BTYC GYMNASTICS 2019 Squad Athlete Handbook - Men's Artistic Gymnastics (MAG) Women's Artistic Gymnastics (WAG)
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BTYC
GYMNASTICS
2019
Squad Athlete Handbook
Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG)
Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG)
Gymstar
360 Springvale Road, Donvale
Ph: (03) 9841 4773
www.btycgymnastics.org.auCONTENTS
Category Detail Page No.
GENERAL 3
Committee / Staff 3
Policies & Procedures 3
Communication 4
Payment of Fees 4
Discipline 4
Medical Conditions 4
Squad duty requirements 5
Gymnast Code of Conduct 6
Parent Code of Conduct 7
MEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS (MAG) 8
Common Questions & Answers 8
Training 8
Competitions 10
WOMEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS (WAG) 13
Common Questions & Answers 13
Training 13
Competitions 15
GYMSTAR 19
Common Questions & Answers 19
Training 19
Competitions 20
2GENERAL INFORMATION
The information in this Handbook has been provided to advise BTYC squad athletes and their families of
essential information which relates to squad athletes. The Handbook contains both general information and
information specific to each squad program (Men’s Artistic Gymnastics, Women’s Artistic Gymnastics,
Trampoline & Tumbling and Gymstar) in the form of a ‘Common Questions & Answers’ section.
If you have any questions or require any further information about the club or program, please refer to your
program’s Program Manager. Additional information can be requested on your child’s performance from the
Coach or about the facility through the General Manager (contact details below).
COMMITTEE / STAFF
BTYC Gymnastics is a ‘committee-run organisation’. The BTYC Committee of Management meets once per
month to look at the strategic and budgeting aspects of the Club. It is vital to maintain a strong Committee
to ensure the successful running of our Club. The Committee aims to have at least one parent representative
from each Program on the Committee at all times.
If you are interested in joining the committee, please speak with either the General Manager or Club President.
BTYC Gymnastics is a ‘Not for Profit’ sporting Club, and as such, relies heavily on parent involvement and help
in a variety of different areas throughout the year. You will receive regular e-mails and notices advising of
any assistance sought with competitions, Club activities etc.
The following staff are responsible for day-to-day operations at BTYC Gymnastics:
Program Role Name E-Mail
Office General Manager David Hunsdale david@btycgymnastics.org.au
Office Manager Susie Guttmann susie@btycgymnastics.org.au
Accounts Debra Tomsett accounts@btycgymnastics.org.au
Customer Service representative Thomas Kirishian admin@btycgymnastics.org.au
Customer Service representative Adele Wilkie office@btycgymnastics.org.au
Child Safety Champions Alysha Browne alysha@btycgymnastics.org.au
Jess Cornelissen jess@btycgymnastics.org.au
MAG MAG Program Manager Chris Downie chris@btycgymnastics.org.au
WAG WAG Program Manager Alysha Browne alysha@btycgymnastics.org.au
Gymstar Gymstar Program Manager Jess Cornelissen jess@btycgymnastics.org.au
The primary contact point for all squad queries is the Program Manager for each program.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
BTYC Gymnastics has a number of Club Rules, Policies and Procedures that relate to squads and general
operations. This information, along with other valuable information, can be viewed at the BTYC website –
www.btycgymnastics.org.au.
3PAYMENT OF SQUAD FEES
BTYC’s preferred method of payment is through automated monthly direct debit. This can be set-up through
the parent portal, by inputting valid credit card details on to your account. Your relevant monthly charge
details are sent with initial squad offers, usually at the end of each year.
Please note:
• Any gymnast who chooses to withdraw from the WAG, MAG or Gymstar programs are
required to give four weeks written notice.
• Any gymnast who chooses to withdraw from an ‘Optional’ session will need to complete the
current calendar month, regardless of attendance, before having the Optional class charge
removed from their account.
COMMUNICATION
A vital key to the success of any program at our Club is ‘parents’. From the commencement of the term, we
endeavour to establish effective methods of communication between the Club, Coaches and parents. This
helps to ensure a clear understanding of Club program expectations, protocols and policies. To achieve this,
we hold meetings each year with squads and their Coach to ensure that families are well informed and able
to be part of each athlete’s learning experience at BTYC.
Should you need to meet with your Coach, please arrange a time either before or after a training session.
Under no circumstances should the Coach be approached during a training session.
BTYC has a policy to deal with the handling of complaints. In the event that you wish to make a complaint,
please speak with your child’s Coach in the first instance. If the matter is unable to be resolved, or it’s not
appropriate to speak with the Coach, the matter should be raised with the relevant Program Manager. Options
for further escalation can be outlined at this point, if needed to the General Manager.
If the matter relates to Child Safety, the appropriate contact is our Child Safety Champions, Jess Cornelissen
(jess@btycgymnastics.org.au) and Alysha Browne (alysha@btycgymnastics.org.au). For Member Protection
Information please contact David Hunsdale, who can be contacted at david@btycgymnastics.org.au
DISCIPLINE
BTYC Gymnastics has a specific policy which outlines the process in the event that an athlete breaches the
Gymnast Code of Conduct. Consequences depend on the severity of the breach and will include, but are not
limited to, the following:
• issuing a warning, requiring verbal or written apology;
• a letter of reprimand from BTYC Gymnastics Club Inc.;
• counseling from the Program Manager or General Manager; and / or
• removal / suspension from the Club.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
BTYC Gymnastics is an inclusive Club and will invite athletes with special needs into squads if they have the
necessary skills to partake at that level. We also have a comprehensive asthma policy and anaphylaxis policy
to ensure that all participants are catered for.
