Technique - Feb. 2012 - Vol. 32, #2

Understanding the Preschool Child Plus

St. Vincent Sports Performance– News on Knees FEBRUARY 2012 – VOL. 32 – #2

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events 2012 February 2–4 10–12 15–19 17–19 24–26

AUGUST

Winter Cup Challenge (M) Elite National Qualifier-Gliders (W) Rhythmic Invitational/Group Champs./Challenge Elite National Qualifier-WOGA (W) Winter Classic (TT)

Las Vegas, NV Covina, CA Colorado Springs, CO Plano, TX St. Petersburg, FL

Nastia Liukin Cup (W) AT&T American Cup (M/W) Kellogg’s Pacific Rim Championships (M/W/R/T) USA Gymnastics Collegiate Champs. (M) Elite Challenge (TT)

New York, NY New York, NY Everett, WA Colorado Springs, CO (TBD)

13–15 16–22 20–21 20–22

MaY

3–6 7 7–13 10–12 11–13 13 26 31–June 3

June

6–12 7–10 8–10 26–28 28–July1 28–July1

Women’s Level 9/10 Regionals Acro Gym. World Champs. & World Age Group Competition NCAA Men’s Gymnastics Championships NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships

Level 9 East/West Championships (W)

Various Sites Lake Buena Vista, FL Norman, OK Duluth, GA

Landover, MD/Boise, ID Marietta, GA Cincinnati, OH Hampton, VA (TBD) Hampton, VA Chicago, IL Lake Buena Vista, FL

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

JO National Championships (M) JO National Championships (W) Stars & Stripes Cup (TT) JO National Invitational Tournament (W) CoverGirl Classic (W) USA Gymnastics Open Championships (W)

JO National Championships/Invitational (R) Visa Championships (M/W) Region 4 Congress USA Gymnastics Rhythmic & Trampoline Championships USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show U.S. Olympic Team Trials–Gymnastics (M/W)

JuLY

5–11 T&T Junior Olympic Nationals 27– Aug. 12 Olympic Games (M,W,R,T)

Region 5 Congress National Gymnastics Day

2013 APRIL 12–14

APRIL

Region 2 Congress Region 6 Congress Region 8 Congress Region 7 Congress

September 14–16 22

March 2 3 16–18 23–24 30–Apr 1

24–26 10–12 10–12 17–19

MaY

2–5 9–11 12 31–June 2

June 7 – 9

Indianapolis, IN various locations

Women’s Level 9/10 Regionals

Various sites

Level 9 East/West Championships (W) JO National Championships (W) JO–NIT (W) 2013–20 JO Compulsory Master Workshop – East (W)

(TBD) (TBD) (TBD) Orlando, FL

2013–20 JO Compulsory Master Workshop – West (W)

Reno, NV

SEPTEMBER 13–15

Everett, WA Providence, RI Nashville, TN Baltimore, MD

Region 5 Congress

Columbus, OH

Lake Buena Vista, FL St. Louis, MO St. Louis, MO San Jose, CA San Jose, CA San Jose, CA

Long Beach, CA London, GBR

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

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation.

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TECHNIQUE • FEBRUARY 2012

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WA RI TN MD

IN ons

TECHNIQUE



an official publication of USA Gymnastics University

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2 • V O L U M E 3 2 • #2

f e at u r e s Publisher

Steve Penny Editor

Luan Peszek Graphic Designer

Jeannie Shaw

6 St. Vincent Sports Performance – Knee Injuries in Gymnastics

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8 Understanding the Preschool Child 20 Preschool Trampoline & Tumbling Product Ideas

tes

BD) BD) BD) FL

NV

OH

USA Gymnastics Board of Directors Chair: Peter Vidmar Vice-Chair: Paul Parilla Secretary: Gary Anderson Treasurer: Jim Morris 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

d e pa r t m e n t s 2 Event Schedule 4 Inside USA Gymnastics Message 26

Regional Congresses

28

What’s New

32

Member Service Update

34

Elite Committee Minutes

38

National Congress

44

Spotlight

46

Classified Ads

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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: 317-237-5050) or visit online @ www.usagym.org Subscription prices: U.S.– $25 per year; Canada/Mexico–$48 per year; all other foreign countries–$60 per year. If available, back issue single copies $4 plus postage/handling. All reasonable care will be taken, but no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited material; enclose return postage. Copyright 2011 by USA Gymnastics and TECHNIQUE. A­ll rights reserved. Printed by Sport Graphics, Indianapolis, IN. Member Services 1-800-345-4719 Unless expressly identified to the contrary, all articles, statements and views printed herein are attributed solely to the author and USA Gymnastics expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility thereof.

www.usagym.org Cover photo: Chase the Light Photography F E B R UMAARRYC H2 021021 • 1 •T ETCE HC HN NI QI QUUEE

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INSIDE INSIDE INSIDE USA

Gymnastics has put a great deal of time and planning into its 2012 Digital Strategy. There are so many opportunities to reach large numbers of people using the website, video, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. The digital world is exploding and USA Gymnastics wants to be out in front of the pack and leading the way.

There are five main areas we will focus on in 2012 in terms of digital media.

1) Behind the Team presented by AT&T. There will be numerous episodes created in 2012. These will focus on the USA Gymnastics events, athletes and coaches, and will help to better introduce our sport and personalities to a broad audience.

2) Social Media including Twitter, Facebook and YouTube will be a big part of our digital media strategy. Follow us to learn the latest news and updates and to communicate on a daily basis.

We also have plans for some fun promotions like Throwback Thursdays, Follow Fridays and the GK Elite/adidas Sunday Snapshot.

Facebook.com/usagymnastics; Twitter.com/usagym; YouTube.com/usagymnasticsorg 3) Website. Continued use of usagym.org as the prime source for gymnastics news, including social media, athlete, event, program, collegiate, education and industry content. Also use of usagymclub.com as the destination for coaches, club owners, parents and fans of the sport. This site has a Member Club locator to help parents find a club. The site also has an abundance of gymnastics-related articles, testimonials from others

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on how gymnastics has helped them in their lives and “Beams of Knowledge,” which utilizes the experts in our field on topics of interest to parents and athletes in gymnastics. Videos are created by psychologists, coaches, business owners, parents of athletes and others sharing tips that can make the journey in the sport even better. In addition, we are plannign a re-evolution of the USA Gymnastics mobile site to be more robust in content and aesthetics.

4) Events. Many pre and post-competition events and on-site promotions are planned surrounding our events including AT&T American Cup, Kellogg’s Pacific Rim, Visa Championships, and U.S. Olympic Trials. In addition, USA Gymnastics will utilize a mobile website, fan interaction, digital event program, live scoring, contests, games and quizzes at the upcoming events.

