Technique Magazine - March 2009 by USA Gymnastics

EVENTS MARCH 4-9 6-7 6-8 6-9 27-28

Maio International Acro Cup (AG invitation only) Maio, Portugal Gymnix (W) Montreal, CAN Montreal World Cup (W,M) Montreal, CAN Winter Classic (IT) Birmingham, Al USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships (M) Williamsburg, VA

APRIL 3-5 American Classic/ Challenge (W) 8-11 FIG Brevet Judge's Course (1&1) 9-11 USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships (W) 16-18 NCAA Championships (M) 27-May3 Germany International Exchange (W)

Son Diego, Calif. TBD New Hoven, CT Minneapolis, Minn_ Germany

MAY 4-8 8-10 6-10 8-10 8-10 14-16 17 19 29-31

France International Exchange (W) U.S. Elite Challenge (TT) JO Nationals (M) JO level 9 East Championships (W) JO level 9 West Championships (W) JO Nationals (W) JO Notional Invitational Tournament Texas State Championships (AG) JO Compulsory Championships (R)

France FI. Smith, AR Cincinnati, OH Tupelo, MS Bartlesville, OK Auburn, WA Auburn, WA Boerne, TX Virginia Beach, VA

JUNE 12-14 18-23 19-21 23-29 23-28 26-28

Region 3 Championships (AG) Region 8 Congress JO Optional Championships & 11 0 Cup (R) Chicago Cup (international R) JO Championships (TT) International Sport & Cultural Festival (GG,AG) Region 4 Congress

Frisco, TX Jacksonville, FL Chicago, Il Chicago, Il Son Jose, CA Fort Worth, TX Coralville, IA

JULY 2-5 10-12 11 11-17 12-16

Notional Elite Qualifier (W) Acrobatic Gymnasti(s Freedom (up & World (up Notional Qualifier (M) USA Brevet Judges Course (W) Acrobatic Gymnastics Junior Olympic National Championships

Houston, TX SI. Paul, MN Colorado Springs, CO Indianapolis, IN St. Paul, MN

R= Rhythmic W=Women AG =Acrobatic Gymnastics B=Business NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2009

16-22 World Games (TT) (AG) 18-19 Notional Qualifier (R) 24-26 U.s. Classic/Challenge (W) 31 -Aug 2 Region 6 Congress

Taipei Indianapolis, IN TBA Boston, MA

AUGUST 12 12-15 13-15 21-23

Annual Business Conference Visa Championships (M,W,R,TT,AG) Notional Congress and Trade Show Region 1 Congress

Dallas, TX Dallas, TX Dallas, TX Santa Clara, CA

SEPTEMBER 8-12 9-13

1st World Championships Selection Camp (W) Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships 12 Notional Gymnastics Day 18-20 Region 5 Congress 25-27 Final Selection Event (TT) 25-27 Notional TOPs Testing (W) 30-0cl. 4 Final World Championships Selection Camp (W)

Houston, Texas Mie, Japan Everywhere Schaumburg, Il los Vegas, NV Houston, TX Houston, TX

OaOBER 7-12 9-11 9-13 10 12-18 23-25

World Championships Training in Great Britain Region 2 Congress Notional Team Training Camp (AG) British Open Selection Event (AG) World Artistic Gymnastics Championships (M,W) Region 7 Congress

Great Britain Seattle, WA Houston, Texas Houston, Texas london, ENG Virginia Beach, VA

NOVEMBER 7-15 14-22 27-29

Trampoline & Tumbling World Championships World Age-Group Competition (TT) British Open Tournament -Stoke-on·Trent (AG)

2-6 6-10

Notional TOPs Team Camp (W) Notional TOPs BCamp (W)

St.Petersburg, RUS SI. Petersburg, RUS Great Britain

DECEMBER

TR =Trampoline M=Men n =TrampolinelTumbling

GG = Group Gymnastics

Houston, TX Houston, TX

TU =Tumbling

MARCH

2009

•

VOLUME

•

PUBLISHER

Steve Penny EDITOR

FEATURES

Luan Peszek

6 Enrollment Trends Survey

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

1 2 Increasing Professionalism

Grant Glas

16 What We Know For Sure USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

26 Concussions in Gymnastics 32 State Games

Choir: Peler Vidmor Vice·Choir: Poul Porillo Se(relory: Gory Anderson Treosurer: Morris Jim Notional Membership · Women: Tom Koll Notional Membership· Women: Steve Rybo(ki Notional Membership · Men: Yoichi Tomita Notional Membership· Men: Russ Fystrom Notional Membership· Rhythmic Brooke Bushnell·Toohey Notional Membership · Trampoline &Tumbling: George Drew Notional Membership· A(robotic Gymnastics: TBA Advisory Council: Mike Burns Advisory Council: Ron Ferris Advisory Council: Mike Lorenzen Athlete Director · Women: Kim Zmeskol Athlete Dire(tor . Men: John Roethlisberger Athlete Director · Rhythmic Jessico Howard Athlete Director · Trampoline &Tumbling: Karl Heger Athlete Director · A(roboti( Gymonstics: Michael Rodrigues Public Sector: Fronk Marshall Publi( Sector: Bitsy Kelley Publi( Sector: Jim Morris Publi( Sector: Mary Lou ReHon

DEPARTMENTS 2 Event Schedule 4 USA Gymnastics Message

WHAT WE KNOW FOR SURE

22 Business Tips 2S Safety Schedule 28 Tyson Fitness Challenge 34 Member Services 36 Athlete Focus 38 Important Notice

39 Aero Program Updates & Women's Update 42 Regional Congresses 44 Club Corner

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

46 Classifieds

TECHNIQUE is published monthly except bimonthly in Sept/ Oct and Nov/Dec by USA Gymnastics, 132 E. Washington SI., Suite 700, Indianapolis, IN 46204 (phone: 317-237· 5050) or visit online @ www,usa'gymnasti(s,OIg Subscription prices: U.S.-S25 per year; Canada/ Mexico-S48 per year; all other foreign countries-S60 per year. If available, back issue single copies S4 plus postage!handling. All reasonable care will be taken, but no responsibility con be assumed for unsolicited material; enclase return postage. Copyright 2009 by USA Gymnostics and TECHNIQUE. All rights reserved. Printed by Sport Graphics, Indianapolis, IN. Member Services 1-800·345·4719 Unless expressly identified to the contrary, all articles, .tat.ment. and view. printed herein are attributed .01.ly to the author and USA Gymna.tics expresses no opinion and assumes no re.pan.ibility thereof. C 0 V ER PH 0 TO : JOEY HAG ER TY

PH 0 TO BY STEV E LA N G E

www.usa-gymnastics .org MARCH 2009 • TECHNIQUE

USA GYMNASTICS MESSAGE

his year's USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show will take place in Dallas, August 13-15, and where every USA Gymnastics discipline will be featured together at the Visa Championships - men's and women's artistic, rhythmic, acrobatic gymnastics, and trampoline and tumbling. The National Congress and Trade Show will be conducted at the headquarters hotel - the Sheraton Dallas Hotel. Dallas makes perfect sense for this extraordinary event! Dallas is the home of the past two Olympic All-Around Champions, Carly Patterson and Nastia Liukin, both from WOGA. Plus, Texas is a big gymnastics state with the second largest number of USA Gymnastics members. The state boasts quite a few former U.S. champions including Mary Lou Retton, Kim Zmeskal, and Kurt Thomas, just to name a few, as well as being the home of the USA Gymnastics National Team Training Center for women.

X USA

NATIONAL

CONGRt;:SS

During Congress there will be three days of GYMNASTICS &TRAD(; SI-IOW education with more than 170 sessions given 'Gymnastics Excellence Through Education" by recognized leaders in our sport. Of course Dallas' 2009 the Trade Show will be a highlight and feature 200 booths of products and services from more than 90 Industry Members. Special events include the pre and post Congress education courses, Business Conference, USGSA Mega Raffle, Dance Party, and the annual Hall of Fame luncheon . There is much to see and do in Dallas along with watching the nation's top gymnasts. You can visit the Dallas Museum of Art, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, or swing by Pioneer Plaza, located outside the convention center, to see the largest bronze monument in the world. You can check out the Sixth Floor Museum and revisit the life, times, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy, or stop by the set of "Dallas," which is possibly one of TV's most popular shows. The Southfork Ranch is a 300-acre ranch and now a popular tourist stop! Make your plans now. I look forward to seeing you in Dallas at the Visa Championships and USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show! Read more details on the upcoming events in this issue and watch for a registration form in the April issue of Technique.

