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NITTANY
GYMNASTICS
ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC Team
HANDBOOK
2014-2015
NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Welcome
Registration Procedure
Schedules
Cost of Gymnastics
Team Program Description & Goals
Competition Plan
Coaches' Travel Policy
Season Guidelines
Competition Guidelines
Mobility Guidelines
Discipline Procedures
Team Invitation Acceptance
**Gymnast Acceptance
**Parent Acceptance
**Medical Consent Form
**Photo, Video, Website Waiver
** Tentative Meet Schedule
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**Any Additional Papers in Italics must be printed off, completed and turned in no later than May 28, 2014**
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in the USAIGC team program at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. (NGA). If you are receiving
this information packet, your child has been invited to be a part of our USAIGC team program because our coaching staff
believes he/she has the talent to be successful in our sport. It is our intention to give you as much information as possible, so
that you can make an informed decision on whether you want your child to accept our invitation and receive the privilege of
being a part of our competitive team.
The USAIGC team will attend between 4-6 competitions a year and then have the option of attending post season
competitions, if they qualify based on the league guidelines.
There is a lot of information contained in this packet, and I urge you to consider all of it carefully, prior to making your
decision.
Gymnastics is different than most other sports, in that it trains gymnast's minds and body to work together. In addition to
becoming stronger and more flexible, gymnasts learn complete body control, concentration skills, and discipline of mind and
body. These benefits transfer to all other sports and to life in general.
We hope you find this information helpful in making your decision to join the team. Please let us know if you have any
questions, and again we thank you for your interest in the team program at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc.
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Team Registration Procedures
Team membership runs from June 1st to May 31st each year. The registration procedure for the team is outlined below, and
all forms must be submitted by May 28, 2014. All the forms you need to complete are included in this packet.
To register for the 2014-2015 season, you must:
•
•
•
•
•
Register online with JackRabbit. Go into your existing account, search USAIGC, and register for the
appropriate level. If you are uncertain, please ask your coach.
Complete the Medical Consent to Treat and have it notarized.
Read and sign the "Gymnast Acceptance of Team Invitation" form.
Read and sign the "Parent Acceptance of Team Invitation" form.
Pay the annual Registration Fee of $40.00.
We cannot have anyone participate in our team program after May 31st unless they have completed the registration
procedure. So, please remember to complete your registration by May 28, 2014, so that your child will not miss any team
practices in the month of June.
Tuition:
Bronze & Silver
$178.00 / month
Copper
$168.00 / month
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Tentative Summer Schedule
IGC - 10 (hours per week)
Levels - Bronze, Silver, Gold
Tuesday, Thursday
Friday
5:30pm-8:30pm
4:00pm-8:00pm
IGC - 8 (hours per week)
Levels - Copper
Tuesday, Thursday
Friday
5:30pm-8:00pm
4:00pm-7:00pm
Dates to remember:
Current 2013-2014 Scheduled practice times through June 15th
Summer Schedule and new team members begin on
Monday, June 16
Week of July 4-13—GYM CLOSED
Week of August 18-24---GYM CLOSED
Fall Practices begin—Wednesday, August 27th
Tentative Fall Schedule
IGC – 10 (hours per week)
Levels – Silver, Gold
Monday, Wednesday
Sunday
IGC – 10 (hours per week)
Levels – Bronze
Tuesday, Thursday
Sunday
6:00pm - 9:00pm
4:00pm - 8:00pm
6:00pm – 9:00pm
4:00pm - 8:00pm
IGC - 8 (hours per week)
Levels - Copper
Tuesday, Thursday
Sunday
6:00pm - 8:30pm
4:00pm - 7:00pm
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Cost of Gymnastics
1) Gymnastics is a very expensive sport. It is by far not the most expensive, but it is by far not the least
expensive. Many factors add to the expense of the sport.
a. Tuition
i. Unlike many other youth sports that are coached by volunteer parent coaches, either
full or part time professional coaches coach gymnastics.
ii. Facilities - Competitive gymnastics must be done in a large building without support
poles for the roof, with ceiling heights exceeding 20 feet (recreational & preschool
gymnastics do not have the same specific space requirements.)
iii. Equipment - Competitive gymnastics is done on very expensive equipment, surrounded
by very expensive mats. For example, the new competitive vault table we purchased cost over
$2,500 and is only used by the competitive teams. Average new equipment costs for gymnastics
range from $15,000 for a spring floor system, to $2,500 for a balance beam, to $3,000 for a set of
uneven bars and $500 - $1,000 per mat.
