chair • Must have coached a gymnast who has qualified to the Jr. Olympic Nationals or East/West Championshi ps withi n the prior or current Olympic cycle. • Presently coaching at the Jr. Olympic level. • Must have been a Regional Jr. Olympic Committee Chairman or National Jr. Olympic Committee Chairman. The National Jr. Olympic Committee Chair is elected by the Women's Jr. Olympic Committee I nominate _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

National Technical Committee Chair • Must have been a Brevet judge for at least six (6) years and served as a member of the Technical Committee. • The National Technical Committee Chairis elected by the National Technical Committee. I nominate _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _....:....._ _ _ _ _ _ __

National Pre-Elite Committee Chair • Must have been a Regional Pre-Elite Committee Chairman or National Pre-Elite Committee Chairman. • Must have coached a national team member. • Must have been a coach on an international assignment. The National Pre-Elite Committee Chairman is elected by the National Pre-Elite Committee. I nominate

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- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - «( TEe HNIOU E • fEB RUARY 2006 ) r - - - - - - - -- - - - - - --=-=-1-.. 4

.l'jiWl,m~~~~lmJli!!' All Olympia, AOGC Phone - 310/ 301 -8066 levels -W4-6

Technique magazine will regularly list Member Club invitationals bystate inorder to help coaches schedule their teams in competitions_When you apply and pay for a sanction with USA Gymnastics, your invitational will automatically be included in the listing_ Remember, only USA Gymnastics Member Clubs are eligible for the invitational listing_ ALABAMA

Carnival of Stars Event Site - 6100 Brewbaker Blvd.Montgomery, Al Start Date - 2/ 19/ 2006 United Gymstars and Cheer, llC Phone - 334/ 284-2244 levels - M4-10 The Vulcan Challenge Event S~e -leRoy Brown Health, Physical E;Jefferson State Pkwy. Birmingham, Al Start Dote - 2/ 24/ 2006 Mountain Brook Gymnastics Phone - 205/837-5362 levels -W2-1O/open, prepopt. ARIZONA

Southwest Jr Cup 2006 Event Site -Altadena Middle Sch. 14620 SDesert Foothills Pkwy Phoenix, Al Start Dote - 2/ 18/ 2006 Southwest Gym. Training Center Phone -480/ 730-8911 levels - M4-10 2006 Shamrock Invitational Event Site -Westview High School 1085 w Garden lakes Pkwy. Avondale, AI Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006 Flames Gymnastics Academy Phone - 602/ 942-7662 levels -W4-8 CALIFORNIA

Gold Country Classic Event Site - Herbst Pavilion Pier 2 Fort Mason Son Francisco, CA Start Date - 2/ 18/ 2006 Son Mateo Gymnastics Phone - 650/ 591 -8734 levels - M4-Elite Wine Country Clossic Event S~e -Callinan Sporn Center 5405 Snyder lane Rohnert Park, CA Start Date - 2/ 18/ 2006 Rohnert Pork Gymnastics Phone - 707/ 585-9377 levels - W4-10 California Classic Event S~e -Rancho Sporn (enter 28780 Single Oak Dr. Temecula, CA Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Southern California Elite Gym Phone - 951/699-4499 levels - W7-Elite

142

West Valley Spirit of the Flame Challenge Event Site - Parkside Hall 180 Park Ave San Jose, CA Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 West Valley Gymnastics School Phone - 408/ 374-8692 levels -W4-Elite Fallbrook Spring Classic Event Site -342 Industrial Way Suite 103; Fallbrook, CA Start Date - 2/25/ 2006 Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Phone - 760/ 728-8582 levels -W4-6 Peter Vidmar Men's Gymnastics Invitational Event Site - Brentwood School 100 S. Barrington PI.; LA, CA Start Date - 3/ 2/ 2006 Broadway Gym School, Inc Phone - 310/ 450-0012 levels - M4-Elite

Demaray's Gymnasti( Academy Phone - 510/ 661-0576 levels - M4-10

level 4-6 State Event Site - Carondelet High 1133 Winton Dr; Concord, CA Start Date - 3/ 12/ 2006 Community Youth Center Phone - 925/ 671-7070 levels - R4-6

California Gym Fest at Sea World Son Diego Event Site - 500 Sea World Dr. San Diego, CA Start Date - 7/ 29/ 2006 Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Phone -760/728-8582 levels - GA

Surfin USA Event Site - 4118 South St lakewood, CA Start Dote -4/ 21/2006 lakewood YMCA Gymnastics Phone - 562/ 272-4884 levels - W4-10

COLORADO

Olympic Dream Classic Event Site - 5433 Beethoven SI. los Angeles, CA Start Date - 4/ 22/ 2006 Broadway Gym S(hool, Inc. Phone - 310/ 450-0012 levels -W4-6

Friendship Challenge Event Site - Burbank Airport Hilton 2500 Hollywood Way Burbank, CA Start Date - 3/ 3/ 2006 Golden State Gymnastics Phone - 818/ 558-1 177 levels - W-Elite

California Gym Fest @ Knott's Berry Fram Event Site - 8039 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA Start Date -4/ 30/ 2006 Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Phone - 760/728-8582 levels - GA