It is essential that families advise the Club of any medical conditions prior to commencing training.
Any athlete who requires medical attention for an injury obtained within or outside of the Club, is required to
supply a medical certificate and documentation from their medical practitioner regarding activities that can
and cannot be completed by the athlete. BTYC are accommodating of athletes who are carrying injuries, and
are happy to modify programs within guidelines by a medical practitioner.
4SQUAD DUTY REQUIREMENTS
BTYC Gymnastics requires the involvement of all squad families to ensure that the club is able to host
competitions at BTYC. As part of that process, BTYC levy a nominal amount to all squad members to assist
with the cost of hosting and staffing competitions.
This levy applies to all squad members from all disciplines –Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG), Women’s Artistic
Gymnastics (WAG) and Gymstar.
The Squad Levy will be invoiced in January 2019 at $50 per required shift and will be refundable after all shifts
are completed. Non attendance of a scheduled squad duty will also result in the forfeit of your squad duty
levy.
Program Duty Commitment Total Levy
Men’ Gymnastics (MAG) 4 shifts per squad athlete $200
Women’s Gymnastics (WAG) 4 shifts per squad athlete $200
Gymstar 2 shifts per squad athlete $100
MAG Pre-Squad 1 shift per squad athlete $50
WAG Foundation 1 1 shift per squad athlete $50
Families will be able to log on to a web-based program called SignUp Genius and select their squad duty shifts,
for competitions hosted at BTYC. Invitations to sign ups will be sent to the main account email (the same
email your account is sent to) for each roster.
All family members 18 and over, must have a working with children check and carry the card with them
when assisting at competitions.
There are a variety of duties required at the competitions including:
• Set up
• Door Attendant
• Canteen assistant
• BBQ assistant
• Athlete helper
• Judges hospitality
• Scorer
• Pack up
If you are unable to complete your shifts please contact BTYC on 9841 4773 to discuss further.
5GYMNAST CODE OF CONDUCT
ALL gymnasts training at BTYC Gymnastics are required to abide by the following Code of
Conduct:
• Come to training appropriately attired, i.e. leotard, t-shirt, shorts. No jeans, dresses, crop tops or
shoes. Bare feet are required for gym and socks or tramp shoes for trampoline. Long hair must be
tied back. No hair pins or clips. No jewellery, watches or items in pockets
• Bring your own drink bottle. Do not consume drinks other than water on the floor area
• Listen and fulfill your Coach’s instructions to the best of your ability
• Do not argue with an Official or Coach. If you need clarification, approach your Coach or have your
parent approach the Official / Coach after the competition / training session and ask for clarification
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural
background or religion
• Do not use bad language (swearing) under any circumstances
• Stay with your Coach and squad at all times and seek permission from your Coach to leave the group,
e.g. to go to the toilet
• Be safety conscious and look where you are going. No running. Look before walking in front of other
equipment, e.g. vault
• Disclose any specific medical conditions, injuries or illnesses your child may have using the child’s
medical section in the parent portal and if it is a new injury, discussing with the coach before the start
of a training session
• Do not enter the gym area or go on equipment under any circumstances unless supervised by your
Coach in a class
• Follow BTYC uniform policy for official events.
6PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
ALL parents who have gymnasts training at BTYC Gymnastics are required to abide by the
following Code of Conduct:
• Encourage children to participate, do not force them
• Focus on the child’s efforts and performance, rather than medals and scores
• Encourage children to always play according to the rules
• Remember that children learn best by example - appreciate good performances of other athletes
• Respect Officials’ decision and teach children to do likewise
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person regardless of their gender, ability, cultural
background or religion
• Do not make comments about, or verbally abuse other children. It is the sole responsibility of
the Coach to direct children during training, with the exception of Kindergym parent assisted
classes
• Ensure as a parent / guardian you make your child aware of the Gymnast Code of Conduct and abide
by this Code
• Athletes and parents / carers must wait upstairs before and after classes. No child is to wait for parents
in foyer or outside the gym
• Ensure that siblings of participating members (especially during Kindergym classes) do not play in the
gym area even if they are supervised by an adult. They are not covered by insurance if they are not
registered members being supervised by a Coach
• Abide by the Gym Rules at all times
• Abide by the Manningham DISC rules and regulations, including appropriate use of the car
park (i.e. no double parking near entrance, no parking in turning circle)
7MEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS
(MAG) PROGRAM
COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
TRAINING
HOW ARE TRAINING SESSIONS STRUCTURED?
Squad classes can feature any or all of the following
• Structured Warm Up
• Skill and Apparatus Specific Training
• Routine Practice & Development
• Strength & Conditioning
• Flexibility Training or Appropriate Cool Down Activity
HOW ARE SQUADS STRUCTURED?
Athletes are normally of a similar age, level and training commitment. Higher level athletes train more hours
each week. The minimum training hours expectation for each group is specific to what BTYC coaching staff
deem to be the best structure for safe and competent skill display at competition for that specific level of
gymnastics.
The guide we follow is below:
Level Training Hours
Pre-Squad Minimum 2 hours per week
Level 1 Minimum 2.5 hours per week
Level 2 7.5 hours training per week
Level 3 9+ hours training per week
Level 4 11+ hours training per week
Level 5 12+ hours training per week
Level 6 12+ hours training per week
Level 7 & above 15+ hours training per week
WHAT IS THE CORRECT TRAINING UNIFORM?
