Technique - Nov./Dec. 2010 - Vol. 30, #10 by USA Gymnastics

Protecting

Young Athletes

Are You Stretching or Warming Up?

events 2010

June

November 4-7

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

11-13

Trampoline World Championships (TT)

17-19

International Age Group Championships (TT) Metz, France

Metz, France

DECEMBER 1-5

TOPs Camp (W)

Houston, TX

1-6

Pan American Championships (R)

Guadalajara, MEX

5-9

TOPs B Camp

Houston, TX

2-5

USA Gymnastics Open Championships (W)

17-26

Olympic Gymnastics Week various locations

Olympic Day various locations

July

National Qualifier (M) TBD

8-10

Trampoline & Tumbling U.S. Championships San Antonio, TX

10-15

JO Championships (TT)

San Antonio, TX

10-16

World Gymnaestrada (GG)

Lausanne, SUI

TBD

Acrobactic National Championships

TBD

2011

August

JANUARY 21-23

JumpStart Testing (TT)

Houston, TX

February 3-5

Winter Cup Challenge (M)

Las Vegas, NV

24-27

JumpStart National Team Camp (TT)

Houston, TX

17-20

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

18-20

National Congress and Trade Show

2-6

Rhythmic Challenge

Houston, TX

Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup (W)

Jacksonville, FL

AT&T American Cup (M/W)

Jacksonville, FL

25-26

USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships (M) Springfield, MA

April 7-9

USA Gym Collegiate Championships (W)

Colorado Springs, CO

8-10

JO Regional Championships (M)

Various Locations

14-16

NCAA Championships (M)

Columbus, OH

15-17

L 9/10 Regional Championships (W)

various locations

15-17

NCAA Championships (W)

Cleveland, OH

May

4-8

JO National Championships (M)

Long Beach, CA

6-8

L 9 Eastern/Western Championships (W)

Worcester, MA/San Diego, CA

13-14

JO National Championships (W)

Long Beach, CA

National Invitational Tournament (W)

Long Beach, CA

September State and Regional Chairman’s Workshop (M)

TBD

13-26

Rhythmic World Championships

Montpellier, France

National Gymnastics Day

various locations

October 8-16

World Artistic Championships (M/W)

Tokyo, Japan

14-30

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

Guadalajara, Mexico

November

10-13

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

2012 February 2-4

Winter Cup Challenge (M)

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

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Las Vegas, NV

March 3

AT&T American Cup (M/W)

TBD

23-24

USA Gymnastics Collegiate Champs. (M)

TBD

June 6-9

Visa Championships

28-30

USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show

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

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

Saint Paul, MN

8-11

March

Orlando, FL

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

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

TECHNIQUE



an official publication of USA Gymnastics University

november/december

Publisher

Steve Penny Editor

Luan Peszek Graphic Designer

Grant Glas

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

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: In order to ensure uninterrupted delivery of TECHNIQUE magazine, notice of change of address should be made eight weeks in advance. For fastest service, please enclose your present mailing label. Direct all subscription mail to TECHNIQUE Subscriptions, USA Gymnastics, 132 E. Washington St., Suite 700, Indianapolis, IN 46204 . TECHNIQUE is published monthly except bimonthly in Sept/ Oct and Nov/Dec by USA Gymnastics, 132 E. Washington St., Suite 700, Indianapolis, IN 46204 (phone: 317-2375050) or visit online @ www.usa-gymnastics.org Subscription prices: U.S.–$25 per year; Canada/Mexico–$48 per year; all other foreign countries–$60 per year. If available, back issue single copies $4 plus postage/handling. All reasonable care will be taken, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited material; enclose return postage. Copyright 2010 by USA Gymnastics and TECHNIQUE. All rights reserved. Printed by Sport Graphics, Indianapolis, IN. Member Services 1-800-345-4719 Unless expressly identified to the contrary, all articles, statements and views printed herein are attributed solely to the author and USA Gymnastics expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility thereof.

2010 • VOLUME 30 • #10

f e at u r e s 6

Are You Stretching or Warming Up?

Protecting Young Athletes from Predators

National Gymnastics Day

Shoulder Stabilization for Gymnastics

Cartwheels for Thanksgiving

d e pa r t m e n t s 2

Event Schedule

USA Gymnastics Message

Member Services

Spotlight

Important Notice

What’s New

Women’s Update

Classifieds

24 12

18 Cover Photo

Larry Gibson

www.usagym.org Photographer © Philip Morton

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USA Gymnastics is pleased to announce the second Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup Series which culminates with the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup on March 4 in Jacksonville, Fla., a day prior to the AT&T American Cup. The 18 invitationals included in the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup Series are: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

CGA Parents Club Coaches Spectacular, Covington, Ky., Jan. 14-16 Folger’s New Year Invitational, Wichita, Kansas, Jan. 14-16 Lady Luck Invitational, Las Vegas, Nev., Jan. 14-16 Macready & Roethlisberger Flip Fest Invitational, Knoxville, Tenn., Jan. 14-17 Circle of Stars Gymnastics Invitational, Indianapolis, Ind., Jan. 21-23 Wisconsin Dells Gymnastics Vacation Classic, Wisconsin Dells, Wis., Jan. 28-30 Metroplex Challenge, Fort Worth, Texas, Jan. 29-30 Parkettes Invitational, Allentown, Pa., Jan. 28-30 2011 Rock-n-Roll Classic, Broadview Heights, Ohio, Feb. 4-6 Pikes Peak Cup, Colorado Springs, Colo., Feb. 4-6 37th Annual Fiesta Bowl, Chandler, Ariz., Feb. 4-6 IGI Chicago Style, Chicago, Ill., Feb. 11-13 Buckeye Classic, Columbus, Ohio, Feb. 18-20 Cereal City Classic, Kalamazoo, Mich., Feb. 18-20 Presidential Classic, Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Feb. 18-20 Excalibur Cup, Virginia Beach, Va., Feb. 18-20 WOGA Classic, Frisco, Texas, Feb. 19-20 Arizona Sunrays Classic Rock Invitational, Glendale, Ariz., Feb. 19-21

