On the Flip Side 2017

PUBLISHED BY ALBERTA ON THE abgym.ab.caGYMNASTICS FEDERATION APRIL 2017 MONTRÉAL set to host PAGE 16 47THFIG ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS MEET OUR COACHES PAGE 7C H R I SONE on ONE with WHAT DO WE NEED TOSHAW KNOW ABOUT CONCUSSIONS? PAGE 17PAGE 2

April 2017 ONE on ONE with Chris Shaw CC H R I S S H A W B A C K G R O U N D hris began in the sport of tumbling in 1992. He was a member of the Canadian team from 1994 to 1998, and attended three World Championships, the World Games and several World Cup events. Chris began coaching trampoline and tumbling in 1996 in Okotoks, and began the Airborne Trampoline and Tumbling Club in 2000. Chris continued to coach at Airborne until 2004, when he finished his education degree and began teaching. He began to coach at Calgary Gymnastics Centre from 2004 until 2008. Since that time Chris has begun to enter the world of academia, completing his masters and being involved in professional development and research in education. Chris continues to coach on an “as needed” basis at Airborne and CGC, as well as training camps in Alberta.Once an athlete, a coach, a club last very long because it was held in over. So Darlene suggested ending What are you doing?”, but I tried owner; now a husband, a a school and school’s liability policies my athletic career by attending the them anyway. That was the start of father and an educator, Chris were changing so the program had to Alberta Winter Games in a sport my tumbling career. A week after theShaw seems to exceed in all these roles. be dropped. At that point, Darlene called tumbling. I went to the Alberta Alberta Winter Games I started at UIt was on a warm Tuesday afternoon in Traviss started Alberta Schools Winter Games in 1992 competing of C and trained with Derek. I wasFebruary when AGF's Derek Hanson Gymnastics Association and she for Zone 2 at that competition just 16 and was kind of late into it.and Molly Fang invited Chris to sit down was running the program in High in tumbling. At that time, the only Q: What is your biggest accomplishmentand have an one-on-one conversation. River, so I started there with her as equipment we had access to in High during your tenure as a gymnast?The topics covered all the 5W questions an athlete doing Rec. A short time River was two inch mats on a gym A: It is hard to say, I think my biggestand everything in between. after, I entered a pre-competitive floor, and that’s how I learned to accomplishment was just makingQ: Tell us how you got involved in stream program at Altadore. I tumble. it to training every day, especially remained in this program for about It was at the Alberta Winter duringmy first two years in tumbling. gymnastics and or T&T, how old a year and a half, but the commute Games where Derek Hanson and I Living an hour and a half away from were you when you first started? and commitment became too much met. My coach for Zone 2 was Carol the University, the commute throughA: I was involved in recreational for my family, so I returned to Mouillierat (Van Biezen) who was ice, snow and everything else just to gymnastics to begin with when I was recreational gym in High River with one of Derek’s athletes; Derek was get there was an achievement. I think about seven. My Phys Ed teacher Darlene. I remained there for many there as the coach for the Calgary my biggest accomplishment was at my rural elementary school out years and began doing a little bit of Zone. During preliminary warm-up, just “sticking it out” for those two in Blackie, Alberta started a little junior coaching. This quickly evolved he saw me and was telling Carol to years until I was of age to go to the afterschool program. I got involved into coaching my own groups. get me to “try” various skills. Carol university. From that point on, it was with that, and was hooked. At the age of 16, I felt my kept asking me to try various skills, a lot easier for me. The after-school program didn’t chances of gymnastics stardom were and I was like “what’s going on?2

ON THE FLIPSIDE visible. It was have always been a very energetic and quite a profound driven person. I have always been feeling to be fascinated with the human body and wearing the its cognitive and physical potential. maple leaf When I was young growing up in marching in at rural Alberta, I used to build all kinds finals at World of contraptions to test my potential. Championships! Unfortunately, it normally resulted For a small town in me hurting myself, but my body rural boy this was always bounced back. So I would the Olympics! move onto the next challenge. I think this curiosity in the Q: How long did biomechanics and psychology of you train with the human body is what drew me Derek? to gymnastics. As we all know, A: From 92-98, gymnastics is the ultimate sport for six years, I was human movement. 