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1 Team Acrobatics and Tumbling 2013-‐2014

Rules and Policies

2013-‐2014

Gymnastics for All

Team Acrobatics and Tumbling 2013-‐2014

Don Spencer, Power TeamGym Committee Chair

[email protected] 702-‐480-‐1584 Rachel Brazo, Director of Program Administration

[email protected] 317-‐829-‐5661 Ron Jacobson, Director of Program Development

[email protected] 317-‐829-‐5643


Table of Contents

Goals 4 1. Program overview 5

1.1. Competition Levels 1.2. USA Gymnastics Membership Requirements 1.3. Divisions and Age Groups

2. Coaches Regulations 6

2.1. Safety 2.2. USA Gymnastics Membership 2.3. Coaches Obligations 2.4. Professional Member Behavior Policy 2.5. Dress Code 3. Judges Regulations 9 3.1. Judges Qualifications 3.2. Judges Obligations 3.3. Head Judge Duties 3.4. Judges Fee Guidelines 3.5. Meal Expense 3.6. Travel Expense 3.7. Accommodations 3.8. Dress Code 4. Athlete Regulations 13

4.1. Dress Code

5. Junior Level Apparatus Regulations 14 6. Fast Track 14

6.1. Acrobatic 6.2. Tumbling

7. Junior Level Criteria (Competition Format) 16

7.1. Compulsory Format 7.2. Team Format 7.3. Compulsory Sequence 7.4. Team Routine Limitations


8. Senior Level Criteria 19

8.1. Event One 8.2. Event Two 8.3. Event Three 8.4. Event Four 8.5. Event Five 8.6. Event Six 8.7. Competition Miscellaneous

9. Overview of Senior Competition 24

9.1. Injury Policy 9.2. Boundary Line Deduction 9.3. Technical Difficulty defined 9.4. Team Participant Numbers 9.5. Team Uniform/Attire 9.6. Equipment requirements 9.7. Athlete Safety


Goals:

• To provide a safe and comprehensive competition for male and female athletes.

• To provide athletes with age-‐appropriate options to continue Gymnastics based disciplines.

• Integrate multi-‐discipline events into group-‐based competitions.

• Provide a direct grass roots developmental program for Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling.

For any information not contained in this document, please refer to: Junior division; USA Gymnastics, Gymnastics for All, Power TeamGym Rules

and Policies 2014-‐2015. To be introduced at GfA Nationals 2013. Senior division; National Acrobatics and Tumbling Association Rules and

Policies 2011-‐2012. (TheNCATA.org)


1. Program Overview Under the Gymnastics for All (GfA) umbrella, Power TeamGym has competition avenues in which an athlete can proceed. Once the athlete has reached level 8 in Power TeamGym, She/he can stay with the discipline, move toward Team Acrobatics and Tumbling (A&T), or do both disciplines. GfA and Team A&T are the developmental pipeline for an athlete to pursue the possibility of an athletic scholarship in college. Team A&T is broken into two levels; Junior division and Senior division, both are designed for the competitive athlete to develop the skill set needed to pursue advancement into NCATA; National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association.

1.1 Levels

1.1.1 The Junior division is comprised of male and/or female athletes ages 12-‐18. They will compete in a modified compulsory NCATA format, incorporating Acrobatics, Tumbling, Pyramid, Toss, and Team Event. (See Criteria pg.16)

1.1.2 The Senior division is open to qualified Female Athletes only, ages 16 and older, incorporating the rules and regulations of NCATA. This division is intended as the direct pipeline program for an NCATA collegiate program.

1.2 USA Gymnastics Membership Requirements

1.2.1 All athletes participating in a USA Gymnastics sanctioned competition must have the appropriate and valid USA Gymnastics Membership. Junior and Senior athletes must posses valid Athlete, Jr. Pro. or Professional Membership.

1.2.2 Athletes and coaches should be prepared to visibly present their current USA Gymnastics member card at all sanctioned events.

1.2.3 Competing without a valid membership can result in all scores related to the individual’s participation being voided and all awards placements nullified.


1.3 Divisions and Age Groups

1.3.1 Junior division is open to male and female athletes, who have reached the minimum age of 12, prior to the intended competition. In contrast, an athlete must still be 18 years of age on the final day of the intended competition.

1.3.2 Senior division athletes must be female, and have reached the age of 16, on or prior to the first intended competition.

1.3.3 In order to compete in the Junior or Senior divisions, the age qualifying athlete must also prove to have proceeded through a USA Gymnastics certified progression based program, and/or, prove proficiency by fulfilling a skill based test as detailed in “Fast Track” (5.0).

2 Coaches Regulations

Coaches play an integral role in the success of our Power TeamGym and Team Acrobatics and Tumbling program. Your dedication to the sport and especially to the athletes is very much appreciated.

2.1 Safety

Coaches serve as the foremost contributors toward overall safety for the athletes. Spotters must be attentive (in position without obstructing) and prepared to spot at all times. Another key area of risk management for coaches is to responsibly monitor your athletes before, during and after the competition. Members of USA Gymnastics are charged with the responsibility for contributing to an environment, which makes participation in the sport a positive and rewarding experience. In order to achieve this result, each professional member has a special obligation to make decisions based on the best interest of the athlete.