iv. Utilities - There is a substantial amount of time that the gym is open for team use, and
it is very expensive to both heat and cool a large facility.
v. Insurance - Liability rates for competitive gymnasts are substantially higher than for
other participants in gymnastics.
b. Competitive Costs. Parents are also responsible for the following competitive costs:
i. Meet entry fees
ii. Meet coaching fees and coaches travel expenses
iii. Gymnast travel expenses
c. Gymnasts will need to have the following:
i. Competition Leotard
ii. Competition Warm Up
iii. Nittany Gymnastics Team Competition Bag
d. Buying and Selling of Leotards and Warm Up Suits
i. Leotards and Warm Up Jacket and Pants can be resold each year as necessary. If
someone is selling a leotard, warm up jacket or warm up pant, please sign up your size on the
uniform sell/buy form. Before any money is exchanged or sells become final---all parts must be
approved by the head coach. This is to ensure that the uniform is in good condition and that it fits
properly. If someone cannot buy a used item, and need to order a new item, that needs to be charted
as well.
ii. Any team apparel, including leos, jackets, pants, etc. may only be sold to Team members,
not the general public in the leotard sell in the fall.
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Team Program Description & Goals
This section is designed to clearly explain the team program at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc., and our organizational
goals for that program. This section is divided into three parts: 1) a team program description, 2) organizational goals for our
team program, and 3) an organizational chart for Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc., as it relates to our team program.
1. The Team Program at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc.
a. Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. is a member club of both the USA Gymnastics (USAG), which is
the governing body for the sport of gymnastics for the US Olympic Committee and the United States Association
of Independent gymnastics Clubs, Inc (USAIGC). Our Boys and Girls Competitive Teams compete in meets
sanctioned by the USAG and USAIGC.
b. Our team program consists of a Boys' Jr. Olympic USAG Team, Girls' Jr. Olympic USAG Team and a
Girls' USAIGC Team, all have additional levels within each program.
c. The USAIGC team is for gymnasts that want a limited competitive experience and is set up
completely different than our other Competitive Teams.
d. Mike Rizzuto will continue to develop the "Program" at Nittany to help all participants achieve their
goals in the sport. Mike will also continue to help the coaching staff develop as coaches and help them achieve
their career goals.
e. Amy Riefel is the Head Coach of the Girls' Jr. Olympic USAG Team.
f. Mark Davis is the Head Coach of the Boys' Jr. Olympic USAG Team
g. Chris Deyo is the Head Coach of the USAIGC Team.
2. Organizational Goals for the Team Program at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc.
a. The goals of the management at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. for the team are as follows:
i. To continue to offer a boys and girls competitive team programs.
ii. To have a competitive team program that does not generate a loss for the gym.
iii. To have an atmosphere where our team coaches enjoy coming to work, and have the
opportunity to achieve their career goals in the sport.
iv. To have a team community in the gym, where the coaches, gymnasts and parents all
work as a team for the benefit of the children in the program.
v. To have the highest level of team possible based on the success of our competitors.
vi. To be successful in competition, respected and feared by other teams.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Levels of Competition
1. Copper Level Requirements
a. Beginner Competitive Gymnasts
i. Vault:
1. Handspring Vault Drill to Stack Mat
ii. Bars:
1. Back Pullover
2. Cast to 45'
3. Circling Element
4. Push Away, Sole Circle or Underswing Dismount
iii.
Beam
1. ¾ Handstand
2. 60' Leap
3. Gym Series, 2 Elements
4. “A” Dismount
Floor
iv.
1. Acro Series with 2 or more Elements
2. 90' Leap
3. Handstand for 2 sec.
4. 180' Turn
2. Bronze Level Requirements
a. Entry Level Competition Level
i. Vault:
1. Handspring, ¼ - ½ on over Vault Table
ii. Bars:
1. One Bar Change
2. Cast to Horizontal
3. Forward or Backward Circling Element
4. Underswing, Sole Circle or Flyaway Dismount
v.
Beam
1. Non-Flight Acro through Vertical
2. 90' Leap
3. 90' Leap Pass with 2 Elements
4. "A" Dismount
Floor
vi.
