an official publication of USA Gymnastics

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an official publication of USA Gymnastics

Technique an official publication of USA Gymnastics

Publisher Kathy Scanlan Editor Luan Peszek Graphic Designer Billy Huys Men's Program Diredor Ron Galimore Women's Program Director Kathy Kelly Rhythmic Program Director Nora Campbell

USA GYMNASTtCS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: landy Knapp; Pre.idenl: Kalhy Icanlan; Pre.idenl Emerilus: Mike Donohue; Amaleur Alhletic Union: Mike Ilanner; American Sokol Organizalian: Jerry Milan; USA Trampoline & Tumbling: Wayne Downing; American Turners: Betty Heppner; Jewish Community (enters: Lori Katz; College Gymnastics Association­M: Roy Johnson; Nalianal Associalion 01 (allegiale Gymna.lics (oaches for Women: Gail Dovis; Notional Assodation for Girls and Women in Sporl: Marilyn Itrawbridge; National Assacialion of Women'. Gymna.tics Judges: Yvonne Hodge; Nalional (ollegiale Alhlelic Associalion: (hris Voelz, Tom Dunn; Nalional Federalion 01 Slale High School Assacialions: luson True; Nalional Gymnaslics Judges Assacialion: John Icheer; Nalional High School Gymna.lics (0 aches Assacialion: John Brinkworlh; Special Olympics, Inc.: Kate Faber·Hickie; U.S. Rhylhmic Gymna'lics (aaches Associalion: luzie DITulliO; U.S. Associalian 01 Independenl Gym (Iubs: lance (rowley; U.S. Elile (aaches Associalion lor Men'. Gymnaslics: Mark Williams; U.S. Elile (oache. Association lor Women's Gymnostics: Gory Anderson, Roe Kreutzer; U.S. Menls Gymnastics Coaches Assacialion: More Yancey; U.S. Sports Acrobatics Federalion: Bonnie Davidson; U.S. (ampelilive Sports Aerobics Federation: Howard Shcwortz;Young Men's Christian Association of Ihe USA: Rick Dodson; USA Gymnaslics Nalional Membership Direttors: Men's: , Roy Guro, Jim Holt; Woments: Undo (hendnski, David Holcomb; Rhylhmic: Alia IYirsky, Tamara Dosso; Alhlele'. Advi.ory (ammillee: Tanya lervice (hoplin, chair; (hris Waller, vice chair; Krislen Kenoyer Woodland, sec; Wendy Hilliard, Vanessa Vander Pluym, Peter Vidmar, (anrod Voarsonger, Kim Zmeskal; USO( Alhlele Representative: Michelle Ousserre-Forrell.

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (hair: landy Knapp; Special Advi.ar 10 Ihe (hairman 01 Ihe Board: Roe Kreutzer; Presidenl: Kathy lcanlan; Secrelary: Mike Milidanis; Vice (hair Women: Joon Moore Gnal; Vice (hair Men: TIm Dogge"; Vice (hair Rhylhmic: (andace Feinberg; FIG heculive (ommillee: Jay Ashmore; FIG Women'. Technical (ammillee: Jockie fie; FIG Rhylhmic Technical (ammillee: Andrea Ichmid·lhapiro; FIG Men'. Technical (ommitlee: George Beckslead; AI Large Members: Jim Harlung, Susan True; Alhlele Direclors: Tanya lervice Chaplin, Wendy Hilliard, Peler Vidmar; USO( Alhlele Represenlalive: Michelle Dusserre·Farrell; Pre.idenl Emerilus: Mike Donahue.

(HANGE OF ADDRESI AND IUBI(RIPTION INQUIRIES: In order 10 ensure unin· terrupled delivery of TE(HNIQUE magazine, no~ce 01 change of address should be made eighl weeks in advance. Far lastest service, pi .... endose your pre· sent mailing label. Dired all ",bsaip~an ma~ 10 TECHNIQUE Subsuipnons, UI~ Gymnaslics, 201 S. (apilal Ave., Ite. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225.

TE(HNIQUE UIIN 074B·59999) is published 10 limes per year by UIA Gymnastics, Pon Ameri(on PlOZD, Suite 300, 201 S. Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, III 46225 (phone: 317·237·50501 ar yisil online @

www . usa · gymnastics . org Application to moil 01 periodi­cal postage role is pending 01 Indpls., III and additional mailing offices. Subscription prices: U.I.·525 per year; (anada/ Mexic .. 548 per year; all ather foreign countries·560 per year. If available, bock issue .ngle copies 54 plus postage!handling. All reasonable core will be taken, bUI no responsibility (on be assumed for unsolicited malerial; enclose relurn paslage. (opyrighl 1998 by UIA Gymnastics and TE(HNIQUE All righls reserved. Prinled by lperl Graphics, Indianapolis, III.

Unless expressly idenlified 10 Ihe (onlrory, 011 orticles, stolemenls ond views prinled herein ore oHribuled solely 10 the oUlhor ond USA Gymnoslics expresses no opinion ond ossumes no responsibility Ihereof.

(over Photo©Dave Bla(k (over Design by Billy Huys

Features How to be a High Performance Machine

Basic Swing: Technical Concept .... .. .

Artistic Gymnastics Competition Programs For Juniors in Russia

Can What You Say and Do Make a Difference

Meet the Staff: Men's Program

Eliminating Bad Habits . .. . . .

How Do You Emphasize Strengths and Cover Up Weaknesses

It's Official, General Gymnastics is a New Sport

Getting Newspaper Coverage for Your Gym

Departments

President's Message

What's New

Classifieds .

Event Schedule

Safety Certification Schedule

Program Update

USA Gymnastics Men's Program Committee Meeting

Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory

KAT Registration Schedule

KAT Registration Form

KAT Levell Teachers

Nomination Form for USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame

Women's Technical Committe Conference Call

Breaking General Gymnastics News!

r"( VOLUME 18

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~RESIDENT'S

Kathy Scanlan

Membership in USA Gymnastics continues to grow. As of December 1997 we had enrolled 63,500 Team members, a 4% increase over December 1996.

Professional Membership is up 6%, now standing at 12,226. We have 950 Instructor Members, 732

Member Clubs and 3,700 General Members. The Member Services Department is processing sanctions and merchandise orders in addition to membership

applications. Please remember that by the start of the 1998-99

season you must be safety certified to be a profession­al member. This requirement was adopted by the Board in 1995 and will be enforced this fall. Please plan now to get your safety certification if you are a professional member and are not safety certified.

Jackie Fie and Jay Ashmore attended the December FIG Executive Committee meeting in Moutier,

Switzerland. The United States submitted a bid for the 2003 World Championships. (As of this writing it is the only bid received by the FIG). The decision on the bid will be made at the FIG Congress in May, so let's

keep our fingers crossed that this bid is successful. The event will be conducted in Indianapolis in the fall.

The Men's Future Stars competition was held November 13-14, at the Olympic Training Center along with the 1997 Men's Coaches Workshop. This event attracted more than 100 talented junior gymnasts. About the same number of coaches and parents partic­ipated in the Workshop, which was very well received.

The Women's Program held a High Performance Coaches Summit at Karolyi's Ranch in December. The agenda was to review all aspects of the women's inter­national program, and to analyze what works and what doesn't . The National Team coaches discussed our strengths, weaknesses and renewed their dedication to excellence.

The United States submitted a bid for

the 2003 World Championships. (As of

this writing it is the only bid received by the FIG). The decision on the bid will

be made at the FIG Congress in May, so let's keep our fingers crossed that this bid is successful. The event will be

conducted in Indianapolis in the fall.

Jackie Fie and Jay Ashmore attended the December FIG Executive Committee meeting in Moutier, Switzerland.

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Most of us recognize the importance of nutrition for the sport of gymnastics. We know that what an athlete eats can directly effect motivation and concentration levels, flexibil­ity and strength. By improving the overall adequacy of dietary intake, hydration levels and eating schedule, an ath­lete will realize many benefits. Improved productivity dur­ing the last hours of training, more successful skill comple­tion, a more positive training attitude, and a decrease in his or her risk of injury are several key outcomes. What a won­derful way to foster healthy and happy athletes.

What about the health and happiness of our staff, those that mold and develop our gymnasts? Can their productiv­ity in the gym also be improved? Energy levels maintained longer? Mood and attitude kept at an optimum? ABSOLUTELY!!! After all, gymnastics coaches and staff are high performance machines as well. You are responsible for motivating, organizing, scheduling, spotting, instructing, encouraging, and empowering our athletes. You have rela­tionships to build with parents and surrounding peers. You set high expectations of yourself, not only at the gym, but at home as well. So why not maximize your potential for per­formance by optimizing your nutrition intake?

Here are a few easy to follow guidelines and realistic tips to optimize your overall nutrition:

1. Planning and preparation are the keys to nutrition success. Initially eating healthy will take longer and may seem

like a chore. However, it soon will become second nature and you'll enjoy the benefits so much you'll have it no other way. The time to think about what you are going to eat each day is the night before. Review your commitments and time schedule for the next day. Take 10 minutes to cut, spread, mix, wrap and/or pack your food. This is a time-saver for the next morning and allows you to eat more healthy that day. The payoff is great! Stock up on ziplock snack and sandwich bags, as well as freezer bags. Wash and cut your vegetables when you get home from shopping and store them in the ziplock bags. Place a paper towel in the bag to absorb the moisture. If you have purchased more vegeta­bles than you will use in a couple of days, then put the ready to go bags in the freezer. Also, if you make pasta or a stew on Sunday, you can freeze individual portions, dated & identified for quick and easy access after practice during the week. This holds true for any leftovers.

2. Make grocery shopping a weekly priority. Start with a grocery shopping list that you keep with

you and one on the refrigerator. This will improve actual time spent in the grocery store and what you bring home. Spend the majority of your time shopping the perimeter of the store where the fresh produce, meats, dairy and whole foods are, versus packaged, prepared and canned foods. Remember, to be successful, planning and preparation is

the key! It will take more time in the beginning, but each time you will become more efficient. You may even start to enjoy grocery shopping. If you cannot get to the store, con­sider giving your list to a parent at the gym, staff member, or other family member and pay them to go shopping for you. I'd go for $10! It's a small price to pay when you think about the trade off.

3. Start choosing your meals by color. Your goal is to have 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables

every day. A serving is considered 1 piece of fruit, 4 oz fruit juice, 1 cup raw vegetables, 1/2 cup cooked vegetables or 6 oz vegetable juice. By increasing the amount of green, red, orange, and yellow foods to your diet, you are adding valu­able phytochemicals that are important in helping protect against certain types of cancer and other diseases. Start the day by adding berries to your oatmeal or cereal with a glass of orange juice. This adds orange and red to your initially bland colored breakfast. By doing so you are also adding low calorie, high nutrient dense foods to your diet improv­ing the overall vitamin and mineral intake. This may allow for better utilization, metabolism, and absorption of the macronutrients (carbohydrate, fat & protein) you are eat­ing. Sneak baby spinach leaves, cut zucchini or red peppers on to your sandwich. If you can't stand the taste of vegeta­bles buy pureed spinach, sweet potatoes or squash in the baby food section of the grocery store and mix a jar into your spaghetti sauce while heating it up. You will not see the vegetable or taste it, but reap all the benefits of the nutrients. Graduate up the lettuce ladder. Pass on Iceberg and give Romaine and some of the darker leaf lettuces a try. Nutritionally you'll be doing yourself a big favor. Try buy­ing salads in a bag. They are ready to go and well worth the price because now you're more likely to eat a salad since preparation time is decreased dramatically.

4. Establish meal scheduling as a priority in your day.

a) NEVER skip breakfast

It truly is the most important meal of the day. It spring­boards you into the day and sets the tone for the rest of your choices. Breakfast is a perfect time to start getting your 5-9 fruits and vegetables for the day. It also jump-starts your metabolism into working. For those of us that skip break­fast, our bodies go into a starvation or survival mode. We conserve our energy as if we were not going to be fed again. Therefore, our metabolic rate or our caloric need will actu­ally decrease. What happens after that is we need to eat fewer calories in a 24 hour period than we did before to maintain our weight. Typically this is one of the reasons why the scale keeps climbing. Breakfast also gives you the needed available energy to perform at your best until lunch. If we skip breakfast, we become fatigued late in the morning and are unable to concentrate very well. Many people suffer from headaches that start around 10:30 -11 :00 a.m. and can't get rid of them even after they eat lunch. Next time, skip the aspirin instead of breakfast.

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b) Go no longer than 4 hours without eating and incorporate snacks to get you to the next meal.

This will help you make better choices at the next meal and help maintain your energy and attitude. For example, if you eat breakfast at 7:00 a.m. then at 11:00 it is time to eat again. Have a snack to hold you over to lunch. If you have lunch at 1 :00 p.m. then at 5:00 p.m. it is time to eat again. But you will be at the gym and do not have time to eat between classes. You will not be home until 9:00 p .m. What should you do? At 5:00 p.m., take time to eat a more substantial snack like a sandwich and a beverage. Typically, 100 calories per hour is a quick and easy way to determine the quantity of the snack to have to hold you over until the next meal. Also, a midmorning or afternoon snack is the perfect time to squeeze in another fruit and/ or vegetable serving. Try some cut carrots & jicama, celery sticks with peanut butter, frozen grapes or some dried cranberries and pretzels. Other ideas include nonfat yogurt or string cheese and a couple lowfat crackers. It is important to plan ahead for the time spent at the gym. Most coaches and staff are working through meal and snack times. Bring convenient/healthy foods with you and make it a priority to eat them. Rotate with another staff member in leading warm-ups to allow both of you the opportunity to eat your food. Also, this is a perfect time to set an example about the importance of eating. It is no time to show up with a soft drink, fast-food burger and large fries. Show your athletes that there are healthy choices at fast food restaurants and that you eat them. Plus, you will now have energy to be a better coach during their practice. If the prac­tice lasts longer than 2.5 - 3 hours and the girls are taking a quick snack break, use that time to have your snack as well.

c) It is OK to eat when you get home from the gym even if it's late and you're going to bed soon.

After a long day at the gym, it is important to listen to your body and eat if you are hungry, even if it's late at night. This is the time however, to make sure your choices are healthy and your portions are reasonable. If you are hungry, most likely your body needs calories and the nutri­ents from the food. It is important to not over eat because we may store those calories as fat and this is one thing we are all trying to avoid. Calorie control takes place over a 24 hour

period. Look at the entire day and make a smart choice late at night. A frozen diluter and a glass of nonfat milk is a nutri­tious, quick and easy, reasonable portion size meal. Add a salad with lowfat/nonfat dressing to that and you're increas­ing its nutrient value tremendously by adding color to your meal without greatly increasing the caloric content.

5. Listen to your body. Eat when hungry and stop when full.

By incorporating this recommendation along with your eating schedule, you'll start eating more often during the day, but in smaller amounts. This will help you utilize the food you are eating instead of storing it as fat. It also allows you to more easily incorporate your fruit and vegetable servings for the day. If you are out to eat, do not hesitate to wrap up half of your meal and save it for tomorrow's lunch. The best part is that it's all ready to go.

The best way to get started is to try one or two of the above recommendations a week. Cut out the summary below and keep it in your day planner for a quick reminder. Take the time to realize the benefits of eating a healthier more nutritious diet. Initially, you should notice an improvement in your ener­gy level and mood. This will serve as reinforcement to contin­ue your efforts. Soon you will see an improvement in your effectiveness while coaching and working at the gym. What a wonderful way to foster happy and healthy coaches and staff!

BE A HIGH PERFORMANCE MACHINE BY IMPROVING YOUR NUTRITION

1. Planning & Preparation 2. Grocery Shopping Weekly 3. Choose Your Meals by Color 4. Meal Scheduling

a) Never skip breakfast b) Go no longer than 4 hours without eating c) Make healthy choices when eating late at night

5. Eat when Hungry, Stop when Full

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by Mas Watanabe

When a gymnast has technically sound basic swing on the swinging events, his ability to learn skills will dramatically increase. Generally, technical refinement of basic swing is an on-going battle for most gymnasts throughout their career. It is eas­ier to develop good swinging technique at the early stage of development than teach­ing physically mature gymnasts how to swing correctly. However, teaching proper basic swing takes a very long time and is less exciting particularly when just start­ing gymnastics, but once proper technique is developed, it will greatly enhance learn­ing later.

The ideal technique for basic swing for all the events has changed over time. Skill trends, dictated by the Code 01 Points, onen have a strong influence on how the basic swing will be done. Another factor which has had a subtle influence on the basic swing is the advancement and change of modern equipment. Newer apparatus are made with better materials and use techno­logically advanced designs. The subtle change of apparatus will effect the timing of the swing, as well as the shape of the swing, to make it efficient.

Here, we will briefly discuss how the modern basic swing should be done on Pommel Horse, Rings, Parallel Bars and High Bar events.