5) Innovation. Some unique projects including a social dashboard, sponsor initiatives, spirit promotions, and user generated content contests.

Hopefully many gymnastics clubs are embracing social media and have a plan in place for their businesses to take advantage of the increased attention on our sport in the Olympic year.

It is going to be a busy year filled with new innovations and ideas never before experienced at an Olympic Games and USA Gymnastics is leading the way.

See you in the Gym.

Steve Penny President & CEO

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James Bicos, MD

Board Certified, Fellowship Trained, Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon St. Vincent Orthopedics St. Vincent Sports Performance www.stvincentortho.com

G

ymnastics is a sport that requires grace, precision, and strength. In doing so, gymnasts place significant

stress on their bodies and place themselves in positions for potential bodily injury.

Due to the high torque and stress placed on the lower extremity during landings and dismounts, knee injuries can be very common. Among the knee injuries most commonly seen include: bone contusions, capsular tears, patellar (kneecap) dislocations, meniscal tears, and ligament tears (ACL tears).

when the knee

Bony contusions occur when

is placed into extreme

the two surfaces of the knee

positions, the capsule can tear.

joint (the femur and the

You have to be very careful in making

tibia) collide together. It’s as

this diagnosis because often times there

if someone punched you in

are other associated injuries with this.

your muscle, but it occurs to your bone. Because of the collision, it results in bony swelling and pain. If the collision is hard enough, the force will create a fracture – i.e. a broken bone.

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Sometimes

The patella, or kneecap, sits in a groove on the femur bone – like a train on a track. The function of the patella is to help provide a pulley to bend and extend the knee.

When gymnasts land in awkward positions or if the patella is directly hit by a bar or beam, the patella can dislocate off to the side. It usually dislocates towards the outside of the knee. Often times, it will spontaneously

The capsule is the bag-like

reduce back to its normal position, but if it does not

structure that encases the

reduce, then a manual reduction needs to be done.

knee. The reason we notice

Most gymnasts, after a patellar dislocation, can recover

knee swelling is because the

without surgery, but the rehab and time off are upwards

capsule fills up with fluid.

of three months.

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The meniscus of the knee is a piece of cartilage that sits between the femur and tibial bones. You have one on the inside and outside of the knee. They have a C-shape to them and function like a shock on a car – to absorb the loads going to the bones. Because they sit in between the bones, they can often get caught or pinched. This causes the meniscus to tear. We know from many years of research that the meniscus helps to prevent arthritis in the knee. So the more you have of it, the better. For this reason, especially in younger gymnasts, we try to repair the meniscus. The surgery can be done arthroscopically (through a small camera placed in the knee).

Sometimes though, the meniscus tears in such a way that it is irreparable.

In this case, the edges of the tear are just

unstable. The most common ligament tear is the ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tear.

Without an ACL, you cannot cut, pivot, or land.

If the gymnast is serious about continuing his/ her career, the ACL tear needs to be surgically fixed. Due to the anatomy of the ACL, it cannot be sutured back together. The only way to fix it is to use another ligament as a graft. Recovery from an ACL reconstruction takes six months before the athlete is allowed back into the gym.

Luckily, most injuries sustained during gymnastics are minor and take one to two weeks to recover from. The list above includes the most common diagnoses that we see, and it is not inclusive of all the

snipped

away.

If

the

meniscus is repaired, the recovery time is upwards of four to five months before high impact activities can be done. If the meniscus is just trimmed, the recovery time is about six weeks. Just remember, you want to keep as much meniscus as you can! So just because the recovery time is shorter, does not mean that is the best long-term option.

Ligament tears of the knee are a devastating injury because without the ligaments, the knee becomes

subtle injuries that could diagnosis is based on a

occur. The final thorough history of the

injury, a physical exam, and any other ancillary studies requested by the physician. Any injury in question should always be evaluated by a trained physician.

St. Vincent Hospital and St. Vincent Sports Performance in Indianapolis, Ind., are official service providers to USA Gymnastics. Call 317-415-5747 or visit sportsperformance.stvincent.org.

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Beth Gardner, Heart of Texas Gymnastics USA Gymnastics National Instructor for the R102 Preschool Fundamentals Course

Developing Your Teaching Philosophy: Why Are You Coaching Gymnastics Anyway?

Before we get into the developmental stages of the children with whom we work, let’s talk about us. I query any coach who is in my gym about why they are in this field. Likewise, I query the reader, “What makes you tick as a coach? What is the driving force that guides you as you work with the children in your gym?”

Is it the BIG BUCKS we all make? Probably not. So, why are you here?

This is an important question because it leads each of us toward developing our teaching philosophy. A teaching philosophy is the core belief system that guides us each day as we coach our classes. It defines each of us and develops who we are as

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Photos by Chase the Light Photography

coaches. Some of us may be driven to produce Olympians.

If we are, then our teaching philosophy would reflect that and our training techniques would follow. Some of us may be driven to teach children that activity is fun. If that is the driving force for a coach, it would probably be reflected through games and activities that are designed to keep class fun.

For me, my coaching philosophy is very simple: “To do whatever is best for the child.”

My philosophy guides me as I confront difficult moments, or as I train a child through fear, or even as I deal with a difficult parent. All I have to ask myself is, “What is best for this child?” Then, I can put my ego, the parent’s ego and any other mitigating factors aside and simply make the decision I feel is best for the benefit of the child.

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Within my teaching philosophy, there are implied goals: } Gaining my students’ trust } Staying within their comfort zones } Being honest } Listening to them } Setting ego aside } Never being afraid to say, “I’m sorry” } Putting THEM first With these goals in mind, I must make it a priority to understand each individual child with whom I am working.

I need to know his or her developmental level, skill level, learning style and other things that make him or her “tick.”

These things provide the foundation from which I can work and give me the guidelines I need as I work with each child.

So, when I am coaching a preschool child, it is important to understand early childhood development and the quirks that come with it.

The Key to Coaching Preschool Children is Understanding their Developmental stages

If we understand the child’s perception of self and stage of physical and mental development, we will better understand children’s behaviors. Preschool behavior is oftentimes directly related to their stage of self-understanding.

Given a strong understanding of these concepts, we can step out of the moment and watch their development in action.

Rather than becoming frustrated because a 2-year-old won’t stand in line, we can develop our lesson plans according to the 2-year-old developmental stage, making our lives easier and class time much more pleasant for all concerned: child, parent and coach.

This diagram represents the child’s perception of self from birth to 1 year. During this time, the child perceives himself as one and the same as his parent. There is no break between the two. They are one unit in the child’s mind.

During this first year, the child’s level of thought is at the NAMING stage.

They are learning the names of objects, people and things.

For example, “Mommy,” “Daddy,” “car” and “tree.”