1. Acro Series with 2 or more Fast Flight Elements
2. 120’ Leap Pass with 2 Elements
3. Dance/Acro Series to show Strength/Flexibility
4. 360' Turn
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
3. Silver Level Requirements
a. Intermediate Level
i. Vault:
1. Handspring, ¼ - ½ on over Vault Table
ii. Bars:
1. 1 Bar Change
2. Cast to 30' Above Horizontal
3. Circling Element
4. Salto Dismount
vii.
Beam
1. Flight Element
2. 360' Turn
3. 120' Leap Pass with 2 Elements
4. Salto or Aerial Dismount
Floor
viii.
1. 3 Element Acro Series with 1 Salto
2. 135’ Leap Pass with 2 Elements
3. Front Acro Series with 2 or more Elements
4. "B" Turn
4. Gold Level Requirements
a. Intermediate Level
i. Vault:
1. All Groups Valued at 9.90 or Less
ii. Bars:
1. 1 Bar Change
2. "B" Element with Flight or Turn
3. Circling Element, 60' or above
4. Salto Dismount
ix.
Beam
1. Acro Series, 1 with Flight
2. 360' Turn
3. 135’ Leap Pass with 2 Elements
4. "B" Salto or “B” Element in Series prior to an “A” Element
Floor
x.
1. Double Salto Series
2. Acro Series of 3 or more Fast Flight Elements with 1 Salto
3. 150’ Leap Pass with 2 Elements
4. "B" Turn
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
5. Routine Choreography
a. All of the routines will be created or approved by the head coach each year.
b. Routines will be taught by an appropriate member of the Nittany Gymnastics Coaching Staff.
i. Sessions to learn the Floor and Beam Routines will be scheduled in early Fall.
d. Routines are made by requirements set by USAIGC, but will have some versatility to achieve
individual success.
e. Copper & Bronze Level gymnasts will have the same base Beam and Floor routines.
f. Any Silver or Gold Level gymnast may have their own routines choreographed by a professional.
The professional choreographer may charge their own additional fee, which is paid by the gymnast
directly.
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Coaches Travel Policy
Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. has set the following policies concerning the travel of our team coaches to gymnastics
competitions. These policies have been established for several reasons. First, these policies are designed to provide the best
competitive experience for all team gymnasts by maximizing the coaches' ability to coach at a competition through proper
travel planning. Second, these policies are designed to establish cost controls for travel expenditures to keep costs at a
minimum without having an impact on the competitive performance of the team. Third, the se policies will assist the Nittany
Gymnastics Team, Inc. in its budget process by establishing more predictable expenses for competitions. Finally, these
policies will eliminate confusion and prevent misunderstandings.
1. Procedures for coaches travel
a. General travel plans for the competition will be made by the Head Coach concerning departure.
2. Coaching Fees.
a. Coaches shall be paid $75 per session they coach at the competition.
b. Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc., as part of their paycheck, will pay the coaching session fees
to the coaches. As a result, Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. will reimburse Nittany Gymnastics Academy,
Inc. for the employer payroll expenses directly attributed to the additional wages (employers share of social
security, Medicare, unemployment, and workers compensation). This shall be reimbursed at a rate of 15% of
the coaching session fees.
3. Mileage Reimbursement.
a. Coaches will drive together to competitions. The coach will drive their car to the competition
and will be reimbursed for mileage at the federal rate of $.56 per mile.
b. If a circumstance arises that the coaches drive separately, only one car will be reimbursed.
c. Coaches are not allowed to travel to competitions with team parents for the following reasons:
i. Situations have arisen in the past that have caused conflicts among the parents when a
coach traveled with one parent and not another. Accusations of favoritism, inside information,
gossip, etc. has caused many problems among the parents and for the coaches in the past.
ii. As has happened, coaches could be stranded without a ride if the transporting parent is
unable to travel or an emergency situation arises for that parent.
iii. The potential exists for creating additional conflict following a meet where a gymnast
either performs very poorly, or is disciplined by the coach during the competition. Coaches,
parents, and gymnasts should not be subjected to an extended car ride together following such a meet.
4. Parking/Tolls.
a. Coaches will be reimbursed for parking and toll expenses, including charges for hotel parking,
which are incurred by coaches while traveling to and from competitions. Receipts must be provided.
b. Coaches will not be reimbursed for speeding tickets, parking tickets or fines and any other
vehicle expenses not listed in this policy.