See you in the Gym ,

Steve Penny President/ CEO

TECHNIQUE' MARCH 2009

THIS SEASON, DRESS LIKE

ACHAMPION.

Introducing the Gold Medal Collection by N astia Liukin, the world's top gymnast. This stunning collection will be one of the season's hottest!

Available from your local GK dealer or online:

www.GK-EliteSportswear.comlnl.html Toll Free Phone: 1.800.345.4087 • Toll Free Fax: 1.888.866.9884

DRESS LIKE

ACHAMPION.

PLEASE REFRAIN FROM CALLING IT GROOVY.

The new adidas® Shawn Johnson Collection: what serious gymnasts will wear this season.

Available from your local GK dealer or online:

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CHI

CTIVITY CE TER D STRY ENROLLMENT

TRENDS SURVEY Opening Comments and D isclai m e r

OBJECTIVES - Our objectives in

conducting this Survey, and all future surveys, are simple. • To help eliminate some of the "g uesswork " in the industry with respect to critical trends . • To increase the level and depth of professionalism within the industry. • To ultimately increase the value of businesses for owners . GRATITUDE - I'd like to thank all who participated in

this Survey. Without your active participation, no useful information could have been gathered! Please accept our sincere appreciation for your time and thoughts. SUPPORT - I'd like to personally thank USA Gymnastics, and specifically Kathy Feldmann and Loree Galimore, for their assistance and ongoing support of these valuable surveys. We also owe thanks to Sue Mackie of the U.S. Swim School Association , and Ashley Rohrbaugh of Studio Pro for Dance School Owners. INDUSTRY SEGMENTATION - Note that although the

200 business owners who responded were primarily Gymnastics based centers, a growing percentage defined themselve s as Children's Activity Centers (with varying degrees of Sports Instruc t ion, Entertainm ent and Education programs). We will have a growing

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2009

percentage of Swim , Dance, Martial Arts and Cheerleading businesses in the future . REPORT FORMAT - The overall Survey report is available to all respondents . CONTINUATION - 3rd Level Consulting will compose, compile, analyze and distribute this type of Survey on a bi-annual basis . A Major Survey (SO questions) will be conducted every year in mid-January, with a Minor Survey (25 question s, focusing on a specific topic) at the mid -year mark. We can then, as an industry, use the information to anticipate and plan for our collective future in a much more professional manner. ANALYSIS - The user can draw significant trend conclusions "by the numbers." During each 6 month interval between Surveys, more detailed analysis of the results will be conducted to determine the t re nds "beyond the numbers ." Some of these findings will be shared through newsletters, webinars, conferences, etc. DISCLAIMER - The data contained in this, and all future Surveys, is compiled sole ly from the input by the respondents. No auditing or other verification was conducted on the raw data. Users of the data agree to hold 3rd Level, Inc., its Officers, Agents and other representatives free of any liability whatsoever. For more information on 3rd Level ConSUlting, please visit www.3rd LeveI Cons ulting .com

Where are yo u located?

United States

International

Response

Percent

Count

97.0%

194

3 .0%

answered question

200

skipped question

Response

Percent

Count

If United States, what Region of the country are you in?

Northwest

15.0 %

Southwest

21 .2%

30.6%

Northeast

15.5%

Southeast

17.6%

answered question

193

skipped question

Midwest

*'=44

MARCH 2009 • TECHHIQUE

SPECIFIC PROGRAMS - If you have multi ple programs, and if possible, can you give the general trends for each Program? Up 10% or more

Gymnastics

36.5% (57)

Swim mi ng

27.5% (11)

Dance

10.2%(6}

Ch eerleading

25.9% (21)

Down 10%

Rating

Response

or more

Average

Count

Up5%

Even

Down 5%

23 .7%

12.8%

14.1%

12.8%

(37)

(20)

(22)

(20)

20.0% (8)

22 .5% (9)

17.5% (7)

12.5% (5}

27.1 % (16)

15.3% (9)

25.4% (15)

11.1 % (9)

29.6%(24)

22 .0% (13)

14.8%

18.5%

(12)

(15)

3.57

156

3.33

2.86

3.11

Martial Arts

27.3% (9)

21 .2% (7)

36.4% (1 2)

9.1% (3)

6.1% (2)

3.55

Music

0.0% (0)

O.O% (O}

100.0%(2)

0.0% (0)

3.00

Education & Child Care

31.6% (12)

21.1% (8)

13.2% (5}

5.3% (2}

3.68

Entertainment

18.8% (6)

28.1 % (9)

21.9% (7)

12.5% (4)

3.09

Mobile Program

22.2% (4)

16.7% (3)

44.4%(8)

11.1% (2)

5.6% (1)

3 .39

Other

38.5% (5)

23.1% (3)

15.4% (2)

7.7% (1}

15.4% (2)

3.62

28.9% (11 )

CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2009

Response

Percent

Count

National EconomIc Trends

52.9%

Increased Phone Book Ads

Regional Economic Trends

38.5%

Increased Newspnnt Ads

Local Economic Trends

54.8%

Increased Radio Ads

Consumer Confidence shaken

30.8~~

c:=::=J

15.4%

6.7%

Puce Resistance

28.5% 7.0%

Increased TelevisIon Ads

4.5%

Increased GoogleNahoo

c::J

11 .5%

More live Demonstrations or 26.0':.

Competition Staffing Quality

c=J

8.7~t.

3.8%.

c.::==J

1 3 . 5~:'

30. 5~

Exhibitions Increased CommunIty Project

42.0%

Involvement Slaffing Availability Slalling Consistency lack of cohesive Business Systems Other (please specify)

Chamber 01 Commerce 14

27.5~t.

Membership

4.8'::'

Civic Group Membership

c:=::=J

15.4~:'

Other (please specify)

UPWARD ENROLLMENT TRENDS - II your Enrollment Trend Is EVEN or UP, why do you think It Is so? Please check all ihat

11.5%

Campaigns Location of my business

I=:J

7.0·,. 27.0%

VDUR BUSINESS CONFIDENCE MOVING FORWARD - Whalareyou prOjecting, In terms of Enrollmenl, forthe next 6 to 9

apply.

months? Response

Response

Percent

Count

Response Perc ent

National Economic Trends

2 .7~t.

Up 16~o or more

c:::J

10.0%

Regional Economic T rends

2.0%

Up l l % 10 1 5':~

C=:J

9.0%

c=::3

15.0%

Up 6%10 10'lt.

c:::::=J

19.0%

53.7%

Upl % t05%

18.4%

Even

c:::=J

23.0%

43.5%

Down 1% 10 5~ .

8.0%

9.5%

Down 6% to 10%

3.0%

Quality of Staff

68.7%

101

Down 11 % 1015%

0.5':t.

Cohesive Business Syslems

26.5%

Down 16% or more

1.5%

local Economic T lends Service Value Perception Pricing Advantage

c=::=J

localion of my business l ack 01 Competition

c=J

26.0%

What are you doing in terms of INTERNAL Marketing to keep enrollment as high as possible? Please check all that apply.

Train and compete on the equipment trusted by the Best Gymnasts in the World.

• women 's apparatus

• training accessories

• men's apparatus

• motor development

• competition and folding mats

~ ~

USA GYMNASTICS OFFICIAL SUPPLIER AND PARTNER

OFFICIAL EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER TO NCAA GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIPS

APPROVED SUPPLIER AND PARTNER

»> By now, most people are no longer maintaining their New Year's Resolutions. But Increasing Your Professionalism IS something to work towards all year long. Here are a few tips to keep you going. By Carisa Laughon, USA Gymnastics Director of Educational Services

oaches, instructors, club owners, administrators, judges, and others are all considered "gymnastics professionals ." The definition of a professional is, "characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession and/or exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace" (Merriam-Webster) . Being a true professional encompasses many areas and requires continued maintenance. Here are suggestions to help you with this New Year's Resolution .

FOR THE INDIVIDUAL • Ethics: includes everything from respecting others, playing fair, exhibiting confidentiality and resolving conflicts, to using your authority appropriately and showing concern for the success of your athletes and others. (see the USA Gymnastics Code of Ethics)

• Proper attire and personal grooming: For class and practice sessions - wear a neat, clean staff shirt, athletic pants or shorts (professional length), athletic shoes, long hair pulled up, minimal or no jewelry. For competition - wear staff shirt and warm-up suit. For sanctioned competitions, coach and judge attire is defined in the Rules & Policies .

judge and continually educate themselves to maintain and enhance their expertise.

• Communication (both written and verball: maintain positive communication with athletes, parents, co-workers, and supervisors .

• Punctuality: arrive at work before your scheduled start time so that you can be prepared to begin on time .