2.2 USA Gymnastics Membership

2.2.1 All coaches within the field of play must have a valid USA Gymnastics Membership.

2.2.2 Each registered Junior squad must have at least one (1) coach of their two required coaches who is a current Gymnastics for All (GFA) Professional Member of USA Gymnastics in good standing. Additional coaches/spotter(s) must have an acceptable USA Gymnastics membership such as Introductory


Coach, Jr. Pro, or Pro membership.

2.2.3 Each registered Senior squad must have at least two (2) coaches who are current GFA Professional Members of USA Gymnastics in good standing. USAG Jr. Pro Members may serve as additional assistant coach/spotters.

2.2.4 Coaches should be prepared to visibly present their current USAG member card at all sanctioned competitions.

2.3 Coaches Obligations

2.3.1 Follow the USA Gymnastics Code of Ethics.

2.3.2 Be professional and display good sportsmanship.

2.3.3 Dress in appropriate attire that reflects the best image of gymnastics. (see dress code below)

2.3.4 Be mentally and physically prepared and rested in order to provide the safest environment for the gymnast.

2.3.5 Attend all coaches’ meetings and be familiar with the meet set-‐up and organization.

2.3.6 Be present at all warm-‐up and competition sessions. Check equipment and music. Turn music in to music operator. Report any problems to the Meet Referee or Meet Director.

2.3.7 Submit all required paperwork to the appropriate official at least 30 minutes prior to march-‐in.

2.3.8 Update coaching knowledge & experience on a planned regular basis, by means of study, review of films, attending workshops, & participating in clinics, etc.

2.3.9 Set an example for the athletes and parents by displaying a positive attitude and exemplary conduct. Constant criticism of officials, meet set up, or other teams is unacceptable behavior.

2.3.10 Show respect for all gymnasts, coaches, judges, and meet personnel.

2.3.11 Coach athletes that are from his/her own team only, unless another coach asks for assistance and/or no coach is available.

2.3.12 Direct any inquiries regarding apparatus, judging or meet schedules to the Meet Director who, in turn, will present this to the Meet Referee/Head


Judge. Refrain from approaching a judge directly prior to or during the competition. The proper channel is to direct all inquiries through the Meet Director or (as specified) to the Meet Referee.

2.3.13 Instruct athletes and parents to discuss any concerns they may have with the coach.

2.3.14 Inform the gymnasts and parents of all competitive requirements, as well as rights and obligations.

2.3.15 File an Accident Report Form (available from the Meet Director) in the case of any injury to a gymnast for whom they are responsible. The coach or parent of the injured athlete must be sure to secure this form, completed by the medical personnel, prior to leaving the competition.

2.3.16 Show respect for the United States flag and the National Anthem.

2.4 Professional Member Behavior Policy at USA Gymnastics Sanctioned Events

2.4.1 Unacceptable coach behavior can be defined as:

2.4.1.1 Verbal, emotional, sexual, or physical abuse of the gymnast.

2.4.1.2 Inappropriate remarks or comments, harassment, and/or gestures directed toward any official or meet personnel during the competition. No coach has the right to demand a last minute change in the course of the meet or to jeopardize the athlete/competition in anyway.

2.4.1.3 Contact with other persons outside of the competitive floor area during the actual warm-‐up and course of competition. (Exceptions: USA Gymnastics or club doctor, trainer, other credentialed club coaches, or USA Gymnastics credentialed personnel).

2.4.1.4 Derogatory remarks to the press in regards to USAG, its designated representatives, meet officials or personnel.

2.4.2 Such above described behavior will be penalized as follows:

First Offense: Verbal warning will be issued by the Meet Referee/Technical Director and/or designated representative of USA Gymnastics.


Second Offense: Withdrawal of floor credential, necessitating ejection from the competitive floor area (or possibly the entire competitive arena). Incident will be reported to the USAG GfA Program Director.

2.5 Dress Code

Coaches must wear matching, or coordinating, sportive attire (no jeans allowed). Coaches must not wear items, which can be a danger when standing in for catching or supporting. This includes: Bulky jewelry, watches and rings. Credential lanyards should be removed during competition.

3 Judges Regulations

Without adjudication, we would not be able to have qualified competition. We encourage anyone willing to put in the time to learn the rules thoroughly to take the online exam and become a certified judge for the sport of Power TeamGym and/or Team Acrobatics and Tumbling.

USA Gymnastics Membership: All assigned judges for TeamGym and/or Team A&T Competitions must have a valid USA Gymnastics Professional Membership within the Gymnastics for All (GfA) category. This includes valid and current Safety Certification and Background check. Judges should be prepared to visibly present their current USAG member card at all sanctioned competitions.

3.1 Judges Qualification 3.1.1 Qualified Power TeamGym and/or Team A&T judges are required for all USA Gymnastics sanctioned events.

3.1.2 Judges are required to successfully complete and pass the online Judge’s examination in order to officiate at USA Gymnastics sanctioned competitions. Passing the exam is the first step in building the Judges’ credentials.

3.1.3 In order to qualify to judge state, regional, and national events; a person must have been an active judge in good standing for at least two consecutive years.