5. Meals.
a. Coaches will receive a per diem for the cost of meals while traveling to competitions. The per
diem will be $50 per day calculated as follows:
i. Breakfast = $10.00
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
ii. Lunch = $15.00
iii. Dinner = $25.00
b. The per diem is paid from the time travel commences from the State College area until the time
travel ends back in the State College area. Coaches will receive the per diem based on the
following schedule:
i. Breakfast - time is until 11:00am
ii. Lunch - 11:00am until 4:00pm
iii. Dinner – 4:00pm and after
c. Receipts will not be necessary to receive the per diem for meals.
6. Lodging.
a. Coaches shall determine when an overnight stay is necessary based on the following criteria:
i. If the competition schedule and location are such that it would require the coach to leave
their residence earlier than 6:00 am.
ii. If competition is on more than 2 consecutive days, then hotel stay is warranted on nights
between the days of competition. If the meet is relatively close (within 90 miles), coaches have the
option of driving back and forth rather than stay in a hotel unless the mileage would result in a
substantially greater expense than a hotel room.
iii. If the coach will coach in three or more sessions on one day, then an overnight stay the
night before or the night after is allowed at the option of the coach.
iv. If the competition schedule and location are such that it would require a coach to return
to their residence later than 12:00 am, coaches have the option of staying in a hotel the night after a
competition.
v. In winter, if bad weather is forecasted for the day of travel, coaches have the option of
traveling the day before the storm (going to the meet) or the day after the storm (returning from
the meet) in order to avoid dangerous driving conditions. Overnight stays are allowed in these
situations.
b. Coaches will be reimbursed for only the basic hotel room charges. No other room charges
(phone, movies, room service, etc.) will be reimbursed and are the responsibility of the coach.
7. Air Travel.
a. The following factors will be taken into consideration when determining if air travel is
necessary:
i. Travel would require more than 8 hours driving time.
ii. The duration of the trip and the amount of school that would be missed by auto travel.
iii. The safety level of air travel based on the terror alert at the time.
b. When arranging air travel, the lowest total cost of the fare will be chosen, taking into
consideration the time constraints, and the expense of traveling to other airports. Travel from airports within
a two or three-hour drive might be appropriate for longer trips, but might not be possible for trips of a short
duration. Costs of parking, mileage, etc. will be taken into consideration when determining if departing
from an airport other than State College is the lowest fare.
c. Coaches traveling on behalf of Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. may accept and retain frequent
flyer miles and compensation for denied boarding for their personal use. However, no individuals shall
deliberately patronize a single airline to accumulate frequent flyer miles if less expensive comparable tickets
are available on another airline.
d. Coaches will also be reimbursed for airport parking when air travel is indicated. Coaches should
use long term parking facilities whenever possible.
e. Ground transportation to/from airports.
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
i. Coaches are expected to use the most economical ground transportation to/from airports
appropriate under the circumstances and should generally use the following, in this
order of desirability:
1. Hotel Courtesy Car - when available
2. Airport Shuttle or Bus
3. Taxi
ii. Rental cars are appropriate for extended stays, or when travel between the hotel and
meet site is necessary.
8. Receipts.
a. Receipts will be required of all expenses to be reimbursed, with the exception of meals and
mileage.
9. Non-reimbursed Expenses
a. All other expenses not expressly listed in this travel policy, will be the sole responsibility of th e
coach, unless prior approval of the expense is obtained from both Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. AND
Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc.
b. Personal Expenses & Spousal/Family Travel
i. Coaches traveling on behalf of Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. may incorporate personal
travel or business with their Gymnastics-related trips; however, coaches shall not arrange
Gymnastics travel involving greater expense to Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. in order to
accommodate personal travel plans. Any additional expenses incurred as a result of personal travel,
including but not limited to; extra hotel nights, additional stopovers, meals or transportation,
upgrade in hotel or airfare, are the sole responsibility of the individual and will not be reimbursed by
either Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc., or by Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. In addition,
expenses associated with the travel of an individual's spouse or family members (who are not
members of the team) will not be reimbursed.
ii. If there is a hotel cost difference for the coach’s family to attend, the team will only reimburse the basic
room charge.
iii. Family members of coaches who are also members of the Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc.