Proceeds from the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup benefit the Nastia Liukin Fund, a charitable fund within the National Gymnastics Foundation. Two Level 10/Open gymnasts from each of the 18 invitationals will earn the right to advance to the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup and compete on the same podium as the athletes in the AT&T American Cup. 2008 Olympic All-Around Champion Nastia Liukin will be on hand in Jacksonville to interact with the competitors, conduct hospitality events, and make the National Liukin Supergirl Cup an unforgettable experience. Gymnasts who compete in the Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup will receive a Nastia Liukindesigned leotard and a warm-up from GK Elite; two tickets to the AT&T American Cup and recognition during the event; and the opportunity to meet Liukin and participate in a team photo. We are also excited to host another competitive opportunity for Junior Olympic women this next spring - the USA Gymnastics Open Championships for Levels 4-8 and prep-op gymnasts. This inaugural event will take place June 2-5 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The competition will feature both individual and club team champions at each level as well as crown an overall 2011 Club Team Champion. A National Elite Qualifier will also be held in conjunction with this event. This approach allows us to expand the recognition of winning a national title deeper into the grassroots levels. For more information on this competition, see page 34 in this issue of Technique. Please put both of these unique event opportunities on your calendar and plan to bring your Level 10/ open gymnasts to a Nastia Liukin Supergirl Cup Series event and your Level 4-8 and prep-op gymnasts to Lake Buena Vista, Fla., June 2-5, for the USA Gymnastics Open Championships. Best wishes for a festive and happy holiday season! See you in the gym,

President & CEO

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Are You Stretching or Warming Up? When designing a daily training program or preparatory activity for competition, the effects of various types of stretching should be considered. The intent or goal to be achieved will drive the choice of stretching that will be utilized. There are several types of stretching activities that have been found to increase flexibility.

Megan Gearhart, PT, OCS 1988 Tumbling World Champion

hysiology of stretching: First, a brief review of the stretch reflex is helpful to understand the effect of stretching on tissues. As described by Len Kravitz, Ph.D., the muscle stretch reflex occurs when a muscle is stretched which stretches the muscle spindle. The muscle spindle records the change in length (and speed of length change) and transmits the signal to the spinal cord. This triggers the stretch reflex, which initially attempts to oppose the change in muscle length by causing the stretched muscle to contract. The more sudden the change in length, the stronger the muscle contraction. Thus the muscle spindle attempts to protect the muscle from injury. This is one of the reasons for holding a stretch for a sustained period of time (15-30 sec) so that the muscle spindle gradually becomes accustomed to the new length, and reduces its opposing signaling, thus allowing for greater muscle lengthening. (8) Five basic types of stretching and their individual benefits and effects on the muscle and connective tissues.

T E C H N I Q U E â&#x20AC;˘ n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0

Static: Static stretching is the most common

type of stretching. Static stretching does not produce an increase in core temperature, but has been found to be beneficial for improving range of motion or flexibility. With static stretching, the muscle group being stretched is taken to the point where a mild pull is felt in the belly of the muscle. Optimal hold times vary, but an average hold of 15-30 seconds for 2-4 repetitions is recommended. (9)

Passive: Passive stretching is basically the

same as static stretching but will utilize the assistance of a stretching apparatus or partner to facilitate the stretch. When stretching with a partner, application of stretch should be gradual to avoid possible injury. Passive stretching also improves range of motion but does not improve core temperature.

Dynamic: Dynamic stretching involves

active movements that gradually increase in speed

and range of motion. Basic examples of dynamic stretching are arm or leg swings. With dynamic stretching, core temperature is improved which allows muscles to “warm up” and assist in tissue lengthening. There is also a beneficial stabilization component to dynamic stretching that promotes muscle control when eccentrically lengthening leading to improved stability as range of motion increases.

Ballistic

: Ballistic stretching involves forcing a body part beyond its normal range for stretching or bouncing into a position. Ballistic stretching can produce undesirable tension or injury to the stretched muscle and connective tissue. It may also produce a strong stretch reflex to oppose the muscle lengthening. (8) Due to the reaction of the stretch reflex, the muscle is not at rest and resists tissue elongation.

PNF

: Propioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (PNF) is better known as contract-relax stretching. PNF stretching is a passive stretch followed by an isometric contraction in the stretched position, followed by another passive stretch. This stretching is usually performed with a partner. Recommended hold times are from 7-15 seconds, relaxing 2-3 seconds and passively stretching for 10-15 seconds. PNF stretching has been found to be very effective for gains in ROM. When deciding on which type of stretching to utilize, the first question to be asked is what is the goal. The two main objectives would be to either improve range of motion or to prepare for activity. All stretching activities improve flexibility to some degree, but not all are beneficial to prepare an Figure 1. Example of a dynamic stretch. The athlete rolls to a tuck position and then forward to a pike position. The dynamic stretch is complete 5-10 repetitions.

Dynamic stretching should begin with a warm-up activity to increase core temperature such as jogging for at least 3-5 minutes. Dynamic stretching may be performed prior to activity and usually 1 set of 5-10 repetitions of each activity specific exercise. The key is to pick dynamic stretching activities that “look like” the sport that is to be performed and yet are not so intense that they lead to fatigue.