Songs like “Tony Chestnut” and “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” are appropriate for this age group because they help the children name their body parts. Teaching the names of body positions such as straight body, tuck, pike, straddle, hollow body, arch, scale, stick and finish are also appropriate because it is simply naming or labeling.

Other topics that are appropriate to include are colors, shapes, numbers and letters. Flash cards, puzzles and educational toys designed to help in the naming process are great to add to the Parent and Child class because they can provide busy stations between skill stations, adding to the overall value and experience of the class.

Around the age of 2, the child is starting the gradual process of developing a stronger individual identity. They are still very closely attached to the parent or guardian, perceiving themselves as inextricably linked. This is why a 2-year-old has no fear. They perceive their parent as being omnipresent– always there to protect them. It explains why a 2-year-old will shotgun out into a street or dash across a busy gymnastics floor. They have no fear because in their mind, “Mommy is always there, and Mommy will always keep me safe.” The 2-year-old is very self-directed. Much of that comes from the belief that they are always safe, and they can, therefore, venture out into the world unaffected by danger. To them, “Mom” is like their guardian angel or the tail that follows

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...Preschool Child them wherever they go. That’s why parental participation is so important to the class. Keeping the parents involved is extremely important. Otherwise, a 2-year-old class can be compared to herding cats since they are always ready and more than willing to dash out into the world.

Because the child is still “linked” to the parent, this is a good time to introduce separation games. This allows the child to learn how to leave his or her parent for brief periods of time, knowing that they can return to the parent quickly and prepares them for the next step: class without “Mom.” One of my favorite separation games involves placing a bucket of balls on one side of the floor and having the parents sit on the other side of the floor. The children take a ball from the bucket and run to their parent or guardian to take the ball to them, then return to the bucket for another ball. The kids always love taking something to “Mom”. We often empty a full laundry basket of balls during this game.

I like this game because it not only teaches the children to tolerate short separations from the parent, but it also provides a “brain break” from class. We use “brain breaks” when it becomes obvious that the children are hitting saturation point with structured activity and need to romp and stomp for a few minutes, and simply enjoy being 2.

At this point, they are in the DESCRIBING stage of thought development, i.e. “pretty Mommy,” “strong Daddy,” “blue car,” “tall tree.” So, as the children take the balls to their

big person, they can also define the ball as “red ball,” “green ball,” or “yellow ball.”

During this time, it is also very important to educate the parents about the developmental levels of their child. Children, unfortunately, do not come with owner’s manuals. Parents are not always fully equipped to understand the developmental stages their children are experiencing, mentally and physically. So, explaining the activities to the parents and helping them understand why the particular activities are important will also help the parents to understand their own child better.

One of the most common questions I hear from the parent is, “Oh my gosh, my son can’t jump on both feet on the trampoline. Is there something wrong with my kid?”

I actually LOVE it when the parents ask me that. It gives me the opportunity to explain to them that myelination, the sheathing of the nerves, does not complete until around age 5. Myelin insulates the nerves, creating direct pathways for neurological activity. This affects coordination. Until myelination is complete, there will be slow neuro-response times and spastic movement.

There is no fighting physiological development like myelination. It happens when it is supposed to happen.

We cannot change that. We CAN, however, give the children activities and movement to help them coordinate their movement as their bodies are ready for the movement. In other words, we can prepare them, and they will be better able to learn movement when their bodies are actually able to do the movement.

At the Describing stage of thought, it is apropriate to ask the child to put the red balls into the red hoop, and the green, blue and yellow balls into the hoops that match their colors. it would also be appropriate to ask the child, “Do you want to roll down the red mat or the blue mat?”

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...Preschool Child

First, they are very easily distracted because they are noticing the world around them as they compare themselves against this giant ocean of a world. So, they are noticing how high the ceiling is, how blue the floor is, how tall the bars are, and they are watching the other kids in the gym to see what they are doing. Essentially, they are noticing the world around them and outside of themselves. It is helpful to face their rotations and activities away from the rest of the gym in order to eliminate as many distractions as possible.

Second, as they are noticing their environment and how big the world around them is, they have moments of epiphany.

They may be trucking along just fine, watching the other kids and looking at the gym, and suddenly realize, “Wait a minute....I’m WAY out here in the middle of this HUGE gym, and my MOMMY is WAY over THERE!!!!!” At that moment, they often experience panic with the realization that they are a lone island floating about this huge ocean of a world.

When the panic sets in, they tend to say things like, “Can I go talk to my mommy? I need to talk to my mommy.” They may start waving at their mommy to get her attention, or they may simply shotgun away from the class to head straight to “Mom’s” arms. These behaviors are all indicative that the realization of self and comparative stage of thought have combined to cause a hurricane of emotion. They are not “being bad” or “misbehaving–” they are simply being 3.

The 3-Year-Old Child is at a Fascinating Developmental Stage.

At the age of 3, there are several things going on developmentally. This age group is absolutely fascinating to watch as they blossom into new little individuals. At the same time, since there is so much going on in the 3-yearold mind, it can be a challenging age group with which to work.

Around age 3, the child is starting to separate from the parent, mentally. They are beginning to understand that they are separate entities from the parent. At the same time, they are placing themselves into the environment, because they are reaching the COMPARATIVE stage of thought. All of this combines to create a whole dynamic unique to the age group.

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When we see the first signs of the 3-year-old meltdown happening in our gym, we stop, walk over to the parent observation area and take a “hug break.” It’s a very simple solution to the difficult class management problem of keeping the children on task. All they need to do is simply touch base with “Mom” in order to regain their confidence that everything will be okay. Once they have done that, they are ready to adventure back out into the world, and they are more willing to stay with the class.

At the start of the school year or session, we may have to take two or three hug breaks during a class, but as the year progresses, we generally only have to take one hug break during a class. We combine hug breaks with water breaks and head back to the planned activities.

Another really amazing aspect of the 3-year-old mind is how enmeshed in fantasy it is. A 3-year-old cannot separate fantasy from reality. To them, fantasy IS reality. When they tell their fantastic stories, they believe they are true.

Fantasy is a very important part of the 3-year-old world and, likewise, a very important part of a

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3-year-old class. Allowing their imaginations to be a positive part of the class gives each class its own personality and dynamic. Role playing is a great activity for this age group.

Learning styles Another important aspect of the 3-year-old mind is that around that age, children begin developing and refining individual learning styles. While there are seven different learning styles, as identified by Dr. Howard Gardner in his book, Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences, during the early childhood development years, children generally fall into one of three groups: Bodily-kinesthetic, Linguistic (Auditory) or Visual Spatial.

Kinesthetic learners are particular to learning through doing, touching and feeling. They need body shaping, textures and activities in which they can be active participants. We are all kinesthetic by nature, and our sport is a very kinesthetic activity. So, kinesthetic cues are important to all of us.