• Know your students: remember their names, understand their ski ll level and how best they learn .

FOR CLUBS • Clean your facility: clean the gym and keep it cleaner throughout the year. A clean facility presents a better appearance for clients as well as helps avoid injuries and illnesses. Don't forget to maintain the outside of your facility, especially parking lots and sidewalks.

• Maintain a safe facility: regularly check apparatus' and equipment for wear and tear, needed maintenance, and replacement.

• Plan activities:

• Conduct staff meetings:

lesson and practice plans can help you run organized and effective classes and / or practices .

host regularly schedu led staff meeting to address safety, cleanliness, emergency plans, class and practice lesson plans, schedules, and more. 1(

• Continuing education: professionals attain basic and advanced certifications to develop their competency as a coach, instructor, or

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 2009

As a coach, you know the responsibility placed on you to get the most out of every athlete. That's why you need a partner who takes the job as seriously as you do. As a trusted sports equipment manufacturer, SA Sport continues to manufacture high quality gymnastics and cheerleading equipment that enhances and compl iments athletic development at all levels. And, we've been doing it for 37 years. Our commitment to product performance, continuous improvement and innovation lets coaches and athletes focus on reaching their personal best.

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Head Over Heels for K'2 I I I

Gymnast Cassie Whitcomb balances school and athletics beautifully.

--------------------------------------------------------'

Fifteen-year-old Cassie Whitcomb dashes over the mat and leaps high into the air. Twisting her body to arc backwards, she somersaults head over heels, not once, not twice, but three times, finally landing on her feet with perfect poise and a sweet smile.

What's more, each K12 high school course is taught by an experienced teacher who is qualified in his or her particular subject area. Cassie and her fellow students attend online classes, participate in teacher-led discussions, and can always contact their teachers with questions or for extra help.

Just watching Cassie can take your breath away. So can listening to this young teen describe her daily routine. Up at 5:30 am, Casssie's days don't end until around 9 pm, the hours almost evenly divided between gymnastics and school. You won't hear Cassie complain though; she loves both.

In fact, KI 2'S teachers are one of the best parts of the program as far as Cassie is concerned. "I love my K12 teachers:' she says.

"My Spanish teacher lives nearby and we had a Spanish class outing at a restaurant:' No doubt this is part of the reason why Spanish is Cassie's favorite subject next to science.

A perfect lOon-and off-the mat

Traveling the world and discovering the sea

A rising high school sophomore who attends school online using the award-winning K12 curriculum, Cassie appreciates both the quality of the lessons and the flexibility that learning online with K12 allows her. A dedicated athlete, Cassie is ranked third in the Junior Division of the International Ladies Gymnastics, and is preparing to tryout for the 2012 Olympics. In addition to practicing 36-40 hours every week, Cassie also travels from her home in Ohio to Texas five days a month for extra training. Every two months, this talented 15 year old attends international competitions in far flung countries such as Belgium and EI Salvador.

In addition to allowing Cassie the freedom to develop her athletic talent, online learning with K1 2allows Cassie to pursue a lifestyle that broadens her horizons. Being able to take school with her when traveling has expanded Cassie's world to include interesting new people, places, and cultures. It's even introduced her to the ocean.

K12-Scheduling flexibility plus educational quality When Cassie was ready to start high school, her parents realized that, with this kind of schedule, traditional schooling would be virtually impossible. So they enrolled her in the Ohio Virtual Academy, an online, tuition-free public school that uses the exceptional, engaging K1 2curriculum and learning program.

Trips to Florida and the West Coast have ignited a passion for the sea in this native of landlocked Ohio-a passion she'd like to pursue as a career. An excellent student, Cassie is hoping to get a college scholarship to study marine biology or oceanography. In the meantime, she continues to leap, fly, flip-and get ready for the 2012 Olympics.

To learn more about the K 12 curriculum and learning programs, visit K12.com/gymnastics or call 866.968.7512. ,,

K1 2 is the nation's leading online learning provider for the K12 market. The K12 curriculum is available tuition-free to fulltime students in grades K-12 via online public schools in 17 states and the District of Columbia. Elsewhere, it is available both full- and part-time through the private K12 International Academy, or by direct purchase of individual or bundled courses.

........... ", ,

I I

I 10

___

,, \

\ \ \

Now, Cassie takes her schoolwork on the road w ith her. Like all students who use the K1 2curriculum, she can attend class at home, at the gym, in a hotel room-anywhere an Internet connection can be found . "Learning online with K12 is

organized; it's easy to find the things I need to study and to contact my teachers for help:' says Cassie.

I \

"I love my K12 teachers:'

, \

As a high school student using the K1 2curriculum, Cassie has a choice among more than 90 high school courses-from up to four levels of core courses, including Honors and Advanced Placement"', to exciting electives in such fields as journalism and Web design.

, ,,

Cassie Whitcomb

,, I

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IIWHAT WE KNOW FOR SURE" PART 2 STAND ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS AND LEARN, LEARN, LEARN .

YOUR BUSINESS MODEL MUST BE WEll-THOUGHT OUT, SUSTAINABLE, AND ABLE TO INSPIRE PASSION EVERY DAY

UNDERSTANDING THAT BUSINESSES HAVE PREDICTABLE STAGES THAT THEY GO THROUGH.

LEAD WITH YOUR STRENGTHS, UNDERSTAND YOUR WEAKNESSES, AND HIRE PEOPLE TO SORT OUT THOSE WEAKNESSES.

By Patti Komara, Tumblebear Connection in Dyer, IN

n the back page of Oprah magazine "0'; she has a monthly column entitled, "What I Know For Sure." I got to thinking ... wouldn't it be great to ask the top gym owners in the industry what five things they know for sure about owning a successful gymnastics school. Read, absorb, enjoy, get inspired, and go out and do it yourself. Make 2009 your best year yet!

Note: We are planning to publish this article in sections. The following individuals will share their secrets on "What we know for sure" in upcoming issues of Technique . The club owners include: Steve Greeley, Dave Holcomb, Lynn Ledford, Anne Josephson, Jeff Metzger, Frank Sahlein, Laura Mikszan, Diane Barron, David Klein, Randy Sikora, Jeff Lulla and Patti Komara . Here is the second section!

What I Know For Sure by Anne Josephson Culver City, CA 1. Stand on the shoulders of giants and learn, learn, learn. Before I even opened Josephson Academy of Gymnastics, I attended Congress and

16 TECHNIQUE. MARCH 2009

Brain Trust . Within two years of being open I went to Boot Camp and owned nearly every Patti Komara tape and book. These things were huge investments of time and money when I had very little of either, but I believe they were as essential as finding a building and buying equipment. Why? Because the se are the experts in the field, the very best, so I wanted to know what they know. Also, read as much as you can about gymnastics, business, child development and parenting (the four cornerstones of what our business is all about). Talk to other gym owners, look at websites of every gym you can and never stop learning. In fact, the following four items are things I learned from other experts, but here is what is working for me!

2. Hire great people, pay them more than you think anyone else in your area does, treat them well and, for those key people, give them bonuses tied to the performance of the gym. In return, demand only their best work, and hire and fire with discipline. Don't be stingy with paid training and continuing education-tho se are investments that are essential to the success of your gym . I firmly believe that I am training my future competition, and I am okay with that. I also believe that if I am not greedy with my success (I share the success of the gym with them) they will be happy at JAG .

---

;

I 3. Always think about the future--the big picture . Planning is key. Summer programming happens in January, by spring we have most of fall hammered out . It doesn't mean that I won 't tweak what is going on in the present or take advantage of an opportunity that arises, but mostly I spend my time thinking about the future, and plotting how I am going to get there . Looking at trends (enrollment, financial, school vacations, and dism issal schedules, etc.) helps me understand where we might need to expand or contract based on our popula t ion moving fo rward . It also shows me where to place ou r marketing energies. Setting enrollment and financial goals are essential. These types of things ensure that I am running the business, not the other way around. 4. Lead with your strengths, understand your weaknesses, and hire people to sort out those weaknesses. I am great with parents and kids, and I have a great marketing sense and vision for the gym. So, the vast majority of my work time is spent on vision, marketing and talking with my clients . On the other hand, I am rotten with reconciling my books, and I have no idea how to teach a Tsuk. For that I pay a bookkeeper, an accountant and a team coach . But, I have forced myself to understand (well , kind of anyway!) my accounting well enough that I can understand what is happening with my business and can make intelligent choices based on my numbers; and, I certainly know that a Tsuk is a vault, for level 8 or highe r. In short, don't try to do the jobs for your gym that you are lousy doing (hire an expert to do them). but also don't abdicate total responsib ility for key functions of you r business to someone else--you still have to know what is going on . 5. Have a strong sense of your mission, values and purpose and be very clear to your customers, employees, and athletes what those things are. Also, create a brand for your gym and make your gym a community. We are a gym that uses "Character Counts! " as the cornerstone of our values . From the moment y ou walk into our gym, it is very clear what we stand for by the signage and by the way we speak to one another. We have a five foot poster in our customer service area called "The Gold Medal Pledge" that outlines very clearly how we will conduct business, how we will t reat our families and athletes and how we ex pect t o be treated. We conduct on-going training with our staff about our mission, values, and purpose . We talk to our athletes and parents about what we ex pect from them as members of the JAG community. With respect to ou r brand : we are the Neiman-Marcus of gyms. The pl ace is clean, clean , cl ean. The equipment is new. We have f ree, valet pa rking . We hire only gymnastics and teaching profess ionals (no young teens teaching here) who are well-groomed and great with kids . Everyone is exceedingly customer service centered . We give away T-shirts, bags, medals, trophies and send cards for birthdays and balloons for illne sses and injuries.