athlete for training or competition. Literature review provides some insight as to which types of stretching may be more beneficial to utilize as a warm up versus a stretch to promote improved range of motion. When comparing dynamic and static stretching, dynamic stretching has been found to produce improved performance in activities that require high intense movements. A study on the effects of static stretching and jump performance found that significant decreases in torque or quadriceps force was recorded following a bout of acute (or recent) static stretching. The

n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0 • T E C H N I Q U E

forces were found to be decreased for up to 120 minutes following static stretching. (1) A separate study found eccentric muscle strength to be decreased for up to 60 minutes following static stretching. (9) In this study, no significant changes were noted in jump performance. Although, in a study on the effect of different types of stretching on vertical jump performance, vertical jump was found to decrease after static and PNF stretching and did not recover until 15 minutes following the stretching activity. (2) In a study on the effects of static stretching on squat jump performance findings suggested that an acute bout of static stretching reduced the power and force development during the squat jump questioning the use of static stretching prior to those activities that require maximal power output at angles near full knee extension. (3) When researching the effects of dynamic stretching on performance, groups that performed dynamic stretching showed improved performance with sprint time and zigzag run

times compared to those who performed static stretching. (5) If the goal is to improve flexibility, research promoting stretching for range of motion gains point toward static or PNF stretching as optimal choices. When compared to ballistic stretching, static stretching when held for three bouts of 30 seconds, was found to promote improved muscle length. (4) In a study on the effect of static and dynamic stretching, static stretching was found to be more effective. A 30 second static stretch increased the range of motion more than two times that of dynamic stretching. (6) Static stretching was also found to improve flexibility for up to 120 minutes post stretch.

If flexibility is the goal

: The bottom line is that static or PNF stretching has consistently produced greater range of motion gains when compared to dynamic stretching activities. These types of stretching should be performed following activity to promote flexibility.

EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS for Trampoline & Tumbling Program The Dynamic Stretching DVD, presented by Megan Gearhart, PT, OCS, Item #2425 Price: $20.00 Approximate running time: 18 min. Teaching Somersaults DVD Item Number: 2406 Price: $20.00 Approximate running time: 45 mins. Basic Trampoline-The Beginning Steps DVD Item Number: 2407 Price: $20.00 Approximate running time: 1 hr. 8 mins. The X Factor-Twisting for Trampoline DVD Item Number: 2408 Price: $20.00 Approximate running time: 57 mins. 8

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Front & Back Rotation-The Beginning Steps of Flipping DVD Item Number: 2409 Price: $20.00 Designed for trampoline and tumbling education. Approximate running time: 1 hr. 42 mins. Roundoff, Power Hurdle & Mountain Climber DVD Item Number: 2411 Price: $20.00 Designed for trampoline and tumbling education. Approximate running time: 1 hr. 31 mins. Trampoline & Tumbling-Teaching the Arabian DVD Item Number: 2420 Price: $20.00 This DVD covers drills, mechanics and conditioning necessary to teach the Arabian with the technique most appealing to international judges. Designed for trampoline and tumbling

education. Approximate running time 15 mins. How to Start a Trampoline & Tumbling Program Item Number: 2416 Price: $10.00 A USA Gymnastics publication that is part of the “How to..” series. This book is geared to the Gym Club Owner and is filled with information specific to starting a Trampoline and Tumbling Program

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If “warming-up” or preparing for activity is the goal: It appears that research points to exercise warm-ups incorporating a dynamic stretch routine will produce better performance in situations requiring high intensity movements. Where as static stretching or PNF stretching prior to explosive athletic events or activities such as sprinting or vertical jumping will decrease performance and power output by muscles.

Figure 2. The above pictures demonstrate dynamic warm up activities that also promote strengthening of the muscles of the back, periscapular region (around the shoulder blade) and shoulders. Weakness of of the periscapular muscles can lead to shoulder injury.

Our sport requires proficiency in many types of stretching activities. This review of stretching and its effects on performance should help with design of programs that optimize training and competition performance while identifying appropriate times to incorporate stretching that will improve range of motion for flexibility gains. To order the 30 Minute Dynamic Stretching DVD by Megan Gearhart for $20 call 800-345-4719 See ad on Pg.8 Bibliography: Are You Stretching or Warming Up? (1) Power, Kevin, et al. 2004. An Acute Bout of Static Stretching: Effects on Force and Jumping Performance. Med. & Science in Sports & Exercise, 36 (8), 1389-1396. (2) Bradley PS, et al. 2007. The Effect of Static, Ballistic, and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching on Vertical Jump Performance. J Strength Cond Res. Feb; 21 (1):223-6. (3) La Torre A, et al. 2010. Acute Effects of Static Stretching on Squat Jump Performance at Different Knee Starting Angles. J Strength Cond Res. Mar; 24 (3): 687-94. (4) Covert CA, et al. 2010. Comparison of Ballistic and Static Stretching on Hamstring Muscle Length Using an Equal Stretching Dose. J Strength Cond Res. Apr 1. (5) Janot, Jeffrey M, et al. IDEA Fitness Journal. 4.2 (Feb 2007): 44 (8). (6) William D Bandy, et al. 1998. The Effect of Static Stretch and Dynamic Range of Motion Training on the Flexibility of the Hamstring Muscles. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 27 (4): 295-300. (7) Nelson, A.G, et al. 2005. Acute Muscle Stretching Inhibits Muscle Strength Endurance Performance. J Strength Condition Res. May; 19 (2): 338-343. (8) Kravitz, Len Ph.D, Stretching: A Research Retrospective. (9) J.R. Fowles, et al. 2000. Reduced Strength After Passive Stretch of the Human Plantarflexors. J Appl Physiol. Vol. 89 (3), 1179-1188. (10) ACSM. 2006. ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (7th ed.) Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins.

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Protecting Young Athletes From Predators

By Marcia Bradford - Reprinted with permission from SportsEvents Magazine

uring the past year, shocking stories that youth athletes were secretly videotaped in locker room showers or coerced into sexual activities with adult coaches have made the headlines and refocused many sports organizations on the vital importance of protecting children from abuse. While these types of events are, unfortunately, not new, and predatory behavior is certainly not limited to sports activities, recent incidents serve as important reminders that the safety of children who participate in sports has to be the top priority for all sports

membership,” Johnson said. “Child abuse is by no means confined to sports, yet, unfortunately, in any program where adults supervise children there exists an obvious opportunity for sexual predators, and youth programs are known targets for perpetrators of these crimes.” To protect children to the extent possible, sports organizations should screen volunteers and staff using technological advancements that make criminal histories available and offer rapid up-to-date checks on a regular basis, Johnson said. Among those who should be screened are individuals who have regular contact with youth participants, have authority or supervision over