2006 Novato Classic Event Site - 950 Seventh St Novato, CA Start Date - 3/ 4/ 2006 dub Name -Novato Gymnastics Phone - (415) 209-9595 levels -W14-1 0

Dreams of Gold 2006 Event Site - 7735 Haskell Ave. Von Nuys, CA Start Dote - 5/ 6/ 2006 Gymnastics Olympica USA Phone - 818/ 785-1537 levels -W4-6

Bay Areo Classic Event Site -3901 CWolnut Blvd. Brentwood, CA Start Date - 3/ 4/ 2006 Block Diamond Gymnastics Phone - 925/ 516-6619 levels - W4-10

Fallbrook Team Challenge Event Site -342 Industrial Woy, Ste. 103; Fallbrook, CA Start Dote - 5/ 13/ 2006 Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Phone - 760/728-8582 levels -W4-6

Mardi Gras Invitotional Event Site -415 Mississippi St. Vallejo, CA Start Date -3/ 4/ 2006 North Bay Athleti( Association Phone - 707/ 643-9622 levels - W4-10

Spiro Is Compulsory Invitational Event Site - P.O. Box 1198 Galeto, CA Start Date - 5/ 13/ 2006 Spirals Gymnasti(s Team Phone - 805/ 968-2453 levels -W4-6

Demarays Winter Classic Event Site - 40511 Albrae SI. Fremont, CA Start Dote -3/ 5/ 2006

2006 AOGC Spring Invitational Event Site - 12500 Beatrice St. l.A., CA Start Date - 5/ 20/ 2006

C TECHNIQUE

YMCA State Meet Eveot Site -AGA; 3100 Airport Way long Beo(h, CA Start Dote - 6/ 2/ 2006 lakewood YMCA Gymnastics Phone - 562/ 272-4884 levels - W4-1 0

5280 Mile High Invitational Event Site - 10601 W44th Ave. Wheatridge, CO Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 5280 Gymnastics Phone - 303/ 431-8838 levels - W4-Elite CONNECTICUT

13th Annual American Gym Invitational Event Site - Thomas Edison Middle School 1355 WBoord St; Meriden, a Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 American GYM Training Center Phone - 860/ 621 -5001 levels - M4-Elite 13th annual American Gym Invitational Event Site - Thomas Edison Middle School 1355 NBrood St. Meriden, a Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 American Gym Training Center Phone - 860/ 621-5001 levels - W4-Elite

a Cup Teom Meet Event Site -811 Straits Turnpike Watertown, a Start Date - 3/ 12/ 2006 USA Gymnastics Phone -860/ 945-6970 levels -M4-6 FLORIDA

Gasparilla Classic Event Site - One Tropicana Dr. St Petersburg, Fl Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 lightning City Gymnastics Phone - 813/ 558-0035 levels -W2-Elite Easter Bunny Invitational Eveot Site -730 St..kffis BUll Rd. N. Jacksonville, Fl

â&#x20AC;˘ FEBRUARY 2006 )

Start Date - 3/ 25/ 2006 All Americon Gymnasti(s, Inc Phone - 904/ 641 -9966 levels -W4-6 Spooktacular Invitational Event Site - Emerald Coast Conf Clr 1250 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE Ft Walton Beach, Fl Start Date - 10/ 27/ 2006 Emerald City Gymnastics Phone - 850/ 863-3991 levels -W2-6 GEORGIA

Event Nome - Mardi Gras Invitational Event Site - 1898 Kennesaw Due West Rd Kennesaw, GA Start Dote - 2/ 18/ 2006 Gymnastics Academy of Atlanta Phone - 770/ 975-8337 levels -W7-10 Champions Cup Event Site -10495 Woodstock Rd. Bldg B; Roswell, GA Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Roswell Gymnastics Phone - 770-641 -3987 levels -W7-10 Gold Cup Invitational Event Site - 124 Cedar In. Martinez, GA Start Dote - 2/ 25/ 2006 Gymnasti(s Gold Phone - 706/ 650-2111 levels - M4-10 Spring Break-Out lnvitationol Event Site - 4485 Hickory Rd Woodstock, GA Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006 Georgia All-Stars Gymnastics Phone - 770/ 516-2654 levels -W7-10

RainbowGymnasti(s Academy Phone -808/ 488-7030 levels - W4-1 0 luka Nakoa Event Site - 45-558 #(21 Kamehomeha Hwy.; Kaneohe, HI Start Date -3/ 5/ 2006 Kokokahi Gymnastics Teom Phone -808/235-6866 levels - W4-1 0 IDAHO

Great West Gymfest Event Site -6360 North Sunshine Street Coeur d'Alene, 10 Start Date -2/ 24/ 2006 Funtasti(s Phone -208/ 772-9443 levels - W4-Elite Swingtime Event Site -5420 West State SI. Boise, 10 Start Date -3/ 10/ 2006 Gem State Gymnastics Academy Phone -208/ 853-3220 levels - M4-Elile; W4-Elite, prepopl. ILLINOIS

