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on official publication of USA Gymnastics

Technique an official publication of USA Gymnastics

Publisher Kothy Scanlon Editor Luon Peszek Graphic Designer Billy H uys Men's Program Director Ron Golimore Women's Program Director Kothy Kelly Rhythmic Program Director Noro Compbell

USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair: Sandy Knapp; President: Kalhy Scanlan; President Emeritus: Mike Donohue; Amateur Athletic Union: Mike Sionner; American Sokol Organization: Jerry Milan; USA Trampoline & Tumbling: Wayne Downing; Americon Turners: Belly Heppner; Jewish Community (enters: Lori Katz; College Gymnastics Association­M: Ray Johnson; National Association of Collegiate Gymnastics (ooches for Women: Ga il Davis; National Association for Girls and Women in Spart: Morilyn Sirowbridge; National Ass"iation of Women's Gymnastics Judges: Yvonne Hodge; National Collegiate Athletic Ass"iatian: Chril Voelz, Tom Dunn; National Federation of State High School Ass"iations: Suson True; National Gymnastics Judges Ass"iation: John Scheer; National High School Gymnastics Coaches Ass"iation: John Brinkworlh; Special Olympics, Inc,: Kole Fober-Hickie; U.S. Rhythmic Gymnastics Coaches Association: Suzie DITull io; U.S. Association of Independent Gym Clubs: Lance Crowley; U.S. Elite (ooches Association for Men's Gymnastics: Mork Williams; U.S. Elite (oaches Association for Women's Gymnastics: Gory Anderson, Roe Kreuf1er; U.S. Men's Gymnastics Coaches Association: Marc Yon(ey; U.S. Sports Acrobatics Federation: Bonnie Davidson; U.S. Competitive Sports Aerobics Federation: Howard Shcwartz;Young Men's Christian Association of the USA: Rick OodlOn; USA Gymnastics Notional Membership Directors: Men's: , Ray Gura, lim Holt; Women's: Unda (hendnski, David Holcomb; Rhythmic: Alia Svirsky, Tomoro 00110; Athlete's Advisory Committee: Tanya Service Choplin, choir; Chris Woller, vice choir; Krislen Kenoyer Woodland, sec; Wendy Hilliord, VoneslO Vander ~uym, Peler Vidmor, Canrod VoorlOnger, Kim Zmeskol; USOC Athlete Representative: Michelle Oussene-Fonell.

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Choir: Sandy Knopp; Special Advisor to the Chairman of the Board: Roe Kreulzer; President: KOlhySconlan; Secretary: Mike Milidanil; Vice Choir Women: Joon Moore Gnol; Vice Choir Men: Tim Ooggell; Vice Chair Rhythmic: Candace Feinberg; FIG Executive Com mittee: Joy Ashmore; FIG Women's Technitol Committee: Jockie Fie; FIG Rhythmic Technitol Committee: Andrea Schmid-Shopiro; FIG Men's Technical Committee: George Becklleod; At large Members: Jim Horlung, Suson True; Athlete Directors: Tanya Service Choplin, Wendy Hilliord, Peler Vidmor; USOC Athlete Representative: Michelle Dusserre-Farrell; President Emeritus: Mike Donohue_

CHAIIGE OF ADDRESS AlID SUBSCRIPTIDII INQUIRIES: In order 10 ensure uninlenupled delivery 01 rECHNIOUE magazine, nolice 01 change 01 oddresl should be mode six 10 eighl weeks in advance. For foslest service, pleose enclose your presenl moiling label. ~irect oillubscriplion moil 10 TECHNIQUE Subscriplions, USA Gymnorti", 201 Soulh Copilol Avenue, Suile 300, Indianopolil, 11I 4622S_ TECHNIQUE (lSSIl 074B-S99991 il publ"hed 10 limes per yeor by USA Gymnasti(s, Pan Ameri(on Plaza, Suite 300, 201 S. Copilol Avenue, Indianopolil, III 4622S Iphane: 317-237-S0S01 or vilil anline @

www-usa-gymnast i cs.o r g Third doss postage paid at Indianopolil, Ill. Subscriplion prices: U.S.-S2S per yeor; Canodo/Mexico­S4B per yeor; all olher loreign counlries-S60 per yeor. 1f available, bock "Iue lingle copies S4 plus posloge/handling. All reOlonoble core will be loken, bulno resp0n5ibilily con be assumed for unsoliciled malerial ;emlose relurn pasloge. Copyrighl 1997 by USA GymnOlli" and TECHNIOUE. All righll reserved_ Prinled bySporl Grophics, Indianapolis, IN.

Unless expressly idenlified 10 Ihe (onlrary, all artides, \latemenls ond views prinled herein are allribuled solely 10 Ihe aulhor ond USA Gymnasli!l expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibilily Ihereof. [o ver Photo©Dave Black

[over Design by Billy Huys

FEATURES

Lower Extremity Functional Progression

What's Happened to the "Free" in Floor Exercise

No One Sits on the Bench

Anxiety in Elite Young Gymnasts

Meet the Staff of USA Gymnastics

Code of Points: Quo Vadis? ....

A Timeless Code of Points: Good Idea

What You Want in Technique

DEPARTMENTS

President's Message

KAT Update . . .. .

Question and Answer

USA Gymnastics 1998 Broadcast Schedule

Ideas that Work in the Gym

What's New

Classifieds .

Event Schedule

Safety Certification Schedule

PROGRAM UPDATE

General Gymnastics Advisory Panel Minutes (12/ 11 /97)

National TOP's Gymnastics ......... .

Women's Jr. Olympic Program Committe

Women's Administrative Board Meeting .

General Gymnastics Advisory Panel Minutes (9/16/97)

USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame 1999 Nomination Form

1 997 Technique Index ... , .. , .. , . . , . , ....... .

.. 6

.16

.18

.20

.24

.26

.27

.38

.. 4

.14

.22

.23

.35

.42

.46

.47

.48

.13

.30

.32

.34

.37

.43

.44

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~ ........••••.... ~ ~

...................................... . ADMINISTRATION

~RESIDENT'S,~

Kathy Scanlan

The USA Gymnastics Executive Committee and Board met on November 22-23 in Indianapolis. Key areas covered at the Board meeting included:

• Election of Executive Committee Members: 1984 Olympian Tim Daggett was elected for a second term as Vice Chair for Men. Susan True, Board member representing the National High School Federation, was elected to her first full term as Member at Large.

• Adoption of the 1998 Budget. The budget includes revenues projected at $11.9 million. Please note that the budget anticipates an increase in Team Membership fees from $35 to $40 per member effec­tive with the start of the 1998-99 season August 1, 1998. Professional, club, instructor, and general mem­bership costs will remain the same. This is the first increase in Team Membership fees since 1995. Significant cost items include: $3.1 million for the Men's, Women's and Rhythmic program depart­ments; $2.5 million for events, which includes the cost of producing the broadcast for 13 hours of television programming in 1998; $2.1 million in membership costs, including the cost of Team Member insurance; $500,000 in merchandise expense; $800,000 in the cost of publications like Technique and USA Gymnastics; and $700,000 in the cost of safe ty and education programs.

• Review of the USA Gymnastics Strategic Plan. The plan, which is available upon request to any member, is updated annually for submittal to the United States Olympic Committee and to the Board of Directors. This year's update was due to the USOC on September 9, 1997. A comprehensive review of the plan will be done next year.

• Report on the Fourth Cycle Safety Certification Program. Safety and Education Director Steve Whitlock updated the Board on the development of the new 4th Cycle Safety Certification materials being prepared for introduction January 1, 1998, and for plans to ensure a consistently high level of course pre­sentation across the country. Please remember that all professional members must be safety certified by the start of the 1998-99 season on August 1, 1998. If you are not safety certified, please register for a course as soon as possible.

• Adoption of a Policy on Non-Citizen Athlete Participation and Funding. The FIG has revised its statutes regarding the participation of non-citizens in international and FIG events. (The rules have not changed for representation at the Olympics, Pan American Games and other events under the support of the USOC because the IOC requires that athletes repre­senting a nation at the Olympics must be citizens of that nation.) The FIG rules provide that those athletes who have represented a nation internationally must be citi­zens of any different nation they want to represent. However, if a "gymnast moves to another country, and has not represented his former country, he may imme­diately represent his new country with the consent of the two federations in question and that of the FIG Executive Committee. In the absence of such consent, he may (with the consent of the FIG Executive Committee) represent the new country one year after taking up resi­dence in the new country. In both cases it must be estab­lished that the residence is bona fide in nature."

The United States Amateur Sports Act, which cre­ated the USOC and all of the National Governing Bodies, requires that our rules for eligibility not be any more stringent than those of the FIG. Therefore, non-cit­izens who have not previously represented their nation of citizenship may represent the United States in international competition and must be permitted to par­ticipate in those meets which select or lead to selection for international competition. (This does not include programs like the Women's and Rhythmic Junior Olympic competitions which do not lead to internation­al competition.) If a non-citizen becomes a member of the National Team, he or she will receive funding and

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support in accordance with his or her placement, pro­vided that he or she is a permanent resident as defined by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (in gen­eral, this means the athlete has a green card).

• Panel Discussion on Television: Ed Hull, President of Jefferson Pilot Sports, and Peter Diamond, Vice President for Olympic Sports for NBC, gave presenta­tions on television to the Board. the presentations cen­tered on how television tries to present credible compet­itive stories on their broadcasts and is interested in the presentation of star athletes engaged in competitive struggles with each other. This is the reason that not every athlete in a competition is in the broadcast. Hull discussed the development of the new Jefferson Pilot Sports events and the success they have had in continu­ing the careers of athletes like Kim Zmeskal and Shannon Miller.

1984 Olympian Tim Daggett was elected for a second term as Vice Chair for Men. Susan True, Board member representing the National High School Federation, was elected to her first full term as Member at Large.

• Report on the FIG: All four United States members/ officers of FIG Committees made presentations on the FIG's activities. We have submitted a bid for the 2003 World Championships. The FIG is considering a major re-structuring of its governance, which will be voted upon at the May 1998 FIG Congress.

• Report on the Event Awards: The Board saw clips of television coverage and copies of print coverage of the announcement of USA Gymnastics national events in Richmond, Orlando, Sacramento, Kansas City, Knox­ville and St. Louis. Thanks to all of you who partic­ipated in these press conferences. We are off to a good start with all of the Local Organizing Committees for our 1998-2000 events.

• Report on USA Trampoline and Tumbling: Trampoline has been added as a medal sport for the 2000 Olympics and its international federation is plan­ning to merge with the FIG. The USOC Constitution will require a merger of trampoline into USA Gymnastics. We will be working with USA Trampoline and Tumbling and will report back to the Board at the May 1998 meeting.

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LOWER EXTREMITY FUNCTIONAL PROGRESSION: BACK TO TUMBLING AND "STUCK" LANDINGS AFTER AN INJURY

When gymnasts injure their backs or lower extremities, they usually are placed on a reha­bilitation program to improve the strength, flex­ibility, and proprioception of the injured area. Once the area is considered "healed," they are told to gradually return to gymnastics. Most health care providers do not fully understand the sport of gymnastics and cannot provide them with a safe progression back to the sport. For example, there are many "throwing progres­sions" for athletes that throw objects: baseball, football, shot put, discus, etc. Furthermore, pro­grams for running, swimming, golfing and other athletic events have been developed. Unfor­tunately, there is a void in the literature on pro­gressions for the injured gymnast.

The following program has been developed to provide gymnasts with a generalized program to return them to gymnastics. It is a gradual pro­gression of closed chain dynamic loading forces. The gymnast is subjected to a gradual increase of forces to her lower extremity. It gives the athlete a means to progress from being able to jog pain free to landing tucked saltos. The forces associat­ed with landing from gymnastics skills are high. The landing from a back tuck saito ranges from 8 to 10 times the gymnast's body weight. A 1 00 pound gymnast places 800-1 000 pounds of force through her lower extremity with every back tuck saito landing!(2) These forces can obviously add up quickly with multiple repetitions.

By: Larry Nassar, D.O., A.T.e. Steve Elliott Tammy Biggs

This program can also be used for improving gymnast's lower extremity alignment for jumping and landing. It is important that proper lower extremity alignment be main­tained for these drills. This will help enhance the gymnast's power for "punching" the floor, absorb the force of land­ings safely, improve overall form, and protect her from injuries associated with poor alignment.

First the gymnast should be placed on strengthening and flexibility exercises for the involved area (i.e. ankle, knee, hip, or back). She should also be placed on a static proprio­ception training exercise progression (see the section "lower extremity static proprioception training"). Once the gymnast is able to jog pain-free, in addition to the static pro­gression, she should be placed on a dynamic propriocep­tion training exercise progression (see the section "lower extremity dynamic proprioception training"). Furthermore, once they are able to jog pain-free, they should also start the following jump and landing progression.

JUMP AND LANDING PROGRESSION Perform 3 sets of 10 jumps. Progress in numerical order

(i.e. Start 1a and 1b at the same time. Progress to 2a once 1a is pain free and to 3b once 2b is pain free . Continue through to number 8). Make sure the athlete maintains good body alignment while executing the jumps. The patella should stay in proper alignment between the 1st and 2nd toes when the knee flexes (see fig. #1 ). They should push through the feet and toes when jumping (see fig. #2 and fig. #3). They should also maintain good trunk posture by con­tracting their abdominal and gluteal muscles. Progress only if the exercises are pain free. If the exercises cause increased pain and / or swelling, then back down a level or stop the exercises altogether until the injury is re-evaluated. Use a firm surface to jump upon. Panel mats work well. Soft cushion mats are not appropriate for this type of training. Jumps should be performed forwards and backwards to simulate both front and back tumbling .

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Fig.l.

Fig. 3.

When squatting and landing, the knee cap (patella) should align with the space between the first and second toe.

JUMP AND LANDING PROGRESSION Fig. 2. When jumping, the gym­

nast should push through the toes while maintaining proper alignment as shown in part A. The knee cap (patella) should align with the space between the first and second toe. Part B shows improper alignment which is associated with pronation of the foot and improper foot "turn out."

THE PROGRAM

A

These illustrations show how the gymnast should progress from foot flat on the floor to pushing all the way through the toes as she jumps off the floor. As she leaves the floor, her feet should be fully pointed.

3a 3b 3c 3d

1 a. 6-8 inch jump up 2 legged (see figures 4 & 5 below)

Fig. 4&5.

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4a 4b 5a 5b

1 b. start cartwheels, front walk overs, back walk overs on the floor exercise carpet

2a. 12-14 inch jump up 2 legged (same as figs. 4a-b & 5a-b except the mat level has increased)

B

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Lower Extremity Functional Progression (continued from pg. 8)

4d. (OPTIONAL) Start Plyometrics-begin with low intensi­ty hops (i.e. squat jumps, rope jumping, skipping, etc.)

4e. Start round offs, front handsprings with 2 foot landings and back handsprings with 2 foot landings on the tumble tramp

Sa. 24 inch jump down 2 legged (same as figs. 6a-b & 7a-b except the mat level has increased)

5b. 12 inch jump up 1 legged (same as figs. 8a-b, & 9a-b except the mat level has increased)

5c. (OPTIONAL) Advance plyometrics to medium intensity (Double leg tuck jumps, alternate leg bounds, double leg quick response hops for distance and for height, etc.)