NCYS, representing more than 180 organizations and 52 million young athletes, began a national movement in 2002 aimed at eradicating criminal behavior in sports organizations as well as general society. organizations, according to Sally Johnson, executive director of the National Council of Youth Sports (NCYS). “In light of recent media articles detailing some horrendous situations of adult coaches abusing young athletes, many sports organizations are reviewing and/or tweaking their policies regarding background checks and other safety measures,” Johnson said. “These incidents have once again raised consciousness about the need to be vigilant in protecting our children.” NCYS, representing more than 180 organizations and 52 million young athletes, began a national movement in 2002 aimed at eradicating criminal behavior in sports organizations as well as general society. After taking concerns about child safety to the U.S. Congress and working with the FBI and the insurance industry, NCYS co-founded the National Center for Safety Initiatives (NCSI) in 2005 to provide background-screening services dedicated specifically to the needs of youthserving organizations. “Honestly, background checks are one of the most important services the NCYS has ever offered to its

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youth, have an opportunity to establish a position of trust with youth, and have an opportunity for one-on-one contact, she said.

A Comprehensive Approach

CSI was created to provide a standard, comprehensive approach for screening volunteers, Johnson said. Earlier safety programs, focused on fingerprinting, were expensive and time-consuming. Using vendors that provided lists of named sex offenders was also problematic because lists were sometimes out-of-date, she said. Additionally, sports organization staffs were often unsure how to interpret the records or concerned about legal ramifications of taking action against an individual on the list. Today, NCSI is the only national background screening service that applies NCYS-recommended guidelines, focusing on seven identified risk factors and using multiple vendors to ensure due diligence, according to Johnson. Searches conducted by NCSI include identity verification, using Social Security

Number Verification/Trace reports; national criminal database searches, updated regularly; terrorist database searches; and Sex Offender Registry searches of all available states (presently 49, plus D.C., Guam and Puerto Rico). Additionally, most of NCSI’s programs include at least one county search that generally covers the longest and most recent residency in the past five years. Additional search components include county and federal court searches and motor vehicle records. NCSI’s standard search protocol looks for criminal convictions, including felonies, lesser crimes of a sexual nature, lesser crimes involving force/threat of force, lesser crimes involving controlled substances (generally not paraphernalia or alcohol), and crimes involving cruelty to animals. When a background search reveals that a person has been convicted of any crimes listed above or is a registered sex offender, that person is given a “red light” and has the chance to challenge the accuracy of the information, which remains confidential. According to Trish McGonnell, NCSI co-founder, president and CEO, NCSI has conducted thousands of criminal background checks since 2005 and has issued red lights on convictions for crimes as serious as rape and attempted rape, manslaughter, lewd acts on a child, armed robbery, unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, sodomy, murder, mayhem, manufacture/ distribution of controlled substances, embezzlement, forgery, assault with a deadly weapon and battery. “Sadly, this is an issue that has been with us as long as mankind has existed,” McGonnell said. “Statistics regarding the numbers of children who will experience some type of sexual abuse are very compelling; some

NCSI was created to provide a standard, comprehensive approach for screening volunteers

50 percent of these incidents occur outside the home and 90 percent of the abusers are known and often trusted by the victims. This makes it evident that all types of organizations that offer services to kids—from community centers to faith-based groups to sports organizations—and all other places that kids go because we believe them to be trusted environments, can in fact be places where kids are at risk for abuse. “It’s important to point out that it’s not the organizations that are creating the problem,” she added. However, it is a problem that we as a society share, and the people who work with these organizations have a responsibility to try and prevent situations where abuse can occur. Our goal is to take steps to eliminate or reduce any incidents from happening at these institutions, to assist organizations in their efforts to prevent abuse of children, and to provide tools that can produce results.”

Consistent Standards

eff Breidenbach, director of planning for the United States Bowling Congress (USBC), said his organization has always taken the role of protecting children very seriously. Since 2006, its registered volunteer program (RVP) has required all those who work or have contact with USBC bowlers go through the NCSI screening process. As a result, more than 200 “red light” individuals have been identified and barred from working with USBC, according to organizational records. “We are pleased to have been one of the first youth sports programs to have offered this type of program,” he said. “In 2006, we began phasing it in, and now all of our associations use it. More than 15,000 coaches and other volunteers have gone through the program. Our experience has shown that this process works because it applies standard, established criteria, from sport to sport and state to state.” Breidenbach added that USBC hopes to eventually eliminate all child abusers not just from bowling but from all sports programs. “The experts tell us that sexual predators tend to move from sport to sport and community to community, so the more organizations that take part in the screening process, the better our chances are of eliminating these people entirely,” he said. Pointing out that “child abuse, sexual misconduct and domestic violence are insidious crimes committed by people who often look and act normal,” the USBC code of conduct states that “the only practical way to make youth bowling safe is to identify those who refuse to abide by acceptable standards of behavior, remove them

Continued on page 16

n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0 • T E C H N I Q U E

Protecting Young Athletes From Predators

from contact with our young people, and establish barriers to prevent other predators from gaining access.” As part of this effort, volunteers who are approved through the background checks are given badges that must be worn at all USBC events, Breidenbach said. “These offer a visible symbol of assurance to parents and others involved that these people, who work with the children, have passed the background screening process.”

An Effective Deterrent

teve Penny, CEO of USA Gymnastics, pointed out that NCSI background checks serve as a very effective deterrent to criminals who might seek to become involved in youth sports programs. “The reality is that most people involved in sports organizations are really good people,” he said “But when people know they must submit to a

do everything possible to prevent an abuser from having access to the children, but you have to take responsibility in an ongoing way, and that means zero tolerance if and when anything does go wrong. The most effective way to achieve this is to have strong written policies in place.” She added that organizations need to create an environment that prevents these types of incidents but also develop a system for dealing with a situation when something goes wrong. “They need to make parents and others aware of the signs to watch for,” McGonnell said. It is important to have comprehensive risk management policies in place, as well as having clearly established lines of communication, Johnson advised. “Reference checking is another important source of information, including previous clubs/teams or athletes with whom the individual has worked. Ask specific questions about the individual’s behaviors

USA Gymnastics embraced the process of background checks in 2007, following the U.S. Olympic Committee’s decision to use NCSI for this process prior to the 2007 Pan-American Games background check before being able to participate in our organization, we are much less likely to have sex offenders or people with criminal backgrounds try to get involved.” According to Penny, USA Gymnastics embraced the process of background checks in 2007, following the U.S. Olympic Committee’s decision to use NCSI for this process prior to the 2007 Pan American Games, Penny said.