Snowflake Invite Eveot Site - Peterson Park Gym. Or 5801 NPulaski; Chicago, Il Start Dote -2/ 18/2006 Chicago Pork Dist Phone -312/ 742-4927 levels - M4-1 0 Cupid's Twistlnvitotional Event Site - Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Dr; Elgin, Il Start Dote -2/ 24/2006 St. Charles Gymnastics Club Phone -630/ 5B4-5544 levels -W4-1 0 INDIANA

Sweet Onion Invitational Event Site - 2606 Matthews Industrial Cr Vidalia, GA Start Dote - 3/ 4/ 2006 Vidalia Springers Phone - 912/ 538-1000 levels -W2-8

Spring Wishes Event Site - 1175 Industroil Pkwy; Richmond, IN Start Dote -2/ 25/2006 Richmond Gymnastic Training Ce Phone -765/ 935-5255 levels - W4-10

April in Paris Event Site - 130 Andrew Dr. Stockbridge, GA Start Date - 4/ 8/ 2006 Paris Schl. of Performing Arts Phone - 770/ 474-6184 levels -W2-9

Indy Clossic Event Site - 9B50 Mayflower Pork Dr.; Carmel, IN Start Date -3/ 4/ 2006 Indy School of Gymnastics Phone -317/ 872-5948 levels - M4-1 0

HAWAII

Pat of Gold Invitational Event Site - P.O. Box 384; 5036 S County Rd. 600 E; Plainfield, IN Start Dote - 3/ 4/ 2006

Ku uipo Classic Event Site - Neal SBlaisdell Clr. 777 Ward Ave; Honolulu, HI Start Dote - 2/ 18/ 2006

'pB1rn,m['li[,j'Wljil" Hoosier Gym Training Center Phone - 317/ 839-9919 Levels -W3-1 0

MARYLAND

KENTUCKY

Champions Derby Classic Event Site - KY Fair and 0qxJ Center

Louisville, KY Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Champion Gymnastics Phone - 502/ 809-1386 Levels - W3-10, prepopl.; M4-Elite Flippin' Into Spring Invitational Event Site -Mason County H.5. Fieldhouse 1320 US 68; Maysville, KY Start Date - 4/ 1/ 2006 Centre Gymnastics Phone - 606/ 759-5056 Levels -T1-10 LOUSIANA

Battle Beneath the Pines Event Site - 23052 Hwy. 1088 Mandeville, LA Start Date -3/ 11/2006 Mandeville Gymnastics Academy Phone - 985/727-7277 Levels- T1-Elite

Skyview lce-8reaker Invitational Event Site - 2603 Back Acre Circle Mount Airy, MD Start Date - 2/ 19/ 2006 Skyview Dance and Gymnastics Phone - 301/829-7998 Levels - SA 4-Elite Columbia Challenge Event Site - Univ of MD College Park North Gym; College Park, MD Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006 Top Flight Gymnastics Center Phone - 410/ 992-1600 Levels - W4-10 29th Capitol Cup Event Site - PG Sports learning Complex; 8001 Sheriff Rd; Landover, MD Start Date - 3/ 3/ 2006 MarVa Teens, Inc. Phone - 301 / 468-9181 Levels - W4-Elite Fairland Classic 2006 Event Site - 13950 Old Gunpowder Road Laurel, MD

Start Date - 3/ 10/ 2006 Fairland Gymnastics Phone - 301 / 953-0030 Levels -Tl -Elite Spring Fling Event Site - 9200 Rumsey Rd. Ste. 2; Columbia, MD Start Date - 3/ 18/ 2006 Columbia Gymnastics Phone - 410/ 964-2053 Levels -W4-9 2006 Frederick Classic Event Site -4604 Wedgewood Blvd Frederick, MD Start Date - 3/ 24/ 2006 Frederick Gymnastics Club Phone - 301/695-0205 Levels - W4-1 0 Spring Extravaganza Event Site - 2707 Pitman Or. Silver Spring, MD Start Date - 4/ 8/ 2006 Silver Stars Gymnastics Phone - 301 / 589-0938 Levels -W4-6

Westfield, MA Start Date - 2/ 18/ 2006 TIm Daggett Gold Medal Gymnastics Phone -413/ 786-4686 Levels - W4-1 0, prep opt.

Westwood, MA Start Date - 3/ 4/ 2006 New England Sports Academy Phone -781/493-6345 Levels - M4-Elite

little Bigger Invitational Event Site - Joyce Middle School; Locust SI.; Woburn, MA Start Date - 2/ 23/ 2006 Gymnastics And More Phone - 781 / 938-3669 Levels -W4-1 0, prepopt.

Exxcel Beach Party Event Site - 88 Wells Ave Newton, MA Stort Date - 3/ 25/ 2006 Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing Phone - 617/ 244-3300 Levels -W4-8, prepopl.

Boston Cup 2006 Event Site - Newton South H.5. Brandeis Rd; Newton, MA Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Rhythmic Dreams Phone - 617/ 233-4493 Levels - R3-10

Spring Fling Event Site - 200 Old Lyman Rd. South Hadley, MA Start Date - 4/ 30/ 2006 Thompsons Gymnastics Phone -413/ 532-0374 Levels - W2-5, prepopl.