3.1.4 Qualification for Head Judge and Meet Referee is by experience (determined by the Meet Director or USA Gymnastics Power TeamGym Committee for Nationals and/or Team Acrobatics and Tumbling).


3.2 Judges obligations

3.2.1 Maintain Judges' Qualification ratings and active status requirements for the appropriate level of competition.

3.2.2 Follow the USA Gymnastics Code of Ethics.

3.2.3 Be professional and dress appropriately (see dress code).

3.2.4 Be mentally & physically prepared and rested so that the evaluations be as accurate as possible.

3.2.5 Be quick, cooperative and efficient in calculating score.

3.2.6 Remain at the respective event station until the entire competition is completed.

3.2.7 The Meet Referee should not be affiliated to any club or athlete in the competition.

3.2.8 Be familiar with the meet setup and organization.

3.2.9 Fulfill all assignments according to the agreement. Only dire circumstances should prohibit a judge from fulfilling an assignment. If a judge must cancel an assignment, she/he must notify the appropriate officials at the earliest possible moment.

3.2.10 Show respect for all athletes, coaches, judges, meet personnel and volunteers.

3.2.11 Be confidential about meet matters, scores, their own or other judges’ scores or opinions.

3.2.12 Update judging knowledge and experience on a planned, regular basis, which includes studying, practice judging with videos or live athletes, attending courses, and judging as much as possible.

3.2.13 Avoid judging a meet in which any personal bias (positive or negative) would affect the outcome of placement.

3.2.14 Set a good example for the athletes by displaying a positive attitude and exemplary conduct.

3.2.15 Show respect for the United States flag and the National Anthem.

3.2.16 Judges should report 30 minutes prior to march-‐in for local


and invitational competitions, unless otherwise specified by the Meet Referee or Meet Director.

3.2.17 Each judge must be ready to explain his/her deductions & justify his/her score to the Judging Panel.

3.2.18 Seating Arrangement – The judges must sit in a position, which affords a correct and unobstructed view of the team's performances, within reasonable distance of each other.

3.3 Head Judge Duties

3.3.1 Lead the judges meeting before the competition.

3.3.2 Signal the start of the program.

3.3.3 Call the judges to a meeting in the case of an unallowable score difference or other problems.

3.3.4 Make special Head Judge Deductions on the Final Score in each discipline. If there are Head Judge Deductions, the Head Judge must inform the panel before handling the Final Score to the secretary. The Head Judge Deductions are recorded on the Head Judge Deduction Form, which is passed to the Secretary.

3.3.5 Be a member of the Competition Jury in their respective discipline.

3.4 Judging Fee Guidelines

Session Fees – (per session)

Local (in-‐house) $60

Invitational $60 -‐ $80

State $80

Regional $90

National $100

NOTE: It is permissible in multi-‐session competitions, for the Meet Director to negotiate a day rate.


3.5 Meal Expenses (per diem)

3.5.1 Meet host may choose to provide all (or some) of the meals... or pay an “all” or partial per diem.

3.5.2 Per diem – For meets in which judges are required to be present between meets in which judges are required to be present over eight hours the per diem payment is now $40.

3.5.3 For travel days, judges receive $35.

3.6 Travel Expenses

3.6.1 USAG mileage rate is as posted on the USA Gymnastics web site: a printout of MapQuest mileage or other such mapping service documentation is preferred for determining the correct mileage along with accurate odometer readings.

3.6.2 If the judge “shares a ride” the amount reimbursed will be proportional for riding time.

3.6.3 Any parking fees will be reimbursed by the Meet Director.

3.6.4 Airfare and ground transportation will either be paid for or provided in advance by the Meet Director, or the judge will be reimbursed. These arrangements must be confirmed by both parties prior to making said arrangements.

3.7 Accommodations

3.7.1 With prior agreement the Meet Host may assist with accommodations as necessary.

3.8 Dress Code

3.8.1 Business casual – local, business attire -‐ National Events. (Appropriate shoes that do not damage gym floor or mats)


4. Athletes Regulations The athletes are the reason these regulations exist. For the most part, it is realized they will not be reading this document specifically. However, it is important for Coaches to communicate these specific regulations to the athletes in order that they may better understand their responsibilities and the conduct expected of them at competition. Members of USA Gymnastics are responsible to contribute toward a safe, positive and rewarding environment with the best interest of the athlete at the forefront of all decisions.

4.1 Dress Code

4.1.1 A neat and proper athletic appearance should be the overall impression with both warm-‐up and competition attire. The dress must be identical, or matching for members of the same team.

4.1.2 Bandages are permitted. However, they must be securely fastened and of a non-‐intrusive color. (This includes joint supports).

4.1.3 No jewelry may be worn by gymnasts.

4.1.4 Body paint is not allowed. (Tattoos are not deductible) but should covered if deemed inappropriate by the Meet Referee, or if it is deemed a safety concern.

4.1.5 Loose items such as belts, suspenders/braces and laces are not allowed.

4.1.6 Hair grips must be secure and safe. Decorated hair grips (slides) are classified as jewelry.

4.1.7 Long hair for competitors (male or female) should be pulled away from the face in a ponytail, bun, braids or other similar style.