16. Then, when I I have always been involved started coaching, in gymnastics. I was drawn to the I would bring acrobatic and power components. my athletes to For me personally, I was only ever U of C, because good at vault and floor. So the we didn’t have a transition to tumbling was easy! floor in our gym. Tumbling brought those So almost every two components together, it was Wednesday, we something that I picked up veryChris Shaw (second from right) and his teammates attended the 1997 World Games in Lahti, Finland. would bring up quickly, and I was internally veryFrom left to right: Michel Greene, Lydia Zanon, Chris Mitruk, Karen Stevens, Chris Shaw, Marianne the whole troop motivated to do as much as I couldSt. Jaques and trained with with the ability and work ethic I was blessed with. Derek at U of C Q: Why did you only do tumbling? for several years. A: Because I was very scary on trampolineQ: What was your biggest challenge as been in the sport for two years, and (All laugh)! I did try actually – the an athlete and how did you manage qualifying for World Championships trials to Alberta Winter Games in it? in Portugal was the goal. Being there Q: Who was your most favorite athlete 1992, I competed on trampoline andA: Probably my head (laugh). For the was a bonus and I was going 100 of all time? tumbling. I didn't finish either of first two and half years of competing, percent for the experience. However, my two routines on trampoline, it I was my own worst enemy, I was going in, Derek and I wanted to A: Since I first began, I was always was not for me. Whereas tumbling, a perfectionist and I put a lot of make sure I was extremely prepared. impressed with Polish tumbling. It it just felt natural. The natural power pressure on myself. Derek and I He created and threw every possible was very powerful but smooth, almost the human body was able to create started looking at a few options … scenario at me in training, including elegant. The first tumbling god I just by hitting the right angle; it I think it was the little red book “the training on multiple types of surfaces, worshiped was Adrian Sienkiewicz. was a rush. The speed and precision mental toughness” book. During at multiple times of the day and with He won World Championships in required to complete a tumbling line that two and a half years, I was very multiple distractions in place. At the 1994; I liked his style and power. As I felt effortless. Derek would attest to prepared physically in training. I competition it just felt natural. I felt transitioned from being an athlete to that! could knock off a lot of routines, but extremely prepared. I managed to a coach – Jozef Wadecki had become Q: Tell us about your coaching when it came to the competition I put together two of the best routines one of my favorites. He was also experience. just wasn’t able to put it all together. I had ever competed at that point. Polish, with a tremendous style, very A: My first degree was a Bachelor of It was second trials to the World’s I was lucky enough to make finals powerful, very smooth, and great Science in Exercise and Health in 1994, when it kind of all clicked. because of this. technique. Currently, I could watch Physiology from U of C. After I My perspective had changed and I Walking into finals was my Anders Wesch from Demark tumble graduated I was determined to be was able to figure things out. From most memorable moment! Keith for hours! He is a smaller guy, has a tumbling coach. However, life that point on it wasn’t as big of an MacDonald had also made finals and the similar body type as to what I had always throws us curve balls. Once issue. It was a lot of work to make the having him there with me was a big as an athlete; very lean and a small I got married and started talking transition and a lot of extra time for plus. It helped make the moment frame. Yet, he is crazy good! I love about having a family, I found it was sure! extra special being able to share it with his style, execution and technique; going to be tricky to have the family a veteran competitor who had been he has some amazingly difficult skills life that I wanted as well as still just and is very nice to watch.Q: What was your most memorable around for a number of years. Also, Q: Where do you draw your inspiration competition? knowing all of the hours in the car from? and the abundant hours both DerekA: I would say it was my first World and I had put in was now becoming A: My inspiration came from within. I Championships in 1994. I had only 3