Beyond Screening

cGonnell said that background screening is just one element in what should be an overall call to action by parents and heads of youth organizations. “We need to create a culture where there is zero opportunity and zero tolerance for any type of sexual or physical abuse,” she said. “To approach zero opportunity, you start with background checks and

T E C H N I Q U E • n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0

and whether anyone has reported any inappropriate behavior(s) that might be of concern to you. Also work with your insurance provider to help maintain a safe environment,” Johnson said. The bar for protecting children must continually be raised, McGonnell said, in light of recent reports of abuse. “This is a call to action for everyone, especially parents, who need to talk with their kids and keep the lines of communication open,” she stressed. “It’s also an opportunity for organizations to be more open about their cultures, to talk with parents and volunteers about expectations. We are continually looking at our program to make sure we are doing it right, to work on areas that address the unique needs of specific organizations, and to make sure we are doing all we can to protect children.”

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Celebrated

National

Gymnastics

World Sport Chicago Chicago, Illinois World Sport Chicago’s Family Sport Festival celebrated National Gymnastics Day by having four local gym clubs and the Illinois judges conduct a Tyson Fitness Challenge Zone at the festival. The clubs included: Oak Lawn Park District, Gymkhana Gymnastics, Gainers Gymnastics and Skyline Gymnastics. - Cindy Murano Pittsburgh Northstars Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania More than 200 children participated in this year’s NGD celebration. We made fitness report cards and the team kids took our recreation students around the gym to perform different challenges and try different pieces of apparatus. The kids enjoyed playing with the rhythmic equipment, the zip line, traditional fitness testing, trampoline, rope climb and the climbing wall. There were plenty of prizes, too. The team kids also sold pink scarves and pink lemonade to raise money for the Susan B. Komen Fund and held a raffle for donating to Children’s Miracle Network. On September 11, we were also busy for the National Day of Service, putting together 100 spaghetti dinners for the Food Bank, filling 70 back packs with school supplies, decorating placemats for the Food Bank, performing at a Nursing Home, and cleaning up a Nature Reserve near our gym. - Elaine Jewart

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n Sept. 18, 2010, gymnasts and gym clubs around the U.S. celebrated the 11th annual National Gymnastics Day. National Gymnastics Day promotes physical fitness and gymnastics in communities throughout the country while raising money for Children’s Miracle Network through the Tyson Fitness Challenge. Since the partnership with Children’s Miracle Network was established in 2001, National Gymnastics Day has raised more than $1.2 million for Children’s Miracle Network through the participation and support of USA Gymnastics clubs. All donations raised through the Tyson Fitness Challenge benefit Children’s Miracle Network hospitals in the club’s or gymnast’s local area. “National Gymnastics Day is the one day a year that our community joins together to help promote our great sport at a higher level,” said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. “In addition to building awareness, National Gymnastics Day is also an opportunity to give back. Helping children in need is a worthy cause, and our family has done a tremendous job supporting Children’s Miracle Network.” Check out some of the great events that took place around the country. Please continue to send in your photos! Also, Children’s Miracle Network must receive your money by Nov. 9 to qualify for prizes. Next year’s National Gymnastics Day is set for Saturday, Sept. 17. Mark your calendars now.

California Sports Center San Jose, California The California Sports Center had a fantastic turnout at its National Gymnastics Day event with 600 people on-site during the threehour celebration. Participants completed 10,467 cartwheels during the event! We also had a dunk tank, bounce house, fitness and craft booths, face painting, retail/concessions, and of course, team demonstrations. We had about 50 volunteer staff and parents help run the event, and 100% of the proceeds from retail and activities will be donated to Children’s Miracle Network. - Christopher Brown

Four Indiana Member Clubs Indianapolis, Indiana Four USA Gymnastics Member Clubs from Indiana-Geist Sports Academy, The Gymnastics Company, Sportastiks and Jaycie Phelps Athletic Center-performed for the local Children’s Miracle Network affiliate, Riley Children’s Hospital, on September 11. The clubs were celebrating National Gymnastics Day and Riley’s NICU Family Reunion, where each year families join together for an afternoon of fun and entertainment to unite and remember experiences from the NICU. Olympians Bridget Sloan and Jaycie Phelps signed autographs. Riley, one of the athletes from The Gymnastics Company, was a NICU baby herself a few years ago. Riley’s mother reflected that weighing only 1 lb.- 10 oz. and 13” long, her daughter was given little hope for survival. After a heart operation and a 90-day hospital stay, she arrived home. By age 4 Riley’s doctor suggested she try gymnastics to assist with social interaction and motor skills development. Riley is now 8 and a member of the Level 2 gymnastics team! - Teri Lummis

Universal Gymnastics, Miami, Florida Universal Gymnastics hosted National Gymnastics Day with a World Class Awards Ceremony for two gymnasts from Universal who were named World Class Gymnasts. USA’s Danell Leyva and Jessica Gil from the Colombian World Team received their awards by Dr. Jon Culbertson, 1960 U.S. Olympic Team member. The gymnastics community participated in this activity and exhibitions were performed by Circus actors, who were former gymnasts. - Yin Alvarez & Maria Gonzalez