We have free internet and cafe tables with comfy ch airs (no bleachers here!). As a result, we are not cheap --but neither is anything we do! That is the brand that works for us, though it is not the right brand for every market. But having a brand is essential. Finally, we create a sense of community through our interactions with our clients --we know their names, the name of their dogs, where they go to school , where they live, what they like to do, when grandma is visiting, etc. We take a sincere and active interest in them and their lives. Remember : Anyone can quit a gym, but it is much harder to quit a community! What I Know For Sure by Frank Sahlein Boise, Idaho

If we can only lis t the top 5 Success Factors, here is what I believe after 20 years of consulting with clients in our industry! 1. Strategic Architecture- Your business model must be well-thought out, sustainable, and able to inspire passion every day. You must know how you are going to make money, preferably quite a bit of it! If not, eventually you will find your business in trouble. 2. Stages - Understanding that businesses have predictable stages that they go through. A solution to a particular issue depends on wh ich stage the business is at . Along with the business, both owners and program managers have stages that they go through in thei r professional career. Recognizing these stages in people, in advance, is a key to smooth professional deve lopment planning . 3. Systems - Having an overall management system to operate from, so that none of the details fall through the cracks. This means realizing that you need a netwo r k of systems, which all work together like a symphony. Thi s is the only way to develop a turn -key business in which the owner is the maste r strategist and creates much more value in th e business every day. Fourth is Staff Communications- People either drive businesses forward , or they do not . Therefore, your people must have a crystal clear understanding that they must grasp the entire pictu re of their position, that they are truly working for thems elves, and that they have a vested interest in giving 100% every day. 5. A simple way to Measure Results- Accountability and Personal Productivity must be measured each and every month. Mo st sm all busine sse s fall down at thi s point. You must have both qualitative and quantitative tools to help you r people imp rove on a consistent basis. This can be done in a very objective, honest, and friendly manner if set up correctly.

MARCH 2009 • TECHNIQUE

opportunity to be in the business of touching so many lives."

What I Know For Sure by Laura Mikszan Atlanta, GA 1. Always follow your personal! professional vision. These are one in the same . Every decision should be based on your original vision, philosophy and values for your company .. . and life. Stay consistent even when you are tempted by the requests of customers, staff, or what the competition is doing. Belive in your Vision and Mission! 2. Hire, train and develop staff to take proprietorship and carry the mission. Empower your key people. Give them the tools. Let go and watch them grow. Include your staff in decisions and strategic planning. "People participate in a world they help create." 3. Develop and implement efficient systems. Provide a GPS system for your staff to utilize to reach the goals you have created together. 4. Numbers and trends are vital. Constantly monitor, analyze, and react quickly when necessary. Keep your finger on the pulse of your business at all times!

1. Have an effective hiring, training, and evaluation system to ensure quality staff. Expect the best . 2. You will never be successful enough to eliminate problems, but you can change how they will affect you and how quickly you move through them. 3. First impressions are key. Clean facility and friendly knowledgeable office staff will get clients in the front door. A fun qualified teaching staff will keep them there. 4. If all your procedures and policies reflect your mission and values, you will be able to follow and enforce them with confidence . 5. Provide excellent special activities for additional staff hours and income.

5. Trust your gut ..• initial instinct. Due diligence is essential. However, often people drag their feet and lose the prize . Go for it when it feels right! Just as important--make the tough decisions when necessary. Do not procrastinate no matter how difficult. Cut nonprofitable programs and fire the problem staff member. Make sure you reward the great staff members and customers simultaneou sly. "Always surround yourself with great mentors and friends. Remember that we are blessed to have the

What I Know For Sure by Diane Barron St. Louis, MO

6. What I really know for sure is that there are a million things we must know to have a successful business. That is what makes it so interesting and challenging . I believe I have the best job in the world and I'm thankful for the opportunity. X

STAY TUNED for Section 3 of this article that will be published in APRIL 2009 Technique.

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Pricing and Disciplined Thinking When I receive a letter like the one below, it hits me hard as it probably does you. Please read it and refer to my numbered notes below. Dear Mr. Metzger, My children have attended various classes at Kids First for the last five years. I am a true fan of your facility and have referred countless people to your programs. My youngest daughter, Suzie , is in the Tumble Bees program and loves her classes and her amazing teacher. Due to our summer schedule and the fact my son was having surgery, we opted not to enroll her during the summer but have been eagerly awaiting the start of Term I. Mr. Metzger, our anticipation was dampened by reality when we received Kids First's class schedule the other day (1) I completely understand you are running a business, and a very successful, well respected one at that.

However, I am a stay-at-home mom of three incredible children (2) and the ever increasing cost (3) of your classes is becoming prohibitive for us (4) I would also venture to guess we are not the only Kids First family who has found themselves in this same predicament and, therefore, have had to switch our older two children to more affordable sports programs. I am hoping this will not have to be the case for my Suzie. Kids First is unquestionably a top-notch facility, but I urge you to try to provide more affordable classes or, at the very lea st , to stop the ongoing tuition increases (5). This is especially true for the preschool classes , which most parent s just have their kids in for fun (6). From a more practical, business standpoint, lower prices could also stimulate higher growth and, in the long run, greater revenue and a winwin situation for all (7). Thank

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

you for your consideration of this important issue and kudos to you and the entire Kids First family for the wonderful job you do with the children. It truly is appreciated. Sincerely, K

Maintaining clear thinking about such letters is not easy, but you must! 1. The class schedule K received

reflected a 3-4% adjustment, no different than previous years , in fact, le ss than the year before. It appears however that this was enough to hit K's price threshold and she ha s let me know with this letter. Here , I mu st exercise disciplined thinking , remembering , K's PRICE THRESHOLD IS NOT EVERYBODY'S; some will be higher and some lower. Thinking logically, even if Kids First charged half of what it does, some families would still be priced out of the market. The fact that I received this letter

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from a very nice, reasonable person named K may cause me to feel badly, maybe even a little misplaced guilt. More discipline. I cannot allow my misplaced emotions lead me into faulty reasoning and jeopardize our company's financial vitality. 2. A commendable , personal decision, but not the norm, and therefore not pertinent to our pricing decisions. 3. The USA's monetary system allows the Federal Reserve Bank to make up the shortfall of government spending by creating new dollars, which ultimately drops the value of the dollar and essentially means it takes more dollars to buy everything, including gymnastics classes. If Kids First did not adjust its prices in harmony with dollar creation, then its profits would dry up and ultimately it would be unable to pay its mortgage, the electric company and its employees. 4. Repeating, the fact that Kids First pricing has become prohibitive for one family cannot be allowed to cloud my thinking. Kids First has priced its product so that the MAJORITY of people in the greater Cincinnati area cannot afford to purchase classes. Does that mean Kids First is priced too high? Of course not. I would wager that 75% of the people in the USA cannot afford a Lexus but that does not mean Lexus is priced poorly. 5. A nice thought but again, we would go out of business if we chose that path. 6. According to our experience, people will often pay more for their preschooler. 7. Nice thought and according to the law of supply and demand, K's logic is correct. However, through her lack of knowledge, K fails to consider the reality that Kids First's expenses rise proportionately with every additional eight students. Teaching 800 students costs exactly 10 times as much as teaching 80 students. (Note: in some industries, selling greater quantities does fatten margins; as Sony makes more TVs, the incremental cost of each TV goes down due to quantity discounts on raw materials as well as other economies of scale.) The dilemma is obvious, and until recently our only choices were to lower prices or lose K's business. Now, I am happy to report, we have a third option, the (updated) KF Scholarship Program, the subject of my next article. Make it a great month! Jeff Metzger X

MARCH 2009 • TECHNIQUE

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45TH ANNUAL

"Q;;'# USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL ,

CONGRESS AND TRADE SHOW Held in conjunction with 2009 Visa Championships August 13-15, 2009, Dallas, Texas

Who should attend?