.A!'Al "MERlCAN

Pommel Horse

• In

A technically sound double leg circle can be developed on the mushroom. The roundness of the mushroom enables gymnasts to swing circles with the body extended and smooth hip rotation. However, there are a few important technical aspects that we must always emphasize even on the mushroom. Following are some of the critical points to emphasize: 1. Keep the head in line with the body line throughout

the circle, but particularly at the front support position, try not to bring the head downward to look at the hands.

2. Bring the chest upward and forward in the front support position (Not in hollow chest position) and maintain this position throughout.

3. Chest and hips must remain in a straight line through out the circle.

4. Encourage gymnasts to swing fast circles.

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5. During the circle, the shoulders must be shrugged unless the gymnast is too weak to support himself and stay up.

6. Encourage shoulder lean sideways (both sides) while legs are crossing over the pommel.

7. Emphasize body tightness throughout the circle.

A mushroom drill for good technical circles ( Floor Mushroom)

1. Quarter circle to side support on one arm: a. Emphasize the circle action initiated with the

whole body (Not from the toes). b. Arrive in one arm side support position with chest

and hips open. c. Emphasize the use of both arms to generate the

speed of circle. d . Start from a hips and chest open position

(Eliminate any up and down motion). 2. Three quarter circle to support on one arm:

a. Maintain extended chest and hips throughout (Should not be any noticeable change in body position).

b. Encourage relaxed shoulder, but maintain firm body position.

c. At the end of the side support position, heels should be leading the circle (It is important not to lead with hips at this point) .

3. One and one-eighth circle a. Hips and the entire body rotate together to initiate

the 2nd circle. b. Important to maintain chest and hips open through

out (No lifting of any part of the body) . c. Encourage use of both hands on the mushroom to

initiate body rotation. d . Both hands remain on the horse at the end.

This drill is an excellent one to use for a gymnast who has just learned circles to even an elite level gymnast who needs refinement of the circle technique. Most gym­nasts should spend the first 10-15 min. of Pommel Horse work on this drill.

Leg Swing on Pommel Horse Following are the important points to emphasize in leg cuts and scissor work. 1. Maintain the center of the hips in the middle of the

horse during the stride swing. 2. Head and chest s tay upright throughout the swing

(Not looking down and supporting in hollow chest position) .

3. Straddle legs sideways wide throughout the swing. 4. Always lead the swing with the first leg-which is the

first leg in the direction of the swing.

Rings Learning proper "under" swing technique can lead to

all levels of skills essential to ring swing. Technically good forward swing will develop into giant dislocate, back giant and all levels of backward salto dismounts. Similarly, technically good under swing backward will develop into giant inlocate, front giant and also all levels of forward salto dismounts. Often times, when a gymnast starts to work on advanced skills such as Guczoghy or double layout 1/1 dismount, they need to go back to the refinement of the basic swing because the technical essence for these advanced skills lies in the efficiency of the turn over power in the basic under swing. Therefore, we will discuss the technique of under swing forward and backward in detail here.

Under Swing When a gymnast works on under swing at the earliest

stage, the technical emphasis should be placed only in one direction of the swing (forward or backward) at a time.

Under Swing Forward 1. At the highest point in the back swing, the shoulders

should be well extended and the rings are pushed out slightly forward and sideways. The body should be maintained in an arch from the upper chest area to ensure smooth kick through the bottom.

2. From the top of the swing, continuous shoulder extension toward the bottom of the swing must be maintained. This helps to maintain the arched body until the bottom of the swing.

3. At the bottom, kick the legs through forward and upward to make the entire body turn over as quickly as possible. This efficient body turn over action is the most critical part of the swing. Gymnasts should attempt to kick from the upper chest at the bottom. This will help the shoulders to remain extended and stay down until the entire body completely turns over.

4. The rings should not be pulled backward until the entire body is well turned over and the feet are pointed directly toward the ceiling.

5. After the completion of the entire body turn over, the rings can be pressed downward as high as the swing will allow.

It is important to note that any widening of the rings, elevating of the shoulders or pulling of the rings back­ward should not occur prior to the completion of the body turn over.

Under Swing Backward 1. From the previously mentioned turned over position,

the body should swing down in hollow position with out losing pressure on the rings.

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2. The shoulders and upper back should lead the down­ward swing which would ensure a smooth backward kicking action through the bottom of the swing.

3. At the bottom, vigorous kicking of the heels and the body turn over action occurs.

4. During the turn over phase, the head should stay down to facilitate the heel lift.

5. Again, the kick should be done in the upper chest and the shoulders remain low throughout the turn over phase.

6. If the gymnast does not have flexible shoulders, the rings could be pressed slightly sideways, but it is important the shoulders remain down in the fully extended position.

7. Once the heels have risen upward and the toes are directed upward toward the ceiling, the shoulders can then be elevated along with the head. At this point, the rings can be pressed down to elevate the shoulders as much as the swing will allow.

Parallel Bars There are four types of basic swings on PB namely, arm

support swing, upper arm swing, under bar swing and giant swings. All these basic swings are equally important to performing good routines, but many of the advanced and trendy skills are done in the arm support swing form or in the giant swing forms.

Arm Support Swing 1. Arm support swing should be done without excessive

hip pike. All the kicking action must be done in the upper chest which allows the body to be in a straight line most of the time.

2. In forward swing, it is important that the body approach the bottom of the swing in an arched position from the chest, then, kick through the bottom.

Properly executed beat swing at the bo ttom, should generate powerful forward and upward swing.

3. Every time the body swings through the bottom, encourage gymnasts to shrug the shoulders for a more powerful and freer swing.

4. The head position a t the end of the forward swing, should not be lifted upward and backward excess­ively. Rather, the head should be pressed slightly forward to minimize the shoulders leaning backward.

5. In backward swing, the natural heel drive at the bottom will cause a slight arch in the body on the way up to the handstand. The arched point in the lower back a t the bottom of the swing, should be shifted up to the upper chest as the swing reaches the vertical. Then, the last 20 degrees prior to the handstand, the upper chest should be pushed into a hollow position.

Upper Arm Support Swing 1. The ideal body position for upper arm support swing

is to support the hands from the shoulders as wide as shoulder strength can handle.

2. The body action during the forward swing should be

very similar to the backward giant swing on HE. 3. The forward swing should start from the hollow

position at the highest point of the swing. Then, a natural opening of the chest prior to the bottom. This properly arched position w ill ensure a powerful kick through the bottom. After the kick, the body assumes into the natural hollow position prior to the opening of the body at the top of the swing.

4. The body action of the backward swing, should be identical to the under swing backward, not a forward giant on HB.

5. From the top of the forward swing (beginning of the backward swing), the body should be as extended as

possible when the body starts to descend. The body should go into a slight arch as the body passes through bar height. Then, a quick hollowing of the chest and a slight hip pike should occur in preparation for the beat (kick) through the bottom. The kick will be initiated from the lower back, but must continuously move up to the upper chest.

In learning the backward swing, it is important to learn to kick through "long" (meaning learn to kick through from the chest) at the bottom. The shorter kick through the bottom, which is used for the skills such as back uprise straddle cut or back Stutz, is easier to learn at a la ter time.

Both swings forward and backward should end in body vertical positions leaving the hands on the bar.

Under Bar Swing The under bar swing can be done from a gliding action,

a jump or a drop from the support swing position. The most important part of the swing is being in the basket position under the bar. A gymnast must learn how to create swing when he is in this position. Then, he can apply this swing to various form of swings such as cast, peach basket or kips.

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Basket Swing In the still basket hang position, the gymnast must learn

how to create swing. In order to create swing from a still position, he must first

elevate his shoulders and lift the hips upward and forward while slightly opening the legs away from the body. This will create a small swing backward (counter clockwise).

Then with quick action on the returning swing forward, the shoulders should be extended down and the legs should be compressed down toward the chest right at the bottom of the swing.

Immediately lifting the shoulders up forward, along with the slight kick of the legs, should create a small swing around the bottom.

This process should be repeated to build the bigger swing.

There are number of other ways to help them learn this basket swing. Following are examples of those exercises:

• Drop kip drill from the support swing. • From the support position, drop backward into the

basket swing position and swing forward, then do a kip up to support.

• Under bar cast forward at the end of the bar. • Standing in between the bars facing out at the end

of the bars, simply lift the legs up to the bar and basket swing forward. The swing should go forward and upward in a high arc and land as far from the bar as possible.

Giant Swing The giant swing may well be the most advanced swing

among all the basic swings. Theoretically, a gymnast who can do a technically correct back giant on HB should be able to do the PB giant swing. In other words, if a gymnast has a technical problem in his HB giant, it will affect his PB giant the same way. The grip on PB's makes it difficult to hang on to the bars if there is any jerking in the shoulders as the body approaches the bottom of the swing. Therefore, the shoulders must be extended maximally during the down swing.

Ideally, the second half of the giant should be very sim­ilar to the back giant except for the hand change at the end. A very common mistake we often see is releasing the hands too early and ending in a excessively arched posi­tion at the handstand. Generally, this is caused by a very short kick through the bottom (kick is done from the hips only) and the body does not turn over far enough.

There are many different drills to work on each seg­ment of the giant on PB. It is better to start on a smaller swing and gradually build to a bigger swing. Following are some examples of the drills to develop a partial giant:

• Small bail to swing through the bottom. • From a small bail, hop upper arm support. • From a bail, tucked flyaway on the end of the bar. • From the handstand, bail to the bottom of the swing

and stop using an 8 inch skill cushion.

Horizontal Bar Most gymnasts learn a giant swing forward and back­

ward at an early age. However, many gymnasts neglect to refine their giant swing to the point where they can easily develop the tap swing for Kovacs or a Chinese tap for dis­mounts. Unfortunately, many gymnasts must spend hours to re-Iearn technically correct giants before they learn many advanced skills such as Kovacs or a good double layout.

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Giant Swing The most important concept of giant swing is to make

the body move in one unit. The arms and the upper body and also the legs and the lower part of the body must move as one unit. In order for the arms and the upper body to move together, the shoulders must be fully extended all the time. Similarly, the buttocks must be tightened to connect the legs and the lower body when arching and kicking action occurs at the bottom the swing.

Back Giant From the handstand position, the upper body goes into

a slightly hollow position as the feet start to descend. This subtle action should continue until the body passes through the horizontal.

The head should be in between the arms and the shoul­ders and should not be lifted up excessively during this phase.

When the body passes through the horizontal, a natur­al opening of the entire body should occur (slight arching action of the chest area). Therefore, the chest is the only body part which is moved from the hollow position to the arched position in this phase.

The opening of the chest area should promote a shoul­der extension and at this point the shoulders are leading the swing through the bottom.

A natural kicking action from the chest should occur through the bottom. This kicking action from the chest region (no hip pike) should end well above the horizontal. At the end of the kick, the body is back to a slight hollow position.

The opening action of the body will elevate the body vertically and then settle into a nice extended handstand position.

Front Giant From the handstand position, the heels must lead the

initial descending of the giant swing. The body should be in a slightly arched position from the chest area and the shoulders are extended as far out as possible. During the first 90 degrees of giant, it is very critical not to lose shoulder tension and the shoulders should never lead the swing. Accelerating the giant by slightly thrusting the heels forward and downward will help maintain shoulder tension during this phase.

Once the body passes through the horizontal, it becomes easier to maintain the shoulder tension toward the bottom of the swing.

The first half of the giant, the shoulder should be hyper­extended slightly to maintain good extension. However, the body should be only slightly arched from the upper chest with no excessive arch in the lower back (the body should look fairly straight).

At the bottom of the swing, the shoulders should be con­tinuously extended downward and the heels should lead the swing. At this point, the entire body will go through a more ached position to maximize the heel drive.

A slight elevation of the shoulders and the chest area after the bottom of the swing will increase the upward rotation of the giant. The momentum generated from this lifting action (it should be a very smooth lifting action) is enough to open the body toward the handstand pOSition very nicely.

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Artistic Gymnastics Competition Programs for Juniors in Russia V Chebouraev (RUS) Compulsory Programs for Juniors in Russia

The rapid development of world gymnastics and the political, economic, social and ecological changes in Russia have created problems in the domain of preparing young gymnasts for the national teams.

In order to standardize the organization and running of competitions in Russia, there exists a 'unified sports classification' in which we have maintained the old sys­tem of certifying the gymnasts in the different age cate­gories and preparation levels.

Junior Levels:

Master of Sport of Russia juniors - boys 16 years of age juniors - girls 14 years of age

Candidate of Master of Sport boys 14 years of age girl 12 years of age

1 st Degree boys 12 years of age girls 1 0 years of age

2nd Degree boys 11 years of age girls 9 years of age

3rd Degree boys 10 years of age girls 8 years of age

1 st Degree for the Cadets boys 9 years of age girls 8 years of age

2nd degree for the Cadets boys 8 years of age girls 7 years of age

3rd degree for the Cadets boys 7 years of age girls 7 years of age

As you know, beginning this year the Technical Committees have brought forth fundamental changes in the Codes of Points. Above all they increased the difficulty requirements of the exercises for all apparatus and intro­duced lower start scores: 9.00 for women and 8.60 for men, with an introduction of bonus for performing additional elements and special connections. Also, the FIG Congress eliminated the compulsory exercises.

Because of this, the Russian Gymnastics Federation reconstructed all of the competitive programs for the seniors and junior by eliminating the compulsory exercis­es for the gymnasts of the levels Master of Sport and Candidate for Master of Sport, and by introducing the new specific requirements for the exercise difficulties. You can see this on the chart. These requirements must assure the successive increase in the difficulty of the exercises, and successive mastery of the gymnasts during passage from one degree to a higher degree. These requirements correspond to the requirements of the FIG Code. This con­cerns the start score and the difficulty requirements. The difficulties increase successively and the start score decreases. In the 1st degree the start score is 10.00 and there is no bonus. For the 1st Degree Candidates of Master

of Sport for the boys, the start score is 9.50 and for the girls 9.60, plus the bonus for the elements and special connections.

We have kept the compulsory exercises for all of the other degrees. We are sure that compulsory exercises are the base of the gymnastics school; the basis of mastery for the gymnasts. The compulsory exercises give the gymnasts the possibility to learn the basic movements, the funda­mentals on which they will be able to build more compli­cated exercises of different structure groups. In addition, the compulsory exercises are an aid in methodology for the coach, they are an orientation on the concrete contents of moves and methods for the physical and technical pre­paration of young gymnasts.

The compulsory exercises for juniors (3rd, 2nd and 1st degrees) and for the 3rd Degree seniors must assure the first stage of selection and initial preparation of young gym­nasts. The objectives of this period are the following:

• reveal the capacity of the children • the physical preparation and the special motor

preparation • the education of character, knowing how to

overcome fear • the basic formation for learning initial elements of

gymnastics, acrobatic and choreographic exercises • the formation of stable interest for gymnastics.

The second stage of special preparation of young gym­nasts foresees the performance of the 2nd and 1st degree compulsory exercises and the exercises of the Master of Sport candidates. The compulsory exercises of the 2nd and 1st degrees have the base elements for all of the apparatus, and have the goal of preparing young gymnasts to pass to the higher degree, that of the Candidate of Master of Sport.

During this period attention is given to the general and special physical preparation to the development of strength, flexibility, speed and the performance of elements and difficult connections with everything combined, the education of p ractical work of the gymnast him/ herself (independently) and the practice of participation in compe­titions. Proper hygiene and correct nutrition are taught.

The third stage is the stage of high performance which foresees the performance of elements, of connections and combinations of the Master of Sport program with orienta­tion for participation in the competition of the Olympic Games on all apparatus in the all-around competition. During this period it is necessary to participate in impor­tant international competitions in the gymnast' s own coun­try and in other countries.

In this stage, special theoretical preparation is foreseen . The young gymnasts must study the Codes of Points, the his­tory of gymnastics, the influence of physical exercise on the human body, on medical control, and be introduced to the process of training.

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The preparation of young gymnasts in Russia is carried out in special sport schools based on the education program of the s tate. This has been created by specialists utilizing the experience of the best coaches and the results of scientific research in the domain of gymnastics develop­ment world wide.

What is explained in this program is the content of the training process during the annual, monthly and weekly cycles; the typical plans / schedules regarding the principal parts of preparation (general and special physical prepara­tion, technical preparation, competitive preparation, acro­batic preparation, etc.)

What is presented are methodological recommendations regarding psychological and theoretical preparation, medical and pedagogical verification, and information on various means of physical and pharmacological recuperation. Examples are given regarding the content of training during the different periods of preparation for several years­beginning with the initial formation up to high level training.

Degree Start Score GrouR of Difficulties A B C D

Master of Sport 8.60 4 3 2 1 Master Candidate 9.50 4 3 2 1 st Degree 10.00 4 2 1

We conclude that the existence of three documents (The Unified Sports Classification, The Qualification Program of Competitions and the State Educational Program for Sports Schools) is an important factor for elaborating the system of athelete preparation for the national teams. However, it is necessary to add:

• A material and technical base (specially equipped training halls, school, lodging, etc.)