Downriver Gymnastics Riverview, Michigan Downriver Gymnastics had an AMAZING National Gymnastics Day celebration. One of our coaches lost her 11-month-old baby boy to a seizure disorder three years ago. Coach Stephanie’s baby Lucas had been such a big part of our gym’s heart and we have honored his memory every year with a balloon launch “Love for Lucas” on the date of his passing. This year we took it one step further. We combined the “Love for Lucas” balloon launch with a “Jump-A-Thon” and carnival on National Gymnastics Day and raised $5,500 for Children’s Hospital of Michigan, where our little angel Lucas spent so much of his short life. The team gymnasts got pledges for jumping on the trampoline, and we kept the trampoline bouncing for an entire 24 hours. The gymnasts were split into teams of 3 and had half-hour shifts on the trampoline. Everything was donated from our community and we had face painting, cotton candy and all types of activities. The excitement and enthusiasm in the air was contagious! - Kelli Cook

n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0 • T E C H N I Q U E

Shoulder Stabilization Exercises for Gymnasts

By Aaron Feldman, CSCS, USAW, CPT

n gymnastics an athlete is required to control his/her body through a variety of balanced and coordinated moves. These moves demand power, strength, and muscular endurance through various events in a single competition. When adding in all the training outside of competition the shoulder goes through a high amount of stress, which increases the risk of a shoulder injury to occur or develop over a period of time. However, through scapular education and shoulder stabilization exercises a gymnast can develop a foundation for the powerful arm movements involved in gymnastics. This foundation will improve posture, give better support for the shoulder joint, and help maintain a healthy, proper curve in the middle of the spine.

Y’s Set Up: Place the stability ball just below the chest and set your arms to a “Y” position. Movement: While maintaining a ‘Y” position and rigid body lift the arms up and then lower back down.

T’s Set Up: Place the stability ball just below the chest and fix your arms to a “T” position. Movement: While maintaining a ‘T” position and rigid body lift the arms up and squeeze the shoulder blades together.

T E C H N I Q U E • n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0

Below is a series of exercises gymnasts can do as part of their warm up routine before a practice, competition, or fitness training session. While performing all of these exercises, the shoulder blades must be depressed down and pinched back, the body must stay rigid forming a straight line from ears to waist, and glutes stay activated. Athletes who are beginners to these exercises should start out with 1-2 sets of 15 to 20 repetitions with 30 seconds rest between each set. No dumbbells should be used until the athlete is capable of doing these exercises for 30 seconds straight with good form. As soon as the individual is capable of performing these exercises with ease then start out with 1 lb. dumbbells and follow an 8, 10, 12, 15 repetition progression.

W’s Set Up: Place the stability ball just below the chest, keep arms out to the side like a “T” but with the elbows bent at 90 degrees. Movement: While maintaining a bent arm position and rigid body lift the arms up and squeeze the shoulder blades together to form a capital “W”.

L’s Set Up: Place the stability ball just below the chest and create a capital “W’ with your arms by squeezing the shoulder blades. Movement: While maintaining a bent arm position and shoulder blades squeezed back lower the hands down to the floor and lift back up again.

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Presses

Push Up Holds

Set Up: Place the stability ball just below the chest and create a capital “W’ with your arms by squeezing the shoulder blades.

Set Up: Get into a push up position on top of the ball where your wrist and elbows are directly under the shoulders.

Movement: While maintaining a capital “W” position press the arms above your head while still squeezing the shoulder blades together.

Movement: Start holding this position for 20 seconds without breaking form. As soon as form breaks then the exercise is over. As soon as 20 seconds is easy to maintain add on 5 to 10 more seconds. Note: Sagging of the hips and arching of the back is common when doing this exercise. If this occurs stop the exercise.

Set Up: Get into a push up position on top of the ball where your wrist and elbows are directly under the shoulders.

Push Up Holds w/ Shoulder Blade

Movement: Start holding this position for 20 seconds while pinching your should blades back. As soon as form breaks then the exercise is over. As soon as 20 seconds is easy to maintain add on 5 to 10 more seconds. Note: Do not perform this exercise unless they are able to perform the Push Up Holds.

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Cartwheels for Thanksgiving Linda Thorberg and Brant Lutska USA Gymnastics National Instructors for Preschool Fundamentals - www.fliippingeducation.com

ach fall thousands of children across the United States sign-up for gymnastics classes. They are excited to flip, twist, jump, play and have fun! Gymnastics schools are so stimulating to view and children thrive on the energy that they receive when they walk in the door! It’s important to recognize that by November parents should see some results and the children should be getting stronger and learning some skills. For this reason, gym club owners and teachers should set goals that are achievable by all participants. Sure turkey is yummy, but it’s even better to relax at home knowing that all of your students are succeeding in your gym. This article asks you to set a goal for all students to do some kind of cartwheel by Thanksgiving! Why Thanksgiving you ask? Most families get together at that time and children

T E C H N I Q U E • n o v e mb e r / d e c e mb e r 2 0 1 0

are always the center of attention. Grandparents and friends will ask them about their gymnastics class. “Show me your cartwheel” is a typical request, since this is the one skill most people know. Even very young children can succeed in cartwheel attempts. Understanding that cartwheels begin by going sideways and landing on their feet is important to learn. Working on upper body strength activities are also important so they can support their weight when upside down. These are great parent-education tips as well. So often we forget to break skills down to achievable pieces. Listed below are simple ideas to help with the teaching process. Explain to children that these stations are part of a cartwheel. Enjoy teaching cartwheels and have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Here’s the “Stuffing” for your Cartwheels.

GOAL for Learning Cartwheels – 1. To move laterally and land on feet. 2. Have appropriate upper body strength to support the inverted position. 3. Practice kicking legs higher while landing on feet. 4. Start with dominate foot in front and kick higher, landing one foot, then the other. 5. Use various stations to challenge each child according to their readiness.