5d. Start individual skills on the floor exercise carpet: round­offs, back handspring step-outs, and front handspring step-outs

5e. Start combinations on the tumble tramp: Round-off back handspring step-out, front handspring step-out round­off, and back handspring back handspring step-out

6a. 36 inch jump down 2 legged (same as figs. 6a-b & 7a-b except the mat level has increased)

6b. 12 inch jump down 1 legged (same as figs lOa-b & l1a-b except the mat level has increased)

6c. 18 inch jump up 1 legged (forward only, same as figs 8a-b)

6d. Start combinations on the floor exercise carpet: Round­off back handspring step-out, front handspring step-out round-off, back handspring back handspring step-out, and front handspring 2 foot landing

LOWER EXTREMITY PROPRIOCEPTIVE EXERCISES

6e. On the tumble tramp, start increasing force of tum­bling combinations and practicing the "rebound" for the final skill to be added in the series: Round-off back handspring rebound and/or round-off back hand­spring back handspring rebound, and front hand­spring (two foot landing) front handspring step-out

7a. 48 inch jump down 2 legged (same as figs. 6a-b & 7a-b except the mat level has increased)

7b. 18 inch jump down 1 legged (same as figs 10a-b & l1a-b except the mat level has increased)

7c. On the floor exercise carpet, start increasing force of tumbling combinations and practicing the "rebound" for the final skill to be added in the series: Round-off back handspring rebound and / or round -off back handspring back handspring rebound, and front hand­spring (two foot landing) front handspring step-out

8a. Start back and front tucked saltos and then progress back to full tumbling in a logical order once the tucks are pain free and have good form. Based upon the loca­tion of the injury and the direction the gymnast twists, certain skills may be more stressful to the injured area than others. A good biomechanical evaluation of the skills and the injury may help to customize a safe and effective progression with the tumbling skills.

8b. (OPTIONAL) Advance to high intensity plyometrics: single leg speed hops, depth jumps, box jumps, etc.

The sports medicine literature explains that muscle weakness plays a minor role in chronic ankle instability in relationship to the major role proprioception plays, yet, most rehabilitation programs emphasize strength training of the ankle. (1,3) This is especially true in most gymnastics clubs. In general, coaches will instruct their gymnasts on proper rub­ber tubing exercises to strengthen the ankles. However, very few coaches will remember to have the gymnast perform any proprioception training.

Proprioception is defined as "a specialized variation of the sensory modality of touch that encom­Proprioception passes the sensations of joint movement (kinesthesia) and joint position (joint position sense)" (3).

a specialized variation 01 The actual joint and muscle neural receptors involved in this process are quite complex and we will the sensory modality 01 not attempt to explain it here. For now, think of proprioception training as balance training. touch that encompasses Whenever a gymnast injures a joint and the structures around the joint, her proprioception may be the sensations 01 joint compromised. What this means to you as her coach is her ability to balance effectively is decreased. movement (kinesthesia) Thus, not only will this increase her chance of reinjury but also will adversely affect her performance. and joint position (joint Fortunately, the body is able to enhance its proprioception when trained properly. Even though position sense) the exercises listed here are primarily meant for the ankle, they are actually beneficial for any weight

bearing joint (i.e. ankle, knee, hip, and spine). The extra bonus here is that even if the gymnast has never injured herself, this type of training may still improve her ability to balance. For upper extremity proprioception training, see the upper extremity rehabilitation section of this book.

Listed below is a progression of proprioception training exercises. They are listed in order of difficulty. Please under­stand, these exercises are not meant to substitute for proper medical care performed under the supervision of a health care professional. Use these exercises with caution. If started too early in the rehabilitation process, further injury may occur due to the unsteady nature of these drills. Do not start this exercise progression until the gymnast can walk pain-free.

The first set of drills are considered to be static, since the gymnast's feet should not leave the surface of the floor. This exercise progression is the first to be performed in the proprioception phase of the gymnast's rehabilitation process. Since the feet do not leave the ground, it is safer than the dynamic drill progression. The dynamic drills are labeled in this fash­ion since the gymnast's feet will leave contact with the floor. These drills are more dangerous, since they will stress the lower extremity much more than the static drills.

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STATIC DRILLS ONE FOOT BALANCE

Once the gymnast can walk pain-free, the static drills may be started. Begin with 1 foot balances with the eyes open. I recommend that this exercise be performed for at least 5 minutes per ankle 1-3 times per day. Once the gymnast can hold her balance for 1 minute, she should attempt this drill with her eyes closed. The tubing kicks can also be started at this point.

Balance yourself on one foot. Start with your eyes open. Your goal is to maintain your balance for 1 minute. Progress to balancing with your eyes closed.

TUBING KICKS Tubing kicks are meant to increase the difficulty of balancing on one foot. It is recommended that

the gymnast start with only 1 set of 10 reps in each direction and progress up to 2 sets of 50 reps in each direction (5). Start with a tubing that offers light resistance and increase the resistance of the tub­ing as the gymnast improves. Eyes should remain open at first. Once she is able to perform 1 set of 25 reps in each direction, have her attempt the drill with her eyes closed.

Stand on the injured leg with the knee just slightly bent. Attach tubing around the uninjured leg and bend at the knee enough so that the foot is off the ground. Kick the uninjured leg in the directions shown. The kicks should be quick and short (oscillations). Attempt with eyes open but progress to having eyes closed.

Forward Kicks Backward Kicks Inward Kicks

WOBBLE BOARD BALANCE (BOTH FEET) Wobble board balances with 2 feet and eyes opened are started once the

gymnast is performing the tubing kicks with her eyes closed. Practice the wobble board balances for at least 5 minutes per session with 1-3 sessions occurring each day. Once she is able to hold her balance for 1 minute with her eyes open, she can perform the drill with her eyes closed. It is not uncommon for gymnasts to have difficulty with balancing on a wobble board with their eyes closed for more than 30 seconds. However, I would like for them to con­tinue to try until they can hold their balance for 1 minute.

Stand on a wobble board with both feet. Feet should be approximately shoulder width apart. Attempt to balance with eyes open. The goal is to main­tain balance for 1 minute. Next, attempt to balance with eyes closed.

WOBBLE BOARD BALANCE (ONE FOOT)

Outward Kicks

Both Feet

One Foot Balance

Diagonal Kicks

One Feet

Single leg wobble board balances are started once the gymnast can balance with 2 feet and the eyes closed for 30 seconds. Of course the gymnast should start with her eyes open and progress to having her eyes closed as she improves her balance. Once again the goal is to be able to balance for 1 minute. Practice time per session is the same as with balancing using both feet.

Stand on a wobble board with one foot placed on the center of the board. Attempt to balance with eyes open. The goal is to maintain balance for 1 minute. Next, attempt to balance with eyes closed.

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DYNAMIC DRILLS The dynamic drills are instituted once the gymnast can jog pain-free. The

key to performing these drills correctly is to regain balance between each hop. This is not a plyometric drill. The gymnast should hop, regain her balance fully, then hop again. She should not hop quickly. The first of these drills is the single leg rebounds.(4) The gymnast should carefully hop in place. She should perform 3 sets of 10 hops. Once the gymnast can perform 3 sets of 10 hops well with the eyes open, she should then start over again with eyes closed.

SINGLE LEG HOPS Hop in place on the injured leg. The hops should only be 6 to 8 inches high.

Try to maintain good form. Keep the knee cap (patella) centered between the 1st and 2nd toe. Hop at first with eyes open. Once it becomes easy to perform with the eyes open, then attempt this drill with your closed.

Single Leg Hops

SQUARE HOPS FORWARD AND BACKWARD The square hops forward and back are started once the gymnast can hop in

place with open eyes. The same progression is used with this drill as was explained above for the single leg rebounds. Of course, the eyes should remain open at first.

Tape a square on the spring floor or on panel mats. The sides should be 12 in­ches long. Place your toes on the back line of the square. While maintaining your hands on your hips, hop forward so that your toes are now touching the front line. Then hop back to your original position and repeat. Start with eyes open then progress to hopping with your eyes closed.

SQUARE HOPS SIDE TO SIDE Square hops Forward & Backward

Square hops side to side places more stress to the structures in the ankle and knee than the forward and backward hops. This motion may actually be very sim­ilar to the action which injured the gymnast. Therefore, this drill is to be approached with caution. However, it is very important that the gymnast per­form this task. It will help progress the gymnast safely back to more uncertain landings that will occur as she returns to full practice. The progression for this exercise is the same as described above for the single leg rebounds. Once again the eyes are to remain open at first.

Tape a square on the spring floor or on panel mats. The sides should be 12 inches long. Place the foot on the right side line of the square. While maintaining hands on hips, hop sideways to the left side line. Then hop back to the right side and repeat. Start with eyes open then progress to hopping with eyes closed.

Square hops Side to Side FIVE POINT STAR

The final phase in this process is the 5 point star drill. The gymnast must be able to hop forward, backward, sideways, and diagonally to accomplish this drill. This task is started once the gymnast is able to hop from side to side with her eyes closed. She should start by attempting one consecutive star pattern and progress up to 5 consecutive star patterns in a row. This drill is also to be attempted with the eyes closed while someone helps to direct the gymnast and give her verbal feedback on her attempts.

Tape a five point star on the floor. The length of each line should be 18 to 24 inches long. Stand on one leg and hop to each point of the star in the direction of the arrows. The body should always be facing forwards . Therefore, the gymnast will be hopping forward, side to side, backward, and on a diagonal. Start with eyes open then progress to hopping with eyes closed.

~ ••••.•••.••••.••••••••••..•.•.•••••.• ~,-____________ .. T .. E __ (H .. N .. ' .. Q .. U .. E .. , .. V .. O .. L .. UN\ .... E ._1 .. 8_.,# __ 1 ____________ ..,)

1

Five Point Star

I also recommend that proprioception training be incorpo­rated into your daily practice schedule as part of your injury prevention program. Gymnasts can balance on one foot while waiting in lines. Balancing on one foot on a balance beam is a good basic exercise. This can be advanced to balancing in a half releve position and then up to a full reI eve holding in the dem! point position. (Don't let them sickle their feet!) Add some variety to their injury prevention program and select dif­ferent drills for them to do at different events and/or change the drills periodically throughout the season.

Credits Lamj Nassar, D.O., AT.C., USA Gymnastics NationaL Team MedicaL Coordinator; Team Physician, Geddert's Twistars Gymnastics Club; Team Physician, Michigan State University

Steve Elliott, Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy Elite Coach, Woodward Gymnastics Camp Instructor NationaL Clinician

Tammy Biggs, USA Gymnastics Women's National Team Coaching Staff (This is reprinted from the book entitLed, Conditioning and Peaking the Junior Olympic Gymnast 1997-1998 USA Gymnastics Season. This book is available through the Women's United States Elite Coaches Association.)

References: 1. Dickinson, A, K.M. Bennet. Therapeutic exercises. Clin. Sports

Med. 4:3 417-429, 1985. 2. Panzer, VP. Lower extremihj loads in landings of elite f51jmnasts.

Doctoral Dissertation . University of Oregon. 1987. 3. Prentice, W.E. Rehabilitation Techniques in Sports Medicine.

Mosby, 1994. 4. Sedory, D.R. Hopping and jumping to f51jmnastics fitness .

Technique. 13:713-15, 1993. 5. Tomaszewski, D. T-band kicks ankLe proprioception program.

Athletic Training, JNATA 26: 216-219, 1991.

General Gymnastics Advisory Panel 0' , GENERAL GYMNASTICS' Conference Call - , - .... , H UTES December 11 , 1997 '/, ,- I'Q . .

I. Present: David Moskovitz Leader Dean Capelotti Member Lori Laznovsky Member Steve Whitlock USA Gymnastics The meeting opened a13:00 p.m. EST

II. Safety Statement . Dive Roll on Mini Trampoline Moskovitz asked the panel to review the written sta tement on regulation of the dive roll in general gYl1m astics performances. It was agreed tha t the statement be published and incorporated into the GG Rules and Policies. This regulation is to take effect immediately.

III. Date for the 1998 National Gym Fest It was agreed that the 1998 National GymFest be conducted in conjwlction with the 1998 GAT Convention in Texas, on September 5-9, 1998. It was agreed that, to the extent possible, General Gymnastics education com­ponents be taught in conjunction with the GymFest and GAT Convention.

IV. TeamGym, 1998 Demonstration Sport Moskovitz presented the TeamGym concept. Discussion followed regarding potential formats for the demonstrations and alternative activities w hich might be included. It was agreed that a TeamGym demonstration format be included in the 1998 National GymFest. It was agreed that TeamGym demonstrations be accepted into the General Gynmastics sanctioning procedures. Moskovitz was instructed to draft a preliminary set of TeamGym Regulations. Respectflllly submitted, December 11, 1997 David Moskovitz, Leader

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UPDATE 1998 Changes for Levell KAT Requirements

Level I KAT has been very successful with several hundred preschool teachers participating in KAT Workshops. How­ever, we would like more preschool teachers to get involved with the pro­gram so they can enhance their knowl­edge about teaching preschool gymnas­

tics. One way to increase participation is to review the requirements. Based on a committee decision, we are inte­grating a few new guidelines for Level I KAT that we hope will increase participation in and completion of the program.

NEW! Previously there were a total of eight (8) class observa­

tions that were required. Now ONLY four (4) observations are required. The observations can be completed before or after attending the KAT Workshop-two should be at your gym and two at another gym. We suggest you watch two parent and tot classes and two classes for ages 3-5 without the parents. Additional alternatives are available to com­plete the observations: • National or Regional Congress Preschool session =

1 class observation (take notes on the back of the observation form and have speaker sign it)

• Watch a preschool-related videotape = 1 class observation <take notes on the back of the observation form and include video title and featured speaker)

• Observe daycare activity time = 1 class observation (utilize your observation form, take notes on the back and have teacher sign)

The option to grandparent the four observations is avail­able to those who have at least five years teaching preschool gymnastics. Send or fax your resume to (317) 237-5069.

Also, if you are finding it difficult to get your CPR and First Aid certificates, try contacting your local fire depart­ment, hospital, church, or fitness facility (American Red Cross or American Heart Association is preferred).

NEW! Additionally, anyone who completes the KAT Workshop

in 1998 and after, has approximately three months from the date of the workshop to finish all the requirements (i.e. Rookie, CPR, first aid, and observations).

Following is a summary of the requirements for Levell KAT: • Rookie Coaches Guide Test • 4 Class Observations (or grandparent all observations

via resume/must have at least 5 years teaching preschool gymnastics)

• CPR and First Aid certifications • Attend a KAT Workshop and pass test

If you have any questions about the new changes or are interested in hosting a KAT Workshop at your gym, please call (317) 237-5050 ext. 237.

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OFFIC I AL S U PP LI ER TO

USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program

What's Happened to the Qfree" in floor {xercise? by Toby Towson

Woen I USed to (ompete in gymndStics, toe Roor exercise event WdS d/sO Known dS 1ree exercise. " It Odd d nice ring to it In Spdniso it WdS (dlfed mdnos lihres, " or 1ree odnd "Unen(Umhered hy dppdrdtus dnd toe need to grip dn ohjea, toe gymndSt WdS 1ree" to move on d pldin sur­M(e, to explore dnd pldY wito grdvity, dnd to test ois IMldn(e, strengtk Rexihility, dnd d([olMticJ. Nedrly everyone Odd d pdrticuldr movemen, pose, or mytom woico distinguisoed oim from otoer fIIIIndstJ.

Mike Racanelli

When I started competitive gymnastics, my hero was Franco Menichelli, world champion in free exercise from Italy. He gave meaning to the word "free." His routines were well constructed compositions of confident tumbling and fluid moving transitions which exhibited his high ener­gy and enthusiasm for performing. Franco inspired many of us to find our own freedom in the floor exercise event.

One hardly ever hears the term free exercise ("free ex") anymore, and I suppose it's not a coincidence. Where is the freedom in today's men's floor exercise?

For the most part one routine looks pretty much like the next. Most male gymnasts have adopted a stiff, stick­figure like approach to the event, expressionless except for the energy of the tumbling or the flair handstand. Rather than acknowledge the audience and the reality of the artis­tic performance experience, the gymnasts close themselves in a bubble of inner focus which leaves little opening for the observers to share in the experience.

I think this lack of freedom of expression started when floor exercise lost the purity of a single gymnast alone on the floor with gravity. Originally there were no mats, just the hard floor, and basic tumbling was just one of the requirements. With the development of modern mats, spring floors, and carpets, the gymnasts and coaches became fixated with the tumbling aspect of floor exercise to the exclusion of the other qualities that used to make the event unique: balance, flexibility, strength, rhythm and the fluidity and presentation of creative movements to connect the tumbling skills.