PRE-CONGRESS EVENTS

All USA Gymnastics Professiona l, Instructor, and Introductory Coach members. Coaches, judges and instructors of all levels. Recreational and preschool teachers, business ma nagers, administrato rs, cl ub owners, high school a nd college coaches.

Wednesday-August 12:

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

Congress Dates: August 13-15,2009 Where: Sheraton Dallas Hotel (Dallas, Texas) Sessions begin at 8:30 a.m. Five sessions offered per day.

Hotel: Sheraton Dallas Hotel (Dallas, Texas)

HotellTravel Reservations: National Travel Systems

888-603-8747 Email : sportsinfo@nati o naltravelsystems.com

Website: www.ntssportstravel.com

TECHNIQUE· MARCH 200 9

Safety/ Risk Management certification course, Preschool Fundamental Hands on Training (H.O.T. 1 course, Business Conference. T & T State Chair/ Regional Chair. Workshop. National Congress Registration opens a t12:30 p.m . More events to be added.

Friday-August 14: 2009 Hall of Fame Luncheon and Awards Ceremony

Post-Congress Events August 16: Safety/ Risk Management certification course, Preschool Fundamentals Part 2 : Hands on Training (H .O.T. 1 course, Women 's State and Regional Chair Workshop, Women 's judge's exams.

Visa Championships: August 12 - 1 S, 2009 Men's and Women 's Artistic events at American Airlines Arena. Rhythmic, Acroba tics and Trampoline & Tumbling at the Dallas Convention Cen ter. Visa C hampionships Tickets: Special rate available for all-session tickets for Congress attendees. Registration fo rm : Please visit www.usogymnosticsnotionolcongress.org for more information or refer to the registration form available in upcoming issues of Technique magazine.

Special discounted group registration for Member Clubs. Special Early Bird Pricing available through May 15th.

USA GYMNASTICS UNIVERSITY

LIVE COURSE SCHEDULES Live course schedules are updated weekly on our website

wwwousa-gymnasticsoorgo please see the website for the most current schedule.

Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (HOT) April 11 Universal Gymnasts 2881 Scioto-Darby Executive Circle Hilliard, OH 43026 Course code: BM022820090H 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

August 16 Sheraton Dallas Hotel* 400 N. Olive St. Dallas, TX 75201 Course code: XX08162009TX Time to be determined

June 13 Tulsa Wond of Gymnastics 7020 E. 38th St. Tulsa, OK 74145 Course code: BM061320090K 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

September 17 Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel &Convention Center 1551 Thoreau Or. North Schaumburg, IL 60173 Course code: BM091720091L 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

August 12 Sheraton Dallas Hotel* 400 N. Olive St. Dallas, TX 75201 Course code: XX08122009TX Time to be determined

June 14 Tulsa Wond of Gymnastics 7020 E. 38th St. Tulsa, OK 74145 Course code: BG061420090K 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. August 12 Sheraton Dallas Hotel* 400 N. Olive St. Dallas, TX 75201 Course code: XX08122009TX TIme to be determined August 16 Sheraton Dallas Hotel* 400 N. Olive St. Dallas, TX 75201 Course code: XX08162009TX TIme to be determined

*Course dates and times are subjed to change and/or cancellation. *Held in conjundion with USA Gymnastics 2009 National Congress and Trade Show

To register for a course, visit the USA Gymnastics website at www.usa-gymnastics.org. Register online or download the registration forms. **Save $5 by registering online!** Pre-registration is IMPORTANT to ensure your spot in the course. The registration deadline for mailed/faxed forms is two weeks prior to the course. Online registration must be completed at least one week prior. Late and onsite registration may be available and will incur an additional $25 fee.

If you are interested in hosting a course at your gym, contact education@usa-gymnastics.org for more information . MARCH 1009 0 TECHNIQUE

CONCUSSIONS IN

GYMNASTICS By Vincent Nittoli, MS, LAT, ATC

~ St.villceJlt

~ Sports Performance Center

he word concussion probably brings to mind visions of high impact collisions in sports such as football or ice hockey. While it 's true the majority of concussions occur in these sports, gymnastics claims its fair share of this sometimes detrimental and potentially life-threatening injury. Though not the most common injury among gymnasts, it is one of the most dangerous. Also, the numbers may be deceiving, since many concussions are not taken seriously and never reported . Since concussions do occur in gymnastics, everyone involved with the sport should understand what a concussion is, how to recognize one, and how it should be managed to prevent long term dysfunction or even death . A common myth still perpetuated in athletic circles is that a concussion is equated with being " knocked out ." In actuality, the vast majority of concussions involve no loss of consciou sness. A concussion can best be described as a head injury with a temporary disruption of brain function, which can display a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments. Often times these impairments are subtle and it takes a trained health care provider to determine a concussion has even occurred . In the unfortunate event that an athlete does have loss of consciousness, the emergency

medical sys tem sho uld be activated (i.e. ca ll 911) immediately. Onc e a concussion is sustained, the most important thing to avoid is receiving another concussion while still recovering from the first. This can lea d to second-impact syndrome -a rare but devastating condition in which arteries swell and pressure builds in the brain, and may lead to coma or death . In 2008, there were two reported cases resulting in the death of the athletes. Both occurred in high school football players who returned to playing status in just days or weeks after suffering concussions. In one of the cases, it was determined that the athlete told a teammate he was still feeling headaches after he was cleared by his doctors to return to play. Sadly, these are just two examples of numerous cases that have been documented over the years. Decreasing the risk of such tragic consequences starts with the timely recognition that a concussion has occurred . It 's important to realize concussions are not always caused by obvious reasons. Not only are they caused by a direct impact, such as a gymnast hitting her head on the balance beam , but they are also caused by indirect forces, such as a Continu ed on pg. 30

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TYSON FITNESS CHALLENGE & NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY

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USA GYMNASTICS HAS PARTNERED WITH TYSON FOODS for the fourth year to create the Tyson Fitness Challenge, a tailor-made fitness program that provides the fundamentals for a healthy lifestyle. The Tyson Fitness Challenge helps today's kids get more physically fit through fun activities and raises money to assist kids who are fighting illness at Children's Miracle Network hospitals around the cou ntry. Has your club signed up to host the Tyson Fitness Challenge on National Gymnastics Day? Is your gym raising money for your local Children's Miracle Network hospital? Your club can hold the Tyso n Fitness Challenge any time between now and National Gymnastics Day, which is Sept. 12, 2009. If you're a club owner, go to the link below to get more information about hosting the Tyson Fitness Challenge at your gym! www.tysonfitnesschallenge.com The Tyson Fitness Challenge Web site has resources that are only available to registered clubs that have received the password. Sign up at www.tysonfitnesschallenge.com and receive the

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USA GYMNASTICS

FITNESS CHALLENGE

password to log-on to the administrator's Web site. As soo n as you sig n up online, you can access the program materials to give you a head start in planning for your upcoming classes. The Web site features the information included in the Administrator's Handbook, along with a numb er of other resources to help you with the Tyson Fitness Challenge. Resources include: a sample press release for your event, talking points, and sa mple letters to send to local physicians and school administrators. Shown below is a sample proclamation. We're asking club owners in each state to get a signed proclamation for National Gymnastics Day. Under state law, USA Gymnastics is not permitted to apply fo r these proclamations, so it's up to you to download the template from our Web site and se nd it to your governor. Once the proclamation has been signed and returned to you, please scan it and send it to USA Gymnastics. It wi ll be posted on our Web site for other gyms in your state to use. Please send all signed proclamations to Loree Galimore at 19a1i@usa-gymnastics.org or mail to: USA Gymnastics 132 E. Washington St. suite 700 Indianapolis, IN 46204 Download the proclamation at www.usa-gymnastics.org

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Join Mary Lou Retton in

just lend my name to an o rganization's "letterhead" or send in an auction item. I

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childrensmiraclenetwork.org!