• Pre-Squad athletes wear sports shorts (no zips or pockets) and a t-shirt or singlet.
• Level 1-3 athletes wear a red training leotard with grey longs and shorts (longs can be worn the whole
time when it is cold and shorts can be worn when it is hot, but pommels need longs for effective training).
• Level 4-5 athletes wear a blue training leotard with the same grey longs and shorts.
• Level 6-10 athletes wear training longs and shorts, with a BTYC Squad Singlet.
It is essential that athletes train in the correct uniform to enable the Coach to see body shape and for safety
reasons. T- shirts are not suitable. Non-gymnastic shorts, like board shorts, restrict movement and catch on
hands if they have pockets. Base layer clothing (such as skins) can be additionally worn under the training
uniform. Gymnasts who do not respect and follow the uniform policy, are in breach of the club rules and may
be subject to the clubs disciplinary process.
8SQUAD TRAINING VIEWING POLICY
BTYC Gymnastics allows parents to view squad training sessions. This may be reviewed should we encounter
any of the following:
• athletes being distracted by parents (coaching from the sidelines or over-monitoring behavior)
• lack of athlete concentration that can lead to athletes endangering themselves whilst doing skills
HOW / WHEN DO ATHLETES MOVE UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL / SQUAD?
New athletes are assessed and placed on trial in the squad that the Program Manager (through consultation
with Coaching staff) feel they are best suited to. Existing athletes are evaluated continuously. If an athletes
level or squad needs to be considered this will be communicated through the Program Manager. However, as
a guide, the program will try to advance one level per year as per the Gymnastics Australian Levels Program.
Athletes training less than the BTYC guide to training hours are less likely to see improvements or progress to
the next level.
MAG LEVELS SYSTEM
The process by which MAG athletes proceed through the levels is detailed below. Please note there may be
further changes to this system for 2019:
National Levels International
System System
Level 9 Open Level 10 Snr Int.
Level 8 Open Level 10 U/18
Level 7 Open Level 9 U/17 + U/15
Level 6 Open Level 8 U/14
For State Level
Manual see GV Level 6 U12 Level 7 U/13
Web Site.
Level 5 Open
Level 5 U/11
Level 4 Open
Recreation Level 4 U/10
System Level 3 Open
Level 3 U/9
Senior Team Freestyle Level 2 Open
Level 2 U/8
Junior Team Freestyle Level 1 Open
Level 1 U/7
Where boys are placed in squads for competitive gymnastics
These squads are
recreational and Training uniform
competitive – they Boys Recreational Classes
Bronze, Silver, Gold (Level 1) and competition
can train in activity uniform for all
gear and compete in (1-2 hours/week)
squads.
training uniform.
Kinder Gym For the extra Activities
Automatically progress into boys additional to the level 0
Wear activity gear, bare
recreational class when they start
feet – Club t-shirt for Club & 1 NPM Routines see
school. GV Web Site.
Recreational competition.
9COMPETITIONS
It is expected that all MAG squad athletes enter competitions. The type of competition and the level at which
the athlete competes is determined by the Coach, in conjunction with the MAG Program Administration.
WHICH APPARATUS DO THEY COMPETE ON IN COMPETITIONS?
Olympic order for Men’s gymnastics is:
Floor Pommels Rings Vault Parallel Bars High Bar
In a competition, athletes compete on all six apparatus in order, starting at the one shown on the Rotation
Schedule, which is published 1 – 2 weeks before an event and given out to show start times etc.
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS FOR HOME & AWAY COMPETITIONS?
Home competitions are ones that our Club hosts. For these competitions, we need our parents to help with
the smooth running of the event. This is when we are on show to the gymnastics community, and it is
important for our competition to be of the best standard possible.
Away competitions are run by other Clubs or by Gymnastics Victoria or Gymnastics Australia. At these events,
parents are supportive spectators.
At all competitions, it is expected that parents are supportive of all athletes in the event. During the
competition, parents are not to have any social contact with their child. Athletes are under the supervision of
the Coach for all requirements until after the awards are presented. Any parent contact, or early
departure from the floor, can lead to disqualification of the athlete and / or the team.
WHAT DO ATHLETES WEAR ON EACH APPARATUS?
For Floor and Vault, athletes wear shorts over their competition leotard. For the other four apparatus (High
bar, Parallel bars, Rings and Pommel horse), athletes wear longs over their leotard and plain white socks.
For marching into the arena and for the Awards ceremony, athletes wear the BTYC Club tracksuit.
WHO COACHES ATHLETES AT A COMPETITION?
In most cases, the team with the most athletes from the same squad will have that squad’s main Coach go
around with them at a competition. This may change if the Coach is required to Judge at the event, as many
of BTYC’s MAG Coaches are also some of Victoria’s Judges. All attempts are made to give the athletes a Coach
that knows them and their requirements.
Before competitions, class Coaches are often swapped to give the athletes in the class a new set of eyes,
usually by a Coach who is also a Judge. This is done to maximise their competition potential, or to get them
used to the Coach that will be taking them around at the competition.
10WHAT DO ATHLETES TAKE TO COMPETITIONS?
MAG competition uniforms are available to be purchased from the BTYC office in Donvale. Both new and
second-hand uniforms are available (depending on size availability).
MAG athletes are required to have the following items when they compete:
• Competition leotard, white longs and white shorts (NOT training uniform)
• Apparatus aides – grips etc
• Club Tracksuit
• 1 pairs of plain white cotton socks (no color bands, logos or colored heel / toe parts)
• Club bag for holding drink bottle of water, small snack which is not messy (minimize lollies) and their
uniform items they are not wearing.