will receive the same travel benefits as team members who are not family members of coaches.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
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Season Guidelines
o
Warm-Up is one of the most important, if not the most important, part of a practice. Please have your
gymnast here 15 minutes before the designated start time.
o
Attendance at all practices is strongly encouraged. If you are aware of a planned absence, please notify
the Head Coach immediately.
o
Gymnasts are expected to remain through the scheduled end of all practices. If a gymnast needs to
leave early, they must request this of their coach prior to the start of practice.
o
For the safety of all, parents are prohibited from entering the gym at any time. Repeated
violation of this rule will be grounds for their child's dismissal from the team. If a parent should need something, they
should go to the front desk for help. All questions for the coach should be directed prior to the start of practice or at
the completion of practice.
o
Practices are closed for viewing to parents and family members. Only the first 15 minutes and last 15
minutes are family viewing times practices. Some reasons for this are: the growing number of spectators in our
lobby, the gymnasts need to learn to perform for themselves and their coaches, and to help keep gossip to a minimum.
All teams at Nittany will have closed practices.
o
Team tuition is based on an annual cost for participation in the program, not an hourly or daily rate.
Therefore, there are never any adjustments to tuition for missed practices, holidays, vacations, injuries, or leave of
absences.
o
Gymnasts are expected to show respect to all coaches, staff, other gymnasts, cheerleaders and class
students. Gymnasts are also expected treat our facility and equipment with respect.
o
Gymnasts are expected to put forth the effort at practice to continue to develop as gymnasts. They will
be expected to make corrections given to them by the coaches.
o
Cell Phones are not permitted to be used at practice. If there is an emergency, parents should contact
the gym.
o
Practices can be cancelled at any time, for any reason. Make-ups will not be given.
o
If at any time a parent has a concern with their child, parents are asked to address your gymnast's
primary coach first, and if there are still any issues the Head Coach will further help with any concerns.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
o
We ask that parents refrain from comparing their gymnast to other gymnasts on our team. Each
gymnast progresses at different rates and levels.
o
No parent is to discuss the performance of other gymnasts to other parents. This causes animosity
within our team. Gossiping is not a trait we want on our program. If any parent, or group of parents, is found to be
talking negatively about any gymnast(s), the coaching staff, or the Nittany Gymnastics Program, their gymnast(s)
will be suspended for a one (1) week period. We want to build a team friendly environment, not foster animosity.
o
No 2-piece leotards will be permitted. This is a safety concern with the coaching staff in regards to
spotting.
o
Gymnasts will wear proper attire at all practices. These are all for safety reasons.
I. Jewelry (except for 1 small post earring in each ear) is not permitted at any time.
II. Female gymnasts must come to practice with their hair tightly secured back in a ponytail, or in
instances of shorter hair, tied away from the face.
o
No body piercings are allowed, for obvious safety reasons.
o
Gymnasts are not permitted to chew gum at practice.
o
Please have your gymnast keep a roll of tape in their bag, in case it is needed for any reason.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Competition Guidelines
o
All gymnasts must be at the meet site at least 15 minutes prior to the designated stretch time, or the
time established by the coach. This is to ensure that all gymnasts get enough warm up time, and that the gymnast
is present and prepared to begin warm up early in case the meet is running ahead.
o
Cell phones are not permitted at competitions. Please give phones to parents to hold.
o
The Head Coach will register the gymnasts for each meet. Once registered, a gymnast is required to
go to the meet. If the gymnast does not attend the meet without proper notice, they are still responsible for the
financial duties of that meet.
o
The Head Coach will handle the paperwork necessary for meet entries. The coaching staff will
ensure that all information is correct and all gymnasts are correctly entered in the competition. The coaching staff
will return the approved meet information to the assigned representative for submission with payment to the
host organization.
o
Meet entries are usually due a month or more prior to the event date. Final meet information is
usually not received until 7-14 days prior to the event. As soon as we receive the information it will be posted.
o
A "Competition" is determined to begin at the commencement of Open Stretch and to end upon the
conclusion of Awards presentation. During this time, gymnasts are under the exclusive direction of their coach.
During this time, parents are to maintain the role of "spectator" only.
o
Gymnasts must remain throughout the awards ceremony, even after their age group is completed.