Auditory learners learn through hearing, discussing and description. They learn best when they can talk things out with their instructors or peers and they take verbal directions very well. Girls tend to be predominantly auditory learners.

Visual Spatial learners need to see things and have a strong sense of visualization.

Cues such as targets for landing spots and hand placements, pictures and demonstrations are very good tools for teaching the visual learner. Boys are prone to be visual learners.

Since the 3-year-old child is starting to develop his/her learning style and these three learning styles are the predominant ones for this age group, it is important that we include cues that address each of these learning styles in our lesson plans for this age group.

Around Four to Five Years of Age, Children reach the Analyzing Stage of Thought Between age 4 to 5, children understand that they are separate individuals from their parents. So, they are starting to develop self-esteem as individuals.

At the same time they are now able to perceive differences. They have hit the ANALYZING stage of thought. In their gym class, they can now discern when they are performing a skill well or if someone else is doing it better. In other words, they can look at a cartwheel and tell if someone’s legs are bent or straight, and they apply this discernment to themselves, comparing their performance to that of others. So, they know if they are not as efficient at a skill as their peers. For this reason, it is very important that we never compare children to each other. They are doing a dandy job of that for themselves.

It is also important that we never underestimate the intelligence of our students. They know when we are being “straight” with them. With their cognitive development in mind, we have to be extremely careful and very specific with our praise. We must be honest with them in our assessments of their skills. If we aren’t, they will know that we are sugar-coating the truth or even perceive that we are lying to them.

Think of it this way, if you have kids who cannot land on their feet in their cartwheel and they crumple to the floor over and over again while their classmates are landing beautiful

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...Preschool Child cartwheels, how honest will they think you are if all you say to them is “GOOD JOB?” They have discernment. They know if their cartwheel is good or not; They know if their classmates are better than they are at performing the skills.

So, if you simply say, “Good job,” they will perceive that you are not being honest with them.

Still, coaches are caught between the proverbial rock and hard place because we want to be positive with our students, providing success and fun. This is the age group when we have to become even more vigilant in providing small windows of success.

Why? Simply put, failure is not fun.

The number one reason children participate in sports or other extra-curricular activities is to have fun. Conversely, when an activity ceases to be fun, they quit and go to other activities that meet the criteria of “fun.” We want them to be successful and perceive themselves as successful, because failure isn’t fun. Still, we have to be honest with them because they have discernment. We have to give correction or we are not teaching. So, how do we achieve both?

The Compliment Sandwich One of the best tools for achieving our goal is the “Compliment Sandwich.” The Compliment Sandwich consists of a positive comment, a correction, and another positive comment. This allows us to find something the child has done correctly, providing a success for them.

It also allows for correction in areas that need improvement, followed by a positive comment, providing encouragement for further improvement.

So, even if a child is crumpling to the floor as he lands his cartwheel, we might be able to say, “Wow, your arms were much straighter that time. Now, let’s work on landing on your feet. I’m really glad you held your head off the floor that time. Good job on that!” Such a statement would be perceived as honest,

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but positive. It also gives correction to guide teaching without the child perceiving attack.

Skill Deconstruction Another tool we can use to avoid failure and provide for success is skill deconstruction. If we break the skills into the fundamental elements and provide drills or activities to teach those fundamental elements, we give our students small pieces of the skill at which they can become proficient. Every time the child feels successful at an activity, he will start to raise the bar of self-expectation on his own. He will become more willing to try the harder activities once he feels successful at the fundamental activities.

Providing Choice Providing choice in skill difficulty also helps. For example, if the event rotation is beam, provide different heights of beam the child can choose from. If a child is not very confident, she may choose to use a velcro beam or floor beam. As that child gains confidence and raises the bar of self-expectation, she may want to use the medium beam.

Giving those choices to the children allows for them to feel successful at the level of difficulty where they are comfortable.

The Last Level of Thought We Will Address is ABSTRACTING. ABSTRACTING is the ability to envision.

Sometime between the ages of 4 and 8, children gain the ability to use abstract thought. An example of using abstract thought in coaching might be, “Paint a rainbow with your legs as you cartwheel.”

Once a child has gained the ability to abstract, she can picture something in her head. So, she can imagine the rainbow painted with her straight legs while performing a cartwheel. It is appropriate to use abstract descriptions for this age group.

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Ron & Joan Ganim

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...Preschool Child HUMOR This same age group, around 5 years old, is also developing a sense of humor. They love riddles and jokes. They are often very silly and they love laughter. Laughter is one of the keys to keeping them engaged.

Allow for the children’s sense of humor, and give them laughter.

Make class FUN! Laugh with them. PLAY with them. Let them have moments of silliness.

The Emergence of Pessimism While this age group loves humor, their level of development is also conducive to the development of self-doubt. Children around 5 years old have gained the sense of self, can analyze their own performances and realize that they can fail. This sometimes translates into a new emergence of pessimism. Signals that a child is experiencing emergence of pessimism are often the sudden expressions like “I can’t.”

When a child who has progressed well and seems welladapted suddenly starts saying “I can’t,” falls into fits of tears unexpectedly, or refuses to participate, it’s possible that they are experiencing the emergence of pessimism.

In other words, they are fearing failure.

If this happens, it is more important than ever that they experience success. The more we provide small windows of success and positively encourage them to push forward, the sooner they will snap out of this stage of self-doubt. Using skill deconstruction, compliment sandwiches and unconditional acceptance are the best tools for helping the child regain confidence.

Once they regain their footing, they will get past this stage and continue progressing.

It is incredibly frustrating to parents when their child suddenly loses their confidence to attempt things that they had previously been willing to try. I have seen parents who are

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frustrated by this stage, often called the “delayed terrible 2’s,” push their child too hard. The parent may know their child is capable of performing a skill or activity but may not understand the emotions their child is experiencing. So, they will often tell the child, “Just do it.” This often creates a battle of wills between the parent and child.

Helping the parent to understand that their child has developed the ability to understand failure helps the parent cope as well. Anytime I have a child going through this stage, I simply explain to the parent what I think is going on and the steps I am going to take to help their child get through it. Working in conjunction with the parent, the period of time the child experiences the emergence of pessimism can be cut shorter than it might otherwise last.

Turning “I Can’t” into “I Can!” Generally speaking, I find that when a child says, “I can’t,” it means one of three things: } “I don’t understand what you are asking of me.” } “I’m afraid I’m going to get hurt.” } “I’m afraid I’m going to fail.”

The child may feel one of these emotions, but they may not be able to verbalize their emotions. They may not understand how to tell their coach what is bothering them simply because they can’t define it for themselves.

One of the ways, I have found to help them turn their “I can’t” into an “I’ll try” or “I can,” is by giving them the words to define their emotions. It goes something like this, “Susie, I see that something is bothering you. Can you tell me why you don’t want to try this skill?”