There have been several gymnasts who have broken the mold and created memorable floor exercise routines in the last thirty years, and frequently the judges rewarded them for their efforts. Peter Kormann, Kurt Thomas and Mike Racanelli for the United States, Tong Fei for China, Neil Thomas for Great Britain, Jesus Rivera for Cuba and Ioannis Melissanidis for Greece all have achieved exceptional international results with their innovations and mastery. But these creative and expressive gymnasts and others who have distinguished themselves (you know who you are, and I applaud you) are a distinct minority and at odds with the mainstream approach which many of us find uninspir­ing and short-sighted.

Please don't mistake my viewpoint: I am happy with the changes in technology and the breakthroughs in tumbling that are possible with modern floor apparatus, but at the same time I am saddened by the loss of creativity and indi­vidual expression which we find in the vast majority of men's floor exercises.

Besides the development of spring floors, some of the blame for today's uninteresting (unfree) floor exercises must fall on the old Soviet system. I say this because the Soviets were on top of the sport and, in many ways, were pushing the envelope, but in floor exercise their progress was limited to tumbling. Although the Soviet men had years of rhythmic ballet barre training to help them build the strong, flexible bodies and awareness of rhythm and movement which helped them succeed, most neglected to expand their floor exercises beyond more difficult tumbling skills. At their best (such as Vladimir Artemov), some of these Soviet routines were marvels to behold in terms of

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technique, but most were weak in creativity, limited in com­position, and personal expression seemed consciously inhibited. And the rest of the world followed, trying to play catch up in tumbling while moving less and less in between tumbling passes.

The results of the Soviet coaching philosophy are still with us today: backing up into a corner before tumbling back down the same diagonal, or simply tumbling back with no pretense of a connecting move; lack of focus as though it's not a performance at all; and/or tiny irrelevant steps and an obvious inhibition to move with grace and freedom, let alone creative individuality and confidence. One major exception to this trend was Valentine Mogilny, whose creativity and elegance were not matched by most of his countrymen.

With the Development of mODem mdtJ, spring Hool5 dnD (drpetJ, the fJYIIIndstJ dnD (od(hes ~e(dme RXdteD with the tum­~/ing dJpect of Hoor exercise to the exclusion of the other qUdli­ties thdt useD to mdKe the event unique: Mldn(e, Hexi~ility, strength, rhythm dnD the HuiOify dnD presentdtion of (redtive movementJ to (onnect the tum~/ing SKills.

Many male coaches and gymnasts like to argue that, with all the demands of the new Code of Points, men's floor exercise really is just a contest of tumblers. From this point of view any attempt at creative transition moves or perfor­mance quality is simply a misguided waste of time and doomed to fail. The philosophy, which seems to predomi­nate, is to move as little as possible between tumbling pass­es which makes the gymnasts look stuck and inhibited. Trying not to move actually drains energy by interrupting the flow of the routine. Many gymnasts drop quickly to the stomach or roll out of most tumbling, trying to avoid a penalty for not sticking the tumbling landings, ie., not having control out of their tumbling pass.

Unfortunately this short-sighted viewpoint is holding back the evolution of our sport and causing us to lose points in competition at the same time. Men's floor is in danger of becoming the new compulsory event, since too many gymnasts think they have to do the same basic routine as everyone else. These cookie-cutter routines have no individual identity and limited appeal to the judges and audience. Is it any wonder that television coverage of men's gymnastics in the last 20 years (with the exception of the 1996 Olympics) has rarely shown a complete men's floor exercise routine? Floor exercise should allow each gymnast the most room for creative expression, not the least.

Come on America; this is "the land of the free and the home of the brave." Let's see some of it in your floor exer­cise presentations. Don't follow the Russians or anybody else unless they display a style that opens your mind and encourages you to be creative. Remember to think about the definition of the name of our sport, Artistic Gymnastics. Turn into your corners; don't back up looking nervously to see where the corner markings are. Make a lunge like you mean it and open your heart to the audience.

Don't shy away from the performance. Find an arm position, movement or rhythm that no one else uses. When you jump or leap, hold your face up with the focus out rather than drop your head and look at the floor. Show some enjoyment when you demonstrate mastery of a move. Look out at your audience and allow them to share your excitement and confidence. Build up a rapport with your audience (including the judges) that feeds you ener­gy and helps you perform your best.

I promise: you will not lose energy by moving with grace and creativity. On the contrary, by working within the framework of a well-constructed and creative routine, and artistic composition, you will increase your energy and tumble with more precision and confidence. You don't need to look like anyone but yourself; find your own style and develop from there.

And please, give up the cheap tricks like dropping (falling) quickly to your stomach or turning and stepping immediately out of a tumbling landing. Train hard to land the tumbling correctly and show your landing recovery before the next move. So you're not always perfect; don' t give up the attempt at perfection with a cover-up move which becomes the rule rather than the exception.

I have one more suggestion. Don't let the quest for a super high start value trick you into difficulty which you have little chance of performing well. Hint: if you can't make it more often than not in the context of a full routine in practice, don't put it in competition. A confident routine with a start value in the low or mid-nines and few or no deduc­tions will usually beat a more difficult routine which has a fall or several extra steps. This is especially true when con­sidering a whole team's approach, and I've heard recently that the Americans put this philosophy to good use at World Championships, a great step in the right direction.

I encourage the American men's coaches and gymnasts to lead the world gymnastics community back to artistic and creative men's floor exercise. I feel certain, many judges will applaud and reward your efforts. I urge the judges to look for creativity and excellence of presentation which complements difficulty and to let the gymnasts know when their efforts are appreciated. Also, when considering the future of the Code of Points, perhaps American judges and administrators can help persuade the FIG to think progressively when forming the rules. Why not encourage more jumps, give some credit for interesting balances and flexibility moves, and reward the gymnasts when they show artistry, virtuosity, and creative compositions?

We have the talent in this country to produce the best, not just chase other countries' gymnasts. But we must succeed through intelligent and creative routines that allow our gymnasts to be unique and express an individ­ual approach with each performance. Then, we will be leaders and open the door for others to be creative in their own right.

Let's help the sport evolve as it is destined to do, and men's floor exercise will once again be free.

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Dean Capelotti Member, USA Gymnastics General Gymnastics Advisory Panel Owner, Fallbrook Gymnastic Club Steve Whitlock General Gymnastics Development Director for USA Gymnastics

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As a parent from the GG club Half Moon Bay observed at the recent National GymFest in Orlando, "No one has to sit on the bench!" This is a sport activity in which every­one can participate, regardless of skill and age. In GG, both parents and their children can work out, perform and have fun together. A good display routine will utilize the best abilities of each member of the group to provide an entertaining routine. Most of all, this is a fun sport activi­ty! With events at amusement parks, local and national GymFests and the possibility to attend international events, there is always excitement and something to look forward to. How many sport activities can you participate in where you can participate in national and international events with one to two years of preparation?

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Three years ago, being on the Fallbrook Competitive Team was the dream of most every gymnast in our gym because they got to go places, do fun activities and receive recognition. Now many of our competitive team members are green with envy since the Fallbrook Performance Team travels even more than the competitive team does-and to places that are more fun. In the past three years, the Fallbrook Performance Team has participated in three international events, five amusement park performances, three parades, three country fairs, three stadium appear­ances (in different stadiums), and performed at the Wild Animal Park and numerous street fairs. It seems that our Performance Team always has a big performance in prepa­ration- this keeps everyone excited, motivated, and encour­ages them to maintain their enrollment at our club.

~'" ~ y~u hrIng ~ e,x'c.fteme;nt t~ y~ur rr~grw? You can get going in GG by starting a performance class

that is separate from your normal classes. We have found that most of our Performance Squad members continue their other recreational gymnastics classes and simply add-on the additional Performance Team practice. This makes sense as they continue to learn good gymnastics skills and execution in their regular classes while the Performance Team practices focus on preparation and rehearsals of the display routine(s). It is a good idea to start by scheduling a once-per-week Performance Squad class / practice at a time that is conve­nient for the group. If you are interested in involving parents in your group, the early evening is a good time.

How long is necessary? You will be amazed at how much progress the group will make during an hour and a half session conducted once a week over the course of your 8-10-12 week enrollment period! As a performance opportunity nears, we usually schedule some additional practice times.

~r~~ Recruit participants from all parts of your gym programs

(team, recreational, rhythmic, dance, karate and any other programs you offer). Additionally, you

should go after potential performers who are not already enrolled in your pro­

grams, such as the parents, senior groups, cheer groups and others in your community who might enjoy this diverse activity and contribute to your routine(s) with their special skills.

Pll1l\rJng y§>ur *r1llY 1'~Uftne(~) After you have identified the GG par-

ticipants for your Performance Squad/ Team, plan routines that highlight their talents and spe­cial interests. At first, keep it simple. As the group

masters the elements of the routine, you can add complexi­ty. Once the routine is looking good, perform it in the gym

~ ••.••••••••••••••• ••.•.•.•.•••.•.•..• (:~ ____________ ~T~E~(H~N~/~Q~U~E,-, ~V~O~L~UNl~E ~1~8~,# __ 1 ____________ --,)

for your club members. You will find this to be a receptive (non-threatening) audience. The in-the-gym performance gives your group a goal to work towards, helps to "work out the kinks" and raises their confidence level. We also use these performances as an opportunity to recruit additional squad members-many in the audience will leave the performance saying to themselves, "Hey, this looks like fun! I can do that!"

¥1jU! ~t ~ljtml\1l00.% After you have performed in your gym, it is time to move

out and perform in your local community. Local fairs and community functions are a good place to start. If you are close to an amusement park, they provide a great place to perform. Know your community-every town offers unique opportu­nities to perform. It is a good idea to plan and establish some performance opportunities prior to starting your Performance Squad. Having an established schedule is a great aid in your recruitment efforts. You will be able to tell them, "Here is our schedule of training/ practice times and the schedule of performances that we have planned for your group." As your GG program develops, you will be able to establish some longer term performance goals.

~W- ~ we 1~ tDlJ!'e? To learn more about GG, advance your technique and

improve your choreography, you can attend local, regional and national GymFests. As the involvement and popularity of GG participation spreads, there are more and more oppor­tunities. You and your group members will learn so much by attending GymFests! Here you not only get to perform, but you also get to watch other groups, talk with other coaches and group members, and participate in clinics and workshop sessions that are usually associated with the GymFests. This

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is an activity where the participants are willing to share their secrets! It is always the case at a National GymFest that there are educational classes held for coaches, partici­pants and parents. During the past two National GymFests (Disneyland in 1996 and Walt Disney World in 1997), the attending international groups showed dynam­ic, high-level, and interesting routines. They were inspira­tional models for the USA groups by demonstrating and sharing their interpretations of GG.

1JIJ YIjU ~ heIr in gettIng ~~ There is help available!

• Check-out the USA Gymnastics Online (USAGO) website: http://wwwousa-gymnasticsoorg

Under General Gymnastics: http://wwwousa- gymnasticsoorg/gg/

You will find a number of articles on GG, information about the National GymFest, minutes from the General Gymnastics Advisory Panel (GGAP), information about the World Gym­naestrada, and other GG activities and information. • Call, fax, write or email the USA Gymnastics National

office to be added to the GG mailing list. You will begin to receive special mailings.

Phone: (317) 237-5050, ext. 236 (Steve Whitlock) Fax: (317) 237-5069 (attn: Steve Whitlock) Address: USA Gymnastics, GG

Pan American Plaza, Suite 300 201 S. Capitol Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46225

Email: 9 9 @ usa - gym n a s tic s 0 0 r 9 this address is copied to ALL GGAP members

• You can call Dean Capelotti if you need a live voice to talk you through the process. Phone: (760) 728-8582 -9:00 a.m.-2:00 p .m. PST week days

Anxiety in Elite Young Gymnasts: Part III Physical and Psychological Manifestations of Stress by Joan L. Duda, Ph.D. Purdue University

Lori Gano-Overway, M .S. Michigan State University

Due to the athlete's investment in gymnastics and the competitive atmosphere of meets, it is not surprising for gymnasts to exhibit anxiety in training and competition. However, it is sometimes errantly presumed that height­ened anxiety is experienced almost exclusively at the highest levels of the sport. The assumption is that younger competitors have little reason to be and/ or are not aware of stress. As described in Parts I and II of this series on "Anxiety in Elite Young Gymnasts" (Gano-Overway & Duda, Part II, Technique June 1996 p. 4-6; Part I, Technique, March 1996 p. 22-24), young and talented female gym­nasts can readily distinguish between relaxation and feel­ing anxious; the latter state not perceived as being desir­able by this group. Further, they are able to clearly recog­nize the sources of stress in their sport. As it is not always possible to alleviate the causes of stress responses associ­ated with competitive gymnastics, it is critical that we reduce our athletes' negative reactions to anxiety.

HUYS 97

Identifying how stress is manifested by the young gymnast is necessary if we hope to employ the most appropriate stress management technique(s) to alleviate this anxiety.

Anxiety has both a cognitive and somatic component. The former refers to worry and negative ruminations asso­ciated with stress. The latter refers to the changes in the body (e.g., increased heart rate) which are coupled with anxiety. In training and competition, the gymnast makes a cognitive interpretation of the potentially stressful situa­tion. This appraisal includes judgments about her /his own abilities, the demands of what she/he is expected to do, and the consequences of not meeting those demands. If the appraisal is negative (i.e.; the perceived demands surpass the perceived abilities) and the consequences are deemed important, high levels of cognitive anxiety occur. In turn, the body reacts with heightened somatic anxiety. The pur­pose of this article is to determine how stress in manifested, both cognitively and somatically, in the case of young, elite female gymnasts.

METHOD Seventy-five female members of the 1994 TOP National Team between the ages of

9 and 12 (mean age=9.98 years) were administered a multi-section question­naire by the first author at a National camp. The gymnasts were encouraged to answer honestly and in their own words. They were assured that their

responses would be kept confidential and that only the group-based findings would be

reported. For this article, the gymnasts' responses to the following questions were analyzed: "how do you know when you are stressed or nervous? What goes through your

mind? What do you feel in your body? Responses were reviewed by the two

• researchers and placed into thematic categories to determine the perceived manifestations of

stress for the gymnasts as a group. The frequency of responses classified in each category were then calcula ted.

RESULTS As shown in Table 1, when these gymnasts are cogni­

tively anxious, they doubt their skill to perform the task at hand and question their preparedness to face pressure

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TABLE 1

COGNITIVE MANIFESTATIONS OF STRESS DEFINITIONS EXEMPLARY QUOTES FROM GYMNASTS

Doubts about ability Doubts were characterized by /lwhat if /I statements /II might mess up, then I might fall off the beam, 26.7% concerning performance and confidence. miss my dismount or put my hands down. /I

Negative Effect Emotions which are associated with fear and nervousness such /II feel like screaming in my mind ./I 19.2% as being scared, nervous, frustrated, and wanting to cry. /I I want to cry./I

"I am scared."

Reassuring Thoughts Ways for the athletes to reassure themselves when faced "I'm going to do it./I 10.3% with a sense of doubt in their abilities. /l if I don't do as good at least I tried my best. /I

/lThink of the good that will come of it. /I

Performance Pressure These pressures to perform were associated with such /lDh my gosh, I have to do good./I 9.6% phrases as /I I must/l or /I I have to /l and were self-imposed /l Oh no I have to do this! I have to do that. /I

and/ or inflicted by others. /lThinking you're going to die when you have to do something./I

Fear of Injury Fear associated with getting hurt (experiencing harm) /l l'm going to fall and hurt something. I think 8.2% during one's performance. about it all day and can't stop./I

/lThink something bad might happen to me./I

Confusion The mind being in a state of confusion, experiencing an /I I can't think straight./I 8.2% inability to think clearly. /lWhat should I do or should I go for something I

don't do very much. /I

Physical Response Thinking about one's physical state. /lWeird feeling in stomach./I 6.2% /l My muscles are tense ./I

Negative Thoughts General thoughts which caused the individual to think 2.7% negatively.