Athletes should leave shoes with parents before going on to the floor to join the Coach before the competition.
Parents should label all items as they are easily mixed up with other athletes. Grips and other gymnastic
equipment should be placed in the competition bag.
Long hair must be kept neatly off the face with gel, or tied back with a hair band or head band. Athletes
should check which apparatus they are starting on in competitions and wear the appropriate longs / shorts to
the competition.
HOW DOES JUDGING WORK?
Depending on the competition, there will be 1–3 Judges at each apparatus. The Head Judge is always the
highest level judge on that apparatus.
The Judges award the Start score or what mark the routine will be judged out of (Difficulty Score), and then
they average their deductions (Execution Score). The Execution score is deducted from the Start score to give
the final score. Technical errors (for things like swearing or wearing incorrect competition apparel) are then
taken from this score by the Head Judge to give the Final Flashed score.
HOW DOES THE CANADIAN COMPETITION FORMAT WORK?
At most competitions, and some State events for levels 1 - 4, the Canadian competition format is used. This
competition format saves time during rotations by having an athlete warming up on an apparatus whilst the
Judges are calculating the score for the previous routine.
HOW ARE AWARDS DECIDED AND AWARDED?
Scores are entered and tallied on a scoring program that takes the scores that the different Judges award and
calculates a final score that must coincide with the final flashed score on the Judges score sheet. Any
discrepancies are taken back to the Head Judge to sign off on or to change.
Some events have special rules for how awards are given out – these are published to the Coaches in the
event promotional material. It is up to the Coaches to explain / publish any different rules to the norm to
parents before they consent to attending the event.
Team combinations are published before events, e.g. 5 with 3 to count means that a team can have 5 athletes
in it and the top 3 scores on each apparatus count toward that team’s score. The team size and counting
number can vary from event to event.
Individual awards are given for each apparatus and for the All Around (AA) scores – usually from 1st to 3rd.
For some events, tie breaks are decided by All Around score, the higher AA score wins over the lower on that
apparatus.
11Each competition has its own awards system based on the number of competitors in each age division at each
level at the event. Large events separate ‘Under’ and ‘Open’ age divisions for awards, whilst small events
often combine these divisions. Under and Open age divisions are decided by the age the athlete is at 1 st
January in the year they are competing:
Age Division Age to compete
1 Under 6 years old Under 7 at 1st Jan
2 Under 7 years old Under 8 at 1st Jan
3 Under 8 years old Under 9 at 1 Jan
4 Under 9 years old Under 10 at 1 Jan
5 Under 10 years old Under 11 at 1 Jan
6 Under 11 years old Under 12 at 1 Jan
7 Under 12 years old Under 13 at 1 Jan
8 Under 13 years old Under 14 at 1 Jan
9 Under U15 14 years old Under 15 at 1 Jan
9 Under U17 15 & 16 years old Under 17 at 1 Jan
THE VICTORIAN MAG DEVELOPMENT SQUAD
The Victorian MAG Development Squad is a group of gymnasts and coaches, selected yearly, who meet for
regular training and education sessions throughout the year. This is not to be confused with the Victorian
State Team who competes at the Australian Championships. Gymnasts can be selected onto the Victorian
MAG Development Squad by achieving the minimum qualifying score for their level at a State Trial, the
Victorian Championships or Australian Championships.
MAG SELECTION POLICY (TEAMS)
During the competition season, teams are selected at random by BTYC, within each eligible level. However,
for the Victorian Championships, National Clubs Carnival or any specific ‘team based’ competitions, gymnasts
are split into ranked teams. ‘A’ team athletes will be chosen on ability, based on past competition experience
from that year, using All Around scores. Additionally, the MAG Program Manager and Coaches may use
performance at training and internal testing to support team selection. The strongest athletes will be placed
together in the ‘A’ team, and the remaining athletes will be placed in the ‘B’ team and so on. This is not a
decision that is taken lightly, and the BTYC Coaching staff will only pick the team they feel offers the strongest
competitive advantage in this scenario.
All attempts are made to have the teams compete together in the same group, but on occasion, this cannot
be done, as levels groupings are often decided by the host Club. When this occurs, athletes will be arranged
into teams before presentations.
For National and State events, Level 1 - 5 teams are made up of 6 athletes with the top 4 scores on each
apparatus to count toward the team score. For some Invitationals, teams are comprised of 5 athletes with
the top 3 scores to count. Similarly, for National and State events, Level 6 - 10 teams are made up of 5
athletes with the top 3 scores on each apparatus to count towards the team score.
Where there are enough athletes to make a level specific ‘open’ or ‘under’ team, BTYC MAG coaches will always
prioritize this option first. If there are enough athletes for two teams, then two teams will be entered e.g.
competitions where teams are 5 with 3 to count – and 8 BTYC athletes are entered, BTYC will enter a team of
5 and a second team of 3. At all competitions, BTYC athletes will be put in teams rather than be entered as
individuals, unless there are not enough athletes to make up a team.
For some State and National events, Open age and Under age teams are separate. This does not change the
selection of athletes. However, Under age athletes can be put into an Open age team, but it does not go the
other way for Under age teams.
BTYC Gymnastics expect that all competitive MAG athletes attend scheduled Invitationals each year, as well
as Trials for the Victorian Championships.
12WOMEN’S ARTISTIC
GYMNASTICS (WAG) PROGRAM
COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
TRAINING
WHAT DOES THE WAG PROGRAM ENTAIL?