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MARCH 2009 • TECHNIQUE

CONCUSSIONS IN GYMNASTICS Continued from pg. 26 gymnast landing hard enough on her feet resulting in a shaking or movement of her brain inside her skull. Countless signs and symptoms are possible in individuals who have suffered a concussion. Some of the most common are headache, dizziness, nausea , vomiting, fatigue, sensitivity to light or noise, difficulty balancing, feeling "dazed," ringing in the ears, cognitive difficulties, memory problems, and vision disturbances. Any of these may be evident immediately, or in some instances, be delayed for hours or even days. It's also possible for athletes to have just one or two at first and then progressively attain more, perhaps with increasing severity. Therefore, it is very important that with any head injury, no matter how minor it may seem, the athlete is repeatedly questioned to avoid overlooking a significant injury. Many of these symptoms depend on a truthful response, and unfortunately, athletes are not always honest when answering questions about how they feel, especially if they think it may result in being held from competition or practice. It is not sufficient to ask an athlete, "are you OK?" and then leave it at that . In addition to specifically asking about common symptoms, some simple tests can be used to more objectively assess the situation. For example, instead of asking the

athlete, "are your eyes blurry?" you could have the athlete read numbers or words off a driver 's license or some other item . To test cognitive abilities, have the athlete say the months of the year in reverse order. Memory can be challenged by giving the athlete a few simple words to be recalled after 5 to 10 minutes, in addition to remembering such things as the current year or his/ her own name. The presence of any of these signs or symptoms is enough to suspect a concussion and the athlete should immediately be seen by a certified athletic trainer or physician . Do not hesitate to call 911 if symptoms are quickly getting worse. "If the athlete does see a physician, they should be evaluated by a sports medicine physician who is knowledgeable in the diagnosis and management of sports related concussions'; says Dr. Joel Kary, a physician with St . Vincent Sports Medicine in Indianapoli s and team physician to Butler University, Indiana Invaders Track Club, and Lawrence North High School. "The unique demands of athletic competition and potential for further injury require a thorough clinical exam and possibly the ordering of appropriate te sts. CT or MRI scans of the brain are rarely needed in the evaluation of concussions, but may be necessary if there is any concern for physical damage to the brain ."

Once the diagnosi s of concussion is made by a qualified health care provider, it is imperative that person has the final say as to when the athlete can return to practice or competition . Due to the serious nature of wh at 's at stake, it ca n be a difficult deci sion to make for all involved . Sin ce the current recommendati o n is that the athlete be free of all signs and symptoms, both before and after physical exertion , careful evaluation procedure s and continued communication must take place . "Management of a concussion is a team approach and requires excellent communication between the physician , athletic trainer, athlete, coach , and parents in order to attain the best outcome, " adds Dr. Kary. To help in this regard, computer programs that test brain function have been developed and are quickly becoming the standa rd of care. Certifi ed athletic trainers and physicians may use thes e program s to greatly enhance their ability to objectively measure reaction time, memory, and other cognitive proce sse s. Ideally, th e athlete will have ba seline data from these tests on record and post-concussion data can then be compared. In most cases the t ests will show significant changes for the wor se initially, but athletes generally return to their ba se line or better within a couple weeks . Speak with a sports medicine physician or certified athletic

trainer about getting a computer-based protocol (such as ImPACPM) implement ed in your facility. "The addition of computerized testing in managing concus sions ha s significantly improved our ability to return athletes to their sport in a safe and timely manner. Determining whether an athlete ha s returned to their "ba seline" on computerized t esting ha s proven to be a very useful tool in the management of concussions," adds Dr. Kary. In som e in stances a condition called post concu ssion syndrom e may develop and cause a long er recovery time. This is basically when athletes experience prolonged symptoms for weeks, month s, and occasionally years . Referrals to a neurologist and / or ne uro-psychologist may be necessary for further testing and treatm ent. "I really feel the incidence of po st concus sion syndrome can be decreased by promptly reporting any sign s or symptom s of concu ssion and treating it appropriately from the very beginning ," continues Dr. Kary. Unfortunately children see m to heal quicker with everything except concu ssions. Injured athletes may need to sit out longer than desired, but with the threat of second-impact syndrome and long term brain damage, we must be diligent with their care. Their lives may depend on it. X

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IO,OOO athletes expected to CODlpete in '09 State Gam.es of ADlerica »> Colorado Springs, Colo., is again playing host to America's largest Olympic-style mUlti-sport festival for amateur athletes when 10,000 athletes come to the city for the 2009 State Games of America, July 30-August 2. Women's gymnastics is one of 29 sports featured in the State Games of America. Athletes and coaches may go online now for information and to register at www.thesportscorp.org.

u.s.

n 32

TECHNIQUE. MARCH 2009

Held at the Cadet West Gym at the Air Force Academy, women's gymnastics features competition in Levels 4 through 10, following USA Gymnastics guidelines. All athletes will automatically be entered in the all-around competition. Event and all-around medals will be awarded, but there will not be a separate all-around competition, Ties will be broken according to USA Gymnastics Rules and Policies. Medals will be

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Cotnpetition for elite, junior, senior, recreational athletes in 29 sports. awarded in each event for first through third place in each age group. Age breakdowns within levels will be determined after entries are received. When registering, please indicate coach and contact information and club name or high school in the sportspecific section of the registration form. Coaches must be safety certified in order to be allowed on the floor. Registration closes June 1 for non-Colorado-based athletes and July 18 for Colorado residents. Online national athlete registration is open www.stategames.org;just click on the State Games of America logo for complete registration information, lodging and accommodations information, ticket details and much more. The State Games of America features competition for elite, junior, senior, recreational athletes in 29 sports. The colorful Opening Ceremony is set for the Colorado Springs World Arena on July 30. Major sport venues include the United States Air Force Academy, the U.s. Olympic Training Center, Fort Carson, and The Colorado College.

The State Games of America is the premier, national multisport event for athletes of all ages and abilities held every biennium. Medal winners from 49 state games nationwide earn the right to compete against other winners and match their skills and competitive desire in a national arena . The State Games concept was developed in New York in 1978 with the Empire State Games. In 2006, more than 500,000 athletes competed in State Games nationwide. State Games feature various sports of the Olympic and Pan American Games as well as sports that have regional popularity within each state. The State Games of America is a property of the National Congress of State Games, and the event is hosted by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation. The event was held in Colorado Springs in 2005 and 2007. A record 10,803 athletes from 47 states competed in the event in 2007 in Colorado Springs. San Diego will host the Games in 2011 . It's estimated that approximately 20% of athletes on recent U.s. Olympic Teams have competed in a state games. X

MEMBER SERVICES Step 1: Go to the USA Gymnastics website www.usa-

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Attention all USA Gymnastics Members! USA Gymnastics is reaching out to all USA Gymnastics members to ensure that we have the correct contact information on file. It is vitally important that USA Gymnastics be notified of changes in your personal and club information. Failure to update contact information may result in missing important membership benefits and updated membership information.

The information ca n easi ly be updated on li ne by fo llow ing th e steps below. Steps to update individual contact information:

gymnastics.org and click on the gray Member Services Button near the top of the screen. Step 2: Click on the blue membership button located on the left hand side. Step 3: Select your membership type and select the update Personal information link. The use rna me is your member number and the password is your 8 digit date of birth. (MMDDYYYY)

Steps to update club or non-member club contact information: Step 1: Go to the USA Gymnastics website www.usagymnastics.org and click on the gray Member Services button near the top of the screen. Step 2: Click on the blue Member Club button located on the left hand side. Step 3: Select Update Club Information.

The username is your club num ber and enter the club password. You may also contact Member Services via phone at 800345-4719 or via email at membership@usa-gymnastics.org to update contact information.

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Sanction request has been placed; what's next?

competition fees within 48 hrs of completion of the meet.

Every year USA Gymnastics sanctions over 3500 meets. Yet, not all meet directors are fully aware of the responsibilities of properly completing the sanctioning procedures.

- Original Sanction report form returned to USA Gymnastics no later than 7 business days after the event.

Below is a check list of duties with regards to sanction reporting procedures.