April 2017(Left to right)Anton Minayev, Chris Shaw (middle) and Alex Seifelt at 2007 World Championships coaches like myself. This felt very & Tumbling club in 2000. What isin Quebec City comforting to have our trampoline your advice to those who want to and tumbling family still be there, start their own club? What are the coach. Having family time is very of fitness, … coaching was probably despite my transition from athlete things to anticipate? important to me. So I went back about 30 hours a week, so that was to coach. I wanted to continue the A: My biggest advice would be to start to U of C and did an after degree in tricky. Once I went more toward cycle of knowledge and be able to small, take your time because Rome Education. teaching, I was coaching 12-15 pass on that knowledge and give back was not built in a day. Don’t be afraid I combined coaching and hours. to the sport and to other athletes. to ask for help and think about long teaching for about four years, Q: What school are you teaching at right I think the biggest challenge for term, and dare to dream. Having a at that point I was coaching at now? me was to relinquish the control I long-term plan is important as long Calgary Gymnastics Centre with A: I teach Physical Education for the felt as an athlete. I did not have the as you have smaller goals along the Brett. Brett provided me with some Foundations for the Future Charter control over what they would do; way to help keep you on track and great opportunities to advance my Academy. I am blessed to have what decisions they would make, grounded. Circumstances will coaching career, and I was blessed one of the few elementary physical what were they thinking, was it what always change! to work with some great coaches education positions in Alberta. I love they should be thinking at any given I know I made tons of mistakes, and athletes. However, I found that my job. I am blessed to influence moment. Once they stepped onto both in planning, organizing and coaching started to take away my our future athletes in many sports. the floor, it was all up to them, my communicating with parents, etc… family life. It all came to fruition I not only get to provide them with job was done. I felt I had to do it all on my own; I the year my daughter was born. I a great gymnastics program, but get Q: As a coach, what is your goal? am very stubborn that way. However, noticed that I had missed a lot of first to infuse all aspects of their physical A: I think my basic goal was to instill the once I started seeking help from few months of her life. So I went to literacy journey. fun of flipping into kids and athletes. fellow coaches, it made things much Brett and said to him that I would Q: What was the transition like from an To have them realize the elegance of better. I knew my trampoline and finish the year and then take a step athlete to a coach? human movement and realize the tumbling family was always there to back. With teaching full time and A: It was very hard to begin with. My true potential of the human body as help. coaching, it was getting tricky to whole identity in the sport was as an they work towards their goals. Along Q: Do you have any travelling tips that balance all that. I knew I wanted athlete in tumbling. I missed the the way challenges will be faced, life you can share with other coaches? to provide my children with the routine, the training, my teammates, skills will be learned and life-long A: Be organized! I think doing it opportunities for lots of activities, my friends and flipping. However, friends will be made. progressively. Don’t push athletes however if I were always at the gym, the trampoline and tumbling Q: Have you ever had to deal with too hard and far, too young. They it was going to be tricky. community in Alberta and across difficult parents? How did you cope are still children; they have essentialQ: How many hours did you spend on Canada is so supportive and close it with them? needs that only a parent can provide. coaching at that time? forged a natural progression. A: There are always challenges as a coach. They have many years ahead ofA: I had started Airborne Trampoline The transfer of knowledge from Parents provide you with their child them. Start at smaller meets first and and Tumbling in Okotoks; I was great coaches like Derek and others not knowing what the future will gradually get bigger. going to school doing my education was going to continue through new hold. Athletes have goals, coaches I always thought of myself as the degree and I was also working in area have goals, and parents may or may parent of each of the athletes at every not have goals. Having an ongoing, event. I always planned according open line of communication from to the philosophy, “if these were my day one helps with this. Setting clear biological children, what would I do?” expectations upfront, with rationale Research, research, research! Know behind these decisions is a proactive your location, know your travel plans, way of ensuring parents understand know your accommodations, know your goals for the athlete. the schedule, know your athletes Being willing to listen to athlete (medical issues, habits, needs) and and parent perspectives and taking plan for the unexpected. All of this these into consideration in relation needs to be presented to parents to your expectations, will forge a clearly, and well in advance. On or stronger relationship. Having a off the coaching floor, I thought of strong relationship is key to having myself as their guardian. I took my an athlete continue for a long career. coaching role very seriously! As a young coach, I made many Q: Other than tumbling, what other mistakes; as I am sure many others sports do you enjoy doing in your have as well. After all we are human. spare time? It took many peaks and valleys as a A: Spare time? What’s that?! I do a lot coach to realize this. of running. I do work out a bit and I Q: You started the Airborne Trampoline try to do yoga when I can. Now that4