Athletes train on all four of the WAG apparatus, Vault, Bars, Beam and Floor, as well as strength and
conditioning training, flexibility, trampoline, artistic preparation (AP) and Loops. BTYC offers a specifically
designed artistic preparation program to assist with posture, leaps, jumps, turns and general presentation.
This program is taught by accredited artistic preparation teachers with gymnastics experience.
The WAG Program is a large commitment involving high training hours, training during the school holidays
and competitions.
HOW ARE TRAINING SESSIONS STRUCTURED?
Squad classes can feature any or all of the following
• Structured Warm Up
• Skill and Apparatus Specific Training
• Routine Practice & Development
• Artistic Preparation
• Strength & Conditioning
• Flexibility Training or Appropriate Cool Down Activity
HOW ARE SQUADS STRUCTURED?
Athletes are normally of a similar age, level and training commitment. Higher level athletes train more hours
each week. The minimum training hours expectation for each group is specific to what BTYC coaching staff
deem to be the best structure for safe and competent skill display at competition for that specific level of
gymnastics.
The guide we follow is below:
Program Number of Program Number of
Hours Hours
Foundation 1 2.5 hours
Foundation 2 4 hours
ALP 2 6+ hours
ALP 3 9+ hours
ALP 4/5 13+ hours ALP 4-5 Limited Hours 9-10 hours
ALP 6 15+ hours ALP 6 Limited Hours 10 hours
ALP 7 - 10 16+ Hours ALP 7-10 Limited Hours 11-12 hours
13WHAT ARE THE ATTENDANCE EXPECTATIONS FOR CLASSES?
It is imperative that athletes attempt to attend as many classes as possible, as even two weeks out of the
gym can lead to significant de-conditioning. Extended time away from the gym may also result in large growth
spurts, rather than a graduated rate of growth. Both of these can lead to periods of un-coordination due to
de-conditioning or changes in body mechanics due to growth.
It is also important that athletes arrive at training on time, as the warm-up segment of training is a crucial
part of injury prevention. Athletes who have not had adequate warm-up are more likely to injure themselves.
This section of the class is also important for the focus of the athlete as it sets the tone for the entire training
session. A disciplined team approach to warm-up will help generate a disciplined team approach to apparatus
training.
AM I EXPECTED TO TRAIN ON PUBLIC HOLIDAYS?
BTYC Gymnastics do not run squad training sessions on public holidays. Classes that fall on a public holiday
are not charged in the monthly fees.
AM I EXPECTED TO ATTEND TRAINING DURING THE HOLIDAYS?
Training during the school holidays is highly encouraged as it ensures that deconditioning over the holiday
period is kept to a minimum. We also understand that it is important to have family time and participate in
other activities as well and we will attempt to take this into account when scheduling training.
Costs for training sessions scheduled during the holidays are included in fees, regardless of whether the athlete
attends the training sessions. Dates for training sessions during the holidays are provided to athletes at the
beginning of the year. Program Managers have taken into consideration that families may like to enjoy some
time away from training during the year and as such have scheduled holiday training for each squad to have
1 week off during school holidays separate to their competition season.
WHAT IS THE CORRECT UNIFORM?
Training
Athletes are expected to wear leotards for all training sessions. All uniform items need to hug the athlete’s
body. T- shirts and crop tops are not suitable. Non-gymnastic shorts, like board shorts, restrict movement
and catch on hands if they have pockets. Base layer clothing (such as leggings or bike shorts) can be
additionally worn over a leotard. It is essential that athletes train in the correct uniform to enable the Coach
to see body shape and for safety reasons.
Training Aides
Gymnasts in level 2 and above will also need straps, gloves and wrist bands for Loops rotations
Gymnasts in Level 4 and above will need Grips and Wrist bands for Bar rotations and competitions.
WHY DO WE DO BALLET/ARTISTIC PREPARATION?
Some BTYC WAG squad athletes are scheduled to take a session of ballet each week with an Accredited Ballet
or dance teacher. The program taught is ‘WAG influenced’ Ballet, incorporating ballet techniques which are
relevant to gymnastics to improve skills such as leaps, turns and leg strength. The program provides
knowledge surrounding posture and the finer points of body alignment and control. We focus on developing
musicality and confidence into movements to assist with creating well-presented artistic floor routines.
14WHAT TYPE OF SNACK SHOULD I GIVE MY DAUGHTER FOR TRAINING?
Squads that train for longer than 2.5 hours have a short snack break half way through training. The snack
should be a high G.I. food like fruit (small apple or a banana) or a hand full of dried biscuits / rice crackers,
or a muesli bar. Athletes are not permitted to share food with other athletes.
SQUAD TRAINING VIEWING POLICY
BTYC Gymnastics allows parents to view squad training sessions. This may be reviewed should we encounter
any of the following:
• athletes being distracted by parents (coaching from the sidelines or over-monitoring behavior)
• lack of athlete concentration that can lead to athletes endangering themselves whilst doing skills
HOW / WHEN DO ATHLETES MOVE UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL / SQUAD?
New athletes are assessed and placed on trial in the squad that the Program Manager (through consultation
with Coaching staff) feel they are best suited to. Existing athletes are evaluated continuously. If an athlete’s
level or squad needs to be considered this will be communicated through the Program Manager. All athletes
progress at their own pace and it is not uncommon to have athletes repeat a level. However, as a guide, the
program will try to advance one level per year as per the Gymnastics Australian Levels Program.