• Personnel (coaches, professors, instructors of methodology, teachers)

• Scientific research (groups of specialists for biomechanics, psychology, physiology, etc.)

• Medical checking

In assembling all of these factors, we anticipate solving the problems of preparation of young gymnasts (up to 19 years) from novice to high level gymnasts.

Bonus for Supplementary Penaltx for Missing Difficulties Difficulties

A B C D B C D E 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.1 0.2 O.? 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.1 0.2 0.3

Note: this report was prepared for the FIG Scientific Symposium in Berlin, October, 1997. The original presentation was made in Russian with translation into French. The English translation fro m the French version of this report was done by Becky Riti-FIGjUSA Gymnastics Interpreter.

QUAUIT CHAMPIONSHIP AWARDS

WITH fREE 30" RlBBONl

Can an autograph save a life? Can a simple smile, a hand­shake or a hug change our

destinies or alter the course of a child's existence? Can a nice gesture give one more

sunset to the living or comfort to the dying? Think not? ..

Then let me tell you a story!

CAN WHAT YOU SAY AND

DO MAKE A DI FFERENCE?

YOU BET! By Louis Profeta

In 1981 I was a 17-year-old gymnast for a local high school men's team. How much potential did I have? Who knows? I certainly did not lack in dedication, work ethic, or love for gymnastics. I could reasonably envision myself competing at the collegiate level and perhaps beyond. I had been following the national and international gymnastics scene with undaunt­ed fervor. I taped every segment the national media aired. The walls of my room were plastered with cutouts of the national men's and women's teams. I had a video library of all the greats and studied their routines in detail. I followed the careers of Bart Conner, Kurt Thomas, Mark Casso, Jim Hartung, Scott Johnson, Mitch Gaylord, Peter Vidmar, Tim Daggett and Phil Cahoy with the same degree of enthusiasm as many of my friends who followed baseball. To this day I can recite many of their routines. There was, however, one gym­nast by whom I was especially captivated-Ron Galimore. Anyone that has seen Galimore compete knows that in 1980 he was perhaps the finest vaulter and floor performer in the world. Ron was one of the first to do a full twisting layout Tsukahara vault in competition. And, according to 1996 Olympic Coach Peter Kormann, no one has yet to do it as well. The height and power he would obtain off the horse was phe­nomenal. It was a classic study in the conversion of momen­tum. There were times that the vault would literally disappear from the TV screen. His power, grace and airtime were unmatched on floor.

But, there was also a mystique about Galimore. His father was a famous running back for the Chicago Bears whose talent was cut short by his death in a motor vehicle accident. Ron was only 6 years old at the time. Ron told me that while he can remember the frigid temperatures of the gridiron, his own image of his father's talent is perhaps more a product of other people's memories than of his own. To this day, fans still remind him about his father's greatness. Football, however, took a back seat to another sport. Ron became enamored with gymnastics and in time accomplished what no other African American had ever accomplished. He became a member of the 1980 Olympic Gymnastics Team, one of the finest American Men's team ever assembled. There was little doubt in my mind that Ron would take a gold on vault and perhaps medal on floor. But then the Soviet Union invaded Afganistan, politics

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and sports came to a screaming collision, and in 1980 President Carter announced the U.S. would not be going to the Summer Games. In a blink of an eye, a door closed, a dream faded, and a world changed.

Six months later the Professional Gymnastics tour arrived in Indianapolis. Kelly Doyle had agreed to be my date for the event so life was good. I was one of the best male high school gym­nasts in Indiana, I was hitting all my events, I had tickets to see my heroes perform in person, and my future was right on track. One hour later I was fighting for my life with a broken neck from a gymnastics accident. In a blink of an eye, a door closed, a dream faded and a world changed.

When you are young, nothing bad ever happens for the best. It's just bad. I remember lying paralyzed from the neck down. Blood filled my mouth, breathing was harder than any move I had ever attempted. I knew in an instant my life would never be the same. I caught Kelly Doyle'S eye as I passed into the ambu­lance, a look of concern melting into a mask of despair. Soon I was strapped to a bed, metal spikes were drilled into my skull, I could feel the bones cracking as weighted traction was applied to stabilize my spine. I was never so distraught as I was then. I was never so lost. The only real constant in my life, outside of

Indiana University School of Medicine. I later was accepted to the University of Pittsburgh program in Emergency Medicine, one of the most competitive program in the world. Along the way I picked up more scholarships, plaques, awards, and appointments than I could have ever imagined. I have had more wonderful experiences as a doctor than most people will have in a lifetime. And, as usually happens, suc­cess sometimes blinds you from where you came. About 3 months ago a child was brought to the Emergency Department. In a blink of an eye, a door closed, a dream faded, and a life was changed forever.

The ER was absolute pandemonium that evening, and I was exhausted. Car accidents, drunks, assaults, heart attacks, non-stop controlled chaos. A young couple brought in an ll-month-old child. They were concerned that he was look­ing weak and fatigued, and perhaps breathing a little fast. It was 9:00 p.m. During the preceding week they had been to their family physician three times, another local immediate care center once, and had spoken numerous times by phone with other health care providers. The conclusion of all involved was that the child had an ear infection that would

my parents, was gone. Gymnas­tics was my identity, it was who I was. As the pain of the injury dragged on I found myself think­ing more and more of my predicament. Fortunately, I had regained the use of my extremi­ties as the swelling in my spinal cord decreased. Days of traction became weeks. I came to the stark realization that I was now nothing more than a C-student with no real skills outside of

need to run its course. That evening in the ER they seemed more concerned about being reassured. The child was resting quietly in dad's arms. For the most part I could not find much wrong. The child looked fatigued and perhaps a bit dehydrated but otherwise healthy. I paced the hall for a time trying to figure

So many things shape our destinies. Why are we here and what is our role in life? Galimore made the 1980 Olympic Team, a tremendous feat. But in 1982 a simple act of kindness lifted the spirits of a lost young man, and gave him hope and direction. out what was bothering me

about this child. Then it hit me, he wasn't crying, he wasn't smiling, he wasn't acting like a normal sick child. Fifteen minutes later I discovered this child was dying of diabetes. We were able to stabilize the child, and after a prolonged hos­pital stay, the baby is home and doing well, though will require medication and multiple hospitalizations for the rest of his life.

gymnastics. Depression blinded me to any possible alternative path for the future. That evening things started to change.

A teammate of mine, Brian Stith, went to the Professional Gymnastics tour that I had hoped to attend with Kelly. Somehow he made his way to the floor and told Galimore of my predicament. He relayed to Galimore that I was perhaps his biggest fan and that a phone call from him might do me some good.

Galimore phoned me at the hospital! Neither Ron nor I can recall much of the discussion, but tears filled my eyes, and a tremendous sense of self-worth took hold. I asked him to get a 10 on vault that night, and he did. His words of encouragement were priceless, but more than what he said, it was the simple fact that a person whom I held in such high esteem would take the time to extend a hand to someone he had never met, me. For the first time in weeks I was smiling for real, not just pretend smiles for my parents sake. Later that evening a door opened, a kind gesture turned the knob, and in a blink of an eye, a dream was born. This former C-minus, high school student was going to become a doctor.

At the .beginning, I found college impossible. I had to learn how to learn. My first semester I finished with a respectable B average, for medical school however, a recipe for disaster. I found myself routing my energy from gymnastics into learning. One "A" became straight "A:s" and in 1986 I was accepted to

I have saved many lives, it is incredibly rewarding. This was different though. I had come within a heartbeat of reas­suring this boy's parents and sending them home, an act that certainly would have ended in them finding their son dead in his crib the next day. I thank God every day for giving me the patience to look a little closer that evening.

Later that month I received a letter from the boy's parents. It was filled with emotion. They poured their hearts out thanking me for saving their child's life. I found myself suddenly needing to contact those people in my life that played a roll in allowing me to be in a position to help this child. Ron Galimore was one of those individuals.

So many things shape our destinies. Why are we here and what is our role in life? Galimore made the 1980 Olympic Team, a tremendous feat. But in 1982 a simple act of kindness lifted the spirits of a lost young man, and gave him hope and direction. In 1997 a small child will live to see many more sunsets, to dream many more dreams and open many more doors. This is perhaps the greatest legacy of Ron Galimore.

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•• MeellLe Siaff '-/ cfUSA GYD1lnasli~s

by Luan Peszek

USA Gymnastics staff members are here to help you-the members of our organization. In the next few issues of Technique we'll introduce each of the departments that make up USA Gymnastics. We'd like to introduce the staff behind the phones so that you can put a name with a face. We'd also like to tell you a little about our departments so that you may take advantage of what we have to offer.

Last issue we introduced the Publications Department, this issue we'd like to introduce the Men's Program Department.

The Men's Program Department includes Program Director Ron Galimore, Men's Program Manager Dennis McIntyre, and Program Assistant Lisa Bibler. The Men's Program also employs three staff members outside of the office. Peter Kormann is the Men's National Team Coordinator; Ron Brant is the Head Coach for the Residence Men's Team at the u.s. Olympic Training Center and Manager of the U.s. Olympic Training Center /USA Gymnastics Program; and Vitaly Marinitch is the Assistant Coach for the Residence Men's Team at the U.s. Olympic Training Center.

To summarize the department, the Men's Program staff is responsible for all aspects of athlete, coach and official selection and development. This includes conducting clin­ics, training camps and competitions; coordinating travel

Dennis Mcintyre, Men's Program Manager

Ron Galimore, Men's Program Director

and housing arrangements for the gymnastics delegations to national and international competitions; and providing apparel for the athletes and coaches who represent the United States here and abroad.

The current goal of the Men's Program is to service the specific development needs of our community from grassroots participation to Olympic competition. Coaches education and support are primary goals. Toward that end, recent changes in the program have included the National Team Coordinator posi­tion, new camp struc­tures and a new Future Stars Program just to mention a few. The Men's Program works with committee mem­bers to develop or revise the senior men's program as well as the Junior Olympic Compulsory routines once every four years. This department also genera tes the Men's Rules and Policies.

The Future Stars pro- Peter Kormann, Men's National Team Coordinator gram is a talent identifi-cation program for

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r

I

10-12 year old boys. The Future Stars Championships is in its third year of existence. The ath­letes, coaches and parents come togeth­er in a tremendous learning and motiva­tional environment. The Future Stars Program and Coaches Workshop is all ab­out preparing for the future.

Lisa Bibler, Men's Program Assistant The Men's Program works with all of USA Gymnastics'

constituent organizations as well as nutritionists, sports psychology consultants, exercise physiologists, and other professionals to help with the growth of the sport in the United States.

Ron Brant, Head Coach for the Residence Men's Team at the U.S. Olympic Training Center and Manager of the U.S. Olympic Training Center/USA Gymnastics Program

Vitaly Marinitch, Assisstant Coach for the Residence Men's Team at the U.S. Olympic Training Center

The Men's Program department is committed to increasing participation at all levels, helping to create a positive and productive atmosphere for the partici­pants and working with the coaches and athletes to enhance our international standings.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Ron Galimore Dennis Mcintyre Lisa Bibler Peter Kormann Ron Brant Vitaly Marinitch

317-237-5050, ext.231 317-237-5050, ext.230 317-237-5050, ext.264 614-890-4995 719-578-4609 719-578-4609

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USA Gymnastics Men's Program Committee Meeting Conference Call December 5, 1997

I. ROLL CAll Meeting called to order at 11:35 a.m . EST by Chair Marc Yancey.

Present: Marc Yancey George Beckstead Greg Corsiglia Tim Daggett Mark Williams Barry Weiner Chris Waller Ron Galimore Dennis McIntyre Peter Kormann

Chair MPC & Jr. Coaches Rep. FIG Rep. (absent, FIG meeting) Jr. Coaches Rep. Vice-Chair for Men Sr. Coaches Rep. Sr. Coaches Rep. Athletes Rep. Men:n:s Program Director (voice, no vote) Men:n:s Program Manager (voice, no vote) National Team Coordinator (voice, no vote)

II. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES Approve the minutes of August 13, 1997. Motion-Williams Second-Daggett

III. SELECTION CRITERIA FOR THE 1998 PACIFIC ALLIANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS MEET

Discussion began with the fact that the more recent selection criteria did not take into account gymnasts who are very strong on a couple of events but not strong enough all arowlders to make USA teams. Kormann pointed out that a strong athlete on rings could have helped the 1997 World Team tremendously. Thus the selection criteria for the Pacific Alliance Team should allow athletes of this kind an opportwlity to compete for a spot. Discussion then centered on the number of locked in all arowld spots based on rank order from the Selection Competition. Event specialists may petition to the Selection Camp if they send a video of routines with a minimum start value of 9.80 and score a minimwn of 9.30. The top five athletes rank order from the all around, from the Selection Competition, will be named as the Pacific Alliance Team, wliess any event team score totaling the top four scores on the event is less than 37.20 points. If the score total is less than 37.20, three all around positions will be locked in and the named coaches from the Pacific Alliance Camp will select the last two spots. An addendwn included tie-breaking procedures. A removal clause will be added to the draft document which is similar to the OlympiC Selection:n:s docwnent.

Approve the Selection Criteria for the 1998 Pacific Alliance Championships.

Motion-Corsiglia Second-Daggett PASSED 6 - O.

Galimore asked Chair to move forward in the agenda to speak with Jack Swarbrick and Kathy Scanlan about the FIG nationality issue.

IV. FIG NATIONALITY RULING Jack Swarbrick and Kathy Scanlan joined the conference call to review the FIG's Nationality and Eligibility rules. Foreign athletes who have permanent residency in this COWltry and have not competed internationally for their home COWl tries, are eligible to compete at USAG events that lead to making the World Championship Team. This includes being members of the U.s. National Team and competing for the USA at inte- national events and Worlds. The USAG Board of Directors allowed for fwlding of these eligible foreign athletes who have green cards. A sub-conunittee was organized to review the present fwlding structure. The committee will include one coach not on the MPc, Peter Komlalm, Dennis McIntyre and Cluis Waller. Their reconunendations will be discussed at the Winter Cup MPC Meeting.

V. SELECTION CRITERIA FOR THE 1999 PAN AMERICAN GAMES Galimore explained that the rationale behind the Selection Criteria for the Pan American Games are similar to the ones discussed for the Pacific Alliance Championships. Event specialists may petition to the Selection Camp if they send a video of routines with a miIlinlum start value of 9.80 and score a miIlinlum of 9.40. The top six athletes, in rank order all-arowld from the Selection Competition, will be named as the Pan American Team, unless any event team score, totaling the top five scores on the event, is less than 47.00 points. If an event total is less than 47.00, then the top four ath­letes rank order will be locked into making the team. Selection for the remaining two team members will be picked by the named coaches at the Selection Competition. A removal clause was added to the document.

Approve Selection Criteria for the 1999 Pan American Games.

Motion-Waller

Second-Weiner

PASSED 6 - O.

VI. FORMAT AND QUALIFICATION CRITERIA FOR THE 1998 JOHN HANCOCK U.S. CHAMPIONSHIPS

Discussion involved the inclusion of Junior gynmasts in the Senior division all-around finals. Several members of the committee felt that the all- arOlUld finals should continue to use both the preliminary and all-around finals scores for a combined total. The Junior 's preliminary scores would not be from the same meet but Junior gymnasts may still choose to enter the Senior qualify­ing division if they desire to be in Senior's Preliminary Meet. Specialist should have an opportwlity to compete at the Championships. Revisions will be made to the docwnent and a vote conducted at the next meeting.

Adjourn meeting.

Motion-Williams

Second-Weiner

Next MPC call Dec. 19 at 11 :30 a.m. EST. Agenda items inclllde 1998 Budget, U.S. Championships, and National Team Coordinntor:n:s Report.

Meeting adjoumed 2:00 p.m. EST.

LOW PRICES ON CHEERLEADING FOAM

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ELIMINATING ; I Q HAS ITS

by Joel Hale

In the last 30 years since I began coaching gymnastics, I have known and talked to thousands of gymnasts and coaches. I have questioned many coaches in order to determine different points of view and practical solutions to common problems. I have been fascinated to observe radically different, yet completely valid approaches to identical complaints. However there does appear to be a persistent dogma in relation to the problem commonly referred to as "bad habits." The dogma would appear to be: "don't let bad habits get started because they are hard to break."

During my stay in the psychology department at California State University at Los Angeles, I was fortunate to have for a professor Dr. Ann Richardson who intro­duced me to the teachings of a learning theorist by the name of Edward Chace Tolman. The practical application of these writings to the sport of gymnastics provided a basis from which several successful learning methods were derived. Among them is a system that has proven effective in easily eliminating "bad habits."

Perhaps it would be fitting to begin with a description of my perception of Tolman's view of learning. A key fea­ture of this view comes from Tolman's statement that, " ... a distinction must be made between 'learning' and 'per­formance."'l The purpose of using progressions in gym­nastics is to make sure that a child is capable of doing, and therefore has learned, a particular movement prior to the performance of that movement. Tolman refers to this type of learning prior to performance as "latent learning."