the kids are older we have started Chrissy and I will support them in ON THE FLIPSIDE doing some camping, hiking, biking whatever they wish. Sport has been and skiing as a family. We have taken a part of both our lives for many Don’t give up on your dream! some beautiful hikes across Alberta years, and we feel it is integral to and BC this past year. development. As long as they are “I was from a very smallQ: Are your kids involved in gymnastics? happy, healthy and have a passion. town, I started very late, IA: They were a little bit. I truly believe Q: Do you have any advice to other had many odds against me. in having kids sample many sports; athletes who are competing? With a little perseverance so Abby has done dance, swimming, A: I would say, “Don’t give up on and work ethic, anything is jump rope and rock climbing. She your dream!”. I was from a very possible. was involved with both sport acro small town, I started very late, I and trampoline and tumbling. Both had many odds against me. With just knew when to push me. I liked For my Masters’ work, I focused of which she showed potential in. a little perseverance and work ethic, to be pushed, but he also knew my on the effectiveness of professional She is very stubborn and determined. anything is possible. You just need to weakness and when to say “whoa, development in physical education Her body type is small, strong and make sure you focus on that dream you need to step back a bit!” (laugh). as well as looking at the impact of flexible, perfect for gymnastics. But or goal, with an understanding there I would also like to thank my having generalist teachers teaching it isn’t her passion. About a year and are going to be bumps along the way, wife, Chrissy. She is definitely a huge physical education at the elementary half ago she came to me and said, but you need to stay focused. Also, part of who I am especially when I level. This allowed me to also tap into “Dad, gymnastics is no longer my make sure you listen to your support was making that transition from my coaching side, by incorporating favourite, I love soccer.” Now she is network, your coaches, your parents, athlete to coach. From there, moving the impact of this on Long Term doing soccer and she is 100 percent and your fellow athletes. They are from coach/ teacher to husband and Athlete Development in relation to committed. She has shown great there to support you and they only to a father. She has always been physical literacy. progress in soccer over the last year, have your best interest in mind. a bright light for me! Chrissy has and she loves it! Q: Is there anyone you would like to always been very supportive of all my Recently, I have been involved Myson,Grayson,isourcomedian! thank? goals and dreams, and my stubborn in a few projects with a professor He has quite the personality. He A: Definitely Derek! Yes, it was almost pursuit of them. She has come to the at U of C looking at various has been involved in swimming, like a hierarchy when I started. realization that tumbling is a part of curricular models, as well as the use baseball, karate, gymnastics, dance However, once you get to a certain me and that I always want to drift of technology in physical education and trampoline and tumbling. He age and level, you are very equal. back to that direction. Even when assessment. So basically, I will have has also recently discovered soccer, A relationship of mutual respect I get up at two in the morning to to let you know. My inner geek just but I am not sure whether this is his develops. We definitely saw that watch international meets online. has too many interests! big sister’s influence. in our relationship for sure. Derek With her being a gymnast as well, Regardless of what they choose, she understands the pull; gymnastics Q: Studies find that Canadian kids are is a large part of both our identities not involved enough in physicalChris Shaw and wife Chrissy along with their two children, Abby and Grayson and shaped who we are. This is activity, as a Phys Ed teacher, what something unique in our relationship are your thoughts on this? that we will always share. Q: What would you like to study for A: This is a good question! There are your PhD? so many variables that play into the A: I haven’t nailed it down yet; this is current level of activity of Canadian still a conversation between Chrissy children. Depending on which and and I as to if and when I might start. who’s perspective you look at, yes It will be a large commitment for our there is an issue, but our current entire family, so I need to make sure society does not necessarily support we are all ready. If I do start, I am ALL kids to be active. Technology is looking at starting in the next few a huge issue; kids have been provided years. with entertainment devices that promote inactivity. It is any easy babysitter! Kids are also not given the 5