If there is a special circumstance, it must be discussed with the coach prior to the competition. We want them to
be supportive and show good sportsmanlike conduct to all team members and fellow teams.
o
Parents may not have contact with a meet official at a competition site.
o
Parents will have minimal contact with their children once competition begins. Please let your
gymnasts focus on their performance at the competition. Parents are to stay in the spectator seating area for
awards and may not sit with the gymnast.
o
Competitions can be held on Fridays, Saturdays, and/or Sundays. Days and Times of the levels is
determined on total number of competitors, days available, size of competition and venue, and judging plans.
We do not have any control over this as a gym.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
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o
It is each gymnast's responsibility to have all of the items needed for competition with them.
This includes: warm-up and competition uniform, grips and copies of floor music (if necessary).
o
At competitions, the foods that gymnasts may bring with them include:
a. PowerBars
b. Vegetables
c. Fruits
d. Nuts
e. Gatorade
f. Water
o
Gymnasts are to have clean, natural nails during a competition.
o
State, Regional and National competitions have qualifying scores that must be attained to be
entered. All other competitions will have standards for entry determined by the Nittany coaching staff.
o
Please remember that you are your child's biggest supporter and that you should always remain
encouraging.
o
The Goals for Competition are to: Improve, Learn and have Fun.
a. Improvement is based on hard work between competitions, and a focused effort.
b. Learning comes from an honest, objective evaluation of a gymnast's performance. (Although the
Judges' scores usually help with this, they are subjective, and not directly correlated to any prior
performance. Please keep this in mind.)
c. Fun comes from being confident in yourself and your preparation, working with and supporting
your teammates, meeting and enjoying the efforts of your fellow competitors, and taking in the whole
experience of the competition. These are things you can control. Good scores and awards can also make it
fun; however, these are things you cannot necessarily control.
d. Gymnastics is a subjective sport. A gymnast competes "against" him/herself. They are then
placed "among" their fellow competitors; and not always accurately, as judges are also human.
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USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
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Mobility Guidelines
1) Only gymnasts who have obtained all the required skills and combinations of their current
competitive level will be considered for moving to the next level. This includes not only the skills, but also the
designated amplitude.
2) We do not have score requirements outside of those set by USAIGC.
3) Score Qualifications set by USAIGC are:
a) Copper Level:
i. 29.00 AA
ii. 31.00 AA
b) Bronze Level:
i. 31.50 AA
ii. 34.00 AA
c) Silver Level:
i. 31.50 AA
ii. 33.50 AA
from Local to State/Regional
from State/Regional to Nationals
from Local to State/Regional
from State/Regional to Nationals
from Local to State/Regional
from State/Regional to Nationals
d) Gold Level:
i. 31.00 AA
ii. 33.00 AA
from Local to State/Regional
from State/Regional to Nationals
4) We have set specific skill or element requirements for each level. Gymnasts who substantially meet
those requirements 90% of the time will be considered for mobility.
5) Staff limitations will also be taken into consideration. If we do not have sufficient staff to attend all
levels of competition, we may eliminate a level from competition.
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Discipline Procedures
Behavioral Expectations:
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
Participants will follow ALL safety rules, at ALL times.
Participants will treat all coaches, instructors and staff members with respect.
Participants will follow all instructions given by coaches, instructors and staff members. Participants
will treat all fellow participants with respect.
Participants will never engage in fighting, horseplay or any other dangerous behavior.
Participants will remain with their team, in the designated area, at all times, and will only leave with the permission of
the coach, instructor, or staff member.
7) Participants will concentrate on what they are doing, and avoid distractions, which can be dangerous,
and will prevent them from progressing.
8) Participants will be cooperative, helpful, and never disruptive.
9) Participants will maintain a positive attitude and perform all required tasks to the best of their ability. 10) Participants
will treat siblings with the same respect as all other participants.
Disciplinary Steps:
1) First Offense: Verbal Warning
2) Second Offense: Gymnast will complete a strength activity (ropes, push-ups, etc)
3) Third Offense: Gymnast will be asked to stop workout and sit out. Third offenses will follow up with a
parent notification. If the behavior continues after sitting out, a meeting with the parents will be scheduled.
4) If this system does not seem to solve the discipline issues, the coaches will decide which action needs to
be taken.