In the example of individuals learning to get from one place to another in a specific area, obviously if they have been wandering seemingly aimlessly throughout the area they will be familiar with the area. Then, when the time comes to go to a certain point, those individuals will be able to arrive without delay. "They had been building up a 'map,' and could utilize the latter as soon as they were motivated to do SO."2 In applying this view to learning a gymnastics movement, we can see that if a child is famil­iar with all the specific body motions and positions prior to the attempt at the entire movement, he will perform it more quickly.

Let us now address the phenomenon of so called "bad habits." Tolman states that problems of behavior fall into three groups: 1) confusion concerning what one is sup­posed to do; 2) confusion concerning that with which

Reagan Tomasek shows excellent form on her wolf jump.

one is supposed to do it; 3) confusion concerning how one is doing it.3 Let's say a coach tells a girl to do a kip. She might exhibit anyone of the above problems by: 1) being confused about what a kip is and doing a front hip circle instead; 2) running to the floor exercise mat and doing a floor kip instead of a glide kip on bars as her coach wanted; or 3) being confused about how she was doing it by not being aware that she was bending her legs. The first two problems can usually be eliminated through the use of good communication alone. The third problem is often more difficult to solve. It is in this third area that we find what is commonly referred to as "bad habits."

It is extremely important to ensure that strength and flex­ibility are sufficient to perform the movement in the desired fashion. A girl who consistently bends her knees on kips may be lacking adequate hamstring flexibility to raise her toes to the bar without bending her knees, or she may lack adequate hip flexor strength to raise her legs with straight knees. This article addresses itself to those cases where the problems of strength and flexibility have already been solved.

We will now further examine our strong, flexible female gymnast who continues to bend her knees on glide kips although she knows she shouldn' t. We could say that she is confused about the performance of her movement. Either she is not aware that she is bending her legs or she is not aware that she is in control of her legs as they bend.

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The priority here is to make the individual aware of what she is doing. This can be accomplished by asking the girl to observe or feel her knees at the exact moment they bend during her kip. For example the coach could say, "Look at your knees as your toes come to the bar." This request may be all that is necessary to eliminate the "bad habit." Sometimes it is not sufficient.

With more stubborn difficulties, there is a principle pro­posed by the late L. Ron Hubbard that has proven to be most effective-"Whatever the person is doing obsessively or compulsively, have him do it on a self-determined basis." This principle could be implemented in the case of our gymnast's bent-legged kip by saying, "1 want you to delib­erately bend your knees a little bit just as you bring your toes to the bar." This should be kept up until the gymnast is totally in control of her bent legs, and can perceive when and how much they are bent. In the 20 years that I have been using this technique, I have yet to find a "bad habit" that I couldn't easily eliminate in one of my gymnasts.

When I first began experimenting with the above princi­ple, I made a fascinating observation. One day I asked all my gymnasts to go through their bar routines with BAD form. My gymnasts who normally and consistently scored above 9.0 were able to make themselves look absolutely horrendous. My poorer gymnasts were not able to make themselves look any where near as bad. A better gymnast is

more capable of doing anything with her body that she desired. A philosophical consideration that arises is that it is possible to train a gymnast in a way that leaves them lit­tle choice but to perform well. However, much more joy can be derived from consciously choosing how to per­form, and winning as a result, rather than by performing in a fashion over which there is little control.

Another theory that suggests itself is that there may be an individually predetermined number of unsuccessful attempts that must be made before successful perfor­mance is consistent. Coaches, please remember that a gymnast might require a certain number of mistakes from which to learn.

In conclusion, although there are coaches that success­fully spend time preventing ''bad habits" from occurring in the first place, problems still crop up. I have listened in amusement to the frustrations expressed be several coach­es in dealing with "bad habits." I have occasionally observed a dogmatic refusal to accept that they can be eliminated with a fair amount of ease. One should be aware that nothing is particularly difficult if one knows how to do it.

1 Tolman, Edward Chace: Behavior and Psychological Man, University of California Press, 1961, p. 153.

2 Tolman, Edward Chace: OP CIT, p. 248 3 Tolman, Edward Chace: LOC CIT, p. 7.

How Do You Emphasize Strengths and Cover Up Weaknesses By Helena Greathouse, Rhythmic Brevet II Judge

Kate Jeffress

Have you ever wondered how you can get your gym­nasts to emphasize their strengths, cover their weakness­es, achieve their maximum personal potential and at the same time entertain everybody, including the judges?

Before we answer this question, consider this. Have you ever seen some cultural performance or program, live or on TV, and been disappointed afterwards? If you answered "yes," what were the reasons for your disap­pointment?

• Maybe the performance was not exciting enough • Maybe the performers did not shbw anything new • Maybe the performers did not rehearse enough and

were making mistakes clearly recognizable to the audience

Now realize that when gymnasts compete in a gym­nastics competition, they are the performers and their goal is to entertain and hold the attention of the audience. The judges are also a part of your audience. In fact, they are the particularly sophisticated and demanding part of your audience. But remember that the judges are only human:

• They want to have excitement • They want to see new things • They want to see perfection

SATISFY HUMAN DESIRES The more you satisfy these human desires of judges, the

more you will be rewarded by them. So here's what to tell your gymnasts:

You are a unique human being. There is no one in the whole world exactly like you. So make sure your option­al routine has your own personal touch. Be different, be original, and show your individuality.

Choose music which excites you. If you are really enjoying yourself on the floor, it is contagious. Your excite­ment will flow over to your audience.

Make sure the choreography of your routine corre­sponds exactly to the structure of your musical accompani­ment. That way the audience will be with you. Remember: The recording of your music must be of superb quality; it must add to your performance, not distract.

If you have to make cuts within your musical accompa­niment, those must be at the end of musical phrases. There is nothing more distracting than to use a very well-known musical piece, have the audience humming the melody as you progress through your exercise, and suddenly abrupt­ly change it on them in the middle of a musical phrase

OPTIONAL ROUTINES Remember that we are speaking here about optional rou­

tines-that means, you have the option to include those ele­ments you can do well. Please use this option! Show what you can do and omit what you cannot do. Be self-critical in asking what you can or cannot do. Work on elements out­side your routines. Include those elements only after you have mastered them. Otherwise the judges will not give you any technical value credit for them. On top of that, you will probably lose points on execution, since you will likely be making mistakes and be off the music. The artistic value of your exercise may also suffer. Since you might have interruptions in your routine, you might be penalized for static body or static apparatus, the unity and style of your routine might be disrupted, and your choreography might not correspond to musical phrases anymore.

SO WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS YOU CAN DO WELL? Some may come from your past experience. Remember

your compulsory routines. You have probably done them very well, since you have now graduated to optional work. Ask your coach about the technical value of your favorite elements from your past compulsories. Chances are that some of them will be useable in optionals, or you may adjust them somewhat, so that they would correspond to the current requirements. The main thing is that you will be building on material you already know. Certain elements you must just learn.

TECHNICAL VALUE CREDIT In order to receive technical value credit, the execution of

your elements must fulfill certain standards. You must clearly demonstrate your athletic ability. Remember, the requirements of the current Code of Points are much harder than in the past.

GENERAL RULES FOR ALL TYPES OF DIFFICULTIES Whenever split of legs is required, the deciding factor is

to achieve split from one knee to the other knee (your leg or legs can be bent from the knees or knees down.)

The pictures in the Code of Points are only examples. Use general criteria on pages 37, 44 and 45 to create your own difficulties, for example, those specific to you. Be original!

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•

It's Official, General Gymnastics (GG) is a New Sport! Dean Capelotti, Member, USAG General Gymnastics Advisory Panel and Co-owner Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Steve Whitlock, USAG Development Director

As of August 1, 1997, General Gymnastics became the fourth discipline under the direction of USA Gymnastics -men's artistic gymnastics, women's artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, and GG! General Gymnastics ath­letes / participants may now register with USAG as 'Team" members, GG coaches/leaders may now register as pro- and instructor members, and clubs may sanction their GG events and activities.

What does this mean to the average club program?

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARTICIPATION There will be a steadily increasing number of GG

events and activities available for non-competitive and competitive clubs that conduct and attend these kinds of events.

The ability to sanction GymFest events opens the door to plan and conduct more events at exciting and fun "des­tination" locations.

• GG clubs in California are developing a 1998 schedule which includes GymFest-type events at Knott's Berry Farm (February 6-8) and Disneyland (June 14). The schedule also includes GG work­shops, clinics, and other activities.

• In various stages of planning for 1998 are a "GG Coaches Congress," a GymFest event in Las Vegas (in July), and GymFest event on a cruise ship!

• Clubs in Texas are developing similar activities and developmental programs leading up to the USAG National GymFest that will be conducted in con­junction with the annual GAT convention in Austin (August 29-31).

• Various other states and "pockets of interest" are beginning to expand GG opportunities. For example, Indiana will conduct their second "Hoosier State Games GymFest" in 1998. This is an exciting event since it serves as a model for other State Games organizations interested in broadening gymnastics involvement.

On the national level, USA Gymnastics will conduct: • Special GG sessions during the National Congress

(Indianapolis, August 20-22) that will include instructor workshops and the opportunity for participating clubs to do performances in the Congress Exhibition Hall.

• GG information sessions and activities at many of the popular regional congresses. We are hopeful

that the regional Congress Directors will provide the opportunity for local GG clubs to perform exhibitions.

• GG Instructor workshops that lead to the participants earning an "FIG/GG Instructor's Certificate." One of these is planned in for the event in Austin that will include international participants.

• The "National GymFest"-a qualifying event for clubs interested in joining the USA delegation to the 1999 World Gymnaestrada in Goteborg, Sweden (July 2-10, 1999).

GG SANCTION IMPLICATIONS Insurance coverage-This is a big plus! Clubs that

register their GG participants with USA Gymnastics are eligi­ble for all the same liability and medical coverage for their sanctioned events that apply to athletes, coaches, and officials involved in USA Gymnastics competitive events.

Securing sites for your GG events will become much eas­ier since you will more easily be able to furnish the normal­ly required "Certificate of Insurance."

The GG Event Sanction is very broad-you can sanction your group's performances at a wide variety of venues and events such as parades, recitals and exhibitions in local schools and malls. You can even do GG performances dur­ing other USAG events like local, state, and regional artistic competitions.

You can find GG Sanction Forms in the new GG Rules and Policies book provided free to all USA Gymnastics GG pro­fessional members, or contact Member Services to have a form sent to you 0-800-345-4719).

How can you host a GymFest Event? It is a good idea to allow for 6-12 months for planning.

Keep in mind that GymFest events can result in large num­ber of attendees! Dean Capelotti has found that this can average 80-100 or more per club. (performers + spectators). Since GymFest performances are very entertaining for the audience, you have a high return rate for audiences from one event to the next.

If you are just starting GG in your area, you may want to host your first GymFest in your own facility. Keep in mind that you may have a huge crowd to contend with, so plan according. Here are a few easy steps to get you going host­ing GymFest-type activity: • Identify a suitable venue-Your gym facility, an

amusement park, local fair, hotel, etc. • Identify the space you have available for performance

and the equipment that you can provide. Check for any

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special equipment needs of each group after they have registered .

• Identify the number of groups that you can manage in the venue and then develop a proposed schedule. Since the suggested length of a GG performance is 10 minutes "clean stage to clean stage," you can plan for 5-6 group performances per hour. Of course, you need to consider warm-up and "staging" times. The new GG Rules and Policies book has guidelines for performance times and content.

• Decide on a participant fee-since GG events are not judged, you will not need to contend with for paying this expense. We suggest that you keep the participant fees in line with local gymnastics competition fees with consideration for the total experience that you are providing (as well as your expected expenses).

• Send in your Sanction Form-never compromise your business for lack of insurance.

• Contact groups that might be interested in attending­other gymnastics gyms, Park & Rec. programs, dance studios, stunt squads, local high schools and college groups. Make sure that you notify all of the groups that your event is a USA Gymnastics sanctioned event that requires athlete registration with USA Gymnastics. Tell them that they can obtain the proper forms by calling Member Services at 1-800-345-4719 or register directly on USA Gymnastics Online (USAGO):

http://www.usa-gymnastics.org • Send details about the event with a sign-up sheet­

don' t forget to require USAG athlete numbers for all participants and a USAG/GG pro-number for at least one leader from each group.

SUP8nnatch Gvmnastlcs

Ribbon add 20C aa.

ATALOG Dept.GA28

SEE OUR FULL LINE OF GYMNASTIC AWARDS

• Ask for the theme of each group so you can place the groups in an entertaining order.

• Make sure you have appropriate sound equipment. (It's a show sound is everything)

• Awards-GG is for Everybody! ... and all participants should receive some kind of recognition such as a certificate, T-shirt, etc. The participating clubs should also receive recognition, such as a plaque, etc.

• Your GG event should be a social activity-You can also offer other benefits like park tickets at an amusement park, a catered picnic, or a pizza party at the end of the event.

• Make sure each group has two copies of their music. • Plan how groups will move from dressing area to back­

stage to performance and off. • Don' t have a performance session go more than

two hours. • Establish a safety pre-check review-facility,

equipment, first aid support, etc. • Have Fun! You WILL have fun hosting these events.

They are easy to organize, fairly "laid-back" (no stress events), and can result in a "profit' for your club.

• Complete and mail all of your USAG sanction and GG report forms according to the schedule in the GG R&P.

If you have any questions about hosting a GymFest event, or have ques­tions about starting GG group or performance team at your club, you are welcome to contact Dean Capelotti at (760) 728-8582 weekdays from 9 a.m. - 2 p .m. (PST) or email him at:

dcapelot@tfb.com You can also email the USAG Genera l Gymnastics Advisory Panel

(GGAP) members at: gg@usa-g ymnastics . org

WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC COMPULSORY QUESTIQNS & ANSWERS

GENERAL - Level 4-6 1. Q: Can the whole exercise be reversed? If single major elements are reversed, what is the deduction?

A: The entire exercise may be reversed, as stated on page 157, General Faults and Penalties. Major elements can NOT be reversed as single elements unless designated by an * (Asterisk). For example, if a gymnast performs the routine as written (Right) and executes a Right split leap and Left 360Q turn, she would receive a .40 deduction for reversing the 360Q turn. All dance skills must be per­formed on the same side. Generally, only designated acro skills may be reversed. In some instances an asterisk is not indicated, but the skill may be done to either side (such as a round~off on Floor Ex may be described as "take two or three steps and perform a Round-off - no side is indicated in the description).

2. Q: How long should a gymnast show the line INTO their skills that require levers?

A: This position should be maintained until the second foot leaves the beam or floor going into a skill. This is a pass through position, NOT a held position.

3. Q: If the text does not speciftj "not releve" or "in releve," can you make it your choice?

A: Yes.

4. Q: If the text indicates "crown" arms, and the gymnast per­forms "high" (straight) arms with good posture, would there be a deduction taken?

A: This could be considered a very small text error. The intent was to allow flexibility within these two positions. If by putting the arms in high position the gymnast sacri­fices good alignment, a deduction would definitely be applied.

5. Q: How are the landing deductions applied?

A: A step-close is considered one step and receives a 0.10 deduction. A very small step-close or other small foot movement would receive an 0.05 deduction. If the gym­nast is out of control or has additional movements to maintain balance after the step(s), additional deductions may be applied.

Example of one step = 0.10: 1. the gymnast takes one step forward, sideward or

backward on the Right foot, then returns the Right foot to join the Left foot, or

2. Steps forward, sideward or backward on the Right foot, then brings the Left foot to join the Right foot.

6. Q: Is the deduction for "Incorrect body alignment, position or posture taken every time an error is made?

A: NO. As of January 1, 1998, the General Faults and Penalties (page 157) has been modified to read: "Incorrect body alignment, position or posture during major ele­ments" Each time = up to 0.20. The following deduction has been added to the General faults and Penalties: Incorrect body alignment, position, or posture during connections (General deduction for whole exercise) = "up to 0.30".

7. Q: What deductions are taken if the gymnast begins a major element, falls , then repeats the missed/incomplete element?

A: Execution and amplitude deductions are taken up to and including the fall . If a second attempt is made, start the evaluation at the point of interruption.

8. Q: Is the deduction for lack of high, tight releve position (up to 0.10) applied each time or in general?

A: Each time it is specified in the text.

VAULT - Level 4-6 9. Q: Should the Squat vault start from a 60 foot run for Level 4 like the handspring?

A: The gymnast can choose wherever she wishes to start, provided that she can control her run. The minimum run is 60 feet, with a maximum of 82 feet.

10. Q: If a Level 4 gJjmnast calls a Handspring vault, but per­forms a Squat vault instead, is there a deduction?

A: No, there is "no wrong vault" deduction, as both vaults are "legal." Judge from the value of the vault performed, if the values for the squat and handspring are different in your state.