April 2017Chris Shaw and his atheles Dane Percival and Justin Parkhouse who were the first athletes from have had a Phys Ed specialist versus compassion, problem solving andMountain Shadows/Airborne Trampoline and Tumbling to qualify for Canadian Championships in a generalist teacher teaching them critical thinking.1999 at UBC. Phys Ed; I think it is detrimental to I think having a balance of the physical literacy and long-term both especially at young age is very opportunity to get out and play due one-sided development, burnout and development of the kids. important. Once you get to be 11 to fear. A hot topic right now is the over-involved parents due to the huge Absolutely, nothing against to 13 years, you’re going to pull concept of risky or adventure play. financial and time commitment. the generalist teacher as I know the naturally to one direction or the Kids have been placed in a bubble Many kids end up quitting and pressure they are under to prepare the other, depending on your strength by many parents out of fear of injury, are therefore not being physically students academically, and Phys Ed is and what is important to you. bad influences or strangers. This active. On the flip side, I get why often an after thought. However, if Q: Anything else you would like to has created a hyper-sensitive society, programs and sports require kids to they are not developing those basic share? where kids aren’t able to be kids and commit to such a stringent schedule, skills they may lose the confidence in A: Of all sports, gymnastics is a just get out and play. they have to pay their coaches and sport. fundamental sport ALL kids should This has directly affected their bills also. In my mind we all need to Unfortunately, there’s not be exposed to. In addition to being confidence and competence, as well look at LTAD (Long Term Athlete enough funding to support those involved with gymnastics type sport, as impacted the social-emotional side Development); as parents, coaches Phys Ed teachers – which is sad, very learning how to run, jump, throw of kids. This fear has resulted in kids’ and athletes to ensure we are making sad, that it always comes down to and swimming are the other areas inability to engage in unstructured the right decisions for kids. Kids and money. that absolutely need to be introduced play, which directly impacts their families need PLAY, it is vital to their It is all a very vicious circle! We to young kids. socialization. development. have to do what is good for the kids I think every child should be Kids are therefore placed in I think another major issue is long-term. As you can see I have involved in gymnastics. With the structured programs, which is the lack of passionate, well-trained many opinions about this topic! huge umbrella in gymnastics, there’s fantastic! However, many programs Phys Ed specialists at elementary Q: Individual sport verses team sports something for everybody. Be it are extremely expensive and expect schools. This is where it all begins, for kids, what are your thoughts? artistic, trampoline and tumbling, kids and families to commit a and EVERY child in Canada must A: I think young kids should do both. sport acro, rhythmic or gymnastics great deal of time and money to be attend school. The individual sports teach you to for all. involved. By having experts at the be more focused, because it’s you For me, the gymnastics Thus in essence, many sports elementary level, we can instill the and you alone. You have to be really community has been very important. require kids to commit year round and physical literacy skills, confidence and diligent about knowing what your It gave me my identity for many specialize in sports very early, which competence in our youth to be active goals are, in your preparation, and years and gave me confidence to take is not necessarily developmentally for life. I have noticed that there is making sure YOU yourself cover other risks and continue to pursue appropriate in all sports. This leads to a huge discrepancy among kids who all the bases you need in order other goals. to do the best you can. Whereas with team sport, it’s important for teaching teamwork, leadership (responsibility), communication, From left to right: Micky Pilsen, Anton Minayev, Dane Percival, Chris Shaw, Kim Cameron at World Championships 2005 in Eindhoven, the Netherlands.6