Sometimes she may be able to tell me, but if she stands there with a bewildered expression on her face, I will give her the words.

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...Preschool Child “Do you understand what to do? Would you like me to show you?”

“Are you afraid that you may fall and get hurt? I can hold you the whole time and help you do it. You will feel my hands.”

“Are you afraid that you may not be able to do it the first time? That’s okay because that’s why I’m here, to help you learn.”

Additional Resources: Please visit the USA Gymnastics

Online Store at usagym.sportgraphics.biz for the opportunity to purchase the KAT and Movement Education Lesson Plan Development (MELPD) work books.

You can also find more information like this by taking the R101 Preschool Fundamentals Theory Course. Visit usagymnasticsuniversity.org to register for this online course.

See experts’ comments on pg. 20

Once I give the child the words to define what is bothering her, she can pinpoint it for me. Then, I know how to address the problem better and help her get past the particular fear.

Remember Your Goal As I step onto the floor each day, I have to remind myself of my goal. I want to be the best coach I can be for each child. I want them to love the sport of gymnastics as much as I love it. I want each child to leave my gym feeling better about themselves than when they arrived. So, there are a few things to remember: } } }

}

}

}

Always adhere to your teaching philosophy.

Teach within the comfort zones of the children.

Remember the developmental stages, design lesson plans to meet those stages and teach age-appropriate skills.

Keep activities simple enough that they can achieve success, but provide opportunity for challenge so they can gain more.

Laugh. Have fun.

Remember how it feels to be a child. Play with them.

MOST OF ALL, LOVE THEM UNCONDITIONALLY. Photo by Marvin Sharp

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Let’s Hear from the Preschool Experts USA Gymnastics University provides live and online courses. Let’s get to know some of the National Instructors who teach these courses as they share additional gymnastics tips.

Linda Thorberg

National Instructor for R102 Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (HOTPS)

All children learn differently. The most effective teacher will use several types of learning styles when instructing the class. The “Tell, Show, Do” method will give all children enough information to get started.

In as few words as possible, explain the activity (auditory learners will understand this). Next, demonstrate it yourself

or with another child (this will help visual learners). Finally, assist each child with spotting them through the action, or get them all started and circulate around to help each (Kinesthetic method for those who need to feel the action).

Tell, Show, Do! To review, ask them questions to see who was paying attention, like, “What do I do over here?”

Michael Taylor

National Instructor for U101 Safety and Risk Management and R102 Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (HOTPS)

Helping children in a gymnastics class learn life skills can be very rewarding. Two children racing for Continued on pg. 22

Preschool Trampoline and Tumbling Product Ideas Something new and fresh for your program that will bring revenue and excitement to your gym. Start 2012 by adding the New Tumble Bug Preschool Trampoline and Tumbling Program. The best way to build a great base for your NEW trampoline and tumbling competitive team.

Order now at http://usagym.sportgraphics.biz/ Tumble Bug Matching Cards Item Number: 2434 Price: $40.00

Tumble Bug Coloring Pages CD Item Number: 2431 Price: $20.00

Make cognitive thinking part of your tumbling rotation. This set of matching cards is designed to go along with your theme for the week. Have students go through the tumbling obstacle course and when they complete their rotation, there is a matching wall just waiting for them to pair up some interesting matches. This is a perfect time to talk and learn. What do they see? Why is it the same? Why is it different? They think they are playing while you know they are learning.

Would you like something to help educate the parents of your preschool students. Let’s help make them part of the learning circle by using, Tumble Bug color pages. These pages focus on skills learned during class time safety in the gym and at home and life skills we learn during class time. Each week you can send your student’s home with a Tumble Bug color page that highlights the gymnastics skills, life skills orsafety topics we learn during class time. Encourage parents to spend time with their child with a little Tumble Bug color fun.

Make cognitive thinking part of your tumbling rotation. This set of matching cards is designed to go along with your theme for the week. Have students go through the tumbling obstacle course and when they complete their rotation, there is a matching wall just waiting for them to pair up some interesting matches. This is a perfect time to talk and learn. What do they see? Why is it the same? Why is it different? They think they are playingwhile you know they are learning. Order print and laminate!

Tumble Bug Teacher Tips CD Item Number: 2432 Price: $20.00 Need a little help motivating and inspiring your preschool staff. This 15 week set of teacher tips focuses each week on one trampoline skill and one tumbling skill along with a teach tip about safety or learning styles for preschool age children. Each week also contains the positive word of the week. Copy and post each week in your staff’s roll book as a constant reminder to learn, be safe and be positive.

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Tumble Bug Color Coded Lesson Plan CD Item Number: 2430 Price: $20.00 Order and print your own Lesson plans. A full set of color-coded lesson plans with rotations for trampoline, tumbling. A perfect time class starter with stretch time ideas and go home activity forevery class time. This CD does the work for you, just print out the plans and you are prepared for a new Tumble Bugadventure each week.

Photo by Larry Gibson

Tumble Matching Card CD Item Number: 2433 Price: $20.00

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Photo by Larry Gibson

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...Preschool Experts the single yellow hoop is a teachable moment. Preschool instructors should always be looking for teachable moments. They reach it simultaneously and start pulling on it, yelling “MINE!” If there is a safety concern (i.e. the children begin to push or shove) it may be necessary to physically intervene immediately. However, you have just been presented with a very important “teachable moment” that could benefit everyone involved – you, the two children involved as well as the children and parents observing the situation. Resist the impulse to get involved and resolve the situation for the children.

Provide them with guidance only when necessary. Remember that our ultimate goal is to help the children learn how to take care of themselves – give them the opportunity to figure things out for themselves!

Follow the 5 steps to resolve conflict: Approach – Be available, but don’t intervene too soon. If there is no further conflict, if the children are able to resolve the issue themselves, no further action is necessary. If the children are not able to reach a mutually acceptable solution, it may be necessary to help them understand their feelings. Give them the tools to articulate what they are going through, (You look angry, You look sad…)

Define the Problem – Describe the scene, reflect what the children have said, without judgement and without solutions, (It looks like you both want the yellow hoop) Gather Data – Ask questions without blame or fault, open communication, (What do you think would be fair?)

Generate Alternatives – What are they going to do to solve their problem? Facilitate options; hopefully teach the bully compassion and teach the victim assertiveness.

Follow Through – Sometimes you just have to take charge, but you just demonstrated a model of conflict resolution.