11. Q: How is the "Up to 1.00" deduction applied for "Too long in support? n

A: If the gymnast leaves the horse by:

* Vertical no deduction

* from l Q to 45Q deduct 0.05 - 0.50

* from 46Q to horizontal deduct 0.55-1.00

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I

would receive an "up to 0.20" deduction. The grip posi­tion of the support hand at the completion of the 180Q turn is optional. A grip change of the support hand during or at the completion of the turn is not required, but is allowed.

26. Q: In the Level 6 Bar routine, can the thighs touch the bar on the upswing of the clear hip circle or do you take the 0.80 deduction for hips touching the bar?

A: Contact of the thighs on the bar of the upswing would result in a insufficient external amplitude deduction of up to 0.20. If the circle does not finish in a clear support but finishes with the hips on the bar in a front support, take 0.80 for hips touching bar as upswing finishes. If the 0.80 deduction is applied, do not also deduct for insufficient amplitude, only for any other execution errors such as bent arms or legs and incorrect body position.

27. Q: If a Level 6 gymnast performs the dismount as a "skin the cat" in which the hands remain on the bar as the body tucks between the arms and rolls backward and then releases the hands, what is the deduction?

A: Deduct for changing a major element = 0.80 + 1.00.

28. Q: How do you evaluate a compulsory bar exercise in which the gymnast surpasses the required minimum amplitude requirements?

A: If, for example, the requirement is a 30Q cast and one gymnast achieves a 30Q cast with perfect execution and another gymnast achieves a cast' to handstand with perfect execution, they both have fulfilled the requirement of the routine and therefore should be evaluated equally in regards to that specific element.

BEAM - Levels 4-6 29. Q: On the jump to front support mounts, is there a deduc­tion for bending, then straightening the arms?

A: No, the gymnast must finish with the arms straight.

30. Q: In Levels 5 & 6, the take-off position for some jumps reads "forced arch". The take-off position is not defined in Levels 1-4. ft just says "demi-pliti". What is allowed?

A: The gymnast should show the "forced arch" position; however, she IS allowed to lower her heels before she ini­tiates the jumps.

31. Q: Where can you find the deduction for not closing the feet in releve (lock) in the book?

A: P. 158 C. third deduction. up to 0.10 each time

32. Q: On the Level 1 & 2 knee scale ... Is the back fiat or is the chest slightly lifted without arching the low back?

A: The body should be straight.

33. Q: Please clarijij the beam fall deductions. If a second fall occurs before the official time begins, does the gtjmnast receive a total of 0.50 for both falls or 0.50 for each fall?

A: The deduction would be 0.50 for each fall.

34. Q: Concerning the hand placement in Levels 5 & 6 cross handstands ... Must the thumbs be the ONLY" digits" to be placed on top of the beam to avoid deductions?

A: No, but the thumbs must be on top of the beam.

35. Q: What is the deduction if a Level 5 or 6 gtj1nnast has met all the criteria for verticals and holds on the dismount but does not perform the 1/4 (90 Q

) turn and lands on the wrong side of the beam. Should the gymnast repeat the dismount in this case?

A: Deduct 0.20 for incomplete turn and 0.50 for the fall = 0.70. If she gets back up and returns to the side handstand position and performs the remainder of the dismount correctly (1/4 (90Q

) turn off etc.), then she would only receive the 0.50 deduction for the fall.

36. Q: If the Level 5 or 6 dismount is completed to the side hand­stand and it is held for two seconds, but the gymnast then falls off on the wrong side of the beam, but chooses to kick up to the side handstand again to perform the 1/4 tum off:

1. Is the 0.30 deduction for extra kick-up to handstand applied?

2. Is the gymnast required to hold the handstand again before turning?

A: 1. No, the extra kick-up to handstand is applied if the gymnast attempts the handstand, never reaches vertical, steps back down on the beam then repeats the attempt to achieve a handstand position.

2. No, the evaluation is resumed at the point of interrup­tion. Since the handstand was already held on the first attempt, the gymnast need only to resume the handstand position, then proceed with the 90Q turn in order to com­plete the element.

37. Q: When performing handstand elements in the beam rou­tines, will there be a rhythm deduction if the gymnast holds a split before closing the legs at vertical?

A: Yes, Page 158, incorrect rhythm of connections/elements when specifically noted in the text.

38. Q: Is there a deduction for piking down on the handstand dis­mounts?

A: P. 157 II. Execution: Incorrect body alignment, position or posture on major elements up to 0.20.

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..

39. Q: Level 4, 5 & 6 handstand- If the gymnast kicks up to ver­tical, comes back to the beam and kicks up to handstand agnin to complete the element, is this considered a fall?

A: No, a 0.30 deduction for extra kick to handstand would be taken. A 0.50 deduction for a fall would be applied if the gymnast actually fell down (did not step down, but rather fell to her knee, buttocks, etc.) on the beam or off the beam.

40. Q: What is the deduction if after landing the dismount (Level 4,5 or 6) in p/i£, the gymnast fails to extend the legs and lift the arms to high position prior to turning to sa lute the judge?

A: This would be considered a small tex t error and would be considered when applying the up to 0.40 for incorrect position of arms, head and feet for the entire routine.

41. Q: What is the deduction for an additional arm swing between the two split jumps in Level 6?

A: This depends on if the rhythm was broken. Lack of con­tinuity between elements is an "up to 0.20" deduction. If the rhythm was not affected, it would be considered a small text error which falls under the deduction of "up to .0.40" in general for the entire routine.

42. Q: Will there be a deduction for hand placement on the beam on the Level 6 Back Walkover if the hands are placed one in fron t of the other as opposed to side by side?

A: Yes, up to 0.10 for incorrect hand placement.

43. Q: On the Level 6 dismount, what is the deduction if a gtjmnast goes directly to a side handstand (never attempts the cross hand­stand) then continues with the rest of the dismount as written.

A: Deduct for the "phases" of the dismount not per­formed ... 0.10 incorrect hand placement, 0.30 lack of vertical in cross handstand, 0.20 for no hold in cross handstand, and 0.20 for no 1/4 (90Q

) turn after the cross handstand for a total of 0.80.

44. Q: Level 6 Dismount: What is the deduction if the gymnast performs the cross handstand, holds 2 seconds, 1/4 turns to side handstand, holds 2 seconds, then the coach taps the gymnasts' body before the 1/4 turn off the beam?

A: Take 0.50 for the spot, PLUS THE VALUE OF THE ELEMENT.

45. Q: What is the maximum deduct ion for fai lure to complete the Level 6 Dismount?

A: As of January I , 1998, the Level 6 dismount will be val­ued at 1.20. Therefore, a maximum of 1.20 may be taken, depending upon which requirements of the element were not met.

46. Q: In the Level 5 Cross Handstand and the Cartwheel, is the gymnnst required to show a position with the toe touching the top of the beam before pressing into the lunge.

A: No, the weight should transfer immediately through the foot ( toe, ball, heeD.

FLOOR EXERCISE - Level 4-6 47. Q: 011 the developes il1 the beam and floor routines, is there a deduction if the gymnast goes to releve when she extends her leg?

A: There is no deduction for going up to releve; however, if by doing so she crea tes postural faults, those deductions would be applied.

48. Q: During the fourth position demi-plie weight transfers before and after the chasses, should both heels be on the floor?

A: Yes, but as the weigh t transfers, the back heel lifts.

49. Q: In Level 5 and 6 when the gymnast performs the con­traction/release, should she sit on her heels as shown in the illustration? The text does not specify.

A: That is not required, nor would a deduction be taken for doing it.

50. Q: When the text states a specific arm movement or foot position, and the gtjmnast often alters this during the routine, can the judge deduct each time or does the "up to 0.40" for the entire routine deduction apply?

A: The "up to 0.40" for the entire routine deduction applies.

51. Q: What is the deduction for taking extra steps into a tum­bling pass?

A: 0.10 for each extra step.

52. Q: If the entire Floor Exercise mat is available at a Level 5 competition, does the gymnast still have the option of using just the diagonal or one section of the mat?

A: Yes. There is no longer a deduction for incorrect Floor Exercise pattern for LevelS .

53. Q: What is the deduction on the Level 5 and 6 Backward Roll to handstand with straight arms if the arms are bent throughout and the head never raises off the floor?

A: Deduct 0.60 for performing a backward roll to head­stand and also deduct "up to 0.20" for bent arms as found in the General Faults and Penalties. If no attempt is m ade to extend to vertical (performs a backward rom, then deduct 0.60 plus 1.00 for changing the major element.

(continued on page 34)

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54. Q: Will there be a deduction for grabbing or touching the knees on the Level 6 Salta backward tucked?

A No.

55. Q: What is the expectation for "opening" of the back salta?

A There is no requirement for a "kick-out" at this level. The gymnast is expected to extend from the tuck to an open position in preparation for landing. A tuck-kickout is allowed, provided that a definite tuck position is shown.

56. Q: Can the Back Walkover in Level 6 end in releve - begin­ning the Back Extension Roll from releve?

A Yes.

57. Q: What should be considered when applying the "In-suffi­cient Repulsion" deduction for the Front Handsprings in Level 5 and 6?

A: Look for the quickness off the hands and horizontal speed, not just hip rise. If the feet land while the hands are still on the floor, it would be considered a Front limber (or walkover) and would receive a 0.60 deduction for total lack of repulsion. As of Jan. 1, 1998, the Insufficient repul­sion deduction will be "up to 0.20."

58. Q: Is there a deduction for tapping the feet together on the Level 6 Front handspring step-out?

A Yes, the emphasis is progression for front tumbling and acceleration. This tapping action is not progressive to the technique desired. Deduct 0.10 for joining the legs prior to stepping-out.

LEVEL 7 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS GENERAL

1. Q: Is there any consideration taken for difficulty, choice of ele­ments or diversity at Level 7?

A No, Level 7 is all about Execution, Amplitude and Presentation!! If two gymnasts perform equally well, but one has more "difficulty," they still should receive the same score, unless the performance of their routine can be differentiated by virtue of the artistic presentation, dynamic performance, or rhythmical quality.

2. Q: What is the deduction if the coach spots (touches) the gym­nast on a requirement?

A Take 0.50 for the spot and 0.80 (value of the require­ment) as you would in any compulsory exercise. If the spot occurs on the landing of a dismount, take 0.50. If the

gymnast is spotted on the landing of the dismount and then falls, deduct only 0.50 (do not deduct for the spot and the fall).

3. Q: When considering the awarding of series credit for Beam and Floor, if the second element is not completed enough to be awarded value-part, is there a deduction also for no series, as in Level 8- 10?

A Whenever a requirement is being evaluated, think "Compulsory" deductions. If other elements or series are added, use "Optional" general deductions. Example on Beam: Gymnast performs Back Walkover, Back Walkover. On the second Back Walkover, the gymnast fails to place her foot on the beam. Deduct 0.50 for the fall and "up to 0.80 for incomplete requirement."

VAULT

4. Q: Is a 1/4 on, 1/4 off a valid vault for Level 7?

A No, it is no longer included in the FIG Code or the Jr. Olympic Element Supplement. If a 1/2 on, 1/2 off vault is called, but the gymnast performs a 1/4 on, 1/4 off, apply the maxinmm deductions for incorrect technique in sup­port (up to 0.20) and incomplete turn on and off (up to 0.30 each).

5. Q: Is the judge allowed to apply a deduction for performing a less difficult or less complex vault?

A NO, the judges' responsibility is to correctly evaluate the vault performed. Reminder to the coaches: the gymnast may choose to perform either two of the same vault, or two different vaults.

BARS 6. Q: Is a 3/4 sale circle to back salta dismount (initiated from the feet) allowed at Level 7?

A: No, all dismounts initiated from the feet are not permitted.

7. Q: Will a cast with bent hips and straddled to 60 Q or higher ful­fill the cast requirement?

A Yes.

8. Q: When is credit given for completing the 360Q Circling Element Requirement?

A If the Circling Element (Giant, clear hip, etc.) does not complete the circle around the bar and finishes short,(on the wrong- other- side of the bar), deduct up to 0.8 for incomplete element. Also apply any appropriate execution deductions.

~ ..................................... < ... ____ T ... E ... C H_N_I .... Q .... U .... E""" _V .... O ... L ... U _M ... E ...,;1 .... 8.:.., #_2 ______ )

9. Q: When is the 0.8 + 1.0 deduction for deliberate omission or change of element of the circle element applied when the gymnast attempts a clear hip circle?

A: If the Clear Hip Circle has insufficient amplitude and the circle finishes with the hips on the bar, deduct 0.80. If the hips are on the bar at the beginning of the circle (performs a back hip circle), deduct 1.80 for omitting a major element.

10. Q: If a gJjmnast performs two casts, one 60 Q or above and the other below 60 Q

, can the cast below 60 Q count as one of the seven required elements?

A: No, in the counting of the seven elements, the four required elements count (Kip mount, cast to 60Q

, 360Q

circling element & salto dismount) . Three additional A or B elements must be included. Any additional casts must be within 20Q of vertical to be considered as a value part (A if straddle up, B if straight body & legs together) to fulfill the requirement of seven elements.

BEAM

11. Q: Can the" one aero element with flight" be connected to the aero series of two or more non-flight elements?

A: Yes. Example: Back walkover, Back Walkover, Flic-flac. However, if the series was Back Walkover, Flic-flac, Back Walkover, only the flight element requirement is ful­filled, since the two non-flight elements were not directly connected.

12. Q: Can a handstand (with or without turn) be used in the aero series of two or more non-flight elements?

A: Yes.

13. Q: If a gymnast performs a switch-leg leap on Beam, will it void the routine?

A: No. The WTC has added the SWITCH-LEG LEAP with less than 160Q leg separation to the J.O. Element Supplement - Beam # S2.204 as a "B" element. Therefore, if a gymnast achieved a 180Q split which is listed in the FIG Code as a "C," it would not void the exercise and it can be used to fulfill the requirement of a large leap with 180Q leg separation.

14. Q: As stated in the Level 7 rules, if the gymnast includes an element listed as an "A" or,"B, but performs it with such excel­lent amplitude that it results in the performance of a "C" element, the exercise would not be voided. The example was a Straddle Jump or Side Split Jump in cross position (150 Q = "A,"

180 !! = "C") . Does this rule also apply to the Straddle Jump or Side Split Jump performed in side position?

A: Yes. The Straddle jump and side split jump with 150Q

leg separation performed facing sideways on the beam is also listed as an "A" element in the FIG Code #2.106. If 180Q leg separation is achieved (listed as "C" in Code), it would not void the exercise.

flOOR EXERCISE

15. Q: Can an element be used two times, once performed as a single element to fulfill the Large leap (or 540 Q turn) require­ment and then performed a second time as part of the Gym series requirement?

A: Yes.

16. Q: How many aero series are required in addition to the round-off, flic-flac, Back salta stretched?

A: None; however, a direct connection of two (or more) forward acro elements with flight are also required.

17. Q: If a gJjmnast performs a Front Handspring, Front Salta Tucked and lands the salta on her buttocks, does it fulfill the for­ward aero series requirement?

A: Yes. Deduct 0.50 for the fall, plus up to 0.80 for incom­plete requirement.

18. Q: If a gymnast performs three directly connected gymnas­tics elements, with the first or last element being a 180 9 split leap and this is the only large leap in the exercise, what is the deduction ?

A: Deduct 0.50 for not performing a large leap with 180Q

leg separation as a single element. The direct connection of two or more gymnastics elements is fulfilled.

However, if the large leap was the second element in the direct connection of three gymnastics elements, a deduction of 0.80 plus 1.00 would be taken for missing one requirement (Large leap with 180Q leg separation). Always apply deductions to the gymnast's advantage. Do not deduct 0.8 + 1.00 for no gym connection plus 0.50 for not performing the large leap as a single element.

19. Q: In the attempt to perform a 1 1/2 (540 Q) turn ("B"), the

gymnast overturns and inadvertently performs a double (720 Q)

turn (" CIt ) . Would this void the exercise?

A: NO, it would not void the exercise. Deduct up to 0.20 for degree of turn not exact.

("---~T""E""( H--N--'~Q""U""E-, ~V""O""L --U --M .... E ~1 .... 8-, #~2=----"""""-}·················· · ···· ··"··· ...... ~

KAT Registration and Schedule

KAT Schedule March 28-29 April 2S May 31

St. Louis, MO Greenfield, WI Clinton, CT

YMCA Kirkwood Webster YMCA

For more information about the above workshops, contact Cyndi at 317-237-5050, ext. 237.

Name ---------------------------------------------------------------------Social Security # _______________________________ Birthdate ________________________ _

Address ---------------------------------------------------------------------City _________________________________ State _____ Zip __________________ _

Telephone (Day) (Night) _____________ ___

Course Location Date ------------------------------------------- ------------------Organization Represented ____________ Job Title ____________________________ _

Current USA Gymnastics Member # _____________________________________ (*required for discount) *USA Gymnastics individual membership: Instructor or Professional only

Prerequisites (can register if in progress): Rookie Coaches Guide Test lor PDP Levell ----

____ Two class observations/or Grandparent (via resume)

Registration: $140 member (Instructor or Professional) $160 non-member -----

Form of Payment: o Check o VISA o MasterCard o American Express

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o Discover

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Printed name of card holder _____________________________ _ Please make checks payable to USA Gymnastics KAT Workshop.