ON THE FLIPSIDEMEET OUR COACHESW atching gymnasts BRANDON O'NEILL | ORTONA GYMNASTICS CLUB leap and tumble across a gym Brandon O'Neill has been involved in the Q: Why did you want to become a gymnastics coach?performing amazing feats, it sport of gymnastics for 26 years since he A: I felt with all my years in the sport and achieving thecan be easy to forget one very was three. During his tenure as a gymnast,important person behind the Brandon was a member of the Canadian National highest level, I had a lot to give back. I enjoy passing onscenes: the coach. Coaches Team. He attended five World Championships my knowledge to the younger generation.spend just as much, if not and the 2008 Olympic Games. He won numerous Q: How has coaching changed since you first started yourmore time than athletes do international medals and many national career?on building careers, yet don’t championships, including 9th in the team event A: I have learned that as an athlete there are a lot of thingsoften receive the same level at the 2008 Olympic Games; silver medal on the you don’t know a coach has to deal with. I’ve grownof acknowledgement their floor exercise at 2005 World Championships; and learned a lot in the last five years since starting toathletes do. Coaches often floor champion at the 2003 Pan Am Games and coach full time. Mostly the changes have come withcarry impressive athletic 2005 Universiade, and team silver at the 2002 growth I have made as a coach and understanding theachievements of their own, Commonwealth Games. job more.along with strong background Q: What is your funniest coaching memory?knowledge of physiology Brandon retired in 2014 and has been coaching A: An older gymnast of mine one day was learning doubleor kinesiology, while also ever since. He has coached Provincial Champions back dismounts off the parallel bars. He was trying todemonstrating an ability in P2, P3, P4 and National Open. Currently, he is land them on his feet and after a few humorous shortto mentor, encourage, and the Men's Program Lead at the Ortona Gymnastics landings, he had one more which proved to be one toodiscipline regularly. Club in Edmonton. His specialties are the floor, many. He landed on his knees with his face in the mat. vault and parallel bars. As a coach, his main goals He got up and proceeded to say he hated a long list of The role of a coach is are to ensure every child has fun, pushes their people and things and walked away. The group andmultifaceted and comes limits and learns valuable life skills that extendwith unique challenges,from dealing with difficult beyond gymnastics.athletes to difficult parents.While the role has an athleticbackground it involvesa great deal of personalinvestment, requiring a coachto gain an athlete’s full trustwhile exhibiting patienceand endurance themselves.Hear from our coaches in allgymnastics deciplines to getmore insights about theirexperiences. 7

April 2017 ON THE FLIPSIDE With all my years in the “sport and achieving the highest level, I had a lot to give back. I enjoy passing on my knowledge to the younger generation. I were all laughing, and so was the the older groups, so I would say to parallel bars are exciting for me. Q: Best travelling tip? athlete after a few minutes. focus on the young ones too. As much Q: What strategies do you implement to A: If you are a picky eater, bring as manyQ: What advice would you tell a new as possible at the time anyways. coach starting out? Q: What makes you still passionate about stay in top coaching condition? (for snacks from home as you can. If youA: Patience and understanding is key. coaching today? example: work/life balance, nutrition are in another country sometimes the To know each athlete is different A: Working with all ages and levels. I etc…) food can be less than ideal. from one another and to treat them as feel it keeps things interesting. I’ve A: I don’t think about work outside Q: What’s in your coaching toolbox? individuals. enjoyed working with the younger of the gym. I make sure to live the A: I constantly need fuel, so I haveQ: If you could have told your younger athletes more as time has gone by. other side of my life, and then when plenty of food to last me my day at self some career/coaching advice what Q: Favorite skill to coach: I come into work I feel refreshed and work. Most are in small quantities so would have that been? A: I enjoy teaching most events equally. ready to go. Coaching is a physically I can have a small bite without takingA: When I started I was working with Release skills on high bar and the demanding job, I make sure to eat any time. Comfortable athletic wear well, be active and get massage/physio so you can move easily and feel good. treatments when I can. And my work plans. Ready for something fun and di erent for your GYMNASTICS curriculum? abgym.ab.ca Have Kids CanMove visit your school! • Gymnastics based activities designed for K–7 • Minimal equipment requirements • Trained and certi ed instructors teach your students while demonstrating how easy it can be to teach gymnastics For information regarding our resource material, professional development and in-class training sessions contact: Heather Sjostrom: [email protected] or 403-259-5549. 1-800-665-1010 (Alberta only)8