Preparation for Performance Not ready to perform or having too much time before /l Dh my gosh, it is here, the meet./I 2.7% one's performance. /I I sit there before the event thinking and

waiting. /I

Fear of Failure A fear associated with failing in the event or on a particu- /lSometimes I am going to lose./I 2.1 % lar skill. /lSometimes I am going to do bad. /I

Fear of Evaluation This fear was associated with being evaluated by others. /l Is everybody staring at me?/I 1.4% /lWhy are they glaring at me?/I

situations. In response to the stress, these young athletes have negative thoughts about the upcoming performance, feel confused and /or try to reassure themselves that they can accomplish what they need to do. The gymnasts also report that they experience fears of injury, evaluation from others and failing in their event.

Moreover, these gymnasts demonstrated a keen aware­ness of what specifically is happening in their body and minds during the stress response. These findings are promising as athletes must be sensitive to how they per­sonally experience anxiety before their anxiety levels can be regulated . In total, the results suggest that the employ­ment of both cognitive (e.g. imagery, negative thought stopping) and somatic (e.g., progressive muscle relax­ation) techniques would be suitable in the case of this group of athletes. In the fina l article of this series, we will examine the strategies utilized by young, elite gymnasts in trying to manage their anxiety.

Table 2 summarizes the reported physical aspects of young gymnasts' stress responses. These include feelings of muscle tension, shaking, sweating, temperature extremes, fidgeting, aches and pains, and feeling ill.

DISCUSSION Consistent with what has been found for older athletes

in the sport psychology literature, this study indicated that 9-11 year old female gymnasts are able to differentiate between the cognitive and somatic facets of anxie ty.

References Gano-Ovenuay & Duda, Part II, Technique June 1996 p. 4-6; Gano-Overway & Duda , Part I, Technique, March 1996 p. 22-24.

continues on page 22

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I am a gym club owner and, as an incentive to get coaches to work at my club, I pay their profes­sional membership fees. However, one of my coaches recently left my gym to work at a competitor's gym and took many of my gymnasts with her. Can I at least obtain a refund on her professional membership fee?

A: No, USA Gymnastics is unable to take away a membership unless there is a finding of disciplinary action. USA Gymnastics is also unable to refund you for the coach's membership.

Once you buy your coaches their professional memberships, be aware that they may leave your gym and take their memberships with them!

If you're worried that you will invest money in an employee who leaves, perhaps you should require your coaches to purchase their own professional membership and use the savings for a different type of coaches' incentive.

The Code of Ethics does include a general statement relating to business practices which is: "Members of USA Gymnastics are charged with the responsibility for contributing to an environment which makes participation in the sport a positive and rewarding experience ... It is inconsistent with this obligation for any member to: ... Engage in business practices directed toward another member which are determined by a court or other similar adjudicatory body to be unethical, illegal or a breach of contract."

It is very d ifficult for USA Gymnastics to monitor these situations and difficult to prove if a mailing list or other proprietary information has been taken.

Anxiety in Elite Gymnasts (continued from page 21) TABLE 2

PHYSICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF STRESS DEFINITION

Muscle Tension Muscle tension was characterized by feeling tense, tight or stiff. 13.2%

Shaking Parts of the body shaking or trembling. Characteristic responses for this category included shaking, jittering and 10.6% having no control over body.

Temperature Extremes Typical responses included face getting hot, having goosebumps, feeling hot or getting cold and experiencing chills. 10.1%

Fidgeting This category included such items as talking a lot, biting lips, popping fingers, playing with hair, biting nails and 9.0% walking back and forth.

Negative Affect Emotions which are associated with fear and nervousness, such as being scared, nervous, frustrated and wanting to cry. 8.5%

Illness Having thoughts of being ill or feeling weak before or during a competition. These responses included not feeling well, 7.4% feeling sick and feeling weak or tired.

Sweating This category was marked by parts of the body sweating or being wet. Characteristic responses for this category 7.4% included hands and feet sweating and wiping hands and feet.

Aches and Pains Having soreness or pains prior to or during competition, including headaches, cramps and sore muscles. 6.3%

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USA Gymnastics 1998 Broadcast ScheduLe

EVENT

Reese's Gymnastics Cup St. Petersburg, FL January 24, 1998

Visa Ameri(an Cup Ft. Worth, TX March 5-7, 1998

International 3-on-3 Gymnasti(s Championships Ft. Worth, TX March 8, 1998

Reebok International Team Championships Knoxville, TN March 27-28, 1998

John Han(o(k U.S. Gymnasti(s Championships Indianapolis, IN August 19-22, 1998

BROADCAST INFORMATION

Feb. 14, 2:30pm-4:00pm EST

Mar. 7, 4:00pm-6:00pm EST (live)

Mar. 14, 2:30pm-4:00pm EST

April 11 , 4:00pm-6:00pm EST (M) April 18, 4:00pm-6:00pm EST (W)

Aug . 22, 8:00pm-9:00pm EST (W) Aug . 23, 7:00pm-8:00pm EST (W) Sept. 12, 3:00pm-4:00pm EST (M)

TICKET IN FORMATION

TicketMaster (813) 287·8844

Dillard's 1·888·886·6638

Dillard's 1·888·886-6638

Tickets Unlimited (423) 656-4444

Indiana Sports Corporation 1-800-HI-FIVES

*AII broadcasts are on NBC **Check local listings for exact broadcast times.

Call Tiffin for Summer Camp Specials

on Landing Mats, Training Mats

and Floor Ex Foam Email: tiffin@tiffinmats .com http://www.tiffinmats.com

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MeettLe Staff '--./ BYLu!e~Sl\ Gy ••••• i1ldi~s Photos by Dave Beasley

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 you can put a name with a face. We'd also like to tell you a little about our departments so you may take advantage of what we have to offer.

The first department to preview is Member Services, which includes Publications and Merchandise.

The Member Services Department performs many duties and functions that touch all the members of USA Gymnastics, whether you're in the women's, men's, rhythmic and/ or general gymnastics programs.

As a full service center, the Member Services Department handles the entire membership process from beginning to end for all of the Team, General,

Kathy Feldmann, Member Services Director

Professional, Instructor, and Club Members. All sanctions are processed through our office, as well as merchandise orders. We also handle skill evaluator and meet director certification. By the Spring of 1998, various aspects of safety

Membership staff: (bock rOl'i left 10 righl) Kathy Feldmann, Member Services Director; Ann Perrin, Member Services Representative; Susan Price, Member Services Representative; lisa Ankrom, Member Services Representative; Loree Galimore, Club Services Manager and Lori Henderson, Member Services Representative. (fronl row) Marsha Mowery, Member Services Supervisor

and education will be funneled through our depart­ment as well. Details will be announced in a future issue of Technique.

Our goal is to develop the very best one-stop shopping service for all of our members. We will constantly strive to improve our service and we hope that our members will continue to follow the proper procedures for the various services that they require. Help us to help you. Many of your questions can be answered in your specific program's Rules and Policies book and your State Chair is also an excellent resource. Of course, the Member Ser­vices depart­ment is also available to answer your questions and/or listen to your sug­gestions!

luan Peszek, Publications Director

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Mary Burkhart, Graphic Design Manager

The Publications department produces USA Gymnastics and Technique magazines, event programs for nationally-televised USA Gymnastics events, an Annual Report, Guide to Gymnastics brochure and newsletters including Sideline Support, GNN, Safety Update and Tecnica . In addition, the publications

Noel Perrin, Merchandise Coordinator

department is responsible for the graphic de­sign needs of the organization such as logos, posters, ticket brochures, pam­phlets, advetise­ments, etc.

How can the publication s department help you? You can

place an ad in USA Gymnastics and Technique Inaga­zines, you can submit information to departments in USA Gymnastics such as Rising Star, Faces in the Gym, Q&A and the Summer Camp Directory. You can also submit articles, questions and / or ideas to USA Gymnastics and Technique. We love receiving materials from the professionals in the sport and we do publish many articles that we receive. We also offer the Guide to Gymnastics for sale to member clubs. The brochure is 16 pages, four-color and pro­motes the sport of gymnastics.

Daron Motley, Director of Merchandise

The Merchandise Department is responsible for shipping all merchandise orders as well as assisting other departments with their shipping needs. Generally, we allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery on all orders. The Merchandise department also works with Reebok to supply the Spring and Fall lines of apparel. The department also handles apparel demands for all USA Gymnastics' major events. If you have a new product idea for USA Gymnastics, please let us know. We'd love to hear from you!

IMPORTANT NUMBERS Department MEMBER SERVICE (ENTER

PUBLICATIONS

MERCHANDISE

Number 1-800-345-4719 Fax: 317-692-5212

317-237-5050 Fax: 317-237-5069

Service Sanctions, Skill Evaluator, Meet Director Certification, Merchandise Orders, and of course register members and check on membership numbers.

Advertising information, inquire about an articie, information on how to submit an articie, camp information.

317-692-5200 Inquire about an order placed with Member Fax: 317-237-5083 Services, suggest a product idea.

To reach the Membership or Merchandise departments, call 1-800-345-4719. To reach the Publications department, call 317-237-5050.

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THE CODES 01 POINTS: QUO VADIS?

I

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MEN'S (ODE OF POINTS FROM 1960-2000 Code Year Difficulty # of Combination Execution

A/B/C/D/E

1960-64 3.0 5/4/1/-/-3/6/1-/- (floor)

1964-68 3.4 6/4/1/-/- (I) 6/4/2/-/- (III)

1968-72 3.4 6/4/1/-/- (I) 6/4/2/-/- (III)

1972-76 3.4 4/5/1/-/- (I) 3/4/2/-/- (II) 2/3/3/-/-/ (III)

2.0 5.0

1.6 5.0

1.6 5.0

2.6 4.0

1976-80 3.4 4/5/1/-/- (I) 1.6 4.4 3/4/2/-/- (II) 2/3/3/-/- (III)

1980-84 3.4 4/5/1/-/- (I) 1.6 4.4 3/4/2/-/- (II) 2/3/3/-/- (III)

1984-88 4.0 6/4/2/0/- (I) 1.0 4.4 3/2/3/1/- (II/III)

1988-92 4.0 6/4/2/0/- (I) 1.0 4.4 3/2/3/1/- (II/ III)

1992-96 2.4 4/3/2/1/0 1.2 5.4

1996-2000 2.4 4/3/2/1/0/0sE 1.2 5.0

mitigation for risk

0.6 (0.2 for difficulty)

0.6 (O.3 for difficulty)

0.6 (O.3 for difficulty)

0.6 (O.3 for difficulty)

1.0 for difficulty

1.4 for difficulty

It is interesting to speculate on the future possibility of permanent, or at least very durable, Codes of Points especially when seen in an overview of the Codes' history.

For 40 years, changes to the Codes have always been primarily in the area of difficulty. The other values were then manipulated so that they would add up to 10. Since 1972 for men, that focus on difficulty has includ­ed gradually increasing levels of bonus for difficulty. The Codes have also addressed difficulty by adding new value parts from as few as three in 1984 to six today for men, by devaluing elements as ever more of the world's gymnasts were able to perform them, and by reducing the value of the difficulty categories.

'. ' By Hardy Fink,

President of the Men's Technical Committee of the International

Gymnastics Federation

The reasons for the focus on difficulty are obvi­ous. In gymnastics, improvement is reflected in and measured by the continued increase in the difficulty of the performances. Without such con­tinued improvement and progress, the sport would soon stagnate and become marginalized.

What is also noteworthy is that the incredible increase in difficulty and in the appearance of the "super elements" has not negatively affected per­formance. In fact, these "super-elements" may actually have contributed to improved quality of performances because they demand the highest level of physical, technical, and psychological preparation on the part of the athlete.

I believe that at least one possible solution is incredibly simple. Whatever the solution, it will again lie in the area of difficulty. The other factors are already essentially perma­nent. Now the difficulty factor must be established in such a way that it can remain permanent, like it is in most other sports that are evaluated similarly.

It is clear that the next Codes, and the next, and the next ones after that, will again have to adjust difficulty in some way. Will the men have 2.0; then 2.4 in bonus? Is there a way to avoid this endless dilemma? Is there a way to avoid the huge amount of time and money that goes into devel­oping new Codes of Points and retraining judges and coaches every four years?

I believe that there is, and I believe that at least one possible solution is incredibly simple. Whatever the solution, it will again lie in the area of difficulty. The other factors are already essen­tially permanent. Now the difficulty factor must be established in such a way that it can remain permanent, like it is in most other sports that are evaluated similarly.

In my opinion, the simplest way to do that is to give every existing and predicted element a value ranging, for example, from .1 to 1.0, and

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then simply evaluate gymnasts based on the best 10 (the most difficult 10) elements performed. Of course, those elements must include a dismount and other require­ments.

Such an additive difficulty would yield a "difficulty score" out of a maximum of 10.0 towards which the gym­nastics community could strive for several decades. The "execution score" could also be out of the magical 10.0 that the public understands and the two numbers would be combined in some way (perhaps added and divided by 2) for a final score.

The advantages to such a simple system of additive difficulty are numerous. Among them are:

• permanent, or at the least, durable Codes, which will save time, money and frustration

• rewarding gymnasts for all they do well • can be used by all ages and abilities everywhere • no externally imposed difficulty requirements and

the related criteria and deductions

• possibility of long-term planning and preparation

for gymnasts and coaches

• its simplicity allows grea ter understanding by

media and spectators (and judges)

• no need for quadrennial judges' examinations for

those with a brevet

• the possibility, if desired, of establishing regional, national, world and other records

• ability to keep comparative statistics over decades

• ability to compare one's level at any time to all past

and present gymnasts

• enhances the marketability of our sport

It is my personal hope that such a system of additive

difficulty can be devised for the future. It will take much

discussion and thinking by the world's experts, but it will

be worth the effort.

1111 biijIRf}W]~11 A TIMELESS CODE OF POINTS: GOOD IDEA!

BUT WHAT ARE THE PRESSURES AGAINST IT? By John Scheer, President of the National Gymnastic Judges Association

Hardy Fink has presented us with some thought­provoking ideas about a Code of Points that could stand the test of time without being changed every four years. This concept is certainly worth pursuing, partly because Hardy's thinking has a sound philosophical basis. But what are some of the problems that must be addressed if such a Code is to become reality? This paper will summarize some of the advantages of Hardy's proposal, as well as some of the problems that may require solutions.

For years, Hardy has taken the position that a gymnast should be rewarded for everything he does well. For exam­ple, all other things being equal, a gymnast who does a rou­tine with 5 E parts and 5 0 parts should receive a higher score than a gymnast who does 4 E parts and 6 0 parts. Under today's Code, those two gymnasts would both have start scores of 10.0 and judges would have no legitimate way of differentiating between them. Our inability to sepa­rate gymnasts at the top of the elite level has been a weak­ness of all of our previous Codes, and this weakness would be eliminated by Hardy's proposed ideas.

The intent of Hardy's article was to give us a concept, not to layout the details . Under his proposal, every existing and predicted element would be given a value ranging, for

example, from 0.1 to 1.0, and a gymnast's difficulty score for a routine would be based upon the addition of the val­ues of the best 10 elements. Using Hardy's example, the maximum difficulty score of 10.0 would be added to the maximum execution score of 10.0, and then dividing the total by 2 would yield a maximum score for a routine of 10.0. Spectators would easily understand the concept of 10 plus 10 divided by 2, and the magical 10 remains as the cornerstone.

Following are some of the potential problems that would require forethought and discussion among the world's leaders in gymnastics. The last concern below has major implications for the direction of men's gymnastics in the future .

1. Consideration must be given to the nature of routines. We would not want a routine to be simply a series of isolated big skills.

2. Hardy implies that skill values would not change over time, enabling comparisons of different generations of gymnasts. Coaches, however, have always found the easiest skills at each value level, and for a time at the beginning of each Code judges see repetitive skills and routines. This has been a trend with every Code of

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Points, but does it imply that occasionally a skill does need to be devalued? A systematic method of gathering input from coaches on the relative difficulty of skills might help.

3. There are other reasons that skills may occasionally need to be devalued:

~ Coaching techniques improve over time, making some skills easier.

~ Original skills are sometimes rated incorrectly initially.