**It is not a right to be on team but a privilege, and this privilege can be revoked at any time by the Head Coach.
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Team Invitation Acceptance
Membership on the team at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. is and has always been a privilege extended by the team
coaches by invitation to certain children in our instructional program. The privilege of being on the team does not turn into a
right to be on the team, once someone becomes a member of the team. Invitations will be extended from the coaching staff to
those individuals who have lived up to their obligations to the gym, to the team, and to the coaching staff during the previous
year. The invitation to be on the team will be for a period of one year, subject to probationary periods that may be set by the
coaching staff, and will be reviewed by the coaches on an ongoing basis. Invitations may be rescinded based on our formal
disciplinary procedures, or at any time, based on the failure of the team member to fulfill their obligations as set out on the
attached acceptance agreements.
We are holding the gymnasts responsible for their actions, and we have read the Gymnast Acceptance of Team Invitation form
to each level of team in practice. We have explained that this is not a social club, and we are here to improve as gymnasts and
as individuals. Malicious or mean behavior toward team members or coaches will not be tolerated by other gymnasts or by
parents in our lobby, gym, or parking lot. Our office staff has been put on alert to inform us of this type of behavior by parents
in the lobby or parking lot.
We are dedicated to making this a POSITIVE experience for everyone involved in our program. With everyone's
cooperation we can make this a reality.
Thank you for being a part of our program, and congratulations on your invitation to join the team for the upcoming year.
Amy Riefel
Manager
Girls Team Head Coach
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
I, the below named gymnast understand that membership on the team at Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. is a
PRIVILEGE, and I accept the invitation to be on the team and agree as follows: I will,
1. Follow ALL safety rules.
2. Treat all coaches, staff members, teammates and class children with respect.
3. Meet the behavioral expectations set out in the gym disciplinary procedures, and agree to be subject to
discipline according to those guidelines.
4. Follow all instructions given by coaches, instructors and staff members. 5. Never
engage in fighting, horseplay or any other dangerous behavior.
6. Remain with my team, in the designated area, at all times, and will only leave with the permission of the
coach, instructor, or staff member.
7. Concentrate on what I am doing, and avoid distractions, which can be dangerous, and prevent me from
progressing.
8. Not have social contact with other team members during practice time that is inappropriate (flirt ing, gossip,
excluding other teammates, teaming up against another teammate, or other behavior that is intentionally hurtful to a
teammate).
9. Be cooperative, helpful, and never disruptive.
10.Maintain a positive attitude and perform all required tasks to the best of my ability.
11. Be a positive influence in the gym, at competitions and in the community and will offer help and leadership to
all of my team members.
12. Dress appropriately (no jewelry, no loose clothing, hair appropriately contained, no gum chewing) 13.
Have my cell phone turned off while I am at the gym.
14. Not attend practice or any other team function while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 15. Not
let any attitude problems I may have, affect anyone else on my team.
16. Do the warm-up, strength, flexibility, and dance that is required for my particular competitive level, to the
best of my ability.
17. Adhere to all Season and Competition Guidelines to the best of my ability. 18. Meet
all the requirements set for competing at my level. 19. Attend all required competitions
set by the coach.
I further understand and agree that failure to live up to these obligations will lead to one of the following disciplinary
actions:
1. I will be removed from practice.
2. I will be temporarily removed from the team. 3. I will be
permanently removed from the team.
Finally, I understand that the above rules are intended to help me become the best gymnast and person that I am capable of
becoming, and are designed for my safety and the safety of others in the gym.
___________________________________
Gymnasts' Signature
____________________________
Print Name & Date
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NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
I/We the parent (s) of the above-mentioned gymnast understand that membership on the team at Nittany Gymnastics
Academy is a PRIVILEGE, and I/we agree to fulfill the following obligations as a condition of accepting the invitation for
membership on the team.
1.
I/We understand that participation in the team program involves a, 12 MONTH FINANCIAL COMMITMENT.
I/We understand that the monthly tuition is based on the number of hours of practice for the year for which the gym is
scheduled to be open (the gym is scheduled to be closed for 5 weeks during the year). The total discounted tuition for
the year is then divided by twelve (12) to come up with the monthly tuition. This tuition does not include any charge
for practices held during the weeks the gym is scheduled to be closed, and is offered at a substantial discount (49% 75% off our hourly class rate).
2. I/We understand that because of the discounted team tuition rate, there will be no makeup classes provided for team
practices cancelled for weather or any other reason, and that the coaching staff reserves the right to cancel practice at
their discretion.