MASSACHUSETIS

Starlight Invitational Event Site -MIT; 106 Vassar SI. Cambridge, MA Start Date - 3/ 3/ 2006 Massachusetts Gym Center Phone -781/893-2009 Levels - W4-10

Daggetts Invitational Event Site -Westfield St College Woodward; 877 Western Ave

Boston Classic Event Site - 345 University Ave.

US Airborne Invitational Event Site - 8yron Center HS 8500 Burlingame SW Byron Center, MI Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 ANA Sports U.S. Airborne Phone - 616/ 975-2992 Levels - W3-1 0; M4-1 0 Michigan Open Meet for Boys Event Site - 13300 Reeck Rd. Southgate, MI Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006Club Name - Mills Gymnastics USA Phone - 734/ 283-6550 Levels - M4-1 0, open

MICHIGAN

Wolverine Classic Event Site - Saline H.5. 7190 NMaple Rd; Saline, MI Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006 Gym America Phone - 734/ 971-1667 Levels - W4-1 0, prepopt.

Totally Rod 13 Event Site - 2723 Kersten Ct Kalamozoo, MI Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Greater Kalamazoo World of Gymnastics Phone - 269/ 381-5749 Levels - W5-1O, prep opt.

Gym Jester Inv Event Site - 2709 Pine St. Saginaw, MI Start Date - 3/ 18/ 2006 Gym-Jester Gymnastics, Inc. Phone - 989/ 754-7401 Levels - W-prepopt.

(continued on page 44)

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(continued from page 43)

Sand Cassell Classic Event Site - 1180 Devin Dr. Muskegon, MI Start Dote - 3/ 25/ 2006 Cassell Gymnastics Phone - 231 / 798-8418 levels -W2-8 Karaoke Classic Event Site - 393 N. Helmer Rd. Bottle Creek, MI Start Dote - 4/ 7/ 2006 Branch Gymnastics Phone - 269/ 963-4770 levels -W5-7, prep opt. Gym Jester Inv Event Site - 2709 Pine St; Saginaw, MI Start Dote - 4/8/2006 Gym-Jester Gymnastics, Inc. Phone· 989/ 754-7401 levels - W·prepopt. Year End level 4 Hot Shot Inv Event Site· 9525 Highland Rd. Howell, MI Start Dote · 4/22/2006 Hartland Gymnastics Acodemy Phone· 810/ 746-2170 levels · W4-6 Gym Jester Inv Event Site - 2709 Pine Street Saginaw, MI Start Dote· 5/ 13/ 2006 Gym·Jester Gymnastics, Inc. Phone· 989/ 754-7401 levels - W·prepopl. MINNESOTA

Rising Stars Invitational Event Site· North St Paul H.S. 2416 E11th Ave; North St. Paul, MN Start Date· 2/ 18/ 2006 Rising Stars Gymnastics Acod Phone· 651/730-4376 levels - W4-10 Northern lights Classic Event Site· Champlin Park H.S. 6025 109th Ave N Champlin, MN Start Date· 3/3/2006 Twin City Twisters Phone· 763/ 421 -3046 levels - W7-10 Shamrock Shake Invitation Event Site . 5555 Pioneer Creek Dr.; Maple Plain, MN Start Date· 3/ 11/2006 North Shore Gymnastics Phone-763-479-3189 levels · W4-1 0

144

MISSOURI

St. louis Challenge Cup Event Site - 2675 Metro 8lvd. St. louis, MO Start Dote -2/ 18/ 2006 Team Central Phone - 314/ 291 -5436 levels - M4-Elite Spring Inv. Event Site - 10449 Midwest Industrial; SI. louis, MO Start Dote - 3/ 3/ 2006 All Americon Gymnastics Phone - 314/ 426-2496 levels -W5-6 NEVADA

Cactus Cooler Invitational VIII Event Site -UNlV McDermott Ctr. Los Vegas, NV Start Dote · 2/ 24/ 2006 Desert Gymcats Gymnastics Phone - 702/ 798-3547 Levels - W4-Elite Spring Fest Event Site· 120 Woodland Ave. Ste. B; Reno, NV Start Dote· 3/ 4/ 2006 High Sierra Gymnastics Phone -775/ 747-7748 levels- W4-1 0 NEW JERSEY

9th Annual Star Struck Invitational Event Site· Atlantic Cape Comm College Mays landing, NJ Start Date - 2/ 18/ 2006 Star Bound Gymnastics Academy Phone · 856/ 453-7996 levels - W4-10 Scarlet Cup Event Site· Rutgers U livingston Rec Ctr Rd 3; Piscataway, NJ Start Date· 2/ 24/ 2006 Rebound Gymnastics, Inc. Phone · 732/ 566-3223 levels - W4-Elite NEW YORK 2006 Penevs Classic Event Site· Rit Gordon Field House; 149 lomb Memorial Dr; Rochester, NY Start Date· 2/ 18/ 2006 Eastside Gymnastics-Penev's Phone· 585/ 248-3750 Levels - W4-10, M4-10

Niagara Cup Event ~ . 3305 Niagara foils BMI North Tonawanda, NY Start Date - 2/ 24/ 2006 Niagara/ Gleason's Gymnastics