ON THE FLIPSIDEJENNIE MILLER | CALGARY ACRO GYM CORP.Jennie Miller has been involved in competing. I first got involved in coaching while Gymnastics since the age of 6 and still being an athlete. I loved it straight away and made the switch from Artistic to Sports haven't stopped since! Acrobatics at 10 years old. During her competitive years, she progressed from Q: How has coaching changed since you first started winning regional and national titles to being your career? selected to represent Great Britain at several European and World Championships. She A: Coaching styles have continued to adapt and won medals at these events and her career change throughout the twenty-five years I have culminated in her winning the Silver medal been involved in the sport. Rules change all the with the Senior Women’s trio in the 2010 time and it’s important as a coach to move with World Championships. the times however, I have found that one thing has remained the same and that is that no matter After retiring from competition, Jennie how much effort a coach puts in, the gymnast turned to coaching full time and began to must want to train and work hard if they want to train developing elite gymnasts to a higher succeed. level. She has coached Sports Acrobatics for more than 10 years helping gymnasts achieve Q: What is your funniest coaching memory? national and international titles including A: The best memories I have from coaching definitely a Mixed Pair silver medal at the World Age group competition in 2014. In 2016, she was come from the training camps or trips away to a proud to represent Canada as a coach for the competition. The athletes are more relaxed out of first time at the World age group competition the gym and that’s when we all have the most fun! in China. Q: What advice would you tell a new coach starting timing and body placements correct takes a long“Q: Why did you want to become a gymnastics coach? out? time and that way when each part of the skill comes A: Having been involved in gymnastics from the age together, it feels like such an accomplishment for of six, coaching seemed to be a natural step from A: I would say to do as much research as possible into athlete and coach. the sport. Become obsessed with knowledge and Q: What strategies do you implement to stay in The biggest pleasure take your time to learn from your peers. Rushing top coaching condition? (for example: work/life you can get from into coaching the higher levels and difficult skills balance, nutrition etc…) coaching is seeing is not the way to progress; just take your time and A: I try my best to balance my gym life with rest your athlete succeed work hard. time away from the gym and maintain a regular in their goals sleeping pattern so that I can be alert in the gym. however big or small. Q: If you could have told your younger self some Coaching can be mentally draining and often spills career/coaching advice what would have that over in to other parts of your life. I try and switch been? off from the gym as much as possible during my days off. A: I would probably say to be patient and always put Q: Best travelling tip? the goals of the gymnasts first even if it's as simple A: Always pack as much as you can in your carry-on as wanting to learn a cartwheel. Every gymnast luggage; airlines lose luggage all the time! has their own pace regardless of age or level and Q: What’s in your coaching toolbox? the more the coach understands each athlete, it A: I make sure to have my iPad on hand to keep becomes much easier for them to progress. routine music and the rules. Being able to do video playback is really useful with teaching new skills Q: What makes you still passionate about coaching and polishing choreography, giving the athletes a today? visual of what they’re doing really helps them to understand the corrections. A: I love the passion and excitement the kids have when they first start the sport. The biggest pleasure you can get from coaching is seeing your athlete succeed in their goals however big or small. I’m also inspired by the innovation of skills that acrobats across the world continue to produce and I want to be part of the continuous evolution of the sport. Q: Favorite skill to coach: A: I enjoy the technical difficulty of teaching the intricate skills. Working on each stage to get the 9