~ Equipment improvements may make some skills easier. Dale Hart published a tongue-in-cheek article years ago when the trampoline was eliminated and spring floors were becoming popular. He took the reader through a scenario in which spring floors became hotter and hotter until suddenly we realized we had a 12 meter by 12 meter trampoline!

Like it or not, television and money have huge influences on sports today ... /'Our generation of spectators grew up on Nadia's lOs. Excitement is created in a gymnastics arena by the fact that occa­sionally a gymnast can score near perfection. A winning score in the 7 s would be I disastrous.' A score above 1 0 would not be understood. The education required would be enormous, perhaps even impossible."

4. I had serious doubts about increasing bonus to 1.4 with unlimited connection bonus in our current Code. But now it seems to me that connection bonus has become a form of objective originality in men's gymnastics. We are seeing more unique combinations of skills than we ever have before. Can this emphasis on connections be retained within the framework of Hardy's proposal?

5. The sheer logistics of adding the values of the 10 best elements within a routine might be interesting, but it would certainly be aided by the current A and B jury system, and the ability of judges today to record routines with symbols. Still, adding up the 10 best parts in a 20 part pommel horse routine might be difficult.

6. The biggest concern is with the direction of scores in men's gymnastics. We certainly don't want to return to the scores we saw in the 1988 Olympics, when the Soviet Union won the team competition 1b with an average counting score of 9.92, Artemov won the all­around with an average score of 9.93, and the average of all pommel horse finalists in competition III was 9.95! That was the peak of the escalation and compres-

sion of scores at the top, and judges were totally unable to separate gymnasts. The 1993 and 1997 Codes have restored some sensibility to scores. For elite inter­national gymnasts now, scores in the low 9s are good, 9.5 is a very good score once again, and 9.7 is a truly great routine. Do we want a drastic departure from these kinds of scores for elite gymnasts at this point in time? How might Hardy's proposal affect scores? We can make some assumptions about the details of his proposal. If the assumptions are wrong, the following discussion may be inaccurate. If the assumptions are correct, we need to think carefully about the ramifications.

~ Assume that every known and predicted skill is given a value from 0.1 to 1.0. Assume further that the 0.9 and 1.0 values are reserved for skills yet to be seen (e.g. a triple twisting stretched double on floor might be 0.9 and a full twisting Liukin on floor might be a 1.0). This would make our current Super E worth 0.8, the E 0.7, the D 0.6 and so on. A superman, potentially world championship routine in 1998 might include 1 Super E (0.8),2 Es 0.4),4 Ds (2.4), and 3 Cs (1.5), for a difficulty score of 6.1 out of 10. If the gymnast performed this routine with just 0.2 in execution deductions, the execution score would be 9.8. Adding 6.1 plus 9.8, then dividing by 2 would yield a routine score of 7.95 for an incredibly difficult, well­performed routine.

~ Like it or not, television and money have huge influences on sports today. NBC is now scheduled for eight days of gymnastics broadcasts in 1998. Peter Diamond, NBC Senior Vice President of Olympic Programs, made a presentation to the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors meeting in Indianapolis on Nov. 22, 1997. He was asked what the effect on television viewers would be if a world champion scored in the 7s for a winning routine. He said, "Our generation of spectators grew up on Nadia's lOs. Excitement is created in a gymnastics arena by the fact that occasionally a gymnast can score near perfection. A winning score in the 7s would be 'disastrous. ' A score above 10 would not be understood. The education required would be enormous, perhaps even impossible." On the other side of the coin, this thinking may be under­estimating the public. The public may be fully capable of understanding the reasons for a new scoring system, and appreciating gymnastics for its extreme difficulty and aesthetic appeal.

~ Should we even look at popular appeal? Should spectators have an impact on our rules? Some sports have responded to the public. In basketball, coach Henry Iba used the slow down game very effectively, and it was great strategic basketball for purists, but exceedingly

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boring for the public. To keep spectators, basketball instituted the shot clock. Why do we now have the 2-point conversion in football? Fan interest. The 1997 Baseball World Series was roundly criticized for lack of appeal to fans, partly because some of the games lasted too long. Baseball officials are now wringing their hands trying to come up with ways to speed up the game for spectators.

> NCAA Men's Gymnastics programs are hanging on by a thread . NCAA coaches tell us that they must sell the image of greatness. It would be unacceptable for an athletic director or fans to see a female gymnast score 9.8 for a mediocre routine, while a male gymnast scores 8.5 for a great routine. The response might be, "What's wrong with the men?" On the other hand, however, is men's gymnastics really in competition with women's gymnastics? Perhaps a total departure of scoring systems would not be catastrophic at all, as some believe, especially with extensive education of spectators.

In summary, Hardy lists a number of advantages for his system of additive difficulty. I agree that most are, indeed, advantages. In my opinion, the two most important bene­fits would be (1) our ability to reward gymnasts for all they

do well, and (2) having a Code that could be used b y all ages and abilities everywhere. The first advantage would improve the fairness of the Code, and the second would save us from continually having to revise, revamp, and change the rules to fit juniors, no small benefit!

The biggest question, however, is on Hardy's last advantage. Would such a Code enhance the marketability of our sport? One thing is certain: we do not want arenas with a few hundred fans who politely and softly applaud for incredibly difficult, well-performed routines. That would kill our sport. How important are high scores for spectator appeal? How big is the risk if we change the scoring system dramatically? Could the system be adapt­ed to allow high scores while retaining most of the advan­tages? For example, could the NCAA rules continue to allow high scores by doubling skill values? Could we avoid the risks associated with low scores in elite interna­tional competition by imposing proportional reductions in skill values as gymnasts catch up to the Code?

Is it possible, or even necessary, to construct a Code which will last decades into the future and still allow gym­nasts to score near perfection today? These are important questions, and as Hardy writes, worthy of much discus­sion and thinking by the world's experts.