Phone - 716/ 694-6557 levels - W4-Elite long Island Classic Event Site -27 AIndustrial 8lvd. Medford, NY Start Dote - 3/ 3/ 2006 long Island Gym Nest Phone - 631 / 924-9422 levels - W2-Elite, prepopl. lucky Stars Invitational Event Site -Jamestown Community College 525 Falconer St; Jamestown, NY Start Dote - 3/ 17/ 2006 Stroup's Gymnastics Phone -716/ 665-8081 levels -W4-1 0 NORTH CAROLINA

Olympia Winter Cup Event Site· 385 Sugarloaf Rd, Bldg E; Hendersonville, NC Start Dote· 2/ 18/ 2006 Olympia School of Gymnastics Phone· 828/ 697-7799 levels - W2-Elite Solem Invitational Event Site · 4870 Country Clud Rd.; Winston Salem, NC Start Dote · 2/ 18/ 2006 Solem Gymnastics Center, ltd. Phone · 336/ 765-4668 levels - W2-10, prepopt. KPAC Cup Event Site· 304 Leitz Place Statesville, NC Start Date - 2/ 25/ 2006 Club Name· KPAC Phone - 704/ 872-2888 levels - W3-10, prepopl. NRG Invitational Event Site - 5400 Atlantic Springs Rd.; Raleigh, NC Start Date · 2/25/ 2006 North Raleigh Gymnastics Phone· 919/ 790-9400 levels - W4-1 0, prepopt. Future Stars Invitational Event Site · 160·B West Smithfield SI.; Angier, NC Start Date· 3/ 4/ 2006 langley Gymnastics Phone· 919/ 639-8288 levels - W3-1 0, prepopl. OHIO

Sunrise Gymfest Event Site - P.O. Box 69 Sylvania, OH Start Dote· 2/ 25/ 2006 Sunrise Gymnastics Academy Phone - 419/841-2902 levels - W4-1 0

C TECHNIQUE·

Capitol City Spring Classic Event S~e -Franklin Park 1747 E8rood St Columbus, OH Start Date - 2/ 26/ 2006 Capitol City Gymnastics Phone - 614/409-7655 levels - W4-10

#100; Hillsboro, OR Start Dote - 2/ 25/ 2006 Gym-Nest ltd. Phone - 503/ 640-6378 levels - W4-1 0

Queen City Invitational Event Site -7900 E. Kemper Rd. Cincinnati, OH Start Dote - 3/ 18/ 2006 Queen Oy Gymnastics/ Kids Fim Phone - 513/489-7575 levels - Tl -Elite

Emerald Team Challenge Event Site - Cottage Grove H.S. 1375 SRiver Rd Cottage Grove, OR Start Dote - 3/3/2006 Notional Academy of Artistic Gymnastics Phone - 541 / 744-2002 levels - W4-1 0

Cincinnati loofest Event Site - Fairfield H.s. 8800 Holden Blvd; Fairfield, OH Stort Dote -4/ 2/ 2006 Cincinnati Gymnastics Phone· 513/ 860-3082 levels · W4-5

Daisy Cup Event Site - 1414 SE 18Th Ave #100; Hillsboro, OR Start Dote -4/ 8/ 2006 Gym·Nest ltd. Phone· 503/ 640-6378 levels - W4-10

The Kangarao Classic Event Site· 810 Slocum Rd. lancaster, OH Start Dote· 4/ 2/ 2006 Hocking Volley Gym. Center Phone· 740/ 653-3547 levels· W4-5 Follow Your Dreams Inv Event Site· Hilliard Darby H.s. 4200 Leppert Rd; Hilliard, OH Start Dote -4/8/2006 Fliptastie Gymnastics Inc Phone - 614/ 529-8828 levels· W4-7 Girl Power Invitational Event Site · lakota East H.S. 6840 Lakota Ln; West Chester, OH Start Date - 4/ 8/ 2006 Flip nTwist GYM &Cheer, llC Phone· 513/ 942-4435 levels -W4-6 OKLAHOMA

HOF Classic Event S~e . Cox Convention Center 1 Myriad Gardens Oklahoma City, OK Start Date· 4/27/2006 Bart Conner Gymnastics Acodemy Phone-405/ 447-7500 levels -W4-8 OREGON

Challenge at the Nest Event Site · 1414 SE 18Th Ave #100; Hillsboro, OR Start Date - 2/18/2006 Gym·Nest ltd. Phone· 503/ 640-6378 levels· M4-7 Shamrock Inv Event Site · 1414 SE 18Th Ave

FEBRUARY 2006 )

PENNSYLVANIA

Snowman Inv Event Site · 500 N. George St. Hanover, PA Start Dote· 2/ 18/ 2006 Hanover Area Family YMCA Phone· 717/ 632-0195 levels - W4-6 Best 0 the West Event Site· 310 First St Ellwood City, PA Start Dote· 2/ 25/ 2006 Gold Medal Gymnastics Acodemy Phone · 724/ 752-4133 levels · W4-6 John Pancott Invitational Event Site · Founders Pavilion Church Farm; 1001 E lincoln Hwy.; Exton, PA Start Date · 3/4/2006 John Pancott Gymnastic Center Phone - 610/ 647-9847 levels - W4-1 0 Rock NRoll rumble Event Site· 220 Executive Dr. Cranberry Township, PA Start Date · 3/ 4/ 2006 X·Cel Gymnastics Phone· 724/ 772-0055 levels · W4-8, prepopt. The Wilson Invitational 2006 Event Site - Wilson College· Chambersburg 1015 Philadelphia Ave. Chambersburg, PA Start Date· 3/5/2006 Wilson School of Gym And Dance Phone · 717/ 264-1706 levels - W4-6