3. I/We understand that tuition is due and payable regardless of whether our child attends practice, except in the case of
prolonged illness or injury that renders the gymnast completely unable to participate in practice, for which a Doctor's
excuse is required. Normal sports related injuries, which do not prevent the gymnast from working strength,
flexibility, drills, or rehabilitation during practice time do not qualify for this exception.
I/We will be members in good standing in Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc., a completely separate organization from
4. Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. These obligations include paying membership dues, and paying all competition
fees for my child's competitive level. Membership in Nittany Gymnastics Team, Inc. is
mandatory for all families who wish to participate in the Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc. team programs.
I/We will be a positive influence in the gym, gym lobby and at competitions. I/We will not engage in gossip concerning
5. the gym or team, nor will we say inappropriate negative comments about team members or coaches, on the gym
premises, including the parking lot.
I/We understand that during practice and competitions I/we are not allowed to enter the gym or competition area.
6. I/We will not give direction or suggestions on coaching matters during practice or at competitions, and will limit my
observation time to those set by the coaching staff.
7. I/We understand that any concerns regarding my/our child will be discussed in a meeting arranged with the coach,
scheduled around his/her coaching schedule. I/We will not approach the coach with questions either immediately
8. before practice or during practice.
I/We have read and agree to follow the conflict resolution policy of Nittany Gymnastics Academy, Inc., rather than
criticize or complain.
9. I/We have read, understand, and agree to the obligations and rules contained in my/our child's invitation acceptance
sheet, and further agree to help our child fulfill their obligations.
10. I/We understand that failure to live up to the obligations listed on this sheet may result in our child being removed
from practice, temporarily suspended from the team, or permanently removed from the team.
11.
___________________________________
Print Gymnast Name
___________________________________
Parents' signature
___________________________________
Parents' signature
______________________
Date
______________________
Date
22
NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
Medical Consent to Treat
In the event that I am unavailable for purposes of providing parental consent, I hereby authorize the physician(s) an d staff in the
Emergency/Outpatient Department of the treating hospital to provide such medical care that includes routine diagnostic proced ures and medical
treatment as necessary to my minor son/daughter.
___________________________________________________
Full Name
I understand that the consent and authorization herein granted does not include major surgical procedures, unless necessary to save the individual's
life.
This consent is valid for one year from the date indicated below. A copy of this authorization shall be considered as effective and valid as the
original.
Physical conditions of the minor noted above that the physician should be aware of, (allergies, recurring illnesses, disabili ties, chronic
illnesses, medications, date of last tetanus immunizations, etc.)
___________________________________________________________________________________
I understand that I will be contacted as soon as possible in the event that my child is brought to the hospital for treatment. If I am not
available please contact _____________________________________ Phone
_________________________.
I also consent to the release of a report containing diagnoses and other medical information related to the examination and treatment of the above
patient to such agencies, including insurance companies, as might be considered with payment of charges for hospital services.
__________________________________
Insurance Carrier
______________________________________
Signature of Parent/Guardian
Date
__________________________________
Policy Number
______________________________________
Relationship
__________________________________
Group Number
______________________________________
Address
____________________/__________________
Home Phone
Cell/Work Phone
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA )
COUNTY OF CENTRE
) SS:
On this the _______day of __________, 20____, before me a notary public, the undersigned officer, personally appeared
_____________________________ known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the
within instrument and acknowledged that he/she executed the same for the purposes therein contained.
In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.
___________________________________
Notary Public
23
NITTANY GYMNASTICS ACADEMY, INC.
USAIGC TEAM HANDBOOK
2014-2015
PHOTO, VIDEO, WEBSITE WAIVER
Dear Parent/Guardian:
In order to use student photos or video or video clips on the Nittany Gymnastics website, or release
photographs or video footage to any other media (i.e. newspaper, advertisements, or television), we need written
permission. To give your consent to have your child/children photographed or videotaped, please complete the form
below.
I, parent/guardian of
___________________________________________________________________________
, hereby give my permission to use photographs and/or video footage of my son/daughter.
•
•
•
I understand that no last names will be used on the Nittany Gymnastics website, but it is possible that
names may be used in public media such as newspaper or television.
I understand that the general public may view the website and other media to which photographs or
video is released.
I understand that singing this form, I authorize use of the photographs and/or video footage on the
Nittany Gymnastics website or other media.
Signature of parent or guardian:______________________________________________
Date:_____________________
24

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