Figure 1 Start small by going around things, then cartwheel over things, then cartwheel between things to get to vertical Cartwheel Around Things to understand going sideways and landing on feet • Hands on a polydot or target, hop around it in a circle (side bunny hop) • Hands in a hoop, walk around the hoop • Hands in a hoop, hop around the hoop – try it in the other direction • Hands on a floor mushroom, cartwheel around it or over it. (figure 1) • Stamp or hair scrunchie on cartwheel foot, step in front and put hands in hoop and hop around the hoop • Hands on floor jump feet side to side • Hands on the floor between two folded panel mats. Tap toes alternating to each side • Using hand shapes, practice drills turning hands sideways • Lay on the floor in an X position, stand and make an X with your body to feel the position • Hold the children in an upside down “X” • Walk feet up a wall to a handstand position. Straddle legs and hold. • Stand in a straddle with arms up (star position) and rock side to side to begin your cartwheel

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Cartwheel Over Things to help work on upper body strength and kick legs higher • Folded panel mat sideways. Hands go on top sideways, hop on top of it, and then off on the other side. • Same set up, but hop all the way over it. Start with cartwheel foot in front. • Introduce the lunge position to begin each attempt. • Folded panel mat lengthwise. Stand at back, lunge on top with cartwheel foot, hands on the other end and kick over to land on floor. Use props for hand indicators. • Using two Velcro strips make an X. Partner up and cartwheel over each line around the X (figure 2)

Figure 2

• Cartwheel over jump rope hanging between two cones – adjust height as needed. • Make a wheel of ropes and cones with 4 ropes stuck in a cone in the center and 4 more cones around it with the other end of the rope in these cones. Vary the heights of the ropes for challenge. Cartwheel over each rope around the wheel. • Cartwheel over various blocks of different heights. • Stand a pit cube on each end of a folded panel mat. Cartwheel through the middle with hands on top of the panel mat and feet kicking over one of the cubes. Stack another cube on top if successful. • Use an incline beam – a floor beam with one end propped up on a block. Hands on the beam, hop over it sideways and back. Slide hands up higher and hop over again and back. As they move up the beam, they have to kick higher. • Cartwheel around the corners of an 8” mat. Draw a semi-circle on the corners of a landing mat with chalk. Hands on the corner, cartwheel over it all the way around the mat. • Tie one end of a rope to a handle of a spotting block to secure. Stretch out the rope

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and hold the other end at various heights as the children cartwheel over it. Keep challenging them to kick higher. • Make a tic tac toe mat with velcro strips. Cartwheel any way they want through the game. How many ways can you go? Lunge in one square, hands in the next and land in the last square. • Draw a giant snail shape on the carpet with chalk. Start in the middle, put hands on the line and cartwheel outward. As the snail unwinds they have to kick higher and further to land on the line. • Draw a giant clock on the carpet with chalk. Stand on the 12, reach to the 3, cartwheel and land on the 6, if you are a lefty. Cartwheel Between Things to work on straightening out the cartwheel and getting towards vertical • Place four pool noodles or speed bumps spaced apart. Let them cartwheel between the noodles. • Make a cartwheel cave by standing up two panel mats and put a Velcro strip down the middle. Cartwheel through the cave without hitting the sides. • Cartwheel across the colors of a panel mat to stretch out the cartwheel. • Put three hoops in a row. The first and third the same color. Lunge in the first, hands in the second and land in the third. Now go back the other way. Teachers should spot this so they practice both sides. • Place two velcro lines parallel and cartwheel between them. Move them closer! • Use one velcro line with hand placements on each side. Try to land with your feet on the line. OK, now they can cartwheel, give them a challenge! • Cartwheel with hands and feet on a line. • Cartwheel on the other side • Cartwheel with one hand on top of the other • Cartwheel on one arm • Cartwheel on far arm (opposite arm than foot) • Gallop, gallop and cartwheel • Skip, skip, cartwheel • Cartwheels in a row • Alternating cartwheels • Cartwheel chasse cartwheel Now you are ready to take your cartwheel to the BEAM!

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member services Update Member Advantage Did you know that your USA Gymnastics has more to offer than just access to the floor of USA Gymnastics sanctioned events? Read below to see if you are taking advantage of all your membership has to offer you! Professional/Jr. Professional Membership • Subscription to Technique magazine, the trade magazine of USA Gymnastics, featuring articles on technical aspects of the sport, rule updates, sports fitness updates and USA Gymnastics news. ($25 value) • Subscription to USA Gymnastics magazine, the official magazine of USA Gymnastics, featuring personality profiles of U.S. gymnasts, training tips, coverage of major competitions, information on gymnastics camps, merchandise, and more. ($19.95 value) • Complimentary access to the new USA Gymnastics University Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction Course. ($25 value) • Discounts on USA Gymnastics University educational courses and Congresses

• • • • • • • •

(up to $500 value) - Safety/Risk Management - Preschool Fundamentals - First Aid - Foundation Business Courses - National and Regional Congresses Seasonal discounts on apparel and merchandise sold through USA Gymnastics. 5% discount on technical materials sold through USA Gymnastics. USA Gymnastics membership card Member decal Monthly E-Newsletter Right to participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events Secondary accident insurance coverage at USA Gymnastics sanctioned events Portion of dues paid is submitted back to your state and region for financial support at the state and regional level.

Instructor Member Benefits • Subscription to Technique magazine, the trade magazine of USA Gymnastics, featuring articles on technical aspects of the sport, rule updates, sports fitness updates and USA Gymnastics news ($25 value) • Monthly E-Newsletter

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5% discount on technical materials sold through USA Gymnastics Seasonal discount on apparel and merchandise sold through USA Gymnastics online store USA Gymnastics membership card and Member decal Discounts on USA Gymnastics University educational courses and congresses (up to $500 value) - Safety/Risk Management - Preschool Fundamentals - First Aid - Foundation Business Courses - National and Regional Congresses

Why is Membership Important? Being a member of USA Gymnastics provides the members the ability to receive quality gymnastics education and the right to *participate in USA Gymnastics sanctioned events. But, it also supports gymnastics at the regional, state and grassroots level. The financial support received from USA Gymnastics members assist in the

growth, development, and implementation of new recreational gymnastics programs and education. This financial support also assists in the development, coordination and success of national team athletes from all six disciplines. Your membership and support is important to USA Gymnastics. Without members like you our success would be impossible. *Only Professional/Jr. Professional members are allowed access to floor of USA Gymnastics sanctioned events. Member Feedback USA Gymnastics is a member driven organization and we want to hear for YOU, the member. Please email us at membership@usagym.org with your thoughts and ideas with regards to your membership. What can we do to make your membership more valuable to you and your gymnastics career? We thank you in advance for taking the time to provide us with this most important feedback.