Jeff Lulla National Instructor for U101 Safety and Risk Management, R102 Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (HOTPS) and R103 School Age: Hands on Training (HOTSA)

Safety while teaching gymnastics is always important, but more so when teaching preschool age students. Consider that for many preschoolers, their first gymnastics class may be the first lesson of any type in their young lives. They may not know how to take turns, follow teacher’s directions, or cooperate with other children in their class. Plus, there are other unique safety concerns pertaining to their small hands, large heads (in relation to their body), and soft bones that Concludes on pg. 24

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every preschool age instructor should know about. The USA Gymnastics Preschool Fundamentals courses (R101 and R102) provide the training and mentoring to help make learning fun and successful for the students, while enhancing the safety awareness of instructors. I highly recommend every instructor take this course.

Lynn Moskovitz-Thompson National Instructor for R102 Preschool Fundamentals: Hands on Training (HOTPS) and Director of Educational Services for USA Gymnastics

Good Communication is key with teaching children. Taken from the U100 Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction online course are tips for “Giving Clear Instructions.”

• Gain athletes attention

• Speak clearly and slowly using understandable words (when working with younger children give only one or two instructions at a time.)

• Make statements, not questions where a child may have a choice in action

Photo by Larry Gibson

...Preschool Experts

• Use demonstrations; have a student demonstrate (spot if needed) • Verify that the children understand • Say what you want the children to do, not what you don’t want them to do.

• Get and keep good eye contact

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Photo by Larry Gibson

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Presents the

2012 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 Regional Committee. Your attendance supports your region! We look forward to seeing you there!

REGIONAL CONGRESS EDUCATION

Sessions covering the following areas and varied by region Coaches Education – Sessions covering popular topics for the developmental through elite gymnastics coach in all disciplines.

Recreational Education – A recreational track covering programs for tots through teens; be the best instructor in your gym!

Business Education – Sessions covering marketing, managing your business, staff retention and other related topics.

date/site Region 1 Hosting National Congress and Olympic Trials Region 2 Everett, WA

August 24 – 26

Leading Edge Gymnastics

Region 4 St. Louis, MO

June 8 – 10

St. Louis Marriott Union Station

Region 5 Indianapolis, IN

September 14–16

Indianapolis Marriott Downtown

Region 6 Providence, RI

August 10 –12

The Westin Providence

Region 7 Baltimore, MD August 17 – 19

Baltimore Marriot Inner Harbor at Camden Yards

Region 8 Nashville, TN

Sheraton Music City Hotel

August 10 – 12

For more details or to register please visit us at www.usagym.org

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 / Suite 404 Lubbock, TX 79424 Toll Free: 1-888-603-8747; Main Line: 806-794-3135 Email: sportsinfo@nationaltravelsystems.com website: www.ntssportstravel.com

Judges Education – Sessions covering compulsory, optional and elite judging criteria and technique.

Other Education – Sessions covering sports science, psychology and more.

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WHAT’S NEW NEW NEW New USA Gymnastics Member Benefit!

If you are a USA Gymnastics Member Club you will receive the ZIPTime Clock FREE for one year in 2012.

ZIPTime Clock is a software program designed specifically for gymnastics clubs to help owners save money and manage their employee hours. It works on Windows or Mac OSX. No internet is needed but a printer would be helpful. The cost is normally $120 for one year, however 2012 USA Gymnastics Member Clubs receive their first year free! There is no obligation to continue service.

For more information on this service go to www.ZipTimClock.com or email Tom Forster at Tom@ZipTimeClock.com

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WHAT’S NEW NEW NEW

Be Prepared forthe

Olympic Boom!

USA

Brand new, high definition television

Gymnastics is proud to launch its first-ever, high definition national television advertising campaign. In order to help commercials available to USA jumpstart grassroots marketing for clubs leading to the 2012 Olympic Games in London, USA Gymnastics has produced two professionallyGymnastics Member Clubs now! made commercials – one aimed at girls and the other at boys – to help promote the sport of gymnastics and its benefits to young athletes in the Olympic year!

The commercials are available free of charge for Member Clubs to embed on their websites and social media channels.

• Member Clubs can purchase one high definition commercial for $100 or both commercials for $150!

• Commercials include time at the end of the ad for clubs to add their own information, such as contact information and logo.

• Commercials can be shown on local TV stations or at a local venue, like a movie theater.

To download the commercial order form and place your order today, visit www.usagym.org/commercials.

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member services Update

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK SCREENING EXPANDED TO INSTRUCTOR MEMBERS USA Gymnastics has implemented policy updates for

effect immediately for new members

instructor membership and for course certificates within

and upon renewal for current members.

USA Gymnastics University.

USA Gymnastics University has a new policy regarding

Beginning January 1, 2012, instructor members who

certificates for course completion.

are 18 years of age and older will be required to go

Gymnastics members, who are in good standing and

through criminal background screening.

Instructor

18 years of age and older, may print certificates after

members are an important part of the development

successfully completing courses in USA Gymnastics

of the sport of gymnastics and a vital part of the

University. Non-members will receive a letter indicating

professional membership. To help offset the costs of

they completed the specific course.

the background screening, the annual fee for instructor members has dropped to $30. This change is part of USA Gymnastics’ ongoing efforts to promote a safe environment for its athlete members and goes into

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Current USA

USA Gymnastics will continue to upgrade its policies and procedures to better serve its members and the sport.

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MINUTES MINUTES E L I T E

WOMEN’S PROGRAM committee meeting December 15, 2011 Conference Call

The meeting was called to order at 2:00 p.m. by Chairman, Tom Koll I. Roll Call Administrative Committee Chair........... Kathy Ostberg JO Committee Chair........................... Tom Koll Technical Committee Chair.................. Cheryl Hamilton International Elite Committee Chair....... Steve Rybacki VPP.................................................. Kathy Kelly JOPD................................................ Connie Maloney DPA.................................................. Rachel Brazo

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II. XCel Jurisdiction The committee discussed the XCel Program and made the following recommendation.

Recommendation that the XCel Program be included in the JO Program.

Motion Koll Second Hamilton PASSED The committee discussed “affiliation rules” for “officials” and tabled the issue until the spring meeting. The sub-committees are requested to discuss the issue.

Motion to Adjourn

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USA Gymnastics University School of Business offers a variety of ONLINE courses The School of Business has recently reduced course fees online to $29.

The School of Business has also added the NEW B202 Creating an Outstanding Customer Care Culture to the course catalog. This elective course is perfect for your entire staff.

Now is a perfect time to log on to a School of Business Online course!

Check out additional offerings in the business course catalog at usagymnasticsuniversity.org The Business Foundations Series are a progressive set of six (6) courses designed specifically for owners, directors, and office managers. The course series is designed to inform, enlighten, stimulate thoughtful internal dialogue, and provide a consistent path for business knowledge and development.

Why these courses are important for key staff:

As employees progress in levels of responsibility, they will find it easier to do a great job if they are aware of the factors that go into doing a great job! Career opportunities really open up when one arms himself with the business systems knowledge to succeed.