Male – may wear a gymnastics leotard (step-‐in), unitard, or a sports shirt with either a pair of athletic shorts or long athletic type pants that are not too baggy or loose. * NOTE: In order for the judges to observe proper leg and hip position, if athletic shorts are worn, they must be cut above the knees and not baggy. Very loose fitting “Basketball” or similarly styled shorts are not acceptable and will result in an apparel deduction.


Female – Junior level athletes should wear “Volleyball” type uniforms, but can wear leotards or unitards with no loose parts (tight fitting leggings or shorts are also allowed as an outer layer). The neckline of the front and back of the leotard must be no lower than half of the sternum at the front and no lower than the lower line of the shoulder blades at the back. Leotards may be with or without sleeves and the shoulder strap width must be a minimum of one inch wide. Leotards should not be sheer.

Senior level females must wear matching “Volleyball” style attire (Uniforms). All uniforms must have numbers in accordance with the NCATA rules and policies.

5. Junior Level Apparatus Regulations Junior level minimum requirement of at least 1 3/8 inch carpet bonded foam

at 40 X 40 feet dimension (or 12 meters square). With 5 feet of clear space around the competition floor (see more detailed regulations pg. 25-‐26)

Anytime it is available for thicker or higher quality carpet bonded foam, or the use of a spring floor is allowed.

The competition floor should also have a minimum of two (6’ x 40’) carpet bonded foam strips, side by side, on each side of the competition floor, for additional access for tumbling run-‐ups during competition, and provide space for warm-‐up area prior to competition. Special care should be taken, if a spring floor is in use, to level the carpet strips to prevent the uneven surface on the run-‐up floor.

Anytime a larger dimension is available, it is recommended.

6. Fast Track

Fast Track provides an opportunity for athletes that have not proceeded through the GfA progression based program, to be placed into the Junior or Senior level of Team Acrobatics and Tumbling. The athlete wishing to be placed must provide proof of prior participation in a progression based skills program by displaying skill progressions, proving competency in performing those skills safely and efficiently. A qualified USA Gymnastics Professional Member will determine the competency of a fast track athlete, through documentation of a progression based gymnastics or cheer history of the athlete, as well as a skill-‐based display to the professional. The USA Gymnastics professional is allowed up to (1 week) to provide a decision to


the prospective participant, thus allowing time for consultation and review of the athlete’s abilities. It is required that video be taken to further allow consistent and impartial evaluation of the prospective Fast Track athletes. This video must be sent to the GfA Rules Committee Chairman for review, or if unavailable, to the USA Gymnastics Director of Program Development.

Note: Special attention will be given to an athlete who will only be a specialist in a particular skill set. He/she will still need to only show skill basics in the other skill sets.

*The athlete must be able to perform the following skills safely in each of the described disciplines:

6.1 Acrobatics: (This covers Acrobatics, Pyramid and Toss)

6.1.1 Base or Top:

• Vertical 2 feet hand to foot extended hold. • Vertical 1 foot hand to foot extended hold with flex position. • Hold a handstand position for 10 seconds (core stability test). • Hold a hollow body hold for 20 seconds (core stability test).

6.1.2 Base (in a group) or top:

• A front 270 front salto from shoulder level to cradle position. • A 360 degree twist from extended 2 feet to foot hold-‐ to cradle. • A 360 degree release back to salto from the ground to a below shoulder level,

vertical to vertical. • A 270 degree front salto toss.

6.2 Tumbling:

6.2.1 Basic

• Standing back-‐handspring • Straddle toe touch, Step into back-‐handspring • Run round-‐off back-‐handspring • Run round-‐off back-‐handspring back tuck


6.2.2 Advanced (specialists)

• Standing back tuck • Straddle toe touch back-‐handspring, back tuck • Run round-‐off back-‐handspring, back straight (layout) • Run round-‐off back-‐handspring back full • Run round-‐off Whip combination

7. Junior Criteria: (Competition Format) The Junior level competition should include a limited-‐delay routine in which all of the compulsory requirements in Acro, Pyramid, Toss and Tumbling are met. There will be a short (1 minute) pause between each routine to allow each team to put out the next squad. The Junior level team is made up of a minimum of 10 athletes, and can have a maximum of 20 Male and Female participants. The Team routine must include instrumental music with limited vocalization, and show fluid movements between skill sets. Athletes that specialize in one or more of the described skill sets, are not required to participate in the non-‐specialized skill set, in the Team Event (the final 1½ minutes). 7.1 Compulsory Format The full compulsory skill routine must be presented in order, as described below, allowing time for the next squad to prepare, as well as allowing time for scoring. 7.1.1 Team 1 Acro Routine (1 minute pause) Team 2 Acro Routine (1 minute pause) Team 3 Acro Routine (1 Minute pause) Etc. Team 1 Pyramid Routine (1 minute pause) Team 2 Pyramid Routine Etc.

• Note: There can be allowances in scheduling to accommodate for a large number of teams. For instance, holding each session to 4 teams, and allowing breaks prior to beginning the next competition session.

7.1.2 After the compulsory rounds, or heats, are finished, each team then begins the Team Routine, in the same order as the compulsory routines.