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Dates & Site: June 2-5, 2011 HP Field House – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Lake Buena Vista, Florida What is the USA Gymnastics Open Championships? USA Gymnastics is hosting a nationwide invitational for Women’s Levels 4-8. We have partnered with Disney Sports at the newly re-imagined ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex to combine an outstanding competition experience in a family-friendly atmosphere. This competition will feature both individual and club team champions for Prep-Op, Levels 4-8, and will crown an overall 2011 Club Team Champion. A National Elite Qualifier will also be conducted in conjunction with this event. How do I enter? Registration is available at www2.usagymnastics.org/ membership/club-group-processing.html. Note: You will need to register for the team competition in each level separately. The team fee will be applied to the first registered coach for each level. Tentative Schedule: Thursday, June 2 – Prep-Op (Division C and above; will follow Region 8 Prep-Op Rules), Level 4 Friday, June 3 – Levels 4 - 5 Saturday, June 4 – Levels 6 - 7 Sunday, June 5 – Levels 8 & Elite Qualifier The above is a tentative schedule only. Depending on your competition draw, we recommend you arrive Thursday morning and plan on departing Sunday/Monday morning, to allow you to take full advantage of Walt Disney World vacation package options.

Awards and Club Team Competition: Individual awards will be given for each age group in each session. Age groups will be established by dividing the athletes in each session into four approximately equal groups (determined by actual birth date). Club teams will be comprised of a minimum of three (3) gymnasts per club. The top three club team champions will be awarded in each session. Team scores will be determined by adding the top three scores in each event. The top three overall club team champions will be named at the conclusion of the event. Points will be awarded based upon the Team rankings per level in each session (1st place = 5 pts.; 2nd place = 3 pts.; 3rd place = 1 pt.) Accommodations: A variety of accommodation and vacation packages are available through National Travel Systems.

Disney’s All Star Sports Resort $99.00/night + Tax Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort $145.00/night + Tax Complimentary transportation included with accommodations includes: • Round Trip Airport Transfers • Transportation to Disney Theme Parks • Transportation from Resorts to competition venue For more information go to www.ntssportstravel.com

A finalized meet schedule will be available in April, 2011. (Equipment: AAI) Entry Fees: $50.00/gymnast – Prep-Op $75.00/gymnast – Levels 4-5-6 $75.00/gymnast – Levels 7-8 $15.00/Club Team per level Deadlines: Entry deadline is March 1, 2011

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

SPOTLIGHT

Want more information on America’s Camp Go to www.Americascamp.org

People Helping People

erry Nelson, Head Coach for Women’s Gymnastics at Southern Connecticut State University In New Haven, Conn., volunteers at a truly special coed camp called America’s Camp. America’s Camp in the Berkshires of Massachusetts is a fun, high quality, one-week, sleep away camp for children who lost a parent or sibling as a result of the attacks on September 11 and for children or siblings of firefighters and law enforcement officers lost in the line of duty at any time. “It is one of the most worthwhile things I have ever done,” said Nelson. “I am the Director of Gymnastics and Cheerleading at the camp and last year we had more than 220 campers and 40 staff, who were all 9/11 children. One of my staff lost her mom and grandmother that fateful day nine years ago. She was a camper for three seasons and was back as a counselor this year. With these kids growing up, next year will be the 10th year of the camp and also its last year.” Three camp directors, Jay Toporoff, Danny Metzger, and Jed Dorfman, part of Camp-Group, LLC, an organization of multiple camps, wanted

to make a difference in the lives of the children affected by the 9/11 tragedy. They came together and decided, “Let’s do what we do best for these children. Let’s offer a week of summer camp for them free of charge.” And so, America’s Camp was born. They knew they needed to be sensitive to grief issues, so they partnered with the Center for Grieving Children, who provided grief support and training for our staff. Nelson’s wife Joanne also volunteered at America’s Camp this past summer, helping kids make jewelry.

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

Name

State

Name

State

Name

State

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT’S NEW

Bross is one of 10 finalists for Women’s Sports Foundation’s Sportswoman of the Year 2009 world all-around silver-medalist Rebecca Bross of Plano, Texas, is one of 10 finalists for the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Sportswoman of the Year award. The winner, along with the Team of the Year recipient, will be announced at the 31st Annual Salute to Women in Sports awards gala on Tuesday, Oct. 12, 2010, in New York City. An impressive list of elite athletes from 20 different sports is vying for the evening’s top honors. Athletes were considered for the 2010 ballot based on their athletic achievements between August 1, 2009, and July 31, 2010. Bross, who trains at WOGA, has had an exceptional 2010, following her silvermedal finish in the all-around at the 2009 World Championships. The 17-year-old began 2010 by winning the Tyson American Cup. At the 2010 Pacific Rim Championships, she won the all-around title, along with gold medals for beam and floor and the silver medal for bars. Bross also anchored the women’s team that won the team gold medal at the Pac Rim. At the CoverGirl Classic, the tune-up for the Visa Championships, Bross won the title for bars. Although the Visa Championships held in August 2010 fell outside of the award’s timeframe, Bross became the U.S. F U N

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champion in the all-around, bars and beam, in addition to finishing second on floor. She was recognized at the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Female Athlete of the Month for May 2010.

Congratulations! Successful Gym Clubs using our program for over 13 years Gymnastics Village, Amherst, NH licensee since 1991 Enterprise Gymnastics & Cheer, Enterprise, AL licensee since1993 Tumble Bees, Nanuet, NY licensee since 1995 Elite School of Gymnastics & Dance, Millegeville, GA licensee since 1997

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USA Gymnastics has updated its official website address to www.usagym.org