Sanction Check List - Sanction request placed to USA Gymnastics at least 30 days prior to the event - Meet Director ensures that everyone attending the meet is a current USA Gymnastics member with the appropriate requirements. - Sanction report form sign in sheet has the signatures, member number, safety/background check expiration dates of every coach and judge that participated in sanctioned event. - Sanction report form contains the signatures of both the meet director and the meet referee. - Copy of sanction report form returned to the regional or state committee chairman and any applicable

By fully completeing all of the items on the above check list, you will ensure that your sanction has been fully reported. Please note that USA Gymnastics verifies the memberships of every member listed on a sanction report form to ensure that the membership was current at the time of the sanctioned event. The respective program is notified of anyone listed on a sanction that is not current at the time of the sanctioned event. Failure to comply with all sanctioning procedures is a violation of sanction. Sanction violations may result in a fine, voiding of meet results, loss of sanctioning privileges, and/ or loss of secondary insurance coverage. For more information regarding sanctioning procedures, please refer to your particular program's Rules and Policies book. The Rules and Policies are available to view on the USA Gymnastics website. 1\

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Twenty-six-year-old Joseph Hagerty is from Rio Rancho, N.M., but now trains at the U.s. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. In his first competition since helping

team USA win the bronze medal at the Olympic Games, Hagerty won the all-around

TECHNIQUE· MARC H 2009

at the 2009 Winter Cup Challenge held in Las Vegas, Nev. He also won titles on floor exercise and tied for. first on parallel bars. When asked how he felt to win the Winter Cup Challenge, Hagerty said,"lt felt really good. This was my first competition since coming back from the Olympics so I didn't know what to expect. I just took it one routine at a time and it all worked out. I made all of my routines. I could fix a few things and improve upon my sets but overall I was pleased with everything. I've only been doing routines for about a

month - we started routines right after the holidays so I was very happy with how well it went." Hagerty, who is coached by Vitaly Marinitch and Alex Shchennikov, said most of his routines were the same as during the Olympic Games with the exception of his floor routine."1 changed around my floor routine a little bit because of the new rules in the Code of Points," said Hagerty. Most recently Hagerty placed third all-around at the Tyson American Cup and won the floor title. He also tied for second on parallel bars, tied

for third on pommel horse and was third on high bar. Hagerty and the rest of the Olympic Training Center gymnasts train twice a day from 9 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 3-6 p.m. On Thursdays they have just one practice from 10:00-11 :30 and Saturdays 10 a.m.-12 p.m. When he's are not in the gym he and his OTC teammates hang out in their rooms, play video games, watch movies, and go out for sushi about once a week! 1\

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

Name Charles Theodore James Patrick Joseph Shawn Vince Edward Trey Thad Steven Anthony Matthew H. Rick William Josepl1 Roy Larrv Robert Allen (Bob) Timothy Ricardo"Chico" Paul Robert Dean Ted Michael Robert

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ACROBATIC GYMNASTICS Selection Committee Minutes

WOMEN'S REGIONAL JUNIOR OLYMPIC COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN AND REGIONAL TECHNICAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN ELECTIONS

Rockville, MD January 16, 2009 1. Roll Call Kari Dun can - National Te chnical Committee Chair Ivaylo Katsov - National Elite Committee Chair Michael Rodrigues - National Athlete Representati ve Tom Hou sley - Acrobatic Gymnastics Program Directo r (non-voting)

2. Maia Cup Selection The Athlete Selection Committee recommends the following pair/ groups and delegation officials to represent the United States at the 2009 Maia Cup:

Elections for the RJOCC and RTCC will be conducted online at www. usa-gymnastics_org from April 1 - April 15. In order to ensure that your vote can be counted, each Professional Member should make sure of each of the following: L their address is current (specifically the State)

11-16 World Age Group Comp etition Women's Group: Kendall Meyer, Erica Prestipino, MacKenzie Meyer (XTR) Men 's Group : Nichola s Jackson, Andrei Bensee l, Alexa nder Ruth, Skye Robinson (EAGC)

3_ That they know their password (a Professional Member's password is their eight-digit date of birth in a MMDDYYYY format unless they have otherwise instructed. )

12-19 World Age Group Competition Mi xed Pair: Eirian Smith , Jake Kanavel (ATA) Women's Group: Tiana Terry, Alayna Davis, Elika Sudo (ATA) Amanda Plumer, Liselle Kitchens, Amy Slater (SRVDA)

4. Their Professional membership, safety certification and background check must be fully processed and current by February 28.

Team USA Delegation Officials Head of Delegation : Tom Hou sley Head Coach: Ivaylo Katsov Team Manager: Nancy Davis Judge (i): Jola Jones Judge (2): Trisha Stewart Chaperones: Debbie Smith & Tammy Plumer

If you have any questions regarding your voting privileges, please call the Women's Program Manager at 317/ 829-5661 1\

Meeting Adjourned - 8:33pm January 15, 2009 Approved by Steve Penny, USA Gymnastics President 02/ 04/ 2009

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SUMMER CAMP DIRECTORY If you would like your summer camp listed in the free summer camp directory online at: www.usa-gymnastics.org please go to the website to register. "-

Go to: http://www.usa-gymnastics.org/ click on the button that says "FIND A"then click on SUMMER CAMP. You

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2009 Regional Congresses GENERAL INFORMATION

PURPOSE OF REGIONAL CONGRESSES:

The purpose of regional congress is to provide education to the teachers, coaches, judges and gymnastics business owners of the region. Education and training enable everyone to effectively and professionally serve in the development of the young gymnasts across the country. The regional Congresses also serve the gymnastics community by providing an opportunity for networking, socializing and building professional relationships. Each Congress is tailored to the specific needs of the Region and under the direction of the Regions Chairman. Your attendance supports your region! We look forward to seeing you there! REGIONAL CONGRESS EDUCATION:

Over 75 Sessions covering the following areas and varied by region

Business Education - Sessions covering marketing, managing your business, staff retention and more. Judges Education - Sessions covering compulsory, optional and elite judging criteria, technique and more. Other Education - Sessions covering acrobatic gymnastics, T & T, Men's Artistic, rhythmic, sports science, psychology and more. HOUSING: A block of rooms has been reserved at all Host Hotels; you can book your room by calling: National Travel Systems Sports Travel Team 6502 Slide Road I Suite 404 Lubbock, TX 79424 Toll Free: 1-888-603-8747; Main Line: 806-794-3135 Email: sportsinfo@nationaltravelsystems.com

website: www.ntssportstravel.com Coaches Education - Sessions covering popular topics for the developmental through elite gymnastics coach. Recreational Education - A recreational track covering programs for tots through teens; be the best instructor in your gym!

TECHNIQUE. MA RCH 2009

Online Registration will be available for members and printable forms will be available for all others starting January 16th. Please visit us at http:// www.usa-gymnastics.org/membership/congress/ regional.php?prog=h for prices, schedules, discounts, speakers, session titles and add on course information. X

VISA CHAMPION HIPS Dallas, TX

August 12-15

EVENT SCHEDULE Men's & Women's Artistic Gymnastics Schedule

American Airlines Center VVednesday,August12

1:00 p.m. - Jr. M en's Competit ion 7:00 p.m. - Sr. M en's Competit ion - Day 1 Thursday, August 13

1:00 p. m. - Jr. Women's Competi t ion - Day 1 7:00 p.m. - Sr. Wo men's Co mpetit ion - Day 1 Friday, August 14

7:00 p.m. - Sr. Men's Competitio n - Day 2 Saturday, August 15

1:00 p.m. - Jr. Women's Competition - Day 2 6:30 p.m. - Sr. Women 's Competition - Day 2

USA Gymnastics hopes you enjoyed reading the Industry Survey conducted by Frank Sahlein on page 6-'0 of this issue.

There are about 50 questions in the areas of Activity Programs Management Marketing Human Resources Information TechnologYI Financials Facility and Risk Management. l

Sahlein is planning another surveYI sponsored by 3rd Level Consulting on Critical Business Trends . l

The goal is to collect analyze and report back to YOU on the current state of our industry. Of course there are no IIrightll answers because everyone /s situation is just a little bit different! Weill follow up with the results at the end of the survey collection period. l

You/ll need your company Profit & Loss information from 2007 and 2008 and perhaps a simple calculator to complete some of the items. It does not take long once you get into it. 1

When you read the Survey Results SummarYI you/ll gain valuable information on the industry as well as how your business stacks up. This information is unavailable anywhere else!

The Survey cut-off date for completion is March 31 / 2009 and you will be emailed the results by April 15 / 2009. 1

Have FUN I and thanks in advance for your participation in this vital industry event! GO TO WWW.3RDLEVELCONSULTING.COM AND CLICK ON THE SURVEY TO BEGIN.

CLUB TICKET SALES PROGRAM 2009 Visa Championships - August 12-15, Dallas, TX Sign your club up for the Club Ticket Sales Program and receive great benefits such as: • Discounted tickets

• I=REE VI P tickets • Celebrity/athlete visits to your gym • Club recognition at the event • Autographed items • And much more Visit www.usa-gymnastics.org/events to sign up today. It's 100% free and no obligation is required.

USA GYMNASTICS

Don't miss a minute of the action at a 2009 USA Gymnastics event!

@ .