Dave Moskovitz Group Gym Celebration Event Site - Ursinus College 601 Main St; Collegeville, PA Start Dote - 3/ 12/ 2006 Berks East Gymnastics Phone - 610/ 495-2214 levels - GA Fun in the Sun Event Site -UniveMf of Pittsburgh Fitzgerald Field House Pittsburgh, PA Start Dote - 3/ 17/ 2006 Northland Gym &Cheerleading Phone - 724/ 444-3010 levels -W4-1 0 Invitational Event S~e . lebanon YMCA 201 N7th St.lebanon, PA Start Dote - 3/ 24/ 2006 lebanon YMCA Gymnastics Phone· 717/ 273-2691 levels - W3-10 Dave Moskovitz Invitational Event Site - 2490 Schuylkill Rd. Box 312; Parkerford, PA Start Dote · 3/ 25/ 2006 Berks East Gymnastics Phone · 610/ 495-2214 levels · W4-7, prepopt. 2006 lEGS Storm Invitational Event S~e . 6813 West Ridge Rd. Fairview, PA Start Date· 3/ 26/ 2006 lake Effect Gym School, Inc. Phone - 814/474-1835 levels· W4-7 Friendship Classic Event S~e -206-210 N. Centre SI. P.O. Box 631; Pottsville, PA Start Date · 3/ 31 / 2006 Pottsville Gymnastic Training Phone· 570/ 628-4966 levels - W3-Elite, prepopt. Friendship Classic Event Site · Martz Hall 16 laurel Blvd.Pottsville, PA Start Date · 3/31/2006 Pottsville Gymnostic Training Phone · 570/ 628-4966 levels· W3-Elite Funny Bunny Inv Event Site· 500 N. George St. Hanover, PA Start Date - 4/ 29/ 2006 Hanover Area Family YMCA Phone· 717/ 632-0195 levels - W4-6

Member Club Invitational Listing

The Director of Educational Services is responsible for the development and implementation of all educational and professional development curricula, products, services and publications. This person oversees the day-to-day operations of the Educational Services Department providing leadership and direction to the staff and reports to the Vice President of Member Services. Candidate must have a BAj BS in a related field . Masters degree or Doctorate is preferred. Candidate must have 5 or more years experience in management with demonstrated leadership ability. A strong background and experience in education including continuing education programs, online course management, and developing and managing educational programming. Familiarity with Olympic sports and j or gymnastics preferred. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively. Excellent multi-tasking and organizational skills. Must possess resourcefulness and have the ability to work independently when necessary. Work may be required on evenings and weekends. Some travel will be required. Position based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Full time position with USA Gymnastics benefit package. Application Deadline is February 13, 2006. No phone inquires, please A full job description including a list of specific responsibilities and a link to apply is located at: http://usngbjobs.teamworkonline.com/teamwork/r.cfm ?i= 7832

------------------1(

Memmel and Women's World Team Win

usoe

Athlete and Team Award The U.S. Olympic Committee announced that Chellsie Memmel and the U.S. Women's World Gymnastics Team were named its November female athlete and team, respectively, of the month for their accomplishments at the 2005 World Championships in Melbourne, Australia .

TECHNIQUE' fEB RUARY 2006

)>----------------=4-=5:--111

POSITION AVAILABLE JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING TEAM_ The Coachella Valley Recreation & Park District is seeking energetic, positive and dedicated gymnastics professionals for our gymnastics program. We desire individuals with a positive coaching philosophy that can produce quality gymnastics in a safe and fun environment. Current Openings: Coaches - Responsible for instructing daily programs, workouts and meets; fostering a positive and challenging atmosphere. Looking for entry level coaches as well as experienced team coaches. Coordinator - Responsible for directing our gymnastics program. Duties include coordinating daily activities and meets, leading team members and fostering a positive, challenging and rewarding atmosphere. Requires gymnastics experience, project management and leadership abilities. I! you are interested, pick up an application at the District office (45-305 Oasis Street, Indio) or download one from our website at www.cvrpd.org INSTRUCTORS/COACHES. Paragon Gymnastics of Norwood (Bergen County), NJ is looking for Instructors and Coaches, PIT-FIT Weekdays/ weekends/evenings. Requirements: Positive attitude, responsible, reliable, love of children. Positions available for pre-school through intermediate level instruction. Competitive Team Coach Levels 5-10. Company sponsored certifications (Safety, CPR, First Aid) Full benefits/ paid vacation & sick days, company matched retirement plan. Will train. 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: 201 -7676921 or fox resume to 201-767-6693 or email:dot@paragongym.com. 49 Walnut Street, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 0764B. www.paragongym.com. MANAGER/GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTORS. Great career opportunities in our NYC and Westchester location. Full time and port time positions available. Weekdays and/ or weekends. If you love kids, love gymnastics, and love to teach in a fun, safe, positive and caring environment, give us a call. Positions available for baby, toddler, preschool, after school program, and birthday parties. Excellent salary. Only highly motivated, enthusiastic team players that want to make a positive difference with kids need apply. Call Jodi's Gym at 914-244-BB11, fax resume to 914-244-8833, or e-mail jodgym@aol.com JOIN THE FASTEST GROWING TEAM IN MASSACHUSETTS. Massachusetts Gymnastics Center has exciting career opportunities available. MGC operates five "state of the art" gymnastics facilities in the Greater Boston/ Metro West/ South Shore area with programs ranging from, Tumble-tot to National Level J.O. girls and boys teams. We are looking for "The