Athletes training less than the BTYC guide to training hours are less likely to see improvements or progress
to the next level.
COMPETITIONS
HOW DO COMPETITIONS WORK?
Athletes in the WAG Program will follow the Australia
Levels Program.
There will be two divisions of ALP athletes:
• Division 1: Unlimited Hours
• Division 2: Limited Hours (LH)
Division 1 athletes are permitted to train an uncapped
amount of hours, however the Division 2 athletes are
only permitted to train up to a specific amount of
hours for that level. In Level 1-3, all athletes compete
in Division 1. Level 4-10 gymnasts will compete in
either Division 1 or Division 2.
Foundation Level 1: At BTYC athletes will not
compete until ALP 2. Foundation 1 is designed to
prepare the athletes for their future years of
training. Although some invitationals and State
events offer competitions at level 1, the focus of
BTYC's program is designed to work on skills and
strengths of the athlete, rather than adding the pressure of competing and remembering routines. During
training sessions, athletes will focus predominantly on building their strength, shaping and conditioning and
working on the basics that will prepare the athletes for competitions in following years.
15ALP Level 2-6 athletes will compete the compulsory routines as per the current ALP. The compulsory ALP
routines are designed to encourage gymnasts to participate whilst advancing current skills and learning new
skills through each level. Floor routines and music will be set for all athletes, thus no extra charges will be
incurred by families at these levels. Competitions will be team based only for level 2-4 and then team and
individual based for level 5 & 6. Teams must be made up of athletes from the same age divisions within the
same level.
Level 7- 10: Both the Division 2 and Division 2 athletes will compete a mix of compulsory and optional
elements on each apparatus. Athletes in Level 7 and above will have set requirements with optional skills to
be included. Each Level 7 and above athlete will have individual floor routines with optional music. For level 7
and above the team element for competitions is slightly different and conducted at a separate event including
both limited and unlimited athletes.
COMPETITION APPARATUS
Gymnasts in the WAG Program will compete on 4 apparatus including Vault, Bars, Beam and Floor. In a
competition, Gymnasts will compete on all apparatus in Olympic order as listed above, starting at the one
shown on the Rotation Schedule. This is published 1 - 2 weeks before an event and will be emailed out to
families prior to the event.
COMPETITION EXPECTATIONS
Athletes are provided with a full list of expected competitions for their level prior to the commencement of the
competition season. Information is also provided before each competition on things such as arrival time,
clothing, attendance etc.
At all competitions, it is expected that parents are supportive of all athletes in the event. During the
competition, parents are not to have any social contact with their child. Athletes are under the supervision of
the Coach for all requirements until after the awards are presented. Any parent contact, or early
departure from the floor, can lead to disqualification of the athlete and / or the team.
COMPETITION DATES / COSTS
Competitions start in Term 3, around July or August for Level 2-6. They usually run through until early
November. Athletes and families are informed about which competitions they will compete at when the
competition calendar is released. All gymnasts will be entered into competitions unless the Program Manager
has spoken to you, or you have contacted the Program Manager. There is a late entry fee and withdrawal fee
which is passed on to us by Gymnastics Victoria. These fees are passed on to families as relevant. Competitions
can cost between $90-$120 depending on your level (subject to change).
COMPETITION UNIFORMS
There is a competition uniform for all competitive athletes, the girls are asked not to wear this to training to
ensure it stays in good condition for competitions. This uniform is available to be purchased from the BTYC
office including:
• Level appropriate Leotard
• Tracksuit pants and jacket
• White Socks
• Level appropriate Scrunchie
• BTYC Bag
Gymnasts are expected to wear runners to competition with their uniform however all shoes will be left with
their guardian before entering the floor
Please ensure all uniform items are clearly labeled to ensure they are not lost or mixed up with other athletes.
16COMPETITION CHECK LIST
Athletes should use the following checklist to pack their bag / prepare for competitions:
• Competition leotard
• Club Tracksuit
• 2 pairs of plain white cotton socks no colour bands, logos or coloured heel / toe parts.
• Apparatus aides – grips, strapping tape etc.
• Drink bottle of water
• Club bag for holding drink bottle, spare socks, uniform and apparatus aides
• Leave shoes with parents before going onto floor to join Coach before competition
• Label all items as they are easily mixed up with other athletes
• No nail polish or jewellery permitted
HOW DOES JUDGING WORK?
Depending on the competition, there will be 1–3 Judges at each apparatus. The Head Judge is always the
highest level judge on that apparatus.
The Judges award the Start score or what mark the routine will be judged out of (Difficulty Score), and then
they average their deductions (Execution Score). The Execution score is deducted from the Start score to give
the final score. Technical errors (for things like swearing or wearing incorrect competition apparel) are then
taken from this score by the Head Judge to give the Final Flashed score.
HOW DOES THE CANADIAN COMPETITION FORMAT WORK?
At most competitions on Bars and Beam the Canadian competition format is used. This competition format
saves time during rotations by having an athlete warming up on an apparatus whilst the Judges are calculating
the score for the previous routine. At competition the first 2 athletes will warm up, the first athlete will then
compete followed by the 3rd athlete warm up and then the 2nd athlete competes. This order continues until all
gymnasts have competed.
AWARDS
In Level 2-4, awards are team based only. In Level 5-10 gymnasts will compete individually with team
competitions for all around awards. In Team events the top 3 scores on each apparatus will count towards
the team total.
TEAM SELECTION
Invitationals
Athletes will be placed in teams that comprise of athletes within their level (can be from across multiple
squads) or teams that are evenly divided across more than one age group at the same level. Gymnast will
compete in teams of up to 6 gymnasts.