7.1.3 There are no time limitations on the Acro, Pyramid, Toss or Tumbling portions of the routine. 7.2 Team Routine The Team Routine is an “open” routine consisting of skills put together for a 1 ½ minute routine. The routine should include artistic impression, dance and movement, in a floor routine, and must include all team members, as well as elements of the four compulsory disciplines, Acro, Pyramid, Toss and Tumbling. 7.2.1 The Team floor routine must be accompanied by music, which is tasteful, appropriate, and have limited vocals. Team name vocals in the music are allowed. 7.2.2 The maximum length of time for the team routine is one-‐minute and thirty seconds (1:30). Any Routine lasting longer will instill a Head Referee deduction of 1.0. 7.3 Compulsory sequence: Each of the following routines are required to have a “counter” calling out the counts. The counter is not included as participant in the numbers for the required team member, although an athlete or participant is allowed to be a counter. A coach is also allowed to call out counts. 7.3.1 ACROBATICS: (Start value 7.25)

7.3.1.1 (3 bases, 1 Top) Straight up to one leg non-‐flexibility (posse). 7.3.1.2 Power press in posse and turn to side, hit Arabesque position. 7.3.1.3 Front salto dismount. 7.3.1.4 (group turns back to front) 7.3.1.5 Straight up to vertical 2 feet position. 7.3.1.6 Power press through shoulder position to toss 270 front salto to below shoulder level. 7.3.1.7 270 back salto to ground.

* 7.5 – 8 Counts

7.3.2 PYRAMID: (Start Value 6.30)

7.3.2.1 Leg stand with back support for mid-‐level.


7.3.2.2 Two bases toe press the top (connected to mid level) to shoulder level of mid-‐level top. 7.3.2.3 Dismount is a 270 front salto to cradle position.

* 4.5 – 8 Counts

7.3.3 TOSS: (Start Value 9.25) 7.3.3.1 4 bases, 1 top. 450 back salto toss.

7.3.4 TUMBLING: ( Minimum of Three (3) Tumblers, Start Value 7.91)

7.3.4.1 Standing back-‐Handspring. 7.3.4.2 Straddle jump pike, step back handspring. 7.3.4.3 Power Hurdle Round-‐off back handspring back tuck.

*6.5 – 8 counts

NOTE: Tumbling must include a minimum of three tumblers, performing the same compulsory routine. Emphasis is placed on individual skills as well as synchronicity between the athletes. A bonus of .3 will be added by the Head Judge for each athlete above the minimum of three (3). 7.4 Team Routine Limitations The team portion of the routine can last a minimum of 1½ minutes, with a maximum of 90 seconds. It should include a culmination of all of the skill sets defined above, but do not require compulsory skills. The routine is an open floor exercise including all team members involved in an exciting finale to the whole routine. The team portion should also incorporate running tumbling mixed into the routine. The team portion does include the following limitations to skills in the Junior level:

7.4.1 Stacking maximum of two tiers. 7.4.2 No Tumbling skills above a 1 ½ Full Twist (540 degrees of twist, or Rudi).


8. Senior Criteria All senior rules will follow the NCATA rules, with only a few minor modifications Including competition floor, venue requirements, and number of competitors. The GfA Team Acrobatics and Tumbling Senior division permits female athletes only, as a preparation for the NCATA. The Team Acrobatics and Tumbling competition structure consists of a six (6) event per team meet. The events have pre-‐determined start values and are performed in a head-‐to head rotating format. The event consists of: Compulsory, Acro, Pyramid, Toss, Tumbling and Team Event and are always performed in the given order. A half time of 10 minutes is given after the Pyramid Event. The overall time for a two-‐team competition is roughly 1.5-‐ 2 hours. There are 2, 3 or 4 teams per session or meet. 8.1 Event One – Compulsory – Combined Value: 40 possible points 8.1.1 Four heats per team will be performed in the Compulsory Event. 8.1.2.1 Acro Heat – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.1.2.1.1 No time restrictions. 8.1.2.1.2 Two (2) groups perform synchronized. 8.1.2.1.3 Total four (4) athletes perform (8 for synchro). 8.1.2.1.4 Total one (1) counter, not counted as active athlete. 8.1.2.1.4.1 Straight up heel stretch, power press, arabesque. 8.1.2.1.4.2 270* flipping cradle. 8.1.2.1.4.3 360* back flip to below shoulder level. 8.1.2.1.4.4 Straight up to stretch. 8.1.2.1.4.5 720* twisting cradle. 8.1.2.2 Pyramid Heat – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.1.2.2.1 No time restrictions. 8.1.2.2.2 Total 10 athletes perform. 8.1.2.2.3 All feet start on the floor. 8.1.2.2.4 2 groups of 4 athletes in preps. 8.1.2.2.5 2 groups of 3 athletes in toss/catch. 8.1.2.2.6 1 top. 8.1.2.2.6.1 Straight toss from below shoulder level. 8.1.2.2.6.2 Second level facing forward. 8.1.2.2.6.3 270* front flipping dismount. 8.1.2.3 Toss Heat – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.1.2.3.1 No time restrictions. 8.1.2.3.2 Two (2) groups perform synchronized. 8.1.2.3.3 Five (5) athletes perform (10 for synchro). 8.1.2.3.4 One (1) counter, not counted as active athlete. 8.1.2.3.4.1 450* flip performed in tucked position.