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2009 INTERNATIONAL SPORT AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL Festival Schedule

Tuesday, June 23 SA Gymnastics, the Pan American Opening Ceremony - 7:30-9:00 p.m . Gymnastics Union and the Am erican Sokol Wednesday, June 24 Organization will be hosting th e 2009 TeamGym competition Levels 1-6 - mo rning and aftern oo n Sport and Cultura l Festival in Fort Worth, Te xas, Festival Rhythmic - afternoon June 23-28 . Participants from allover the world Pan American Showcase - 7:30-9:00 p.m. are expected to take part in the mUlti-sport and Thur sday, June 25 cu Itu ra I activity. Aesthetic Gymnastics competition - 9:00 a.m . start time The event will include something for everyone with TeamGym, Gym Fest, City Performances, Gym Fest performances - 10:00 a.m .- noon Festival Rhythmic, Aesthetic Group, Gymnastics Gymnastics for All Challenge - 3:00-5:00 p.m . for All Challenge, socials, a parade, Pan American Stockyard Social -7 :00-11 :00 p .m. Gy m na st ic s Union Evening, workshops, USA Friday, June 26 Gymnastics Gala Evening, Opening and Closing Downtown Parade - 9:00-11 :00 a.m. ceremonies and more. Also planned is a preliminary TeamGym Levels 5-8 Finals - 1 :00 p .m . start time inform ation meeting regarding the 2011 Saturda y, June 27 Gymnaestrada . Festival Gala Showcase - 1 :00-2:30 p.m . Don 't miss this opportunity to be involved in Closing Ceremony - 7:00-8 :30 p.m . th is prestigious event . To learn more about the Sunday, Jun e 28 event or to get your club signed up to participate USA Gymnastics Day at Six Flags over Te x as go to : www.usa -gymnastics .org - Then click on "Group" button at th e top of the pag e. X * Spec ta tor tickets a vaila ble at the doo r

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CLASSIFIEDS for sale' position available' seeking employment· education' co nsignment

POSITION AVAILABLE Are You Ready For A Career, Not Just A Job? Flame Gymnaslics Academy is taking applications for Girl's level 6 through level 10 team coach. Experience in teaching optional level skills required. Flame is looking for a well rounded individual who knows how to coach AND teach using a positive method while maintaining high team expectalions. Highly competitive compensalion package includes health insurance and simple relirement plan. Flame has been the gymnastics leader in Fort Smith, Arkansas since 1985. A20,000 sq. ft. facility with 800+ students, the average Flame coach has been with us for over 10 years. If you think you are ready to become an integral part of a fun, progressive, family atmosphere, contact Oan Beam at flamefs@hatmail. com or go to our website at www.flamefs.com and submit an employment inquiry. All inquiries will be kept confidential. The successful candidate will be expected to be able to start employment between January and June 2009. Flame Gymnaslics Academy is an equal opportunity employer. Summit Gymnastics Academy, in beautiful Flagstaff, Arizona is seeking a full·time coach for a new and expanding program. Applicants must be experienced in levels 4·0plional skills, drills, USAG requirements, malivaling athletes and staff, and creating a positive environmenl. Strong bars/vault techniques and spoUing skills are a musl. Recreational gymnastics experience, along with the willingness to build a strong program, a musl. Salary commensurate with experience. Email resumes and references to: Kristi 8aty/ Karen Bowers info@ summitgymnasticsacademy.com 928·526·0644 Head/Optional Coach: lYNCHBURG ACADEMY OF GYMNASTICS & POWER TUMBLING is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiaslic professional to work with their girls' gymnastics team. Individual needs to be experienced in training various levels up to level 10 with strong spoUing skills. 16,000 sq. fl. gym is locoted near the beautiful mountains and a few hours away from the beach. Salary position includes paid vacation, holiday/ sick time. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please contact lori Darter at 434·2398900, fax: 434-239·8912, ar email resume to: gldarter@aol.com

IN ST RUCT 0 R/ CO ACHES. Po ragan Gymnastics of Norwood (Bergen County), NJ is looking for instructors and coaches, PIT - FIT. Requirements: Positive aUitude, responsible, reliable, love of children. Position available for compemive team coach level 6 and up with fle xible hours. Also preschool through intermediate instruction. Company spansored certifications (Safety, CPR, First AIO) Full benefits/ paid va calion & sick days, company matched retirement plan. Will train. Salary commensurate with experience. NEW facility, state· of.the·art, approx. 11 ,000 sq. h. located in the NY/ NJ Metropolitan area, easily accessible from all major highways. Contact 001: email: dot@ paragongym.com, 201 ·767·6921 or fax resume to 201 ·767-6693 or at 49 Walnut Street, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 07648. www.paragongym.com Assistant girls competitive /TOPS coach. large, multi·location program seeking individual to assist with girls competitive teams levels 4 - 10. Program was established in 1973 and currently has over 1300 students Great career

TECHNIQUE. MARCH 2009

opportunity with excellent salary and benefits including vocation, health and retirement with potential to move into management or supervisory position. loco ted near the University of Iowa, area offers multiple cultural, sports and educational opportunities. Ability to help with boys competitive teams a plus. Position could be part time for anyone seeking to cantinue his or her education. Oirect inquires and resume's to Jill Schlou at j.schlou@ mchsi.com.

is: www.usa·gymnastics.org/classifieds/ Your 30 days wi! begin on the nex! regu"" posting dote.

FOR SALE

DEADLINES

GK RISK FREE PROGRAM: Get with the program! l1's beHer 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 mare information on how you con get started today! Email: customerservice@gkelite.com

SCORE MASTER - Score keeping sohware interiaced to many different score boards: EliteScore, Beta8rites, Ws & Projectors. Download team rosters from the USAG website. Features include: random draws, create rotations, assign #'s, the most comprehensive reporting and results can go directly to your website. Supports: womens/ mens, individual/team, artistic/ rhythmic/ trampoline, compulsory/ oplionol. Oownload a FREE demo at www.Score·Master.com. CLASS CONTROL for Windows XP and Vista. Serving Gymnaslics since 1990 with Closs Management and Accounts Receivable sohware, including free training and technical support. Pocked with features, easy to use, and networkable. Flexible setup, easy assignments, rosters, auendonce tracking, markeling analysis, automated tuilion calculation, multiple discounts, additional/retail charges, inventory management, sales tax support, invoices/statements, receivables reports, financial and enrollment summaries, instructor schedules, wailing and makeup lists, mailing labels, send messages and invoices by e·mail, support for online bonk draft and credit card payments, and much more. Only 5600 (5300/ addilional workstolion). Contact Vaughn Sohware Services at 800·821·8516, vaughnsohware@ bellsouth.net, or www.vaughnsohware.com MC/VISA/ AMEX

EDUCATION Available now! The NEW GYMCERT Gymnastics training manuals (levels 1, 2, 3, & the NEW Skills & Drills for the Compulsory Coach level's 4, 5 & 6) a must for training your staff; cut your lesson planning lime 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 Closs Evaluation Forms by level. The GYMCERT manuals provide concise instruclion, clear illustrations, and several coaching, spoHing, and safety lips. Will your stoff 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 HOO word. = SIOO 101-200 word. = S200

Your ad in Techniquewill auiomolicoUy be placed anhne fO( 30 dayi of no additional d",,9O. The oddr""

DEADLINE FOR AD ISSUE AND PAYMENT January .... ...... De<.IO february ... Jon. 10 March .......................................... Feb. 10

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June ...........• •.......•. May 10 July ...... ...•.• June 10 August . ...... July 10 Sept/Ocl ... Aug. 10 N".IDee ......................... Od. 10 NOTE: If Ihe JOlh fall. an a weebnd or holiday, Ih. preceding work day is considered Ihe deadlin ••

SUBMIT Email your ad and credit card information to: Ipeszek@usa·gymnaslics.org Or moil to: USA Gymnaslics, 132 E. Washinglon SI., Sle. 700 Indianapolis, IN 46204 or fax 10 317-237-5069. *If you fax, please indude your uedil card numbor, expIration date and signature. Please designale il your ad should appear in rechnique magazine or USA Gymn.s/ics magazine. ADS SUBMITTED WITHOUT PAYMENT WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. USA Gymnastics reserves the right to vary format. Techn~ue is received by mOle thon

17,000 USA Gymnoslics prolessional members ~us thousands 01 viel'lers will be exposed

10 your ad online. Advertise your employmenl opportunity, product,

selVice, 01 (ompe~~on here for greol results. aues~ons? Call Luon Pes"'oI317·819·5646.

FOR INFORMATION on how to publsh a classified ad in Tednque, go

to http://www.usa-gylllllOstics.org/publications/ Or call Luan Peszek at 317-829-5646.

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