Where there are more than 6 gymnasts and less than 10 in level 2-4, BTYC will only send 1 team and all
athletes will rotate through competing at the competitions. In Level 5+, all gymnasts will attend the
competitions as these are mainly individual awards. The team will consist of 6 gymnasts with all gymnasts
rotating between being in the team or just individual.
17State qualifying & State Events
BTYC Gymnastics will place the top six (6) athletes into one team (the ‘A’ team) for State level events. This
decision will be made by the Coach, in consultation with the relevant Program Manager. Selection will be
made based on the performance of the athletes in class, at in-house competitions and at Club Invites. Typically,
at the lower levels only one team will be entered per level, unless exceptional competition results have been
seen throughout the competitive season for that year.
The ‘A team’ for finals events will consist of the top six all round athletes, or up to two apparatus specialists
may be selected to boost the team on certain apparatus. Throughout the invitational competition season
coaches and Managers will create different combinations of teams within the specific levels attempting to give
all members of the squad the opportunity to appear on a podium at the end of an event, however there is no
guarantee that this is achievable based on the nature of competing and the performances on the day of
competition.
At finals events teams will be in the following formats (please note this is where all athletes are attending the
event);
• 3 athletes – all athletes are selected (this is the minimum requirement to make up a team)
• 4 athletes – all athletes are selected
• 5 athletes – all athletes are selected
• 6 athletes - all athletes are selected
• 7 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected and one athlete would not compete
• 8 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected and two athletes would not compete
• 9 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected for A team and next 3 athletes would make up a B team
• 10 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected for A team and next 4 athletes would make up a B team
• 11 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected for A team and next 5 athletes would make up a B team
• 12 athletes – top 6 athletes are selected for A team and next 6 athletes would make up a B team
For levels that allow for an individual component as well as a team component of competition, the additional
athletes would be entered in the competition as individuals.
ATHLETE PROGRESSION
Entry into BTYC competitive squads is by invitation only. Athletes can progress to the next level by:
Level 1-3: Internal assessment by the Coaches - skill testing, strength testing and control tests to ascertain
if the athlete is capable of being successful in their LAT.
Level 4-10: Level Achievement Test (LAT) – from Level 4 onwards, the girls can enter select Invitationals
that have been granted LAT status and will receive their level provided they score over the minimum individual
All Around score.
18GYMSTAR PROGRAM
COMMON QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
HOW ARE TRAINING SESSIONS STRUCTURED?
Squad classes can feature any or all of the following
• Structured Warm Up
• Skill and Apparatus Specific Training
• Routine Practice & Development
• Strength & Conditioning
• Flexibility Training or Appropriate Cool Down Activity
HOW ARE SQUADS STRUCTURED?
Athletes are normally of a similar age, level and training commitment. Higher level athletes train more hours
each week. The minimum training hours expectation for each group is specific to what BTYC coaching staff
deem to be the best structure for safe and competent skill display at competition for that specific level of
gymnastics.
WHAT ARE THE HOURS TRAINED PER LEVEL?
Level Training Hours Sessions
Level 2 Junior 2 hours training per week 1 session per week
Level 3 Junior 3 hours training per week 1 session per week
Level 4 Challenge 3 hours training per week 1 session per week
Level 4 Intermediate 4 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 5 Challenge 4 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 5 Intermediate 5 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 6 Challenge 5 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 6 Intermediate 6 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 7 Senior 7 hours training per week 2 sessions per week
Level 8,9,10 Senior 9 hours training per week 3 sessions per week
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WOMEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS (WAG)
& GYMSTAR?
WAG classes are directed by the Victorian and Australian governing bodies for Gymnastics. Athletes in WAG
classes compete on four apparatus’ – Bars, Vault, Beam and Floor.
Gymstar is a separate program with its own levels. A Gymstar class is more flexible than a WAG class and
requires less hours of training. However, it is still a competitive program, with athletes expected to compete
at a number of competitions in the second half of the year. Athletes in the Gymstar program compete on six
apparatus’ - Floor, Vault, Beam, Bars, Parallel Bars and Rings.
19TRAINING
WHAT DO I BRING TO TRAINING?
• A small healthy snack if the training session goes for three or more hours
• A water bottle containing water
• Asthma puffer or epipen (if required)
IS THERE A SPECIAL UNIFORM?
There is no training uniform, but Gymstar athletes are required to wear appropriate gym gear. No low cut
tops or crop tops. We recommend a leotard and shorts, or leggings / shorts and t-shirt. It is highly
encouraged that Gymstar athletes wear their Gymstar t-shirt to training to foster a sense of team spirit.
When competing, athletes are required to wear the Club leotard, Club scrunchie and Gymstar t-shirt
(purchased from the BTYC office at Donvale). BTYC leotards are supplied by Gymwiz. Coaches will measure
and organise leotards before competition seasons commence each year.
ARE THERE TRAINING SESSIONS DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS?
Training sessions are offered during the Term 2 and Term 3 school holidays, however they are not compulsory.
These training sessions help to ensure that athletes do not lose too much strength or flexibility, and allow
more practice time before and during the competition season.
Training sessions during the holidays can be different to term training times, as we can utilise the gym during
the day when there are less classes. Athletes need to book in for training sessions during the school holidays.
There is a minimum number of 5 participants for training sessions to run in the holidays. The fees for holiday
training are invoiced separately.