Mail registration form and payment to: USA Gymnastics KAT Pan American Plaza

201 South Capitol Avenue, Suite 300 Indianapolis, IN 46225

~ ........................... , ......... ~'-____________ ~T~E(~H~N~1~Q~U~E,_V~O~L~U~N\~E~l 8~/~#~2 ________ ~)

•

I

CONGRATULATIONS LEVEL I KAT TEACHERS As of December 15, 1997, the following Judy Kuhnle linda Thorberg Tara Isler preschool teachers completed the Levell Patti Lubaski Mississi~~i Paihe Phillips Kinder Accreditation for Teachers program: Georgia ~~ana B?yanton Mic ael Thoendel Note: * indicates KAT C/mician Oregon Kendall Kerlin Issoun Alabama Laurel Preston Kate Thompson Doran Deetz Kath~ Chambers Melanie Walker Tammy Peterson Joel nman Illinois Montana Pennsllvania

Sandy Bushard LuAnn Nix Martie J. Cline Theresa Goodwin Renee O'Neal Cindy Morano Becky Price Donna Guenther Alaska Deirdre Niziolek Janneece Sailors Lori Jackson Enola "Babe" Cassel Kelldi Noonan Lori Rdlele Elaine Jewart Arizona Hei i SVRer-Lawless Neva a Sue Krum

Nancy hite Gia Colburn Jill Morris Robin Mossengren Indiana Joanna Fritz Kathie Sutherland Arkansas Kristine Cline AI Lansdon Rhode Island

Laura Beam Jan Fodell Mary Lee Mansfield NancJ Alvernaz Sara Todd *Loree Galimore Corinne Olson Bren a Glover California linda Hanson Pam Phillips Sandi Marth Mary Byers Ashieris Kathleen Kelemen Susan Schnell Jennifer Thaier Donna Cole *Patti Komara Karen Spencer South Carolina linda Dembrow Tamara Laird New Ham~shire Cynthia Hawkins Kristine Lowry DeTurk Karen Schroeder Pamela Berube Tennessee Carie Dotta Diane S~evacek Sandra Block Cathy Garland Paige Estrada Amy Ve ez linda Jackman Texas Nancy Evensen Jody Velez Lynn Kulla

Marilyn Bitsis Terah French Iowa Gail Williamson-Hawes Debbie Fricker lisa Fandrich New Jersel Nina Corley

Julie Earl Steve Greeley John Harris Ann Barrish Dene Edmiston Nicki Geigert Sue Hughes Kerry Brannigan Chris Erickson Susan Gross Suzanne Lux Kim~erlee Carver Marsha Fitzjarrell Jody Hurlburt lisa Miskowiec Jane DeAngelis Beth Gardner Patricia Jones Erin Netteland Kate Faber-Hickie Diane Havens Michelle Klimesh Ben Nichols lisa Gudzinowicz Kimber~ Herman Melissa Leeper Candy Winters Mary Ann Hawk Donna essong Tanya Leeper Ron Winters Bar~ara Kope nhaven Barbara Hughes Johanna Loffeld Kentuckl Sheila Ortiz Jennifer Shea Hunt Rosalinda Loffeld Elaine Westgate James Jeffers *Jeff Lulla Tracy itn Cromer Barbara Wisner Dottie Lee Deborah Manis Julie right Nancy Whisonant Greg Kester Cindy Ma~oras Louisiana Rebecca Whisonant Tressie McGrew Karen Mi alek Suzie Ditullio Michael Zach ~nn Meyer Kristine Ortenzo-Hay Connie Overton New York oily Na~ Luis Pereira Maine Estelle Alfonso Miclielle ily June Ralston Donna Landau Debe Bottiglier Kim Owens Patty S~lvis Marlland Kathleen Bush Mar~orie Parham Vikki T omason Jennifer Gilbert Kim erly' Pavlicek Delia Trenbeath Patricia Delaney Pollyanna Gross Carol Robuck . Terry Turcotte Allison ~Iand Stacy Kahn Robin Shepperd Kristen Walters Wendy acNaught Satu Lahti Annette Thomas Timothy Werner linda Lee Stuart Sandra Marron Jana Von Feldt Kelly Woods lisa Zeigler-Welsh Holly Moore Vermont Colorado Massachusetts Alfonso Weinlein Tilza Buschner Sue Ladson Teomi Cole North Dakota Mar~ Clifton Dixie Patrick Susan Dilorenzo Mary Meyer Shel ey O'Brien Betsy Sprague Judy Dugar Ohio Washington

lisa Foisy Connecticut Brenda Abele Tamarah Bonsen liz Gonzalez Dianne Kennedy liz Cornish Melissa Kroodsma Christina Andres Nancy Ford Jen Scannell Rebecca Bru~geman Richard Samuels Margaret Hanssler Radejka Smith Kim Domaga ski Wisconsin Mary Jane Hesford Corena Spiron Semia Downs Debbie Grainger Darcy Riehl Pegr Traumuller Donielle Moos Louise Parenteau Patricia Venter Mic igan Rose Medich *Sharon Scherr Florida Alice Buchalter Martha Miller lisa Vice Allyson Cross Marlene Dryer Evan Sayres Australia Dawn Crawford Cindy Raleigh Kersti Urban Annette Darrington *Barbara Davis Deanna Sammut Oklahoma linda Pettit Lorrie Gregory Margaret Stevens linda Bradshaw lisa Shuck Cindy Gwinn Minnesota Sarah Brawley Canada Kathy Johnson Sandi Charbonneau Carol Corbett Jeannie McCarthy

( TECHNIQUE, VOLUME 18,#2 } .................................... ~

Getting Newspaper Coverage It is a given in the equation of

running a gymnastics club: a continu­ous flow of students through the front door is the lifeblood of the business. Therefore, community visibility for the club is the heart that keeps pump­ing the blood through the system.

Newspapers are a primary tool for generating club vis­ibility. There are two ways to get newspaper visibility: paid advertising and public relations efforts. The advertis­ing has both a positive and a negative effect on the bottom line - it can generate new students, but you have to pay for it. Classic public relations efforts, however, generate a positive impact on your club without having to pay for the space.

The first thing to understand is that newspapers are businesses, driven by the incentive of every business: make money. Therefore, the size of your newspaper isn't determined by the amount of news that occurred that day. It is decided by the amount of advertising sold for that day. The space that isn't occupied by advertising is called the "news hole."

Filling this news hole is the work of the editors, reporters and photographers of the newspaper. Your task in your public relations efforts is to convince those people that information abou t your club deserves a portion of that news hole. To maximize the effectiveness of your efforts to place stories, keep a couple of things in mind:

1. There is an inverse relationship between circulation of the newspaper and likelihood of success. The larger the newspaper's circulation, the more likely it will be to have larger reporting staffs and access to national news services which are providing material to fill its news hole. That makes for greater competition for space in the news hole.

2. There is a direct relationship between probability of placement and the ease with which the story can be placed by the newspaper. Newspaper staffs are like creeks: they follow the path of least resistance on the way to their goal. When I am working on a placement for USA Gymnastics, I try to deliver the information to the newspaper in the most usable form possible. That includes writing the story along

for Your Gym by Craig Bohnert, USA Gymnastics Public Relations Director

EXAMPLE OF A PRESS RELEASE

rr&a GYMNASTICS

st. Louis Awarded Host Role for John Hancock u.s. Gymnastics Championships in 2000 For immediate release-Sept. 18, 1997 Contact: Craig Bohnert, USA Gymnastics, 317-237-5050, ext. 247

INDIANAPOLIS-USA Gymnastics has announced that the St. Louis Sports Commission and the City of St. Louis have been

awarded the role of host for the 2000 John Hancock U.S.

Gymnastics Championships. The decision was announced at a news conference held today in St. Louis.

"We are pleased to award this prestigious event to the St. Louis Sports Commission and the City of St. Louis," said USA

Gymnastics President Kathy Scanlan. "This event is a key element in the development of the team which will represent our country at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. This is a great

sports event, which will be hosted by a great sports town."

The event will be held in the Kiel Center July 26-29, 2000. It is a

critical step for the 130 male and female gymnasts who will com­

pete, as it will serve as the qualifying event for the 2000 John Hancock U.S. Olympic Team Trials, scheduled for Aug. 15-20 in

Boston. In addition to determining the national all-around and individual event champions at both the junior and senior levels,

it also will be the selection event for the 2000-2001 U.S. National

Team. Once a member of the U.s. National Team, the athletes will

be eligible to represent the United States in both domestic and international competitions. In addition, athlete funding is deter­

mined by the all-around placement at the John Hancock

Championships.

The event will be televised to a nationwide audience by NBC.

Based in Indianapolis, USA Gymnastics is the national governing

body for gymnastics in the United States. Its mission is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in the

sport. For more information about USA Gymnastics and its programs, access USA Gymnastics Online on the Internet at

www.usa·gymnastics.org .

- USA GYMNASTICS -

2D ..................................... ("-___ ~T..:.E.:.( H:.;.;N~/:.:Q:.:U;.:.EI..' ..:,V..:O..:,L,;;.U :,;;,M.:.,E ..,;1.,;8.:.., #;;.,;2;.... ___ )

the standard style guidelines established by the Associated Press and, whenever possible, minimiz­ing the amount of work the newspaper must do by delivering the story directly into their computer systems, either through direct access to their system or through email. The story that has to be retyped is one that has less of a chance of seeing print. A well­written story and a good, clear, properly focused and (most important) visually interesting picture will result in placement a vast majority of the time.

3. Chances of placement increase based on the quality of the relationship you have with the newspaper contact. It's hard to tell a friend "no" in most circum­stances. By identifying a contact at the newspaper and cultivating a relationship with that contact, your chances of placement go up.

Your best bet for placement, if your club is in a larger city, is to focus on the weekly community newspapers which flourish in metropolitan areas. With smaller staffs and fewer resources providing them material for the news hole, they welcome submissions from the community. Often, they will be happy to run a story and photo you provide them, because it will help them increase their readership. When little Gretchen's photo is in the newspaper, friends and family members want to see it. That creates visibility for the newspaper's advertisers, which keeps the advertis­ers happy, the goal of the newspaper publisher. Since their circulation is limited to selected areas, community papers help target your public relations efforts in the areas they will have the greatest impact.

Some other rules of thumb for public relations efforts with newspapers:

• Designate one person as the primary media contact. Whether it's yourself, another staff member or a volunteer, try to have one person handling the public relations effort. That provides the continuity which is necessary to develop a relationship with the mem­bers of the media (don't forget No.3 above).

• Forewarned is forearmed. Develop a schedule of the gym's important dates early in the year and circulate it to the media in your area, then send out reminders a couple of weeks in advance of the event. A phone call the week of the event will help you determine if the newspaper will send a reporter or photographer to your event (a grand slam home run!) or if you will need to provide the post-event information yourself.

• Follow through. If you have told an editor that you'll be providing a story and photo by a certain date, make sure you deliver on that promise. There's nothing more frustrating to an editor than saving a spot in the newspaper for a story that doesn't show up on time.

Compulsory Text USA Gymnastics Women's, Men's & Rhythmic Compulsory Programs. 199 ·2000 COMPULSORY BOOK FOR WOMEN #1111 ..•....... . $35.00

1991·2000 MEN'S AGE GROUP COMPULSORY PROGRAM BOOK #1202 •.•.•.• $29.95

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J.O. T edlDiatl HondLoo" for Judges ond Coo«:ltes The technical rules and regulations for the 10. program. This manual follows the Code of Points format and includes all the changes and adaptations of the Code for the 10. level. Text is complete with examples of bonus, etc. # 1117 ..... .... . ... . ... :$20.00

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Compulsory Video leTelst-6 Skills, sequences and drills on all events plus donee. #2105 .... . ... $35.00

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Women'sJ.O. Compulsory m #2110 ..... $15.00

ALL NEW COMPULSORY MATERIALS!

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Fitness Fun: 8S Gaines and AdiYities

for Cltildren Provides (hildren with unique and enjoyable

a(fivities that consider muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and

((]rdiorespiratory fitness. Great for K-B.

1992; Foster, Hartinger & Smith; paper; 112 pp #3601 •••••.. $12.00

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Great GalDes for Young People Contains 60 field-tested games and relays for upper elementary through high s(hool. Included: complete descriptions, game diagrams, suggestions for modifications, equipment needed, and safety tips.

1991; Gustafson, Wolfe & King; paper; 152 pp #3623 •••• ••••••. $12.00

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Elite Le"Vel - Cin«:innati Gymnasti«:s A.~ademy

Featuring an Elite level workout from Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy with Olympic coach, Mary lee Tracy and Olympic Gold Medalists, Amanda Borden and Jaycie Phelps. 2 tope set #2705 ..... . . . . . .. . .. $29.95

Leyel 8 - Cin«:innati Gymnasti«:s A.«:ademy 2 tape set #2473 . . ... .... . . .... $24.95

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1996 U.S. National GymFest

Anaheim, CA. Gymnastics really is for everyone at GymFest! These topes include every performance from Gym Fest plus the Opening Ceremonies and the Gala Showcase. USA participants of GymFest were joined by the fantastic and creative, FLIP Acrobatic Club from the country of Siovinia. The USA National Group Routine that will be used at Gymnaestrada in 1999 is a highlight of the Gala Showcase, performed here for the very first time. 3 tope set #2703 .. .. .. .... ..... $26.95

Magi«: Musi~ Days

Disneyland. All performances are included.

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WOMEN'S 1991 International Team

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This video contains all the Senior Women's Competition from the International Team Championships in Cincinnati running time is 1 hour and 13 minutes. #2960 .. ............. $19.95

1991 International Team Galina Burns (International Routine Text).

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#2959 . .. .... ........ $19B5 MEN'S 1991 A.meri«:an Classi«: 1995 A.meri«:an Cup Juinor Optionals Seattle, Wash. Prelims & Finals. This tape features all the optional routines #2246 . ...... .. .... .. $19.95

except for finals. This was the first time the American Athletes were judged using 1995 Winter Cup

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#2957 ........... . . .. $12.95 divisions! Features all competitors includ-ing: John Roethlisberger, Chainey 1991 A.meri«:an Classi«: Umphrey, Chris Waller, Jair lynch, Trent

Senior Optionals Dimas, Josh Stein, Brian Yee and many This tape features all the optional routines more! Camcorder footage taken from the except for finals. This was the first time stands. the American Athletes were judged using # 2245 ...... ..... .. . $19.95 the new Code of Points. Running TIme: 1 hour and 39 minutes 1995 Pan A.meri«:an #2958 .... . . .. . . ..... $12.95 Games

Straight from Mar Del Plata, Argentina:

RHYTHMIC Men's Preliminaries and finals. See the U.S. men's team triumph! Camcorder

RIlythmi«: Gymnasti«:s footage taken from the stands.

Group Compulsory #2247 .. . ........ . ... $19.95

Routines Featured Choreography by Olga Morozova (RFX), Wuling Stephenson (Hoop), Efossina Anguelova (Ribbon), Joni Spoto (Beginning Routine Text) and

PLEASE NOTE *AII USA Gymnastics videos are designed to be used for educational purposes by gymnastics coaches and judges. All videos were produced with commercial equipment by amateur video­graphers unless otherwise stated. Our Olympic technical videos are presented from one camera angle and show the entire exercise without cuts, close-ups or other effects and enhancements. Except for women's floor exercise, the videos do not have sound.TheAtlanta Technical videos are avai lable for purchase to USA Gymnastics members only.

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Woodward Gymnastics Camp University of Nebraska Vitaly Scherbo's Gymnastics School International Gymnastics Camp University of Oklahoma North Carolina State University Illinois Gymnastics Institute Chris Waller's Summer Gymn'astics Jam Byers' Gymnastics Center Gold Cup Gymnastics School Milwaukee Gymnastics Center Twin City Twisters Illinois High School Association Porter Gymnastics Camp Freemont YMCA University of Maryland Texas Tumblers Gymnastics Kentucky Power Tumbling Emerald City Gymnastics Woodland Gymnastics American Academy of Gymnastics

p.o. Box 646 • Addison, IL 60101

Phone/Fax: 630-372-1367 visit us @ http://palmersprings.pave.net

RHYTHMIC RULES AND POLICIES CORRECTION

APPENDIX 8D Level 7/8 Optional Execution/Artistic Value Score Sheet ADD to Bonus - Expression .10 CHANGE - Max score to 4.5

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT I

AmNTlON CLUB OWNERS AND MANAGERS

USA Gymnastics would like to announce the development of a valuable research study which will look into those factors which contribute to the financial success of gymnastics clubs in the U.s. Assistant Coach at Temple University Stuart G. McMahon is under­taking this study as part of his doctoral degree in Sport Administration. A for­mer team captain and member of East Stroudsburg University's Division II National Championship Team, Scottish National Champion, Team Captain, and Commonwealth Games participant, McMahon is undertaking this study in an attempt to give something back to the sport that he says, "has given me every­thing."