8.1.2.3.4.2 Four (4) bases tossing, one (1) top per group. 8.1.2.4 Tumbling Compulsory Heat – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.1.2.4.1 No time restrictions. 8.1.2.4.2 Total eight (8) athletes. 8.1.2.4.3 Two (2) groups/lines perform synchronized. 8.1.2.4.4 No changing athletes between compulsory skills. 8.1.2.4.5 Athletes to be positioned in windows; perform skills in

order. 8.1.2.4.5.1 Standing back tuck (face front). 8.1.2.4.5.2 Toe-‐touch back tuck (face front). 8.1.2.4.5.3 Back handspring, back tuck (face front) 8.1.2.4.5.4 Round-‐off back handspring layout – left to right in two

staggered lines.

8.2 Event Two -‐ Acro Event – Combined Value: 30 possible points 8.2.1 45-‐second Acrobatics sequence to count. 8.2.2 Each athlete competing a maximum of two (2) times. 8.2.3 Only two (2) athletes may cross over – one heat to next. 8.2.4 Timing begins with first movement.

8.2.5 Each element to contain at least two (2) changes in any drop-‐down variety from the NCATA Start Difficulty Scoring Program.

8.2.6 Top must start in contact with the ground. 8.2.7 Top may conclude a heat in a skill. 8.2.8 Three (3) heats per team. 8.2.7.1 Heat 1: 5 Elements – Start value: 30 possible points 8.2.7.1.1 45-‐second Acrobatics sequence to count. 8.2.7.1.2 Required 360* flipping skill. 8.2.7.1.3 May be multiple skills. 8.2.7.1.4 Must perform two (2) extended body positions. 8.2.7.1.5 May have only one (1) ground contact. 8.2.7.1.6 One (1) group. 8.2.7.2 Heat 2: 6 Elements – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.2.7.2.1 45-‐second Acrobatics sequence to count. 8.2.7.2.2. Required twisting skill. 8.2.7.2.3 Two (2) twisting elements (greater than 90*). 8.2.7.2.4 Must perform three (3) extended body positions. 8.2.7.2.5 Many only have two (2) ground contacts. 8.2.7.2.6 Only one (1) group. 8.2.7.3 Heat 3: 7 Elements – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.2.7.3.1 45-‐second Acrobatics sequence to count.


8.2.7.3.2 Required five (5) release skills. 8.2.7.3.3 Must perform three (3) extended body positions. 8.2.7.3.4 May only have three (3) ground contacts. 8.2.7.3.5 One (1) group.

8.3 Event Three – Pyramid Event – Start Value: 30 possible points 8.3.1 30-‐second time limit. 8.3.2 Three (3) heats per team. 8.3.3 Maximum of 24 athletes participate for all heats. 8.3.4 Cross over rule cannot be used. 8.3.5 Repetition rule: Mandatory required structure change in each pyramid.

Structure change must involve change to 2nd level or a change in the plane of top (plane is vertical, inverted, horizontal face up/down/side).

8.3.4.1 Heat 1: Flipping – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.3.4.1 30-‐second time limit. 8.3.4.2 Entry / dismount must contain flipping greater than 90*. 8.3.4.2 Heat 2: Twisting -‐ Start Value: 10 possible points 8.3.4.2.1 30-‐second time limit. 8.3.4.2.2 Entry / dismount must contain twisting skill greater than

90*. 8.3.4.3 Heat3: Release – Start Value: 10 possible points 8.3.4.3.1 30-‐second time limit. 8.3.4.3.2 Entry / dismount must contain release skill. 8.4 Event Four – Toss Event – 30 possible points 8.4.1 No time restriction. 8.4.2 Three (3) heats per team. 8.4.3 Athletes may compete a maximum of two (2) times. 8.4.4 A basing group consisting of 2 bases and a back or top person may only

compete in two (2) heats, of which one must be a synchronized toss. 8.4.4.1 Heat 1: 2 Elements – Start Value: 10 points 8.4.4.1.1 No time restrictions. 8.4.4.1.2 Required minimum two (2) elements in the toss. 8.4.4.1.3 Same toss allowed in two (2) heats, must include Heat 2. 8.4.4.1.4 Crossover must include Heat 2. 8.4.4.1.5 Athletes may compete a maximum of two (2) times. 8.4.4.1.6 One (1) group.


8.4.4.2 Heat 2: Synchronized -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.4.4.2.1 No time restrictions. 8.4.4.2.2 Open skill, must be identical and synchronized. 8.4.4.2.3 Same toss allowed in two (2) heats, must include Heat 2. 8.4.4.2.4 Crossover must include Heat 2. 8.4.4.2.5 Athletes may compete a maximum of two (2) times. 8.4.4.2.6 Two (2) groups. 8.4.4.3 Heat 3: Open -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.4.4.3.1 No time restrictions. 8.4.4.3.2 Open skill. 8.4.4.3.3 Same toss allowed in two (2) heats, must include Heat 2. 8.4.4.3.4 Athletes may compete a maximum of two (2) times. 8.4.4.3.5 One (1) group. 8.5 Event Five – Tumbling Event -‐ 60 possible points 8.5.1 No time restriction. 8.5.2 Six (6) heats per team. 8.5.3 Athletes may compete a maximum of two (2) times, one group heat