ARE THERE OTHER EVENTS THAT ATHLETES HAVE TO PARTICIPATE IN?
All social events are not compulsory but highly encouraged as they are great team bonding events. All are
invoiced separately and you need to book in to participate.
For Level 2 and 3 athletes, we offer a practice competition at the start of their competition season. This gives
the athletes a first experience of competitions in the comfort and relaxed environment of their own Club.
Lunch is provided afterwards and the girls can have a free play and socialise.
For Level 4 - 10 athletes BTYC offer a pizza and play night. The girls will get to spend time in the gym
socialising, playing on equipment and participating in structured games. They get to have pizza for dinner and
have some fun before we get into the seriousness of competition season.
COMPETITIONS
COMPETITION DATES / COSTS
Competitions start in Term 3, around July or August. They usually run through until early November. Athletes
and families are informed about which competitions they will compete at but are required to do a minimum of
3 or 4 per year (depending on level). There is also a late entry fee and withdrawal fee which is passed on to
us by Gymnastics Victoria. These fees are passed on to families as relevant. Competitions can cost between
$65-$75 depending on your level (subject to change).
WHAT DO I BRING TO COMPETITIONS?
• A drink bottle containing water (no soft drink allowed on the floor)
• Small snack (i.e. sandwich, fruit, or muesli bar – please limit lollies and chocolate)
• Gymstar leotard appropriate to level and Gymstar t-shirt
• Small bag to keep belongings in
• Navy/black tracksuit pants or navy/black shorts
• Hair brush and hair ties/clips
• Please leave shoes with parents before the competition starts
20HOW DO THE ATHLETES GET SCORED / JUDGED AT COMPETITIONS?
Level 2 and 3
All athletes start with a score of 15 to which deductions are applied. The minimum score is 10. When athletes
are judged, they get points taken away for things such as bent legs, un-pointed toes, forgetting a skill, falling,
bending arms, arching their back too much, not presenting to the Judge and many more little things that all
impact on the score they receive for their routine. Each 'fault' can have a different value. For example, a fall
off the beam is worth a full mark while a small separation in legs might be only worth 0.1 or 0.3 of a mark.
The top 5 scores (out of 6 possible scores) get added together to make their overall score out of 75.0.
This determines what colour medal the athlete will receive. We don't put emphasis on the colour of the medal,
we think just getting out there and giving it a go is great. We just want them to have fun and do the best
routine they can.
Level 4-8
At Level 4-8, the same basic scoring system applies, however the girls can have ‘bonus’ skills in their routines.
Their routines therefore start from 14, and they can have two bonus skills to bring their score to a maximum
of 15. A routine with only one bonus skill will have a starting score of 14.50, while a routine with two bonus
skills will start from 15.0. We try to ensure that the girls have at least one bonus skill in every routine. At this
level, only the top 3 scores for each apparatus will receive a medal and the top 4-6 places on each apparatus
will receive a ribbon.
Level 9-10
At level 9 & 10, girls are still able to have bonus skills in their routine. The difference from the other levels is
they are allowed more than two bonus skills to make up their routine start score. At level 9, you are allowed
up to three bonus skills and at level 10, you are allowed up to four bonus skills which means your routine can
start from 16.
ARE THE ATHLETES EXPECTED TO ATTEND EVERY COMPETITION?
We know that attending all competitions is often not possible due to family commitments and other activities.
However, the more competitions they do, the more comfortable the athletes become which leads to a better
performance. Every competition that they participate in will give them experience and confidence for the next
competition. It is expected that athletes compete in a minimum of 3 or 4 competitions per year (depending
on their level). Where there is a clash of commitments on a competition date, families are required to
communicate this well in advance.
WHERE ARE COMPETITIONS HELD?
Competitions are held in gymnastics Clubs around Melbourne. Some common venues for competitions are
Eclipse Gymnastics, Eastern Gymnastics, Footscray City Gymnastics, Endeavour Hills YMCA, Berwick YMCA,
Highett Youth Club, and BTYC Gymnastics. They are almost always on a Sunday and run for approximately
three hours.
HOW DOES MY CHILD LEARN THE ROUTINES REQUIRED?
It is up to the Coach to teach their class the routines required at each level. There will be some individual
differences in routines, but essentially, they will be the same at each level. We will ensure that each class
begins their routine training at the same time and will ensure that this is done early enough before competitions
to allow the athletes to be adequately prepared. Once the athlete has learnt their six routines, they will
compete these at every competition they attend.
Floor routine teaching is the exception, as this begins at home for Level 4, 5, & 6. We will send you a link to
a private YouTube page that has every routine available for your child’s level. They need to learn their favourite
routine at home and then we will help them to refine it at training. Level 3 floor routines must also first be
learnt at home, however they will have one set routine and not a choice.
21In level 7-10, athletes are asked to get a personalized choreographed routine that is made specifically for
them. A personalized routine is around $75 and this includes 2x 30min privates to teach the routine to the
athlete. They can choose their own music or it can be chosen for them. Coaches will give athletes a notice to
book in a choreographer before their competition starts.
OVERALL GYMSTAR COMMITMENT AND PARTICIAPTION
Gymstar is a wonderful and challenging program that offers our athletes a chance to grow and develop their
skills in a safe and supportive environment. This program allows extension of gymnastics skills while not being
overly demanding, and allows participants to play to their strengths while working on their weaknesses.
We look forward to working with your daughter in 2019, and helping them to be the best gymnast they can
be. Thank you for your support and interest in the Gymstar Program and I wish everybody every success in
2019.
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