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

j

u nfi)lP~~

~~~

by Luan Peszek

The Talent Opportunity Program, known as TOP's, was created six years ago. It enjoyed tremendous partic­ipation in its first years of implementation. The program has struggled with budget cuts, growing pains, and enor­mous problems regarding program magnitude. The sheer size of the program has led to problems that were not fully anticipated in its earliest inception. However, in spite of these things, TOP's has served very important needs for the development of USA Gymnastics. The future and con­tinued success of this program is very optimistic.

We talked to Gary Warren, USA Gymnastics Elite Program Manager and TOP's Director, about the program. He said, "The biggest change that has been made to the updated program is that we've incorporated the national elite testing program into TOP's, thus allowing for a smoother transition from the TOP's program to the elite level."

The age ranges were also changed from 6-11 to 7-12. Warren said, "The data we were getting with 6-year-olds was invalid because it's very hard to evaluate such a young athlete. In addition, we wanted to add the 12-year­olds into the program because we felt we were losing them between the TOP's program and the elite level."

Regarding a tracking system, Warren said, "We're in the process of refining the tracking process of athletes. We are beginning to see the TOP's athletes at the national elite level and at the younger ages of the junior elite program. Several of the top 10 gymnasts at the Junior Olympic and National Elite competitions (children's divi­sion) were TOP's participants. We feel the program is working very well."

Below is a list of commonly asked questions about the TOP's program. These questions also appear in the TOP's Manual.

Commonly Asked Questions Q: Can you practice prior to the Regional and Nat ional Testings?

A: It is encouraged that TOP's be implemented within your program; however, it must be noted that TOP's is not designed to be the sole method of training a young athlete.

Q: Can you practice during the actual tests?

A: All athletes will be given an amount of time prior to the testing for general stretch and practicing. Once the test has begun, there should be no more practicing. The exception being at National Testing where there will be touch warm­up prior to each skills testing station.

Q: How are ages determined, and is membership required?

A: The ages of the athletes are determined as of December 31st of the year of the test. For example, an athlete who is 8 years old by December 31st must test with the 8 year old age group. In addition, the athlete must turn 7 during the current testing year before she is eligible to test, and an ath­lete may not be 13 years of age any time during the testing year. All athletes MUST also be registered USA Gymnastics Athlete Members.

Q: What athletes are qualified?

A: Children are qualified for participation in TOP's if: • They will be 7 to 12 years of age anytime during the

current testing year. • They have a CURRENT USA Gymnastics Athlete

membership. • Their medical and accompanying forms have been

completed. • They are not a currently qualified Elite Level athlete.

Q: What are the benefits of TOP's?

A: Athletes benefit by seeing clearly how their physical abil­ities and skills compare to other athletes of the same age from across the United States. The athletes have access to some of the leading authorities in gymnastics via the regional and national clinics. The athletes' problem areas are identified and noted for more in-depth analysis and remediation. The athletes begin a tracking that will allow them to see how they have progressed from year to year.

The 9-12 year age group is invited to participate in a national test where they are evaluated by the USA Gymnastics national staff. They are then ranked with other gymnasts their age from across the nation. Those who qual­ify and pass the national testing will be invited to attend a training camp at USA Gymnastics' expense. The training camp will include training, evaluations of the athlete's cur­rent performance status, and suggestions for improvement.

The individual athlete's personal coach will have an opportunity to see how his / her coaching efforts compare to the rest of the nation. The feedback from the TOP's testing can be invaluable in determining where the coach's meth­ods stand relative to the rest of the nation. The coaches of all

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TOP's age groups are eligible to attend the national testing and the national TOP's training camp, an opporhmity that has been almost exclusively reserved for elite level coaches in the past. The TOP's training camp and other educational materials will be provided as part of the informa­tional feedback to TOP's coaches.

Q: Is there information on TOP's on the Internet?

A: Yes, all information on the TOP's program can be found on USA Gymnastics' Web Page. This infor­mation may be found at the follow­ing web address:: URL: h t t P / / w w w • usa - gym n a s -

tics.org

Q: How much does TOP's cost?

A: There are several costs involved. The first is the cost of the physical examination by a physician. We can­not control a physician's fees, but we have tried to remove any tests that have proven to be of great expense and dubious value. There is a $30 entry fee for regional testing. There is NO entry fee for National Testing. The transportation, lodg­ing, meals, and other related expenses to attend the region­al national tests are at the athlete's expense. The national TOP's training camp is completely funded by USA Gymnastics for qualified athletes ONLY. Personal coaches pay their own expenses. *NOTE: Pending budget.

Q: Can a TOP athlete enter the Elite program of competition? A: Only current National TOP's Team Members may enter directly into Elite Regional Competitions.

Q: Is selection into TOP's a guarantee for gymnastics success?

A: TOP's is an educational process designed to find "potentially" tal­ented athletes and educate these athletes, along with their coaches and parents. There are several fac­tors involved in the development of an elite athlete; therefore, TOP's cannot be a guarantee predictor of gymnastics success or failure.

Q: What is the advantage of TOP's to the club owner?

A: Education is the key to any suc­cessful program. TOP's provides valuable information for the devel­opment of Elite athletes through interaction with the National Coaching Staff and National Sports Science Staff at National TOP's Testings and the National TOP's Training Camp.

You may purchase a TOP's manual through the USA Gymnastics Member Services Department by

calling 1-800-345-4719. The TOP's manual

is $10.00, item #1120.

1997 NATIONAL TOP'S AVERAGES AND STANDARD DEVIATIONS revised 10/15/97

shoulder flexibility SD' right split SO (inches) (inches)

7 yr old 12.83 4.13 7.52 3.94

8 Yr Old 13.46 4.21 8.45 3.76

9 yr old 14.70 4.73 8.90 4.12

10 yr old 16.40 5.09 10.00 4. 20

11 yr old 17.10 4.91 10.00 4.30

12 yr old 18.20 5.44 10.20 4.93

lelt split SO leg lilts SO pull·ups SO push·ups (inches) (reps) (reps) (reps)

7.23 3.84 11.80 8.36 6.91 3.66 27.24

7.97 3.91 13.5 9.89 7.64 3.84 27.92

8.40 4.19 15.20 10.30 9.20 4.16 30.71

9.20 4.48 17.20 11 .20 10.00 4.41 35.40

9.90 4.30 16.00 9.43 10.00 3.95 35.70

10.00 5.03 17.50 10.30 10.80 4.07 36.50

20 meter SO sprint SD

(seconds)

24.39 3.93 0.28

19.54 3.76 0.23

18.40 3.60 0.25

19.56 3.50 0.23

25.55 3.40 0.22

18.47 3.30 0.22

3 bounding hollow jumps SO hold SO

(inches) (seconds")

172.90 17.21 50.57 15.97

182.80 16.57 51.53 13.89

196.60 17.00 51.40 14.11

205.10 26.02 53.80 12.38

216.60 24.44 53.00 12.58

225.30 19.90 55.50 10.54

*SD=standard deviation ** 60 seconds maximum

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WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS

MINUTES WOMEN'S JR. OLYMPIC PROGRAM COMMITTEE December 6, 1997

Tulsa, OK

I. ROLL CALL Chairman Tom Koll called the meeting to order at 11:20 a.m.

Present: Region I Neil Resnick

Region II Laurie Reid

Region III Cheryl Jarrett

Region IV Don Houlton

Region V John Geddert

Region VI Larry Goldsmith

Region VII Steve Garman for Mike Milchanowski

Region VIII Jeff Woods for Tim Rand

WAB Kathy Ostberg for K. Feldmann

WTC Linda Mulvihill for C. Hamilton (on an international assignment)

WJOPM Connie Maloney

WPD Kathy Kelly

Absent: EPC Roe Kreutzer

II. WOMEN'S ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD REPORT Due to Kathy Feldmann's acceptance of the Member Services Director position at USA Gymnastics, Ostberg reported that nominations for Women's Administrative Board Chair are being accepted in December, w ith an election (if necessary) to take place in February. Call for nomina­tions for the following national chair positions-Jr. Olympic Program Committee, Technical Committee and Elite Technical-will be published in the February Techl7ique.

III. FIG UPDATE The FIG-WTC meeting was conducted in November. Several changes have been made that will immediately affect element va lues and special connection bonus for the Elite program. As soon as these changes are in official form, they will be published for the membership.

IV. LEVEL 9 EASTERN/WESTERN CHAMPIONSHIPS· TRAINING DAY SCHEDULE

The committee discussed the training day schedule, using the Jr. Olympic Nationals system as a model. Since the number of qualifiers per Region will not be equal, it was d ecided that two regions will be assigned to each of the two training sessions and tha t the specific workout groups will be assigned once the qualifiers have been determined. Every effort will be made to keep all athletes on the same club team in the same warm-up squads.

V. LEVEL 9 EAST/WEST APPAREL Recommend to the WAB that all competitors at the Level 9 Eastern and Western Championships receive an official EastlWest Championships jacket purchased by their regions through the East/West Meet Directors, at a maximum cost of $25.00.

Motion-C. Jarrett

Second-1. Reid

PASSED

Clarification: All regions are reminded that gJjll1nasts will use their club warll1-ups al7d leotards as their cOlllpetitioll apparel.

VI. COMPETING IN WRONG AGE DIVISIONS The committee discussed the occasional need of a thletes to compete on a

day tha t is not the day in w hich her age division is assigned. It was decid­

ed to maintain the present ruling w hich deSignates that if the athlete com­

petes in the wrong age division, she is not elig ible for individual awards

(event or AA) and her score may not count in the Team Score. Her All­

Around score may be used fo r mobility purposes only.

VII. APPARATUS SPONSORSHIP FOR LEVEL 10 REGIONAL MEETS

AAI continues as the national equipment sponsor. They explained that their

commitment to providing equipment for the Level 10 Regional meets has

become a problem in terms of shipping cost-effectiveness and the amount

of demo equipment as a result of usage at the USAG and NCAA Regional

meets. AAI requested that the committee consider having the regional

meets scheduled on two separate weekends to help alleviate the problems

for AAI. Due to the already full competitive schedule and the need for each

region to have an equal opportunity to obtain housing and cos t-effective

airfares for Nationals, the committee decided to maintain the present sys­

tem of all Level 10 regional meets scheduled on the same weekend.

VIII. LEVEL 2 AND 3 COMPETITION Motion to allow Level 2 and 3 gymnasts to register as "Team" athletes

(with the same age requirements as Level 4) and that the State Board

shall determine if an organized competitive program will be offered and

how it will be evaluated, effective immediately.

Motion-J. Woods

Second-D. Houlton

PASSED (5 in favor, Region 5 Opposed, Region 3 & 6 Abstained)

Ratiol7ale: The committee mail7 tains its original philosophy that Levels 1-4 are desigl7ed to prepare the Jr. Olympic coll1petitive athlete to begil7 at Level 5. However, the coll1mittee is also aware that l1Iany programs l7eed to participate il7 a "recreational" type competitive program with a much lower skill level.

IX. ENTRY INTO JR. OLYMPIC PROGRAM The committee discussed the petition process for allowing athletes previ­

ously involved in competition outside of the USAG Jr. Olympic system who

now wish to participa te in a USAG club program. If an a thle te has compet­

ed only in a program outside the USAG Jr. Olympic structure (high school,

AAU, USAIGC, etc.) and is in the Senior division (14 years and up), she has

the opportunity to petition the State Board to enter Level 8 and below.

Please note that there is a discrepancy in the 1997-99 Rules and Policies. On

page 22 IV. A. 3. It s tates that a thletes who have competitive experience out­

side of the USAG structure may petition the State Board for entry into Level

6 or below. This statement is CORRECT. However, on page 19 under Entry

Requirements, number 3 it states they may pe tition to Level 7 or below.

Page 19 is INCORRECT; please correct #3 to say Level 6 or below.

X. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF GYMNASTS (JUDGMENTS) ALLOWED PER DAY

Recommendation to the WTC to consider increasing the maximum num­

ber of judgments per day for any type of meet, but to continue to follow

the maximum number of judgments per session and the daily time para­

meters (8:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a maximum of 5 hours per session in the

gym, including warm-ups).

Motion- 1. Reid

Second-1. Goldsmith

PASSED

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Note fo r Meet Directors: When hosting meets with a non-traditional fo nnat, rea­sonable break time for the judges must be bu ilt into the lI1eet schedule.

Rationale: Using the present lI1axill1um numbers per day has res ll ited in many competitions (especially compulsory levels) finishing well within the 8:00 a.lI1. to 10:00 p.l1l. till1e lill1 it. Especially when renting an outside faci lity, it would be more cost-effective to make use of the fac ility for the whole day. Often till1es, judges who have met their maxill1um number of judgments at one competition that fin­ishes at 5 p.m. will then drive to another competition (a one session USAG or col­legiate lI1eet) and judge another session. Many efficient meet directors have planned non-traditional meets which allow for three fu ll sessions (or four srlul iler sessions) within the 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. time frame, but are requ ired to hire another set of judges to judge the last session(s) so that 110 judge exceeds the max­imulI1nu lI1ber of judgments per day. Th is creates another financial burden of addi­tional ll1ileage or per diems for the meet director.

XI. WOMEN'S PROGRAM DIRECTOR'S REPORT Kelly explained that national sponsor John Hancock will be supporting the program by donating $1000 per region for educa tional support at the Regional Congresses.

FIG has made a change in eligibility fo r foreign athletes. Now foreign athletes who have never represented their country internationally may compete for the USA. Athletes must be citizens of the U.s. or hold a per­manent residence card in order to be funded.

The committee discussed the possibility of allowing Jr. Olympic competi­tive gymnasts who are non-ci tizens but can prove bona fide residency in the United States to be eligible for awards and quali fica tion to all USAG meets. The committee requested that Maloney investigate this and the committee will revisit this issue at the May meeting.

XII. COMPU LSORY CONCERNS A. Level S Uneven Bars 1. LevelS Dismount: This was discussed but it was determined that no

changes would be recommended at this time. 2. Level 5 Counterswings- Change the expectation for amplitude in the

description of the Level S Counterswing (page 98, # 9 & 11)

Motion to change the wording of "The hips rise to the level of the h igh bar " to "the hips rise to a minimum of 15° below the level of the high bar", effective January 1, 1998, and recommend to the WTC the follow­ing deductions that would reflect the lower amplitude expectations:

16°-29° below height of the high bar 0.05 - 0.10

30°-45° below height of the high bar

46°-60° below height of the high bar

61 °- 75° below height of the high bar

76° & below

Motion- J. Geddert

Second-No Resnick

PASSED

0.15 - 0.20

0.25 - 0.30

0.35 - 0.45

0.50 - 0.60

Note: TIle WTC PASSED this recommendation by a phone vote on December 9, 1997.

B. Level 5 Floor Exercise:

Clarifica tion on the Front Handspring landing position: The description reads land with hips extended (tight arch) to pass through a momentary releve stand. This is NOT meant to be a held (stick) position, just a pass through posi tion.

Motion that an immediate rebound to land on two feet at the completion of the Level 5 Front Handspring to two feet would be acceptable, but not required, prior to the steps forward .

Motion-N. Resnick

Second-So Garman

PASSED

C. Scoring Issues

The committee discussed the lower range of scores in general for the

compulsory levels and the disparity of those scores across the country.

The committee members are seeing grea t improvements in the perfor­mance of the exercises in those sta tes that have had a fa ll season. We are

aware that some specific areas of the country are having difficulties w ith

scores being significantly lower than previous years. These concerns are

being addressed . Since the routines themselves have been so well

received, we ask that coaches, judges, athletes and parents have patience in regards to the evaluation of these exercises. They are new to all of us

and it will take some time fo r the coaches to teach accurately, athletes to

perfect their performance, and judges to apply the appropriate deduc­

tions. Parents need to be supportive of their child 's efforts and progress,

not necessarily their score, as this is the first time in eight years that

we've had new exercises.

The committee has found the Level 5 / 6 Compulsory Judges Training

video to be very helpful to coaches and athletes to better understand the

applica tion of the deductions and recommends that gyms consider pur­

chasing it from Member Services.

For those states which have not yet had their compulsory season, the

committee recommends that the State Boards consider lowering the State

qualifying scores. The committee also sugges ts that the state. boards

adopt a more relaxed score range (or the addition of lower ranges) for

awarding achievement ribbons for at least the first year of the new com­

pulsories.

The committee also recommended that Maloney draft an article directed

to the parents for publication in USA Gymnastics or for direct mailing to

the clubs. Maloney will send the article to the committee for approval.

The committee was asked to submit articles for Technique regarding the

teaching of specific compulsory elements.

XIII . ELEMENT EVALUATION Recommendation to the WT C to add to Jr. Olympic Element

Supplement the following element on Balance Beam:

#52.204 Split leap forward w ith change of legs (Switch-leg leap) w ith

less than 160° leg separation = B

Motion- L. Reid

Second-L. Goldsmith

PASSED

The WTC passed this recommendation by phone vote on December 9, 1997.

XIV. COMPETITIVE SCHEDULE FOR 1999 AND 2000 1999

Level 10 Regionals April 17-1 8

2000

April 8-9

(Level 9 Regionals may be held in conjunction with Level 10 Regionals or one

week prior.)

Level 9 East/Wes t

Level 10 J.O. Nationals

May 7-9

May 13-16

April 28-30

May 4-7

Beginning in 1999, the ].0. Program Comll1ittee will meet the Sunday night

and Monday fo llowing ].0. Nationals.

Meet ing was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

Next meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 18th in Austin , TX, fo llowing the

Level 9 Western Championships.

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Women's Administrative Boord Meeting Augllst 13, 1997

Denver, Colorado

I. Members Present: Kathy Feldmann -Chair Denise Porrazzo-Region I Ruth Sandoz-Region 2 Cori Rizzo-Region 3 George Grainger-Region 4 Ka thy Shufflin-Region 5 Kathy Ostberg-Region 6 Absent: Jan Greenhawk, Region 7

Elite Chair-Roe Kreutzer JO Chair-Tom Koll Technical Chair-Marilyn Cross Ka thy Kelly-WPD Connie Maloney-WJOPM Hoylene oble-Region 8 Debby Kornegay-Region 8

Meeting was called to order at 10:00 p. llI . by Kathy Feldmann