and one individual heat. 8.5.4 Cross over to include Heat 1, 2, 3, and Heat 4, 5, 6. 8.5.4.1 Heat 1: Duo -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.1.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.1.2 Considered a group heat. 8.5.4.1.3 Two (2) athletes perform an identical synchronized pass. 8.5.4.1.4 Crossover Applies. 8.5.4.2 Heat 2: Trio -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.2.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.2.2 Considered a group heat. 8.5.4.2.3 Three (3) athletes perform an identical synchronized pass. 8.5.4.2.4 Crossover Applies. 8.5.4.3 Heat 3: Quad -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.3.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.3.2 Considered a group heat. 8.5.4.3.3 Four (4) athletes perform an identical synchronized pass. 8.5.4.3.4 Crossover Applies. 8.5.4.4 Heat 4: Aerial -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.4.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.4.2 Considered an individual heat.


8.5.4.4.3 One (1) athlete performs a pass with a minimum of 2 salto or aerial elements.

8.5.4.4.4 Crossover Applies. 8.5.4.5 Heat 5: Elements -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.5.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.5.2 Considered an individual heat. 8.5.4.5.3 One (1) athlete performs a pass with six (6) elements. 8.5.4.5.4 Crossover Applies. 8.5.4.6 Heat 6: Open -‐ Start Value: 10 points 8.5.4.6.1 No time restrictions. 8.5.4.6.2 Considered an individual heat. 8.5.4.6.3 One (1) athlete performs a pass with no requirements. 8.5.4.6.4 Crossover Applies. 8.6 Event Six – Team Event – 110 possible points 8.6.1 2.5 Minute routine. 8.6.2 Time starts with first note of music and ends with the last note. 8.6.3 Minimum of 10 athletes, maximum of 24 athletes per team per routine. 8.6.4 Synchronized choreographed skills set to music. 8.6.5 Routine contains required skills and optional skills. 8.6.6 Only one (1) skill category may be performed at a time. 8.6.7 Running tumbling, standing tumbling considered one (1) category. 8.6.8 Dance, choreography may be performed during Acrobatics, Toss and

Pyramid. May not be performed during tumbling. May not obstruct officials view.

8.6.8.1 Requirement 1 – Start Value 20 points 7.6.8.1.1 30 Acrobatics Elements. 7.6.8.1.2 Repetition rule apply unless skills performed synchronized. 8.6.8.2 Requirement 2 -‐ Start Value 20 points 7.6.8.2.1 5 Tosses. 7.6.8.2.2 Repetition rule apply unless skills performed synchronized. 8.6.8.3 Requirement 3 -‐ Start Value 20 points 7.6.8.3.1 4 Pyramids (2.5 high). 7.6.8.3.2 Repetition rule apply unless skills performed synchronized. 8.6.8.4 Requirement 4 -‐ Start Value 20 points 7.6.8.4.1 One (1) Jump/Standing Tumbling pass per number of

athletes in Team Event.


7.6.8.4.2 Any athlete may perform more than one (1), total must equal athlete number performing.

8.6.8.5 Requirement 5 -‐ Start Value 20 points 7.6.8.5.1 One (1) Running Tumbling pass per person 7.6.8.5.2 Any athlete may perform more than one (1), total must

equal athlete number performing. 8.6.8.6 Routine Construction – Start Value 5 points 8.6.8.7 Dance Composition & Artistry – Start Value 5 points 7.6.8.7.1 50% of team must perform minimum of two (2) eight

counts. 8.7 Competition Miscellaneous 8.7.1 The maximum score in each meet is 300 points. The highest combined

score after all six events wins the competition. 8.7.2 Scoring is based upon pre-‐determined difficulty start values. Each skill

performed is valued prior to the meet. 8.7.3 Teams submit their skill sequence prior to each meet to the meet head

official.

9.0 Overview of Senior division Competition In meet Dual, Tri, or Quad competitions will be held with a pre determined

schedule, and a pre-‐set competition order. The first Team Acrobatics and Tumbling Junior and Senior National Championships will be held in conjunction with Gymnastics for All National Championships in June 2014.

9.1 Injury Policy 9.1.1 Please refer to the USA Gymnastics sanction packet for the handling of

any injury occurring at a USA Gymnastics sanctioned event. 9.1.2 If an injury occurs during an GfA Acrobatics and Tumbling event, it is

at the coaches discretion to put in an entire new group or simply substitute in an individual athlete. The new athlete must adhere to the same guidelines as related to crossover in the Acro event.


9.1.3 Teams will have 5 minutes after the athlete has been evaluated by the appropriate medical personnel and removed from the field of play to proceed. Coaches have two options:

9.1.3.1 If subbing a player only: teams will repeat the same skill sequence from the beginning and will only be officiated with this group, from where the injury happened. The officials will combine the execution deductions of the two groups prior to-‐ and after the injury.

9.1.3.2 If subbing a new group: teams will start over with a new start value and be officiated from beginning to end with the new group. The performance up to the injury will be disregarded.

9.1.4 If suspected injury occurs in the Toss Event, the skill will be scored as

performed. If suspected injury occurs in the Tumbling Event, the skill will be scored as performed. Substitutions for a new performance will not be allowed.