B402 Business Foundations: This Advanced Leadership course is the second in a series of two levels of Leadership Training Courses. B402 requires completion and submission of a 12-question Culminating Essay.

B401 Business Foundations: This course finishes the work in the areas of Management, Marketing, People, Information, Finance, Facilities, Risk and Inspiration.

B302 Business Foundations: This course returns to more details and examples in the areas of Management, Marketing, People, Information, Finance, Facilities, Risk and Inspiration.

B301 Business Foundations: This Leadership Toolkit course is the first in a series of two levels of Leadership Training Courses.

The information and knowledge in B202 CREATING AN OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER CARE CULTURE: the School of Business foundation This course covers customer service basics, raising the customer service bar and courses builds sequentially from the future of customer service. the previous course(s).

The entire series is a progression of B201 Business Foundations: building blocks to Goes deeper into the areas of Management, Marketing, People, Information, business knowledge.

Finance, Facilities, Risk and Inspiration.

B101 Business Foundations: A great foundation, giving a quick overview of the children’s activity industry, then providing a “systems overview” in the areas of Management, Marketing, People, Information, Finance, Facilities, Risk and Inspiration.

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UNDERSTANDING THE UNIVERSITY

Confused by the Course Catalog? Let us Explain –

By Lynn Moskovitz

USA Gymnastics University Course Catalog is a list of courses available for required and/or elective credit in the university.

You will choose a school of study. A full list of courses available can be found at usagymnasticsuniversity.org.

Courses are organized by the school. You can identify school of study by the first letter (i.e., U, R, W), and, generally, the level of the course by the following three (3) numbers (i.e., 100, 200, 300).

U: University General Course Work R: Recreational Gymnastics Specific Courses W: Women's Artistic Program Specific Courses M: Men's Artistic Program Specific Courses B: Business Specific Courses T: Trampoline & Tumbling Program Specific Courses G: Group Gymnastics/Gymnastics for All Program Specific Courses Y: Rhythmic Program Specific Courses A: Acrobatic Program Specific Courses J: Judging Specific Course All courses that have been offered prior to the release of the university still contain the same content, only a course number (for easy reference) has been added to the course title.

want to get started in the university but where?

Start with U100:

Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction.

This is an online course that you can access at your leisure. It is free to ALL Members and it is fabulous.

This is the required course for entering the University.

Follow with U101: Safety/Risk Management. This

course is offered both online and live and is a requirement for Professional Membership.

Continue with U102: First Aid. This is a general course

required for certification in School of Competitive Gymnastics and School of Recreational Gymnastics. USA Gymnastics has recently lowered the fee of this course to a low $15 making education and certification that much more affordable.

Additional coursework will be determined by what school of study you are pursuing certifications in. Review the specific requirement for certification at www.usagymansticsuniversity.org.

Did you know... experienced instructors, coaches and owners can Pre-Place themselves in USA Gymnastics University just by filling out the preplacement application found online?

APPLY NOW! Did you know...

USA Gymnastics is offering a new course this spring? W200 Development Coaches Course: Hands on Training (HOTD). This is a live course for Level 1–4 women’s artistic coaches. It is a required course for the School of Competitive: Women’s. Get started now with your certification by viewing upcoming live courses.

LIVE COURSE SCHEDULE NEW! W200 – Development Coaches Course: Hands-on Training (HOTD) March 17 Everett, WA April 15 Longwood, FL

schedule

R102 – Preschool Fundamentals: Hands-on Training (HOTPS) March 16 Tampa, FL

NEW! R103 – School Age/Recreational: Hands-on Training (HOTSA) March 17 Tampa, FL

To register for a course, visit the USA Gymnastics website at www.usagymnasticsuniversity.org.

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

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E H T ST R E ER! O B F & V S U ST S E IN E ES O J IGG GR B ON C

REGISTER NOW for the 2012

National Congress & Trade Show!

48th Annual USA Gymnastics National Congress & Trade Show Held in conjunction with 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials–Gymnastics June 29 – July 1, 2012 San Jose Convention Center–San Jose, California

Expect

addCertification y it rs e iv n U ne 28 mnastics • USA Gy Thursday, Ju n o ld e h e b will day, on courses ke place Fri ta l il w s re ss lectu July 1 • Congre ugh Sunday, June 29 thro tracks of ture 15 full a fe l ill not il w y a lines and w ip c • Each d is d 6 ll om a mpetition education fr pic Trials co m ly O e th h ctures conflict wit n Spotting Le O sd n a H d te , 2012 • Designa ay, June 29 d ri F ld e h Forum an add-on • Business 12 noon as – y the m a 8 m o fr sponsored b ll a h w o h S l Trade ociation • Nationa uppliers Ass S te ta S d e Unit online st available li ’ rs te n se • Pre

What to

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Register

NOW and

Save!

• Register online at: usagymnast icsnationalc ongress.org • Membe r Club tiere d pricing is available.

SAVE BIG! • Nationa l Congress attendees re option to pu ceive th rchase 201 2 U.S. Olym e Gymnastics pic Trials– tickets at a discounted • Visit Na ra te! tional Trave l Systems a ntssportstra t vel.com for travel accom modations For comple te details on the 2012 N Trade Show ational Con visit usagym gress & nasticsnatio nalcongress .org.

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Friday, June 29, 2012, 8:00 a.m. –12:00 noon At Congress in San Jose, Calif., San Jose Convention Center This year at USA Gymnastics National Congress, the Business Conference will be incorporated into the congress sessions on Friday from 8 a.m. to noon to include all gymnastics professionals. The Business Forum will include a keynote speaker and a full list of USA Gymnastics Business Advisors. The Business Forum is for Congress attendees only and there will be a minimal add-on fee for those attending.

Partner with USA Gymnastics and prepare your business to capitalize on the Olympic spotlight!

a master’s degree in organizational behavior from Brigham Young University.

Peter Vidmar and Steve Penny will kick off the day at the Business Forum. Our keynote speaker will be Liz Wiseman, who is president of the Wiseman Group, a leadership research and development center, headquartered in California’s Silicon Valley. She advises senior executives and leads strategy and leadership forums for executive teams worldwide. While working at Oracle Corporation, she served as the vice president of Oracle University and as the global leader for Human Resource Development for 17 years.

The USA Gymnastics Business Advisors will also be available for an industry update and discussion. Dave Holcomb, Tom Forster, Jeff Metzger, Patti Komara, Steve Greeley, Diane Barron, Frank Sahlein, Julia Thompson, Anne Josephson, Jeff Lulla, Lynn Ledford and Jim Jarrett make up the USA Gymnastics Business Advisors. Holcomb, the chairman, will serve as our leader for the day.