II. Elite Program Report Roe gave us an update of the TOPS program. Ka thy Kelly shared with all of us tha t she recognizes the need for more judging/educa tional oppor­tunities for the judges to become more familiar w ith the program. Judges educational opportunities are being consid ered . The Regional camps at the Elite level were very well received and add itional ones are being con­sidered for the future. With the addition of the TOPS gymnasts to these camps, it made these camps an even better experience for all. There is a p ossibility tha t the Challenge and the Classic meet will be combined . One aspect of the judges selection criteria w ill be the fa milia rity w ith the elite testing program. Each region will be encouraged to identify judges who will be able to a ttend the national elite training/TOPS camps and then go back to the region and educate the coaches and judges.

Any judge and /or coach is welcome to a ttend theses camps at their own expense.

Motion: Each region will pay for one air fare for a selected judge to attend the National Elite Training Camp.

Motion- Rizzo

Second-Grainger

PASSED

Criteria need s to be determined: Who is interested, w ho has the back­ground and motiva tion. Who has ability to teach . The Technical com­mittee w ill come up with the criteria.

National Junior Elite camp: October 23-25, 1997 - Karolyi's Ranch

National TOP's camp - December in Tulsa, OK

National Team Coaches Summit: TBD

III. Technical Committee Report: Upcoming committee meetings:

September 26-28 in Reno, NV

March - Fort Worth, TX- Visa American Cup

IV. Meet Directors Exam: Sta te Chairs should give the exam in the 1997 Rilles and Policies Book until the new book is issued.

V. Elections: Spring of 1998, the elections of the sta te chairs w ill take place. The new term of office will begin on July 1, 1998. The term will be fo r two yea rs.

Note: The SC have asked that we consider a fa ll I' year term.

Elections for Na tional Chair for Technical Committee, National Elite Technical Chair and Junior Olympic Program Chair w ill take place in 1998. Nominations will be solicited through Tec/miqlle.

Election procedures as outlined w ill take p lace. The new term of office is to begin September 1, 1998. Term of office is 4 yea rs.

VI. SCIRC Workshop Sta te / Regional Chair Workshop will take place on Aug. 18-1 9,1998, in Indianapolis, IN prior to National Congress. New s ta te chairs w ill a ttend

seminar on Aug. 18 beginning a t 2:00 p.m. Welcome reception and evening session for all on Tuesd ay. Workshop for all on Aug. 19 from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p. m. This is tentative. The congress and meet schedule must be veri fied prior to fina lizing the SC / RC Workshop.

Motion: To hold the SCIRC workshop at Congress in Indianapolis August 18-19,1998.

Motion-Rizzo

Second- Kornegay

PASSED

VII. Refund Policy Discussion on refund policy for canceled meet due to inclement wea ther. USAG is no t responsible fo r the financial obligations of a meet. The board recommends that the policy as s ta ted in Rules and Policies will remain in effect.

VIII. Team Membership: (Athlete Registration) Discussion regarding the new a thletes that w ish to participate in summer programs, clinics, camps and TOP's. At this time they must pay the $35 team member fee for a number and then pay $35 again to regis ter for the year beginning August 1.

Motion: Ask USAG member services to look into the following sugges­tions and see what can be worked out for these athletes who need to sign up in June or July.

Suggestions:

Motion-Grainger

Second-Shuffl in

PASSED

One time reduced fee

Pro-rated fee for 13/14 months

Group rider policy

IX. LEVEL I - III Sanction request Discussion regarding sanctioning meets a t Levels I-III

Motion: The administrative board supports the philosophy of the JO Program Committee in their s tand that Level I-III be a developmental program and not a competitive program.

Motion- Rizzo

Second-Grainger

PASSED

George Grainger w ill represent the Administra tion Board a t the JO Committee meeting this weekend.

X. Election of Vice-Chair of Administrative Board The following people were nominated:

George Grainger, Ka thy Koeth Shufflin, Ka thy Ostberg

Ka thy Ostberg was elec ted as the Administra tive Board's Vice Chair. Term to begin immediately.

Kathy Feldmann has accepted a position in USAG as the Director of Member Services. She will remain the Chair of the committee during the transition time until a new chair is elected . She will work with the assistant chair, Ka thy Ostberg, regarding aSSignments of duties over the next few months.

The nom ination form will go in to Techniqlle as soon as possible. The elec­tion procedures as outlined in the Operating Code will be fo llowed . The term will begin by Feb . 1, 1998, a t the latest and continue until 2000.

XI. Old Business: Restructuring of the regions-discussion ensued. The committee believes various avenues of assistance for specific programs and work load for the regional chairs can be pursued, instead of revamping the regional s truc­ture a t this time.

XII. New Business: Kathy Ostberg requested tha t the Regional Chairs mention to their boards a t their meetings that she is seeking donations for the Making Strides Walk / Support for breast cancer that she is doing in Oct. in memory of Carol H illenburg .

Ka thy Feldmatm will send out sugges tion of da tes fo r the next committee meeting . The board will vo te and set up the time for 1998.

Kathy thanks the coll1 l11 ittee for all of their hard work and support. Meeting adjoll rned: 11 :40 PM

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I

rrCGA GYMNASTICS

~ Why haven't you joined yet?

Benefits Include: Club must show • USA Gymnastics lobby Banner • Member Club Certificate • Right to use the uSA Gymnastics logo in Marketing Materials

proof of insurance, have a minimum of one Pro Member on staff and the owner/d i rector must be a memeber

• Eligible to earn rebates on General Members from club • Complimentary or discounted products and services • PDP I Materials • Club Newsletter • uSAGO link • uSAGO listings

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USA GYMNASTICS MEMBERSHIP HISTORY October 31, 1997

YEAR TEAM PRO MEM INSTRUCTOR GENERAL CLUB 79/ 80 30,532 80/ 81 30,275 81/82 35,264 3,984 82/ 83 38,1 95 4,832 83/ 84 35,31 4 5,228 Membership 84/85 41,869 5,208 categories were 85/86 47)04 6,103 86/ 87 55,103 8,382 not yet 87/ 88 56,276 8,600 developed 88/ 89 58,142 9,017 89/ 90 47,903 9,258 90/ 91 48,821 8,325 91/92 50,454 8,985 92/ 93 54,666 9,61 4 93/ 94 59,335 10,011 94/95 61 ,565 11 ,154 95/ 96 62,377 11 ,366 37 158 N/A 96/97 67,431 12,084 806 4, 147 539

* 1997/ 1998 numbers will be completed on 7-31-98. Membership numbers are currently 5% ahead of last year's numbers at this lime. Industry Membership will be added in 1998.

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General Gymnastics Advisory Panel Minutes Conference Call

September 16, 1997

I. Roll Call David Moskovitz Leader Dean Capelotti Member Lori Laznovsky Member Steve Whitlock USA Gymnastics

The meetil1g opel1ed nt 11:00 n.lI1. PDT.

II. General Gymnastics Rules and Policies Whitlock requested that Moskovitz send all document to him on computer disk.

Moskovitz reported on several minor changes to the documents presented in Orlando. Whitlock reported on his discussions with membership, sanctioning, and the three program departments. Discussion followed regarding USAG sanction procedures.

It was agreed that two levels of sanction be included on the General Gymnastics form. The first level is a "Local Display" and "Clinic" Sanction for $10. The second is a "Gymnastics Festiva l" Sanction for $25; an additional $2/participant head tax is to be collected with the Sanction Report.

It was agreed that a statement be included to recommend a participation fee of $20.

It was agreed that a sta tement be included to recommend that each GymFest present Team Participation Awards and Individual Participation Certificates.

It was agreed that any event involving state, regional or national titles requires the approval of the GGAP.

It was agreed that any event with international participation requires the approval of the national office and would be subject to special sanction fees.

III. Regional Congress presentations report Moskovitz and Capelotti conducted two sessions at the Region 1 Congress. Moskovitz reported that attendance was good and that interest is growing in the region, especially northern California . Moskovitz and Capelotti are work­ing on a proposal to have a demonstration of GG at the 1998 event.

Laznovsky conducted three sessions at the 1997 GAT Convention. Attendance at the sessions was high due to the announcement of a GymFest event at GAT in 1998. She expressed concern about the lack of GG experience in the area and reques ted assistance in providing leadership for GAT groups.

It was agreed that the Southern Classic GymFest be conducted in con­junction with the 1998 GAT Convention. The GGAP will work w ith the local organizing committee to conduct the event according to the Rules and Policies for national events.

It was agreed that special consideration be given to planning for a set of General Gymnas tics clinics, displays and evaluations during 1998. The panel instructed Whitlock to include this item in the blidget.

These activities will be necessary not only for the development of General Gymnas tics, but also in preparation for the delegation being selected for the 11th World Gymnaestrada.

IV. Information for people planning festivals next year It was agreed that the publication of the General Gymnastics Rules and Policies book will provide the necessary information of gymnastics festi­val hosts in 1998.

V. Site for 1998 National Gym Fest

Discussion followed regarding the possibilities available at the 1998 National Congress in Indianapolis.

Austin, TX has been selected as the site for the 1988 National GymFest, September 5-9, 1998.

Discussion followed regarding participation in the FIG Gala at the 11th World Gymnaestrada. Moskovitz reviewed the concept of the perfor­mance as it was presented at the GG 2nd Information Meeting in June, 1997.

It was agreed that the criteria es tablished by the FIG /GG/TC and the Gbteborg Organizing Committee was in conflict with the procedures es tablished for USA Gymnastics Delegation.

It was agreed that a decision on this matter be pos tponed until February, at which time the deSignated choreographer would be contacted for fur­ther information.

Discussion followed regarding General Gymnastics Membership. Whitlock asked the panel to consider alternatives for dealing w ith the rebate procedures currently being used in the Men's, Women's and Rhythmic programs.

The panel instructed Whitlock to inves tigate the amount of the current rebates.

It was agreed that rebate dollars should be channeled toward administra tive expenses for the GGAP, other committees and for General Gymnastics development.

The cnll wns cOl1cluded nt 1:00 p.m. PDT.

Respectfldly submitted, Dnvid Moskovitz, Lender September 24, 1997

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What You Want in Technique By Luan Peszek

Thanks to all the people who filled out the question­naire from the September/October issue of Technique and returned it to USA Gymnastics. Also, congratulations to Jennifer Schuppe Botham, whose survey was randomly drawn to win the $100 USA Gymnastics merchandise certificate! Happy shopping to Jennifer Schuppe Botham.

The results of the questionnaires were very interesting. Some individuals want more high level skills broken down, while others want lower level skills. Some want more sport science articles and others don't want any! And, of course, each of the three disciplines wants less information on the other two!

In response to one of the biggest complaints, timeliness, we are happy to report that USA Gymnastics has applied to the post office for second class mail status versus bulk rate. If we're granted this status, we expect this will speed up delivery of your Technique magazines. We'll keep you posted!

HERE'S A SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS:

1. Do you read Technique? 100% of the respondents read Technique.

2. If yes, what have you learned from it and can you give an example? Mental aspects of gymnastics • good drills for each event • breaking down skills • updated information • correc­tions to JO supplements • technical updates • helpful hints • better teaching habits • creativity and having fun with the kids • updated skill values • safety courses • event schedule • sport psychology and injury training • judging updates • safe aspects of gymnastics as a lifetime enhancement • sport science articles • conditioning advice

3. Do you like Technique? 91 % of respondents said yes.

40. What do you like about it? Coaches technique articles like the one on Stalders • min­utes • nutrition and mental preparation articles • WTC reports • order forms for publications • calendar of events • articles by Ph.D.'s • interviews • membership option updates • skill progressions • practical research • recy­clable paper • detailed and technical look • articles on motivation and higher level skills

4b. What don't you like about it? Not enough articles about former gymnasts • not on time (misses safety classes in my area) • changes-has to learn how to organize and retrieve.

S. What would you like to see more of in Technique? Women's judging information and tips • skill technique • progressions • class or recreational gymnastics • basics • successful gyms' week of practice to see how they sched­ule their workouts • massage therapy techniques • better order forms for USA Gymnastics merchandise (easier to see, more things offered) • more information on teaching • Mommy and Me classes • aerials • college gymnastics

information • resumes from coaches searching for positions • coaching tips • lower-level skills • judging tips • TV listings • teaching skill builders • conditioning • more advanced skills • more merchandise of books and videos for training Levels 8-10 • trends in the sport ·equip­ment, skills, etc.) • information on what other clubs do, number of hours training, etc.

6. What would you like to see less of in Technique? USA Gymnastics self-promotion • men's gymnastics information • rhythmic gymnastics information • FIG rules • physiology/kinetic articles • stories on "big name gymnasts" • scientific data and graphs • long articles • skill technique • advertisements • minutes

7. Do you like having Classified Ads listed in Technique? 72% said yes

80. If yes, do you utilize this section? Yes, good source • I read it but not in the position to hire • just look through • yes • never a job listed in my area • I read for the future because 1'd like to get a job after college • yes, last summer I was hired for a position listed in the classified section

8b. If no, why don't you utilize this section? I have no need to look for a new job • not looking for a job or to buy anything • no need yet • no, but it's nice to know it's there for immediate reference

9. How could Technique be a better tool for you? Improve the timeliness • more pictures to illustrate articles • make it larger • provide on-going progressions • Q & A • tips on skills • dealing with issues that everyone has on burnout, recruitment from colleges, trends • more teaching videos available • more articles on judging, former athletes, gross motor development for young children, rhythmic gymnastics, info. for smaller clubs, safety of skills and equipment, information on spotting, motivational stories, coaching advice.

1 0 & 11. If asked, would you be interested in contributing information / articles /ideas to Technique? 90% of the respondents said yes and gave us a variety of topics from which to choose. Those who said no either had no time or felt they didn't have the expertise to write an article.

12. What types of articles would you like to read? Skill specific articles on double backs, double fulls, front tumbling, front handspring vaults, front giants, toe fronts and stretching • drills for intermediate gymnasts • training of basics • twisting skills • minutes of the WTC, Elite com­mittee meetings, college rules • studies done on judging • spotting techniques for high level bar skills for gyms with­out trench pits and spotting belts • preschoolers and gross motor development on the playground and indoor motor games • advanced spotting techniques for vault and floor • dance training • teaching back tucks • proper conditioning • how to make the gymnast more confident on the high beam • proper conditioning for young athletes ages 5-8 • progressions for beginning Level 9 gymnasts who don't have a pit • composition deductions for beam, floor, bars and execution deductions for Popa, Wolf and turns • how to motivate gymnasts Level 5-6 on how to do clean and exact compulsories • how to work with children who do

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not listen • working with mentally challenged children • how to teach heel drive on vault • gymnastics facility space awareness • mental training before meets • new equipment at meets • keeping gymnasts pumped up • bad attitudes of team members • helping athletes with eating disorders • correct visual "Q" points while performing certain skills • cheerleading programs • teaching the Tsukahara vault • roundoff entry vaults. getting more height on split leaps • teaching the free hip circle on bars • National Wellness Program for gymnasts • ideas on gym ownership • mar­keting • drills for compulsory gymnastics skills • what to look for in spacing out routines as a judge (most important spacers) • training philosophies of other gyms, real ideas • periodization know how • how to break into elite competi­tion • average salaries for full and part time coaches • ben­efit packages that entice • statistical information on level mobility.

13. Do you like seeing ads displaying products and services offered by USA Gymnastics? 72% said yes

14a. If yes, have you ever ordered? 78% said yes

14b. If no, why? No need • ads take up too much space • I'll think it's an article but it's just an ad • prefer to see and feel before buy­ing.

15. Do you like seeing ads displaying products and services offered by other companies? 75% said yes

16a. If yes, have you ever ordered? 80% said yes

16b. If no, why not? Like to mail to and receive catalog • no interest for a judge • have not ordered yet but may • not financially feasible • not interested

Rank Technique as an important source of information by the following: l=least important 2=somewhat important 3=important 4=most important

Below is a ranking of the categories selected. Program Updates was selected as the most important! Program Updates Technical information on skills Athlete training Athlete wellness Committee nleeting minutes National event information Business information Selection procedures

Many of you indicated on the questionnaire that you would be interested in writing an article for Technique. We'd love to receive your article! Please send it to Technique, USA Gymnastics, Pan American Plaza, 201 S. Capitol Ave., Ste. 300, Indianapolis, IN 46225 or fax to 317-237-5069.

COlDpulsory Text USA Gymnostics Women's, Men's & Rhythmic Compulsory Progroms. 1996·2000 COMPULSORY BOOK FOR WOMEN #1111 .......... . $35.00

1997·2000 MEN'S AGE GROUP COMPULSORY PROGRAM BOOK #1202 ...... . $29.95

1996·2000 RHYTHMIC COMPULSORY BOOK #1302 ..... $29.95

J.O. T edlDic:aI HamlLoo" for Judges and Coac:hes The technical rules ond regulations for the J.O. program. This manual follows the Code of Points format and includes all the changes and adaptations of the Code for the J.O. level. Text is complete with examples of bonus, etc. # 1117 .......... . .. . ... :$20.00

FIG Code of Po in Is The official international competitive guide· line book with skill difficulty ratings. WOMEN'S #1101 ............. . .. $44.95

MEN'S #1201 .............. $44.95

RHYTHMIC #1301 ..... ..... .. $44.95

Compulsory Video Levels 1-6 Skills, sequences and drills on all events plus dance. #2105 .... .. .. $35.00

Women's J.O. Compulsory Music: CasseHe #2109 ..... . $7.50

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

ALL NEW COMPULSORY MATERIALS!

Order aR page 40 DR CALL t-800-14S-41tg

1991-~OOO WOlDen's Le"Vels Judges

Training Video level 8 in regular speed and

slow motion for practice judging. Script is included.

#2192 .•..••• $19.95

VIDEOS & BOOKS

USA GYMNASTICS

1997-2000 Women's Level

8 Judges Training Video

USA GYMNASTICS

How to Master a Perfect

Handstand Through the Use of Proper Body

Mechanics

How to Master a Perfed Handstand Througl. tl.e Use of Proper Body Me«:l.ani«:s Instructors are Tammy Biggs and Dr. larry Nassar

#2499 ••••••••• •• $19.95

Use this fann 10 anIer men:handise

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SUBTOTAL SEND ORDERS *DOMESTIC SHIPPING & HANDLING

AND MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: $15 AND UNDER ADD $5 *DOMESTIC SHIPPING & HANDLING 515.01 ·540 ADD~ -