As part of this study, McMahon will be undertaking a random survey of gymnastics clubs in the U.s. this spring. This survey will require owners and managers to answer a questionnaire which will take approximately 15 min­utes of their time.

McMahon hopes that this study will provide critical information to help cur­rent and future gymnastics club owners and managers stay in business which he believes will, in turn, provide a safe place to develop young gymnasts.

McMahon is undertaking this study for the betterment of our gymnastics community. We at USA Gymnastics applaud his efforts. We strongly encour­age all owners and managers, who may receive this questionnaire around February or March, to answer objective-

ly and return it to McMahon in the knowledge that your responses will be treated in the strictest academic confi­dence, and that you will have con­tributed to this theoretical research within the gymnastics community. McMahon needs a high response rate in order to make this a valid research study .

McMahon hopes to present the results of the study at USA Gymnastics Congress and will also publish an article in Technique.

Thanks for your cooperation!

USAGO INTRODUCES GYMNASTICS CLUB SEARCH

USA Gymnastics Online has intro­duced a gymnastics club search on the internet. Those interested in locating a club in a given location are able to key in city, state, and other pieces of informa­tion (such as type of gymnastics pro­grams desired) to find all the clubs in the states which match the description. Member Clubs are identified in the results of the search with an icon indi­cating Member Club status.

Additionally, Member Clubs are dis­played as the first matching clubs in the results of a search, allowing Member Clubs to appear at the head of the list. Check out the query online by visiting www.usa-gymnastics.org!

Many gymnastics enthusiasts are already utilizing the new search. In the first two weeks more than 5,000 USAGO visitors looked up club information!

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USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame 1999 Nomination Form and Information Questionnaire

The former Helms Hall of Fame and USA Gymnastics hove combined efforts into one National Hall of Fame for gymnastics. Individuals may be nominated for the consider­ation of the selection committee in any of three categories: athlete, coach, or contributor. The person submitting the name of the nominee for consideration should read the accompanying criteria and seek to obtain all pertinent information from the individual or the individual's family to accompany the nomination.

Please submit a typed set of information for each person nominated, including the appropriate category for the nominee. Please use the format below for information as requested and include any additional information, articles, and pictures at the end of the requested informotion.

NOMINEE NOMINATOR Name Name Address Address City City State, ZIP State, ZIP Phone Phone Fax Fax CATEGORY ( ...... one):

o ATHLETE o COACH o CONTRIBUTOR

NOMINATIONS FOR ATHLETE NOMINATIONS FOR COACH NOMINATIONS FOR CONTRIBUTOR

Gymnasts may be nominated as an individual or a team. In Coaches may be nominated either as individuals or as members In order to be considered, the following eligibility criteria is order to be considered, the following eligibility criteria is used of a coaching partnership. In order to be considered, the used as a guideline:

as a guideline. following eligibility criteria is used as guideline: • Has a minimum of twenty years of service

• A period of five years post competition • Has fifteen years experience as a coach • Has served significantly on national committees

• Has been an Olympic, Pan American, World University • Has been consistently successful in National Collegiate • Holds national and "brevet" credentials as a judge frequently judging at national and international meets

Games or World Championships team member Championships • Invented devises that advance the technical performance of • Has been a National Champion recognized by the National • Has coached one or more athletes who have been members gymnastics elements or promote a safe gymnastics environment

Governing Body (AAU, USGF or USAG) of national teams (international, senior or junior) • Has written or contributed to significant gymnastics books, • Has been a National Collegiate Champion recognized by the NGB (AAU, USGF or USAG) monograms, and articles

Please continue the application with the following • Has coached National or Collegiate Champions • Has produced research advancing the sport

information: • Has coached an NGB (AAU, USGF or USAG) recognized Please continue the application with the follOWing information:

1. Date of birth international team 1. List significant ways in which this nominee has contributed

2. If deceased, date of death and copy of obituary (if Please continue the application with the follOWing information: to the gymnastics field: • National committees (years and offices held)

possible). Also, please list family name(s) and address(es). 1. Number of years in coaching • Regional and state service (years and offices held) 3. Gymnastics club(s) or school(s) where athlete trained. 2. Coaching positions held (i.e., club(s), collegiate, • Books published or articles published

Please include the number of years trained and the organization, or school) and what years coached at these • Development of significant ideas which have benefited coach(es) with whom the athlete trained in each program. locations the gymnastics community

4. Athlete's competitive history in chronological order (with 3. Gymnasts and coaches (i.e., Olympians, national • Judging service and major assignments (Olympic, World

dates and titles). Please include the following items: champions, conference champions, elites, outstanding Championships, international &/or national competitions) • Service to the gymnastics community (volunteer

• highlight the outstanding competitive accomplishments coaches, etc.) developed by nominee contributions not covered above)

of individual 4. National Team coaching positions held by nominee (please 2. Was this nominee a competitor in gymnastics? If so, list • attach complete competitive records, if possible include dates) background, years and results. • include information such as national championships 5. Additional information about the nominee's career in 3. Was this nominee a gymnastics coach? If so, list years and

won, listing specific events and/or all·around coaching (i.e., background as an athlete, honors, publications, achievements.

• list international competitive records, listing any events contributions to the gymnastics field, records, etc.) 4. List additional information (i.e ., honors received,

or all-around championships won 6. List of names, addresses and telephone numbers (with gymnastics recognition, etc.).

5. List names, addresses and telephone numbers (with • list any honors awarded to the athlete area code) of additional persons who might add to the area code) of additional persons who might add to the

5. Any additional information about this individual information you listed here on behalf of this nominee information listed here on behalf of the nominee.

Nominations for the Class of 1999 Hall of Fame must be completed and copies sent by June 1, 1998, to both of the following individuals. Nominations received after that date will not be considered.

Carolyn Bowers, Chairman Kim Clayton Hall of Fame Selection Committee USA Gymnastics 1315 Bourgagne Ave. 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300 Bowling Green, OH 43402 Indianapolis, IN 46225

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WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS

MINUTES WOMEN'S TECHNICAL COMMITTEE CONFERENCE CALL December 19, 1997

I. ROll CAll Meeting was called to order at 2:00 EST by COimie Maloney, Women's Jr. Olympic Program Manager, acting as facilitator.

Chairman Marilyn Cross

Region 1 Pam Bileck

Region 2 Linda Mulvihill

Region 3 Carole Bunge

Region 4 Linda Thorberg

Region 5 Char Christensen

Region 6 Cindy Sielski

Region 7 Cheryl Hamilton

Region 8 Marian Dykes

Audrey Schweyer ETC

Connie Maloney J.O. Program Manager

II. COMPULSORY QUESTIONS & ANSWERS The committee reviewed and finalized the Level 4-6 and Level 7 Questions and Answers document, which is included in February Technique.

III. LEVEL 5 COMPULSORY BAR EXERCISE Due to the decision of the J.O. Program Committee to reduce the ampli­tude requirements of the Level 5 Counterswings, the committee made the following changes to the deductions:

Motion to change the deductions to:

Hips not to a minimum of 15Q below the height of the high bar up to 0.60

16Q to 29 ' below height of high bar 0.05 - 0.10

30 Q to 45' below height of high bar 0.15 - 0.20

46 Q to 60 Q below height of high bar 0.25 - 0.30

61 Q to 75 Q below height of high bar 0.35 - 0.45

76 Q and below 0.50 - 0.60

Motion-P. Bileck

Second-M. Dykes

PASSED

IV. OPTIONAL ELEMENT EVALUATION Motion to add to the Jr. Olympic Element Supplement the following element on Balance Beam: #52.204 Split leap forward with change of legs (Switch-leg leap) with less than 160Q leg separation = B

Motion-L. Mulvihill

Second-C. Christensen

PASSED

V. OPTIONAL CLARIFICATION ON BARS For the Jr. Olympic program, the Uprise to Handstand *2.405 (2.305 in FIG Code) is a "D" element if performed to within 20Q of vertica l. If the uprise fi nishes more than 20Q from vertical, then award "B" value part for Uprise to clear support #2.205.

VI. ELITE TESTING PROGRAM The committee discussed several areas which seem to need addi tional deductions.

Motion to recommend to the Elite Program Committee to include in the Floor Acro testing a deduction for adding running steps into the first Acro pass of Round-off, 2 whipsaltos, 2 flic-flacs, layout saito backward.

Motion-C Sielski

Second-Po Bileck

PASSED

VII. MISCEllANEOUS JR. OLYMPIC CONCERNS A. Cross discussed the fact that many coaches, as well as teammates, are becoming accustomed to "coaching" the gynmast during the competition per­formance. Judges are reminded that if this occurs, the coach (or other athletes) should be given a warning prior to a deduction being taken. If the Meet Referee is present at the coaches' meeting, the verbal warning (reminder) may be given at that time. If the coach then proceeds to "coach" his/her athlete dur­ing her routine, the deduction may be applied without an additional warning.

B. Compulsory Handspring Vault: The committee was asked to review the deductions for the support phase and timing of repulsion. Possible changes or additions will be on the agenda for the March 1998 meeting.

C Inappropriate attire - Jewelry: The committee requests that coaches tell their gymnas ts that only STUD EARRINGS are acceptable. Additional jew­elry (ankle bracelets, necklaces, dangle earrings, etc.) are not only a dis­traction to the performance, but more importantly, a safety issue.

Conference call meeting adjourned at 3:15 PM.

Next meeting is scheduled for March 6-8, 1998 in Ft. Worth, Texas in conjunction with the Visa American Cup.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WOMEN'S ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD CONFERENCE CALL Jan uary 7, 1998

I. ROll CAll Meeting called to order at 4:00 PM Eastern time.

Present: Region I Denise Porrozzo

Region II Ruth Sandoz

Region III Cori Rizzo

Region IV George Grainger

Region V Ka thy Shufflin

Region VI Kathy Ostberg

Region VII Jan Greenhawk

Region VIII Deb Kornegay (vote by proxy)

WAB Chair Kathy Feldmann

WJOPM Connie Maloney .

II. LEVEL 9 EAST/WEST APPAREL Motion that all competitors at the Level 9 Eastern and Western Championships receive an official East/West Championships jacket pur­chased by their regions through the EastIWest Meet Directors, at a max­imum cost of $25.00. No other apparel/gifts will be provided by the State or Regional USA Gymnastics accounts.

Motion: R. Sandoz

Second: C Rizzo

PASSED

Clarifica tion: All regions are reminded that gyn1nasts will use their club warm-ups and leotards as their competition apparel.

Meeting adjourned at 4:30 PM.

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Breaking General Gymnastics News! (December, 1997)

1998 USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL GYMFEST USA Gymnastics and the General Gymnastics Advisory Panel have awarded the 1998 National GymFest to the City of Austin, Texas, Sept. 5-7. This event will be conducted in conjunction with the annual Congress of the Gymnastics Association of Texas (GAT). The Renaissance Hotel, Austin will serve as the primary venue.

As in the past, international gymnastics performing groups will be invited to attend the National GymFest as special guests-making this truly an international event.

The 1998 National GymFest will be the primary opportunity for groups/clubs who have not already attended a previous National GymFest or World Gymnaestrada to qualify for the 1999 World Gymnaestrada in Goteborg, Sweden. USA Gymnastics is planning to send a delegation of more than 600 gymnasts to the World Gymnaestrada dur­ing the period of July 2-10,1999.

PAGU GENERAL GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTOR'S COURSE USA Gymnastics will host the first Pan American Gymnastics Union "General Gymnastics Instructor's Training Course" during the 1998 USA Gymnastics National GymFest in Austin, Texas, Sept. 4-6, 1998.

USA Gymnastics hosted a similar international course in conjunction with the 1997 National GymFest at Walt Disney World. This resulted in partici­pants from 18 nations representing member federations of the FIG.

The goal of the PAGU course will be to provide training and information for coaches/leaders that will:

o Assist them in developing General Gymnastics programs in their own countries

o Encourage future participation in FIG General Gymnastics events such as the World Gymnaestrada

o Establish a dialogue and plan for future development of General Gymnastics among PAGU member federations

o Promote international understanding and goodwill through General Gymnastics-"General Gymnastics, It's for Everybody!"

GG AT THE USA GYMNASTICS NATIONAL CONGRESS Due to the popularity of the GG exhibitions conducted last year in Denver in the Congress Exhibition Hall, this effort will be expanded at the 1998 National Congress in Indianapolis, August 20-22.

USA Gymnastics GG groups/clubs will have the opportunity to perform display routines in the Congress Exhibition Hall. Groups will need to sub­mit videos of their routines to the Selection Committee in order to be con­sidered for participation.

Additionally, one session will be reserved for a showcase performance from the top Indiana groups that participated in the 1998 Hoosier State Games GymFest. Selected demonstration groups will participate in the GG technical sessions during Congress.

In 1998, Congress will be conducted in conjunction with the John Hancock National Gymnastics Championships to be held at Market Square Arena, August 19-22.

For more information on the 1998 National GymFest, the USA Gymnastics/GG Instructor's Course, or GG demonstrations at Congress, look for information to be published in Technique magazine or contact Steve Whitlock at 317-237-5050, ext. 236 or email:gg~usa-gymnastics.org

NEW GG VIDEOTAPE AVAILABLE A videotape of the 1997 Swedish GymFest is available from USA Gymnastics Merchandise. This includes about an hour of group p erfor­mances and an hour of TeamGymn (the competitive form of GG that will be a "demonstration sport" at the 1998 USA Gynmastics Na tional GymFest in Austin, Texas) .

The tape is not high quality. It was shot by an Australian coach who sent a copy in PAL, which we converted and then duplicated again. Therefore, it's about "4th generation." However, the gymnastics is good and you will be able to get some good ideas.

Item #2602-1997 Swedish National GymFest, Norrkoping, July, 1997

(2 hours in length-$10)

Order from USA Gymnastics Merchandise at 1-800-345-4719

ESTIMATED COSTS FOR THE 1999 WORLD GYMNAESTRADA IN GOTEBORG, SWEDEN JULY 2·11 In order to give you an idea of the individual costs for Sweden, we have asked our travel agent (International Sports Exchange) to provide an esti­mate.

THIS IS A PRELIMINARY QUOTE!

Additional information regarding the 1999 World Gymnaestrada will be sent to those clubs / groups completing the "Notice of Interest" which can be found in the GG Rules and Policies book.

This quote is based on $1=7 sk and current air fares at peak season.

Stay in School = $1,990 (includes air fare from LA or San Francisco)

Land only = $ 901 (no air fare)

Stay in Hotel =

Land only =

What you get...

$2,284

$1,184 (no air fare)

V' Participation Card - includes: o Participation in the Gymnaestrada and free access to all events

(this does not include special events like the National Evenings or the Gala)

o Free use of public transportation o Free use of all local leisure and bathing (swimming) facilities o Free entrance to the Liseberg Amusement Park o Free entrance to all museums o Entrance to all exhibitions

V' Breakfast and Lunch for all school participants V' Official USA uniform for the USA Gymnastics delegation members V' Welcome Party in Goteborg for the USA delegation V' Bed and bedding at the school

NOTES: o For children under 12, there will be an airfare reduction. This will

vary from carrier to carrier. (probably in the $200 to $350 range). o COACHES NOTE: There will be 1 free for every 20 paid. Land

only will get free land.

SAMPLE COSTS: City School Hotel

NYC $1,735 $2,034

BaS $1,735 $2,034

CHI $1,840 $2,1 34

Atlanta $1,820 $2,114

Dallas $1,910 $2,194

Houston $1,910 $2,194

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CONFERENCES CHilDREN'S ACTIVITY ASSOCIATION. Associotion of Childrens Fitness Facilities (AOCFF)­For the post three years mony of the most progreso sive Club Owners in the USA have met to shore valu­able experience and to explore new business strate­gies at the annuol SUMMIT Conference. The purpose of the AOCFF is to increase Member revenues and profits while decreasing risk. We accomplish this by increasing the diversity and quality of children's leorning Opportunities. This yeor the SUMMIT is

in the Bahamos! We offer two levels of Membership, Program Expansion Guides and cus­tomized Expansion Consultations. Interested? Coli Director Frank Sahlein (208)376-3641 or E-moil: wingsctr@micron.net

POSITION AVAILABLE World Cup Gymnastics is looking for a highly qualified girls teom coach. Strong spot1ing skills ond good coaching qualificotions a must. Beginner through Elite. Appliconts should be profeSSional. energetic, and have strong organization, ond man­agerial skills. This position is best suited for person wishing to pursue, long-term career in coaching. World Cup Gymnostics, Choppoquo, NY 10514, phone: (914)238-3901. Fox: (914)238·3568. Emoil: cjshh@ix.netcom.com

Girls level 1-1 0 coach needed. Beom ond Floor choreography 0 must. Our school hos been open for over 20 yeors and our teams have continued to be tops in the state. We need a knowledgeable and experienced coach to join our friendly, dedicoted stoff. Salary storts at 25G (or more for the perfect person). Insurance, bonuses and ? are all nego­tiable. Send resume with references to Giguere Gymnastics, 148 Main St., Cherry Volley, Mo. (Worcester) 01611 or fox it (508)892-4500. Position open for Summer/Fall '98.