Best" instructors and coaches in the industry. We offer a competitive compensation package and fantastic growth potential. We have immediate full and part-time openings for the following positions: USAG Girls coach, USAG boys coach, Rec. Team Coaches, Cheerleading coaches, Recreational Program Director, Pre-school and Class Instructors. Interested candidates should forward their resumes to: Mike Colarossi, MGC, P.O. Box 856, Stow, MA 02043 www.mikecolarossi@massgymnastics.com AMERICAN ELITE GYMNASTICS-Competitive gymnastics club looking for a developmental director and coaches within our developmental and compulsory program. New 10,000 sq. foot facility including pit, in-ground trampolines, and a talented, energetic, youthful staff. Looking for experienced, positive coaches who love working with children and have strong spotting skills. We offer a fun environment, great kids, and a competitive salary. If interested please fox resume to (480)423-5485 or apply in person at 9181 E. Bell Rd., Suite 104, Scottsdale, AZ 85260. americanelite@earthlink.net

FOR SALE CLASS CONTROL for Windows. Serving Gymnastics since 1990 with Closs Management and Accounts Receivable software, including free training and technical support. Pocked with features, easy to use, and networkable. Flexible setup, easy assignments, rosters, attendance, marketing analysis, automated tuition calculation, multiple discounts, additional/retail charges, inventory management, sales tax support, late charges, early payment discounts, invoices/statements, receivables reports, financial and enrollment summaries, instructor schedules, waiting and makeup lists, moiling labels, send messages and invoices bye-moil, support for bonk draft and credit card payments, and much more. Only $600 ($300/ additional workstation). Contact Vaughn Software Services at 800-821-8516, v_s_s@bellsouth.net, or www.vaughnsoftware.com MC/VISA/AMEX/ Discover. Score Moster - NO MORE Inputting Gymnast Roster data!! Score Moster, the most widely used software, just got even better! Meet Directors can now download roster information from the USAG website. Features include: create rotations, assign #'s, the most comprehensive reporting and results can go directly to your website. Supports: womens/ mens, indiVidual/team, artistic/ rhyth mic/ tra mpoli ne, com pulso ry/ optional. www.Score-Master.com - fREE demo & user listing. Contact: Mark Mahoney, POB 31421 , Charlotte, NC, 28231. Gymnastics Drills and Conditioning Books. Gymnastics Drills and Conditioning for the Handstand-ISBN # 1-4116-5000-X \ Gymnastics Drills and Conditioning Exercises - ISBN #

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1-4116-0579-9 \ Gymnastics Conditioning for the Legs and Ankles - ISBN # 1-4116-2033X \ Gymnastics Drills and Conditioning for the Walkover, limber, and Back Handspring - ISBN # 1-4116-1160-8 \ Order all 4 drills books together - $66.96 + s\h. Also available, Gymnastics Competition Journal: My Scores, My Goals, My Dreams - ISBN # 1-4116-4145-0 \ Visit GymnasticsStuff.com today for these and other gymnastics products including Gymnastics EqUipment, Apparel, Books, Supplies, and Gifts. www.GymnasticsStuff.com \ 888-496-8749 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 BOYS GYMNASTICS VIDEOS & CD!! 2005-2008 Quadrennium!! Boys Recreational Classes and Teams! Watch, learn, and/ or review: skills, terms, drills, stations, progressions (on every boys even!),equipment, matting, safety, spotting, worm ups, transitions, closs management, gomes, strength conditioning, and cool down!! The CD contains: stoff checklist, rules, calendar, attendance sheet, warm ups, rotations, lesson plans, developmental routines, documentational progressions, strength exercises, testing cards, move up standards, ribbons challenges, team parent packet, conference/ goals sheet, and a training schedule! Web -www.schram.org/greg (more info + online ordering). (214) 4157614. greg@schram.org. Ask Greg for 010% off coupon code!!

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

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.

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD RATES

1-100 words = $100 101 -200 words =$200 Your ad in Technique will automatical~ be ploced online for 30 days at no additionol chorge. The address ~: www_usa-gymnastics_org/dassifieds/ Your 30 days will begin on the next regular posfing date. DEADLINES ISSUE January .................. February................. March.....................