USA GYMNASTICS 540.01-560 ADD 57 INDIANA RESIDENTS ADD 5% SALES TAX

USA 560.01 -580 ADD 58 LOCKER ROOM 580.01-51 00 ADD 59 tLESS 10% MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT PO BOX 5562, 5100.01 -5150 ADD~ GYMNASTICS INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46255-5562 5150.01 -5200 ADD 516 TOTAL AMOUNT PAYABLE OR CALL OVER 5200.01 ADD 518

MEMBERSHIP # I INTERNATIONAL-PLEASE CAll 1-800-:}4S-4719 1198 FOR EXAG SHIPPING RATE

t Membershlp discount (on only be applied 10 purchases of apparel and novelty Items. No discount on Videos. ..J -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

COACIDNG DAYINmEGYM

Video Series 58ri85 DB5criplion:

The Day In The Gym series features train-ing footage from clubs across the nation. Each video focuses on a level of training at a gymnastics club in the United States. This series shows candid, unrehearsed views of typical workouts.

Elite leyel- Cincinnati Gymnasli£s A£aderny

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 tape set #2705 ..... . ... . . ... . $29.95

Leyel 8 - Cincinnati Gymnasti£s A£ademy

2 tape set #2473 ..... . ..... ' . . .. $24.95

leyel6 - Arizona Sunrays Gymnasti£s

#2456 . . . .. .......... $16.95

GENERAL GYMNASTICS Tt.ree General Gymnasti£s This video is used to give the viewer a general idea which General Gymnastics is

c;Ir«iIA S GYMNASTICS

VIDEOS

Order an page 40 DR CALL 1-800-14S-4119

all about. The video features "1999, Welcome Goteborg", II A World Gymnaestrada" and "FIG Gala" from 1995 World Gynaestrada. #2601. ... . . .... . ... . $10.00

1996 U.S. National

(iyIllFest

Anaheim, CA. Gymnastics really is for everyone at GymFest! These tapes include every performance from Gym Fest plus the Opening Ceremonies and the Gala Showcase. USA participants of Gym Fest 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 tape set #2703 ... . . . .... . . ... $26.95

Magi£ Musi£ Days

Disneyland. All performances are included.

2 tape set #2704 . .... ........ .. $19.95

WOMEN'S 1991 International Team

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Women Competition

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).

Ct.ampionsltips Junior Script is included.

Women's Competition #2325 ... . . . .. . .. .... $29.95

This video contains all of the Junior Their is also a Music Cassette for the Women's Competition from the Rhythmic Gymnastics Group Compulsory International Team Championships in Routines. Cincinnati. Romania and China training #2309 .. . .... . ..... .. $10.00 footage also included. Running time is 1 hour and 51 minutes.

#2959 ............... $19.95 MEN'S 1991 Ameri£an Classi£ 1995 Ameri£aD 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

the new Code of Points. Ct.allenge

Running Time: 1 hour and 17 minutes Three SlP format tapes featuring EVERY routine, compulsories and optionals, all

#2957 ............. . . $12.95 divisions! Features all competitors includ-ing: John Roethlisberger, Chainey 1991 Ameri<: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 Ameri£aD #2958 ... .. . . . . .... .. $12.95 Garnes

Straight from Mar Del Plata, Argentina:

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

Rt.ytt.mi£ (iymnasti£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 video· graphers unless otherwise stated. Our O lympic 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.The Atlanta Technical videos are available for purchase to USA GymnastiCS members only.

W~arl NeW

CORRECTION TO RHYTHMIC RULES AND POUCIES

NOTICE The Men's, Women's, Rhythmic and General Gynmastics Rules & Policies Book will be printed for two seasons (1 997-1999). Chan­ges and updates will be sent to the membership through USA Gymnastics mailings and maga­zines throughout the summer of 1998.

FIG Group events for 1998 and 1999 are 5 balls and 2 hoops/3 ribbons

TECNICA: For Spanish Speaking Gymnastics Professionals

Did you know USA Gymnastics produces an eight­page newsletter called Tecnica for Spanish speaking gymnastics professionals? Tecnica contains reprints of articles from both Technique and USA Gymnastics and is translated exclusively in Spanish. Tecnica is produced twice a year, in February and June, and is mailed to the countries of the Pan American Gymnastics Union in order to help strengthen their gymnastics programs.

If you or someone you know would like to receive Tecnica, a Spanish-language gymnastics newsletter, the cost is $5 per year in the U.S. ($10 per year outside the U.S.) . Call USA Gymnastics Member Services at 1-800-345-4719 to order.

Member Services Hours Member Services will continue with

the policy of answering phones beginning at 12:30 p.m. each Monday until 5:30 p.m.

Member Services staff use the Monday morning time period away from the phones to organize the multitude of clerical duties that must be maintained.

Tuesday through Friday the department is available from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Please note that Indiana does not change times. USA Gymnastics is on Eastern time during the winter and Central time during the summer.

Thanks for your continued understanding and cooper­ation. We can be reached at 1-800-345-4719!

Get Email Updates from USA Gymnastics Online! By RaclIele Harless, USAGO Webmaster

Want to stay informed of gymnastics news on a weekly basis? Subscribe absolutely free to "Announcements" email list for USA Gymnastics Online. You'll receive a weekly update via email providing you with a digested summary of recent updates to the web.

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USA Gymnastics Online is located at: http://www-usa-gymnastics.org

NOTICE TO MEMBERSHIP The following Membership Statement has been adopted

by the Board of Directors of USA Gymnastics: Membership in USA Gymnastics is a privilege granted

by USA Gymnastics. That privilege can be withdrawn by USA Gymnastics at any time where a member 's conduct is determined to be inconsistent with the best interest of the sport of gymnastics and of the athletes we are servicing.

The following former professional members have had their membership with USA Gymnastics terminated and will not be allowed to renew their membership:

Charles Theodore Bates MN Vince Brown SC Larry Dutch ME Matthew H. Erichsen WA William Alexander Etheridge TN Rick Feuerstein CA Joseph Fountain MD Roy Larry Gallagher PA Robert Allen Garner (Bob) TN Ricardo "Chico" Goddard NY Robert Dean Head KY Frank Hohman, Jr. Milos Hroch John S. Moore William Munsinger William M. Parmenter John H. Roe Steve Shirley Blake Steven Starr Mark Swift Freddie Eugene Tafoyo, Jr. Jon Oliver Kenneth Thomas Brent Trottier Joel Velasquez David Paul Waage Steve Waples Lyf Christian Wildenberg

PA CA WV MN FL DE MO UT FL CA VA WA OR OR TX MN

British Columbia Gymnastics Association Suspensions USA Gymnastics has been notified that the British

Columbia Gymnastics Association has permanently suspend­ed membership in the BCGA for the following individuals:

John Henderson Kamloops, BC Canada Donald Ray Mathey Langley, BC Canada Wayne Andrews Courtenay, BC Canada

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USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame 1999 Nomination Form and Information Questionnaire

The former Helms Hall of Fame and USA Gymnastics have 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 information.

NOMINEE NOMINATOR Name Name Address Address City City State, ZIP State, ZIP Phone Phone Fax Fax

CATEGORY (v' 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 • Holds national and "brevet" credentials as a judge

• Has been an Olympic, Pan American, World University • Has been consistently successful in National Collegiate frequently judging at national and international meets Games or World Championships team member Championships • Invented devices 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 Natf&OIal 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 I, 1998, to both of the following individuals. Nominations received alter that date will not be considered.

Carolyn Bowers, Chairman Kim Clayton Hall of Fame Selection Committee USA Gymnastics ) 315 Bourgagne Ave. 201 S. Capitol Ave., Suite 300 Bowling Green, OH 43402 Indianapolis, IN 46225

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Mehora, M. Use Your Imagination. #2, p. 10-11 & 13 USA Gymnastics Announces ew Membership Options for General Gymnastics.

#8, p. 22-23 Whitlock, S. FIG Group Performance Course. #10, p. 24 Wide World of Sports Gymfest. #7, p. 24 Would You Like for your Club to Perform at Na tional Congress? #5, p. 39

Hall of Fame Frederick. A.B. Hall of Fame Has a Good Begimung ... Aga in. #3, p . 8-10 National Hall of Fame Nonunation Form a nd Information QuestionnaiTe.

#5, p. 35-36

Membership 1997 Jolm Hancock U.s. Championships Ticket Informa tion. #4, p. 24 1997 Jolm Hancock U.s. Championships Ticket Information. #5, p . 24 John Hancock Tour of World Gymnastics Champions. #8, p. 6-7 Jolm Hancock TOUT of World Gymnastics Champions. #9, p. 24 Member Club Enroll ment Online. #5, p. 6-7 Renew YOUT Membership Online. #1, p. 35 USA Gymnastics Club Membership. #9, p. 26-29 USA Gymnastics Member Clubs. #1, p. 42-46 USA GYllUlastics Membership Overview. #1, p. 9

Men's Gymnastics 1997 FutUTe Stars Program Update. #8, p . 26-27 1997 World Championships Selection Procedures. #3, p. 44 1997-98 Scholarship Application for Men. #2, p. 40 Crumley, K. Parallel Bars: Giant Swing. #1, p. 21-22 GUTa, Ray. Update & Clarifications: 1997-2000 Age Group Competition Program.

#2, p. 14, 16-17 KormaIm, P., and Peszek, L. Blaine Wilson Going for Gold. #10, p. 14-15 Kormann, P., and Peszek, L. Jolm Roethlisberger Words of Experience and

Success. #8, p. 18-20 KormalUl, P., and Peszek, L. Q & A with Steve McCain. #9, p. 12-14 Kvetenadze, A. Pommel Horse. #1, p. 23 Liukin, V, Marinitch, V Conversations with Olympic Athletes. #1, p. 24-25 Mcintyre, D. Junior Program Update. #1, p . 27-28 Mcintyre, D. Men's JLUuor National Coadung Staff. #2, p . 41 Men's Program Conuluttee Conference Call. #3, p. 42-43 Men's Program Committee Conference Call. #7, p . 44 Men's Program Conmuttee Meeting. #5, p. 31 Men's Program Comnuttee Meeting. #5, p. 44 Sites for USA Championships Qualifiers. #5, p. 10 Update and Clarifications: 1997-2000 Age Group Competition Program,

NUI11ber 4. #10, p. 32-32

National Gymnastics Foundation 1996 Donor Honor Roll. #5, p. 38 1996 Donor Honor Roll. #6, p. 32-33 1996 Donor Honor Roll. #7, p. 34-35

Rhythmic Gymnastics 1997 Guidelines for Judging Junior Olympic RhytlU1UC Group Routines. #1, p. 37 1997 Rhytlmuc Eastern / Western Open Qualifying Events. #2, p. 46 1997-98 Rhythnuc Gymnastics JlUUor Olympic Technical Handbook for Coaches

and Judges #9. p . 46 1998-2001 Rhytlunic JLUuor Olympic Compulsory Program. #6, p. 22-23 Abruzzilu, E. Notes from the FIG/ RSG/TC. #5, p. 45 Abruzzini, E. The New Code. #3, p . 35 Abruzzilu, E. The Spirit of the Rhythmic Code 1997. #9, p. 38-39 Burns, G. Small Ribbon Patterns. #4, p. 8-9 Errata to the Rhythmic FIG Code of Points. #6, p. 34 Get it Going Program . #4, p. 15 Get it Going Program. #5, p. 15 Get it Going Program. #6, p. 10 International Gymnastics Federation Rhytlmuc Code of Points. #8, p. 30-31 New Judges Form. #1, p. 19 Rhytlmuc Group Championslups. #7, p. 37 Rhytlmuc Group Championslups. #8, p . 37 Rhytlunic Gymnastics FIG Technical Conmlittee Minutes. #9, p. 36-37 Rhythmic Gymnastics Judges Course. #6, p. 17 Rhythmic Gymnastics Judges Course. #7, p. 19 Rhytlmuc Gymnastics Minutes. #6, p. 41-42 Rhytlunic Judging COUTses at the 1997 Congress. #5, p . 46 Rhythmic Junior Olympic Committee Meetings. #8, p. 43-44

Rhytlmuc Program Conuluttee Meeting. #10, p . 30 Rhythmic Program COilUnittee. #3, p. 45-46 Rhythmic Program Committee. #7, p. 45 USA Gymnastics Rhythmic Junior Olympic Group Program. #1, p. 34-35 USA Gymnastics Rhytlul1ic Junior Olympic Group Program. #7, p. 36 USA Gynulastics Rhytlmlic Junior Olympic Group Program. #8, p. 36

Sport Science Biggs, T., Nassar, L. How to Master the Perfect Handstand Through the Use of

Proper Body Mechalucs. #1, p. 11-12 & 14 Cornelius, W. Equilibrium: Biomechanica lImplications. #2, p. 18,20-21 Cornelius, W. Muscular Force and Biomechanica lImplications. #1, p. 15-18. DeSchriver, D. Early Signs of Overtraining. #8, p . 12 Fink. H. An Insight into the Biomechmucs of Twisting. #2, p . 37-39 Sands. W. A Typical Performance Problem in a Giant Swing. #1, p. 4-5 Watanabe, M. Tecluucal Vault: Front Handspring. #2, p. 6-9. Ziemba, D. Medicine Ball Drills for Gynmastics. #10, p. 17-18

Telecommunications Achiron, K. NGJA Online. #7, p. 6-7 Harless, R. Employment Ad s Online. #7, p. 8 Harless, Rachele. What's New Online? #3, p. 5-6 Online Lockerroom Store: How to Order the 1997 Code of Points. #1, p. 39-41 Whitlock, S. USAGO in the Spotlight. #6, p. 4-5

Women's Program 1996 National TOP's Training Camp. #1, p. 7-8 1997 Jr. Olympic Element Supplement. #9, p. 34-36 1997 National Talent Opportunity Program (TOP's) Description. #6, p. 12-13 1997 World Championships Selection Procedures. #1, p. 38 Changes in Difficulty Values. #4, p. 32 Element Va lues for the Jr. Olympic Program That Differ from FIG. #4, p. 33 Elite lnterna tiona Program Conmuttee. #1, p. 38 Elite International and Elite Program Committee. #3, p. 38 Elite Program Committee. #1, p. 37 Elite Program Committee. #3, p . 39 Elite Program Conmuttee. #10, p . 38-39 Elite Program Committee. #4, p. 41-43 Jr. Olympic Program Committee Conference Call. #10, p. 33 & 42 Jr. Olympic Program Conuluttee. #10, p. 34 Judges Certification, Inc. #5, p. 42-43 Junior Olympic Program COilUluttee. #7, p. 32 Na tional Jr. Olympic Compulsory Master Workshop & Women's Technical

Comnuttee New Code Symposium. #3, p. 27 Selection Comnuttee. #3, p. 38 National Jr. Olympic Compulsory Master Workshop & Women's Tecluucal

Committee New Code SymposiUI11. #4, p. 27 National Jr. Olympic Compulsory Master Workshop & Women's Teclmical

Conmuttee New Code Symposium. #5, p. 27 Nominations for National AdmiIustrative Conmuttee Chair. #10, p. 37 Optional Rules for 1997-2001 Cycle for Level 8, 9 & 10. #4, p. 35-36 Pozsar, G. Dance Chat. #10, p. 26-27 Treiber, G. JLUUor Olympic Workshop. #7, p. 28-29 USA Gymnastics Jr. Olympic Vault Table (1997-2001). #4, p. 31 USA Gymnastics Judges' Compensation Package for Women's Artistic

Gymnastics. #8, p. 33-35 USA Gymnastics Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Workshops & WTC New Code SymposiLUns. #1, p. 29 USA Gynmastics Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Workshops & WTC New

Code Symposiums. #2, p . 26 National Jr. Olympic Compulsory Master Workshop & Women's Technical

Committee New Code Symposium. #2, p. 27 USA Gynulastics Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Workshops & WTC New

Code Symposiums. #3, p. 26 USA Gymnastics Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Workshops & WTC New

Code SymposiLU11S. #4, p . 26 USA GYllUlastics Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Workshops & WTC New

Code Symposiums. #5, p. 26 Wojtczuk, J. A Progression for Teaching the Stalder Handstand. #9, p. 16-19 Wojtczuk, J. Tecluucal Preparation for the Back Stalder and Late Toe-On. #9, p. 20 Women's AdmiIustrative Board. #4, p. 39-41 Women's Gymnastics Judges Certification Exam. #6, p. 17 Women's Jr. Olympic Compulsory Book Errata. #7, p. 31 Women's Jr. Olympic Technical HaIldbook for Coaches and Judges Errata. #10, p . 36-37 Women's Tecluucal Comnuttee Meeting. #10, p. 43-45 Women's Technical Committee. #10, p. 35 Women's Technical Conmuttee. #4, p. 38-39

( ... ____ T;.,;E;.,;C .... H .... N .... ' .... Q .... U;.;E ,_V .... O ........ L U;...M~E .... 1..;.8.:." #_1~ ____ }·· .................................. @

( Event Schedule ) [NOTE: Dates and events subiert to change or cancellation]

Updoted: 10-0[C-97

FEBRUARY 1998

13 2 M USA Gymnastics Winter Cup Challenge Houstan, TX Ron Galimore 317-237-5050 14 2 R Rhythmic Challenge Downers Grove, IL Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 21 2 W American Classic/American Challenge Orlando, FL Gary Warren 317-237-5050

MARCH 1998

5 3 MW VISA American Cup Ft. Worth, TX Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 8 1 MWR Internatianal 3 on 3 Gymnastics Championships Ft. Worth, TX J~ff Olsen 317-237-5050 27 2 MW Reebok International Team Champianships (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

4 1 M NCAA Regionals U. of Mass/U. of OK NCAA 913-339-1906 4 1 W NCAA Regianals Various Sites NCAA 913-339-1906 9 3 MW USA Gymnastics Collegiate Champianships New Haven, CT Gary Alexander 317-237-5050

11 W USA Gymnastics National Invitational Tournament Iowa City, IA Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 16 3 M NCAA Champianships Penn St. Univ. NCAA 913-339-1906 16 3 W NCAA National Championships Los Angeles, CA 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

7 3 M J.O. National Championships Battle Creek, MI Dennis Mcintyre 317-237-5050 8 4 W J.O. Championships Seattle, WA Connie Maloney 317-237-5050 8 3 R Rhythmic World Championships Seville, 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

JUNE 1998

5 3 R U.S. Rhythmic National Championships Colo. Spgs., CO Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 TBD W Elite Regionals Variaus Sites Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050

JULY 1998

10 3 W U.S. Challenge TBD Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050 10 3 MWR Senior Pacific Alliance Championships Winnipeg, CAN Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 18 16 MWR Goodwill Games New York, NY Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 30 4 W U.S. Classic/Natianal Gymnastics Festival TBD Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050

TBD 5 MWR PAGU Junior Championships Colo. Spgs., CO Gary Alexander 317-237-5050 TBD R Pan American Graup Championships TBD Nora Campbell 317-237-5050 TBD W Elite Regionals (International Only) Various Sites Kathy Kelly 317-237-5050

AUGUST 1998

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 28 2 GG PAGU General Gymnastics Instructor's Training Course Austin, TX Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050 29 3 GG USA Gymnastics National Gym Fest Austin, TX Steve Whitlock 317-237-5050

OCTOBER 1998

3 2 W TOP Natianal Testing TBD Gary Warren 317-237-5050 10 2 W TOP Natianal Testing TBD Gary Warren 317-237-5050 10 2 R J.O. Graup Championships TBD Nara Campbell 317-237-5050

DECEMBER 1999

5 2 W National TOP Training Camp TBD Gary Warren 317-237-5050 JANUARY 1999

30 MWR Reese's Gymnastics Cup TBD Jeff Olsen 317-237-5050 FEBRUARY 1999

10 4 M USA Gymnastics Winter Cup Challenge TBD Ran Galimore 317-237-5050

( TECHNIQUE, VOLUME 18,#1 } .................................... CE

1997 SAFETY CERTIFICATION SCHEDULE Updated 19-December-97 Minimum age for Safety Certification is 18 years. Pre-registration required at USA Gymnastics. Fax to 317-237-5069 with credit card payment or mail registration with payment.

February 1998 21 Son Marcos, CA;

1 :00-5:00 p.m. West (oost Gymnastics; 220 N. Bjngham Dr. #104 locol contact: Glen Wilson 760-744-8390 (ourse Dir: Nicki Geigert 760-943-6986

March 1998 7 Gainesville, Fl;

9:00 a.m_- l:00 p.m. Holiday Inn West (ourse Dir: Nelena Beck 352-493-7512; 352-378-8711

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

Name: _____________________ _ Soc. Sec. # Birth Date ______ _ Address: ____________________ _ City: State: Zip: ____ _ Telephone: (H) (W) ________ _

Course Director: ___________________ _ 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 Card: ___________________ _ Number: ___________________ _ Exp. Date: / Signature: _____________ _

14 Son Diego, (A;

3:00-7:00 p.m.

Mission Volley YM(A

local contact: Marlo Zumello

619-296-8411

(ourse Dir: Quin Shonnon

619-562-7667

15 Redwood (ity, CA;

1 :00-6:00 p_m_

Paragon Sports Tech Services

(ourse Dir: Steve Scoll

415-368-77 47

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

• Certificotion is good for four years_ • To achieve Safety Certification, the

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

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'

Bulk Rate U.S. Postage

PAID Permit No. 7B67 Indianapolis, IN

22 Gig Harbor, WA; 5:00-8:00 p_m_ Gig Harbor High School locol contact: linda Smith 253-851-7061 (ourse Dir: leigh Eoton 360-577-6274

April 1998 17 Tempe, AZ;

6:00-10:00 p_m.

Cost:

ASU or host hotel (TBA) (ourse Dir: Hiroshi Fujimoto 408-373-1694

Pro-Member with Current Safety Certification wishing 10 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. (If obtaining your professional or instructor membership at this time, please indicate date purchased) 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.