BUSINESS PARTNERS WANTED. Coaches ond instructors wonted to be business portners. No invest­ment required. We are a well-established program with 0 modern fully equipped facility. This is on excel­lent career opportunity for 0 limited number of pelr pie. Apply now ond we'll talk. Partnerships stort Sept. 1998. Send cover letter, tell us about yourself, and a resume in confidence to: Mr. Potrick Ahern, Astronauts Gymnostics, 1927 Bundy St., Scranton, PA 18508.

COME TO NEW HAMPSHIRE FOR THE SUMMER: Gymnastics & Cheer leoding Head & instructors/ cobin counselors (19+) for outstanding girls' sports compo Excellent large gymnastics facili­ty. Camp Robindel (one mile from two boys' comps) is locoted on the LARGEST NEW ENGLAND LAKE (22 miles long) just below the White Mountains, 2 hours North of Boston, 1 1/2 hours from Moine coast. Beautiful location with 1500 loke front feet contain-

o "'11\ tl- ic: .. C'::lk:">

ing 700 foot notural sand beach. Must hove warmth ond love children. June 21 -August 20. TRANS­PORTATION PAID. Write 1271 Mill Rood, Meadowbrook, PA 19046. Phone: 888-860-1 186.

POSITION AVAILABLE. COACH FOR lEVEL 1-9 GIRLS. QUALITIES NEEDED: Strong spot1er on bars, tumbling, vault; good technique; positive, motivoted, energetic; must be oble to teach recre­ation classes. Call or send resume to: Feigley's School of Gymnastics (Bridget1es) at 4475 So. Clinton Avenue, South Plainfield, NJ 07080. Phone (908)561 -8888. Fox (908)756-6442.

GYMNASTIC COACH/DIRECTOR desiring to acquire a gymnastic school in the suburban New York orea. Must be personable, motivated and enthusiastic to work in a creative, stimulating ond fun atmosphere overseeing a program with 800 stu­dents and a competitive team level 5-1 O. Full sched­ule of programs including dance. Opportunity to build progrom further and ultimately own the gym school. Call 212-370-1169.

HIRING HEAD COACH, INSTRUCTORS. lakeside Moine summer compo live with, core for, teach girls age 7-16. Complete gym. Nissen equip­ment. Beginning students through advanced. Consistent, doily instruction. Gymnastics shows. Program's compulsory, optional skills promote development, meosurable advancement, interest. Knowledge of USAG fundamental. optional skills; practicol knowledge of compulsory levels; ability to spot, demonstrate; desire to teach children. Ability to put children's need before your own essential. College sophomores & up. Internships available. Opportunity to teach other athletiCS, arts, waterfront activities. 6/ 20-8/27. Non-smokers. Kippewa, Box 340, Westwood, Massachuset1s 02090-0340; kippe­wa@tiac.net; (781 )762-8291.

GYMNASTICS INSTRUCTORS NEEDED: Camp Canadensis, a Premier children's residential coed summer comp in the Poconos of PA needs a coor· dinator ond instructors for comprehensive pro­gram for compers. New facility includes tumble track and foam pit, balance beams, unevens, vaults, bungees, and much more! 6/ 20/ 98-8/ 17/ 98. 1-800-832-8228.

The Gymnastics Academy of Boston is seeking a full or port time experienced head coach/ instruc­tor. We have a large fully-eqUipped facility and a reputation for quality and excellence in gymnastic instruction. If you are a highly motivated, enthusias­tic indiVidual, willing to accept the challenges of a busy gym, please contoct us. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Call Nancy at 781-326-2287.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR/COACHING POSI­TIONS. Established club in Phoenix area is looking

for experienced and motivated individuals inter­ested in becoming port of our positive, fun, ener­getic ond growing program. Must have a genuine love of children and teaching! Administrative & teaching, full & port time positions available. Preschool. Recreational and Team opportunities with growth potential. Can you moke a difference? Join 0 great stoff ond working environment. Area has much to offer-lokes, Mtns, Pro Sports, Concerts ... Send resume with cover letter to: Aerials Gymnastics, 7724 N. 67th Ave. Ste. 10, Glendale, AZ 85301. 602-934-2007, 602-934-2097 fax­attn: Bruce Seid.

POSITIONS AVAILABlE-Coreer opportunities are now open for qualified level 4-7 coach/ instruc­tors for June '98 start. Club in 25th season on Maryland's Eastern Shore, adjacent to Solisbury State University. Full or port-time positions with com­petitive compensotion, health benefit, additional income options, and up to 6 weeks vacotion time. Contact Bob Morris at Delmarva Gymnastic Acodemy, Inc., 200 Bote man St., Salisbury, MD 21804; Phone 410-742-2053; FAX 410-860-9039; or E-mail: hastings@shore.intercom.net

FOR SALE GYMNASTIC PROGRAM FOR SALE. Smoll established Gym for sale. 150-250 students in 3800 sq. It. focility. Some owner for 17 years. locoted in Southeost Texas. Great opportunity for a coach who is ready to be their own boss. lease building, pur­chose gymnastics program. Coli (512)863-5437 or (512)869-2810.

SOFTWARE FOR DUMMIES! SCORE MASTER, the most Wide ly used system in the U.s., scores the largest meet in the U.S., The Gasparillo, with over 2500 competitors. This score keeping system is ve ry easy-to-use and has on on-line tutorial. Supports: mens/worn ens, individual/team, artis­tic/rhythmic, comp/ optional competitions. It con graph scores over on entire season. Comes with 0

step-by-step user guide and a 90 day uncondition-01 money bock guarantee. For more info contoct: Mark Mahoney, P.O. Box 31421 , Charlot1e, NC, 28231 -1421 , (704)523-1812 or web site: www.score-master.com (software demo, info guide and user listing on web site ).

GymNercl-Gymnastic School Management Software (Windows!) GymNerd maintains data­base of student names, their classes, fees and pay­ments. Features: closs rosters, instructor schedules, invoices, moiling labels, payments and other finan­cial data in a spreadsheet format, and much, much more. Very easy to learn, user friendly windows interface. Call us today for more info., or to odd your requests to our wish list. $990. Contoct: MassData Database Systems. Phone: 617-923-9977. Email: TheGymNerd@aol.com

ClASS CONTROl. The best volue in Closs Management and AIR software. Packed with feo­tures and eosy to use. Includes rosters, tuition colcu­lotion bosed on assignments ond family discounts, retail charges, invoices, payment due reports, charge and poyment summaries, instructor sched­ules, on-line help, and more. Supports sales tax, alternotive payment methods like direct debit and credit cards, and USPS Address Standardizotion. Only $400 and includes free training and unlimited personal, understandable, technical support at no charge. Call Vaughn Software Services ot 800-821-8516, PO Box 1086, Apex, NC 27502. MC/VISA.

GYM SOFTWARE. ClassManoger Software. For Windows 95 and Macintosh. Mac or Windows graph­icol interface with mouse cantrol and on-line help, NOT a DOS program. System records all vital family information, closs registration, schedules, team placement, instructor data, and schedules, closs assignments, birthday porties, etc. Maintains all tuition accounts, prints invoices and receipts, and a complete history of all payments and classes token. Can include a built-in word processor for sending out customized let1ers for membership compaigns. Call for pricing: Atlantic Associates, 410 Boston Post Rood, Suite 3, Sudbury, MA 01776; (978)443-0560 (voice) or (978)443-7351 (fox).

NEW! EMPLOYEE MANUAL {plus 3.S diskl­$39.95. All you need to do is edit and print it out. Our "WElCOME TO THE TEAM" manual (plus 3.5 disk for easy editing - $39.95) covers aspects of the sport new team gymnasts and their parents need to know. Send your check (plus $3.50 shipping and handling) to: Richardson Publishing, P.O. Box 5035, Salisbury, NC 28144. Send 3lirst closs stomps or $LOO for our FREE REPORT that shows how you con make $ 1000 to $3000 in only a few hours per month.

To place a classified ad: $7S every 90 words. Deadline is the 10th of each proceeding month for the next published issue. For example, the April Technique deadline is March 10th. Send payment to: USA Gymnastics, Classifieds Ads, Pan American Plaza, Suite 300, 201 South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225. Ads submitted without payment Will NOT BE ACCEPTED. USA Gymnastics reserves the right to vary format. Technique is received by more than 12,000 USA Gymnas tics profes­sional members, advertise your open position, product or service here for grea t results! Call Luan Peszek at 317-237-5050, ext. 246.

® .................................... ·(,.---~T~E~C H':':"N':':"/~Q~U~E-, ~V""O-L':':"U ~M~E .... ) .... 8-, #-2~---)

•

•

( Event Schedule ) I':

Updated: ]a/luanj 5, 1998

Date # of Days Disdpline (vent Site Contad Phone# (-mail

FEBRUARY 1998 13 2 M USA Gymnastics Winter Cup Challenge Houston, TX Ron Galimore 317-237-5050 14 2 R Rhythmic Challenge Downers Grove, IL Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 20 2-3 W American Classic/American Challenge Orlando, FL Gary Warren 317 -237 -5050 21 8 M Junior National Team Camp Colorado Springs, CO Dennis Mcintyre 317-237-5050

MARCH 1998 3 MWR FIG Technical Symposium Venice, ITA Gary Alexander 317-237-5050

5 3 MW VISA American Cup Ft. Worth, TX Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 5 2 GG Texas State Gym Fest and GG Clinic Houston, TX Jodie Trncak 713-497 -6630 8 MWR International 3 on 3 Gymnastics Championships Ft. Worth, TX Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 27 2 MW International Team Championships (Jr./Sr.) Knoxville, TN Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 28 2 W Level 10 State Meets Various Sites Connie Maloney 317 -237 -5050

APRIL 1998 3 3 USOC Executive CommiHee/Board Meetings Portland, OR USOC 719-632-5551 4 W NCAA Regionals Various Sites NCAA 913-339-1906 4 1 M NCAA Regionals Amhurst,MA/Norman, OK NCAA 913-339-1906 9 3 MW USA Gymnastics Collegiate Championships New Haven, a Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 11 1 W USA Gymnastics National Invitational Tournament Iowa City, IA Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 16 3 W NCAA National Championships Los Angeles, CA NCAA 913-339-1906 16 3 M NCAA National Championships State College, PA NCAA 913-339-1906 18 2 W Level 10 Regional Championships Various Sites Connie Maloney 317-237-5050 18 2 R J.O. Championships Orlando, FL Nora Campbell 317-237-5050

MAY 1998 1 1 MWR USA Gymnastics Executive CommiHee Meeting Indianapolis, IN Julie Bejin 317 -237 -5050 2 2 MWR USA Gymnastics Board of Directors Meeting Indianapolis, IN Julie Bejin 317-237-5050 7 3 M J.O. National Championships BaHle Creek, MI Dennis Mcintyre 317-237-5050 B 4 W J.O. National Championships SeaHle, WA Connie Maloney 317-237-5050 8 3 R Rhythmic Group World Championships SeVilla, ESP Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 9 2 R Rhythmic Eastern Open Tampa, FL Nora Campbell 317 -237 -5050 16 2 R Rhythmic Western Open Downers Grove, IL Nora Campbell 317 -237 -5050 16 2 W Level 9 East/West Championships Lansing, MI/Austin, TX Connie Maloney 317-237 -5050 17 8 MWR FIG Congress Vilamoura, PO R Gary Alexander 317-237-5050

JUNE 1998 5 3 R U.S. Rhythmic National Championships Colo. Spgs., CO Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 14 GG California Gym Fest (Disneyland) Anaheim, CA Dean CapeloHi 760-728-8582 dcapelot@tfb.com TBD W Elite Regionals Various Sites Gary Warren 317-237-5050

JULY 1998 10 3 W U.S. Challenge TBD Garry Warren 317-237-5050 10 3 MWR Senior Pacific Alliance Championships Winnipeg, CAN Gary Alexander 317 -237 -5050 11 2 GG USAG GG Coaching Congress TBD Dean CapeloHi 619-728-8582 15 6 GG Argimtona Gym Fest '98 - Costa del Maresme Argimtona, ESP Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 edmt~org 18 16 MWR Goodwill Games New York, NY Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 30 4 W U.S. Classic/National Gymnastics Festival TBD Gary Warren 317-237-5050 TBD 5 MWR PAGU Junior Championships Colo. Spgs., CO Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 TBD R Pan American Group Championships TBD Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 TBD W Elite Regionals (International Only) Various Sites Gary Warren 317-237-5050

AUGUST 1998 14 GG Hoosier State Games Gym Fest Indianapolis, IN Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 gg@uso-gymnastics.org 19 4 MW John Hancock U.S. Gymnastics Championships Indianapolis, IN Jeff Olsen 317 -237 -5050

,,20 3 MWR USA Gymnastics National Congress Indianapolis, IN Steve Whitlock 317 -237 -5050 ~,

NOTE: Dates and events subject to change or cancellation

( TECHNIQUE, VOLUME 18,#2 } .................................... ®

1998 SAFETY CERTIFICATION SCHEDULE Updated S-January-98 Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18 years. Pre-Registration required at USA Gymnastics. Fax to 317-237-S069 with Credit Card Payment or mail registration with payment.

FEBRUARY 1998 7 Middletown, RI; 1 :00-5:00 p.m.

Newport YMCA Local contact: Nina 401-847 -9200 Course Dir: Mike Franco 401-789-8096

21 San Marcos, CA; 1 :00-5:00 p.m. West Coast Gymnastics; 220 N. 8ingham Dr #1 04 Local contact: Glen Wilson 760-744-8390 Course Dir: Nicki Geigert 760-943-6986

MARCH 1998 Centerville,OH; 1 :00-5:00 p.m. TOPS Gymnastics Local contact: Gary Gantz 937-435-7626 Course Dir: Bobbi Montanari-Fahrnbach

614-538-09 54

6 MD; 6:00-10:00 p.m. Capitol Cup Gymnastics Meet; University of MD: Location TBA Course Dir: 8illy Bob Taylor 304-344-3279

r--------------------------------------------------, Participation Registration Form Minimum age for safety Certification is 18 years. Name: ____________________ _

Soc. Sec. # Birth Dote ______ _ Address: ____________________ _ City: __________ State: ___ Zip: ____ _ Telephone: (H) ________ (W) ________ _

Course Director: ---------------------1 Course City/State: ____________ Date: _____ + Organization represented: ________________ -; Professional or Instructor #: _______________ ---' Current Safety Exp. Date: ________________ _

Form of Payment: 0 VISA 0 MasterCard 0 Discover 0 American Express Name on Cord: __________________ --+ Number: ___________________ _

Exp. Dote: / Signature: --------------7-L ______________________________________________ _ __ _

7 Gainesville, FL; 9:00 a.m.-l :00 p.m. Holiday Inn West Course Dir: Nelena 8eck 352-493-7512 352-378-8711

14 San Diego, CA; 3:00-7:00 p.m. Mission Valley YMCA Local contact: Marla Zumello 619-296-8411 Course Dir: Quin Shannon 619-562-7667

15 Redwood City, CA; 1 :00-6:00 p.m. Paragon Sports Tech Services Course Dir: Steve Scott 415-368-77 47

15 Clearwater, FL; 9:00 a.m.-l :00 p.m. The Apollo School of Gymnastics; 2140 Range Road, Unit G Course Dir: Karl Bishop 813-447-2108

• All materials (including the Safety Handbook) for 3rd Cycle courses are provided at the course and are port of the course fee.

• Certification is good for four years. • To achieve Safety Certification, the

participant must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the (ourse.

Please make checks payable, in full, to USA Gymnastics Safety Certification

Mail registration form and payment to: USA Gymnastics Safety Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 South Capitol Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225 or Fax to 317-237-5069

~ PREFERS VISA·

22 Gig Harbor, WA; 5:00-8:00 p.m. Gig Harbor High School Local contact: linda Smith 253-851-7061 Course Dir: Leigh Eaton 360-577 -627 4

APRIL 1998 11 North Olmsted, OH; 12:00-4:00 p.m.

North Olmsted Gymnastics Local contact: Jon Dzurinda 440-734-8200 Course Dir: Bobbi Montanari Fahrnbach 614-538-0954

17 Tempe, AZ; 6:00-10:00 p.m. ASU or host hotel (TBA) Course Dir: Hiroshi Fujimoto 408-373-1694

Cost: Pro-Member with Current Safety Certification wishing to recertify .... no charge Pro-Member with expired or new Safety Certification ............. $50.00 Instructor Member . ... . ... _ .. .. $50.00 Non-Member or General Member ... .......... .. $100.00 * You must have your USA Gymnastics number

on the registration form in order to qualify for the discount.

You may not register for a course to recertify any earlier than 8 months prior to your expiration date. No on-site registration. You must pre-register no later than 10 days prior to the course.