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DEADLINE FOR AD AND PAYMENT

Dec. 10 Jon. 10 Feb. 10

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July ... ... ......... June 10 August ............ July 10 Sept/Oct. . ..... Aug. 10 Nav./Dec. ...... ... ... Ocf. 10 NOTE: If the , Oth falls on a weekend or holiday, the preceding work day is considered the deadlineâ&#x20AC;˘

SUBMIT Mail your ad and payment to: USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225 or fax to 317-237-5069. IF YOU FAX, PLEASE INCLUDE YOUR CREDIT CARD NUMBER, EXPIRATION DATE AND SIGNATURE. Pleose designate if your ad should appear in Technique magazine or USA Gymnastics magazine. ADS SUBMITTED WITHOUT PAYMENT WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. USA Gymnastics reserves the right to vary formal. Technique is received by more than 16,000 USA Gymnastics professional members !Ius thousands of viewers will be expose to your ad online. Advertise your employment opportunity, product, service, or comp'etilion here for great resUltS. Questions? Call Luan Penek at 317-829-5646.

TECHNIQUEÂˇ fEB RUARY 2006 ) > - - - - - - - - - -- - - - --

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Visa速is accepted all across the country. From shoe stores in Portland to restaurants in Pensacola, Visa is accepted at millions of merchant locations worldwide. Which is why Visa is a great way to get what you need, whenever you need it. Visa. It's Everywhere You Want To Be~

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

PAID Indianapolis, IN Permit No. 7867

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

2006

SAFETY CERTIFICATION SCHEDULE

The Safety S(hedule is updated weekly on our website www.usa-gymnastics.org. . Please see the website for the most current schedule. : 'Tme cnI date •

10 dmge. See uw-gymnastics.txg for..,«rtes.

February

April

Longs, S( 29568; 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Gymnastics and More, 550 Hwy 9 Ste E Directions: Louie Ligouri 843·249-5868 (ourse code: KB02172006S( Instructor: Kim Boyd 803·348-2693

Montville, NJ 07045; 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Montville High School, 100 Horseneck Rood, ' Dinner break included Directions: (athy Finkel 973-335-1943 (ourse code: CF02252006NJ Instructor: (athy Finkel 973-335-1943

November Monroe, WI 53566; 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monroe Y, 1307 2nd Street Directions: Down Lederman 608-325-2003 (ourse code: J004292006WI Instructor: Joson Orkowski 608-848-3547

May Cincinnati, OH 45014; 11 :00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy Directions: Mary Lee Tracy 513-860-3082 (ourse code: BM050720060H Instructor: 80bbi Montanari 614-777-9430

June 17

Stroudsburg, PA 18360; 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. International Gymnastics (amp, 9020 Bartonsville WOQds Rd Directions: Bruno Klaus 507-628·0244 (ourse code: PF11232006PA Instructor: Phil Frank 856-786-3974

December

March East Greenwich, RI 02818; 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Aim High Directions: Amy Nelson 401-886-7827 (ourse code: MF03052006RI Instructor: Michael Franco 401-789-8096

Stroudsburg, PA 18360; 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. International Gymnastics (amp, 9020 Bartonsville Woods Rd Directions: Bruno Klaus 507-628-0244 (ourse code: PF06172006PA Instructor: Phil Frank 856-786-3974

North (anton, OH 44720; 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. North (anton YMCA Gymnastics Directions: (aileen Eckel 330·498-4082 (ourse code: BM121520060H Instructor: Bobbi Montanari 614-777-9430

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www.usa-gymnastics.org

SAFETY CERTIFICATION IS REQUIRED FOR PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIp·

PRE·REGISTRATION FORM

(Minimum age for Safety Certifilation is r6 years}

Nome: ________________,Mole or Female: Professional or Instrudor #: _ _ _ _ _ _ Current Safely Exp. Dote: Soc. Sec. # ____________ Birth Oole:_ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address:- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cily:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Slote: _ _ _ __ Telephone: (H) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Zip:

(W) _ _ _ _ _ _ __

E·mail Address: _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Course Code: _______________________ Course City/Stole: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Dote: _ _ _ _ _ __ Form of Payment: Nome on Cord:

o VISA

0 Other _ _ _ __ Payment Amount: _ _ _ __

Pro-Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to r~(erti~ at live course .............:.:....:................ no (harge Pro-Member with Expired or New Safely Certification ............ $ 65.00 Instru(tor Member ................................................................ $ 65.00 Non-Member or Associate Member ........................................ $ 115.00 • You must have your USA Gymnastics number or date applied for on the registration form in order to qualify for the discount.

All registrations must be received at USA Gymnastics two (2) weeks prior to the course dote'. late registrations, in(omplete registrations, or registrations without proper payment will not be processed. late registrations are not guaranteed a book or admission to the (ourse. On-site and late registrations will be (harged a $25 on-site/late fee. All materials, including the course book, are provided at the (ourse and are port of the course fee. Certification is valid for four (4) years. Safety Certification is non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another individual. Safety Certification registration, however, may be transferred to another course within six (6) months with prior wrillen notification. late fee will apply if notification is received after course deadline. 'USA Gymnastics reserves the right to alter course deadline

Mail registration form and payment to: VISA

Number: _ _ _ __ Exp. Dote: _ __

COST:

Signolure: ________ __ _ _ __

USA Gymnastics Member Services P", dSp,",,, Pan Ameri(an Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46225 or Fax to 317-692-5212

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GYMNASTICS