9.1.5 If suspected injury occurs during the Team Event, the head coach will

notify the officials to stop the routine based on the athlete’s safety. The head official will stop the routine if the athlete remains down for more than 5 seconds. It will be at the coach’s discretion to substitute an athlete in or not to replace the injured individual.

9.1.5.1 The team will have a (7) minute injury timeout after the athlete

has been evaluated by the appropriate medical professional or trainer, and removed from the field of play, before the meet will resume. Time will be kept by the head official.

9.1.5.2 The team will have the full mat to make any necessary adjustments

during the (7) minute injury timeout. 9.1.5.3 The team must repeat the entire routine from the beginning and

officials keep the score with execution deductions from the first and second team routine to the point where the injury occurred. The lower score (more deductions given) will be assessed from the two routines scored to the point of the injury. From the point of the injury forward, the second team routine will be scored. The combination of the lower score and the completion score will be the teams final Team Score.

9.2 Boundary Line Deductions 9.2.1 In the Tumbling event, athletes may begin off the matted surface BUT

must execute all skills AND end the last skill on the matted surface. 9.2.2 If the landing is inside the boundary and then the athlete steps outside

the boundary line, the out-‐of-‐bounds deduction will be taken.


9.2.3 If the landing (not the rebound) is outside the boundary lines with one

or two feet, the deduction will be taken. 9.3 Technical Difficulty Technical difficulty is defined as the Team Event music stopping, faulting or

skipping for any reason during the performance. In such a instances, teams must continue and complete their routine to counts.

9.4 Team Participant Numbers 9.4.1 Senior division team are allowed a maximum of 25 female athletes, and

are permitted to have a minimum of 10 female athletes. 9.5 Team Uniform/Attire 9.5.1 All competitors from the same team are required to wear identical team issued uniforms for competitions including the awards ceremony. 9.5.2 The uniform for Team Acrobatics and Tumbling has been designed for

maximum movement and safety and should consist of “Volleyball” type uniforms.

9.5.2.1 Top (Jersey) 9.5.2.1.1 Jersey will be constructed with visible numbers on the back

of the jersey. 9.5.2.1.2 Jersey will be constructed with Lycra (or similar) stretch

fabric to allow for maximum safety in movement. 9.5.2.1.3 No midriff showing, and all jerseys must have sleeves that

cover both shoulders. Sleeves may be any length, but must be solid (no holes).

9.5.2.1.4 No halters, tubes or one shoulder tops are permitted. 9.5.2.2 Shorts 9.5.2.2.1 Shorts will be constructed with Lycra (or similar) stretch

fabric to allow for maximum safety and movement. 9.5.2.2.2 No skirts or skorts are allowed, and inseam of shorts must

measure at least 2 inches. 9.5.2.3 All team members are to have a lightweight athletic shoe, sock

height is optional per team but all should be matching. 9.5.2.4 No Jewelry is permitted; No Band-‐Aids covering piercings.


9.5.2.5 A glove is permitted to increase grip for safety. 9.6 Equipment requirements 9.6.1 Competition Floor Specifications. 9.6.1.1 1 3/8 inch thick carpet bonded foam is recommended as the

minimum requirement for padding. 9.6.1.2 Rebound or spring type floors are allowed for Junior and Senior

competition. 9.6.1.3 Ideally, exercises are performed on a level mat area that is 54’ by

42’, but for Junior and Senior competition 42’ by 42” square is permitted. 9.6.2 Arena Specifications. 9.6.2.1 It is recommended that a minimum clearance of 5 feet from the

main floor to any obstruction. This includes corresponding mat area or any other obstruction, i.e. other apparatus, walls, pillars etc.

9.6.2.2 Any obstacles such as walls or posts within 5 feet of the

competition floor must be covered with matting during the competition and should be noted in the competition invitation.

9.6.2.3 The ideal unobstructed ceiling height of 25’ (feet) is

recommended for Junior and Senior competitions. If ideal height cannot be achieved, a minimal of 22 feet is acceptable.

9.7 Athlete Safety 9.7.1 Athlete safety guidelines, as listed in the USA Gymnastics Safety

Handbook, should always be considered. 9.7.2 Equipment specifications must be published in the pre-‐meet

information, deviations from normal standards, if permitted above, must be noted in the competition information.

9.7.3 For athlete safety, no additional tape may be placed on the surface to

mark places for competitors to stand or perform. No markings of any kind to assist performance, including chalk, may be made on the floor.


9.7.4 Make sure all reasonable safety measures are considered. 9.7.5 Procedures for the removal of blood and disinfection of the apparatus: A solution of 1 part bleach and 10 parts water (or anti-‐viral spray

disinfectant) should be available for the removal/disinfection of blood from the apparatus/matting.

For any information not contained in this document, please refer to: Junior division; USA Gymnastics, Gymnastics for All, Power TeamGym Rules

and Policies 2014-‐2015. To be introduced at GfA Nationals 2013. Senior division; National Acrobatics and Tumbling Association Rules and

Policies 2011-‐2012. (TheNCATA.org)

team a&t r&p revised 9-11-13!! 3! team!acrobatics!and!tumbling!201372014!!! ! & 8....

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