Liz is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter and has published articles and blogs for Harvard Business Review and European Business Review. Liz holds

To sign up, simply fill out the Congress registration form found on page 39 and select the “Business Forum” for $25.00 if you are affiliated with a Member Club or $75 if you are not affiliated with a Member Club. Price includes breakfast and a coffee break. SPACE IS LIMITED!

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You will take away a wealth of knowledge and marketing information from the forum.

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WHEN

May 5–6, 2012

WHERE

With entries, coaches must submit a confirmation letter from the local program. Coaches who have athletes competing in Team Gym must have a USA Gymnastics Professional Membership.

Cobb County Gymnastics Center; Marietta, Georgia

COMPETITION FORMAT

WHAT

RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS Levels A, B, 1, 2, 3, 4. Will follow Special Olympics Rules for competition and awards. Athletes may enter 1 group routine in addition to individual competition, or may choose to enter Group only and can compete in two routines. Unified is offered for all levels of individual and group.

An open gymnastics competition for athletes with disabilities and unified partners.

SANCTIONED BY

USA Gymnastics and Special Olympics North America

COMPETITION DIRECTOR

ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS (men & women) Levels A, B, 1, 2, 3, 4. Will follow Special Olympics Rules for competition and awards. Unified is offered for all levels. Athletes can compete either old routines or new routines (but not a combination). Level B is only new routines.

EVENTS OFFERED

TEAM GYM Will follow USA Gymnastics rules for competition and awards.

LOCAL HOSTS

Chattooga Gymnastics, Special Olympics Georgia, and Cobb County Special Olympics Gymnastics Team Cindy Bickman; cbickman@earthlink.net

Rhythmic Gymnastics (Individual, Group, Unified), Artistic Gymnastics (Men, Women, Unified), Team Gym

REQUIREMENTS

All TeamGym competitors must have a current USA Gymnastics introductory or full athlete membership. Artistic and rhythmic gymnastics competitors must have a current medical on file with their local program. Unified partners for artistic and rhythmic gymnastics must have a form on file with their local program.

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GALA At the end of the competition, all teams are invited to perform an exhibition routine in the Gala.

(3 minute maximum).

TO REGISTER AND FOR MORE INFORMATION usagym.org/specialolympics

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cla s s i f i e d s

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

POSITION AVAILABLE

Gymnastics Director Position for Camp Chateaugay, co-ed residential children’s summer camp in the northern edge of the Adirondacks of Merrill, New York. Seeking a qualified individual to run gymnastics program and mentor/teach our campers specific skills with an end of session demonstration.

Located on Lake Chateaugay, a clean Adirondack Lake with wooded and marsh environments. Camp runs in 2012, June 28 to August 15. Room, board, and travel allowance. Salary is commensurate with experience. Qualifications will be discussed during interview. For additional information about camp please visit our web site at www.chateaugay.com To Apply; contact director Hal Lyons hal@chateaugay. com 1-800-431-1184.

Instructor/Coaches. Paragon Gymnastics of Norwood NJ (Bergen County), is looking for instructors and coaches, P/T – F/T. Requirements: Positive attitudes, responsible, reliable, and love of children. Position available for competitive team coach level 4 and up with flexible hours.

Also preschool through intermediate instruction/ cheerleading. Company sponsored certifications (safety, CPR, First Aid). Benefits available, paid vacations & sick days. Salary commensurate with experience. NEW facility, state-of-the-art approx.

11,000sq ft. Located in the NY/NJ Metropolitan area, easily accessible from all major highways.

Contact Dot: email: paragongymnastics@verizon. net, 201-767-6921 or fax to 201-767-6693 or at 49 Walnut Street, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 07648. www.paragongym.com Gymnastics Director. Camp Towanda, general interest, coed, residential camp in northeastern PA, 3 hours from NYC and Philadelphia...Seeking qualified adult leader to run summer program.

We are constructing 4500 square foot enclosed facility equipped with competitive and recreational equipment….including 12’x20’ pit…spring floor….tumble trak…beams, bars, trainers and more!!! Campers 6-15 attend from June 23-August 10…Staff begins June 15. Responsibilities include lesson planning, supervision of facility, training instructors and counselors….Safety certification, strong spotting skills and experience working with competitive gymnasts required. GREAT OPPORTUNITY for working parent, scholarship available for children.

Competitive camp salary, room, board included…Visit www.camptowanda.com. Contact: staff@camptowanda.com or call 845 679-2802.

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Boy’s Team Head Coach Premier Gymnastics Academy is located 20 minutes west of Chicago, IL. We have one of the top boy’s programs in the region. With 70+ boys team members, a huge feeder program and numerous State Champions and National Qualifiers. We currently have boys on the Jr. National Team and the Developmental National Team.

Our facility is very well equipped to train boys and ownership is very supportive of the boy’s program. We are looking for a coach experienced at coaching Level 10 and Elite level boys at a national level. Qualified candidates will receive TOP $$ and great benefits.

We are hoping to fill this position following the USA Championships. For more information, please email mjdiab@wideopenwest.com.

safety tips. Will your staff be ready for your fall students?

Order direct by calling 407-444-5669 EST or online at www.GymCert.com.

Gymnastics Training Books: Gymnastics Drills and Conditioning, Handstand, Walkover/Back Handspring, Legs/Ankles, Gymnastics Journal, Exercise Programs, E-Books, and more! Check out the Swing Set Fitness books, Fitness Journal, and Strength Training Journal too.

Read reviews or buy these books, www.GymnasticsBooks.com. And be sure to check out our gifts and apparel at www.GymnasticsTees.com.

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Plus, it’s easier than ever to order, sell and return your RISK-FREE garments. We offer customized packages for your pro shop, meets and summer camp. You only pay for what you’ve sold and may return the rest, there is absolutely NO RISK! If you haven’t tried us lately, it’s time you started earning extra profits with our RISK-FREE merchandise. Call 1-800-345-4087 for more information on how you can get started today!

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

Score Master – Scorekeeping software interfaced to many different score boards: EliteScore, BetaBrites, TV’s & Projectors. Download team rosters from the USAG website. Features include: random draws, create rotations, assign #’s, the most comprehensive reporting and results can go directly to your website.

Supports: womens/mens, individual/team, artistic/ rhythmic/trampoline, compulsory/optional. Download a FREE demo at www.Score-Master.com.

EDUCATION

Available now! The NEW GYMCERT Gymnastics training manuals (Levels 1, 2, 3, & the NEW Skills & Drills for the Compulsory Coach Level’s 4, 5 & 6) a must for training your staff; cut your lesson planning time significantly; use to coordinate class progressions and skill training methods; and, best of all have a quick reference that is easy to use which includes Lesson Planning Forms and Class Evaluation Forms by level.

The GYMCERT manuals provide concise instruction, clear illustrations, and several coaching, spotting, and

TECHNIQUE • FEBRUARY 2012

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