April 2017 There is such beauty GEN SMITH | CARDSTON GYMNASTICS CLUB “in the control of gymnastics skills and seeing what our bodies are capable of attaining.Gen or Genilyn (as she was time. This volunteer position soon Q: What is your funniest coaching reunion, the good kind you actually referred to by her parents turned into a job as a recreation memory? look forward to show up to. whenever she was in artistic coach. Fourteen years, 4 Second, I relish finding ways totrouble) was born in Ogden, Utah, kids of her own, and a few bumps A: I really can’t think of one memory better myself. The training camps,but due to her dad’s employment and bruises later, she is a trained in particular. I guess when you love certification courses, and mentorshipwith the LDS church, they moved level 3, Head Coach of the T&T what you do things are always fun! opportunities allow my mind andaround constantly. competitive program at Cardston skills to develop. I leave those events Gymnastics Club. Q: What advice would you tell a new on a “knowledge high,” excited to She started artistic gymnastics coach starting out? implement what I have just learnedin Boise, Idaho, then switched to Q: Why did you want to become a and hungry for more.Tumbling at the age of 10 when gymnastics coach? A: Be a sponge. Soak up as much Finally, I take great pleasureshe moved back to Utah. She information as you can from those from seeing an athlete set goals andcompeted in her first National T&T A: I had a love for gymnastics since I around you. Knowledge will come pushing past their own expectations.competition at the age of 12, just could walk, so my parents got me as you diligently seek it. Don’t be Q: Favorite skill to coach:a month before her family was started early. The gym I trained afraid to ask your questions. Request A: Whatever skill I am teaching in thetransferred to Frankfurt, Germany. at called me the “mini- Mary Lou feedback, but, in the end, find what moment is my favorite! Retton”. I had the same leotard as her fits best for your style of coaching Q: What strategies do you implement to This was the beginning of 6 and everything! My infatuation soon and hold on to it! stay in top coaching condition? (foryears of overseas assignments that turned to passion for the sport. example: work/life balance, nutritionlimited the availability to continue Q: If you could have told your younger etc…)training in the sport. After she There is such beauty in the self some career/coaching advice A: I try and keep myself balanced bymoved back to Utah, she met her control of gymnastics skills and what would have that been? focusing on four areas:husband, Nathan, at University. seeing what our bodies are capable 1. Physical – Working out, drinking of attaining. I love the empowerment A: Coaching is not about you! It has They were married and worked and self confidence that comes with nothing to do with how good you enough, and eating nutrient richas Group home parents for pushing ourselves beyond our own appear in front of others, but it has foods. (I would love to say I gettroubled kids ages 8-18. This work limits. everything to do with empowering enough sleep, but that never seemsmoved them from Utah to Calgary. an athlete to reach their potential, to be the case);Needing a break from the stress Q: How has coaching changed since you not just in the gym, but throughout 2. M ental – Finding time to studythat three years in the group homes first started your career? every aspect of their lives. and research new drills andand over 40 kids brought on, they training techniques;decided to quiet life down. A: For me, my awareness of coaching Q: What makes you still passionate 3. Spiritual – Taking quiet time to is what has changed, not necessarily about coaching today? connect with myself and with God They moved back to Nathan’s coaching itself. The more that I learn,stomping grounds in Cardston, the more I realize what I didn’t know A: I think it’s a combination of a fewAlberta. Shortly after their move when I started out. things: First, I love how welcomingin 2003, Gen started volunteering our T&T community is. Going to aat the Cardston Gymnastics club, competition is like attending a familyfor something to do with her free10

ON THE FLIPSIDE each day in-order to find my daily minutes to three hours away, which focus; and, equates to lots of hours behind the 4. E motional/Social – Due to juggling wheel. Blasting Broadway tunes, my work with my husband’s work singing at the top of my lungs with and school, my four kids are in the the windows down, or having other gym with me LOTS, sometimes amazing coaches drive so I can sleep, training, shadow coaching, helps me make it home safely on coloring, reading, playing games or those long, late-night trips. just watching, but the key thing is Q: What’s in your coaching toolbox? that we are all their together in the A: Other coaches are my secret weapon! same spot, breathing the same air, The T&T community has been so keeping connected. welcoming and open to help andQ: Best travelling tip? develop me as a coach. The knowledge,A: Right now, our gym is only set up advice and guidance they have shared 20 weeks out of the year, so, in our with me has been a riceless tool in my off seasons, we have opportunities toolbox! to train at gyms anywhere from 45 11

April 2017 “I enjoy working with kids. They are full of HEINJO LAHRING | SUNDRE GYMNASTICS CLUB energy and that spills over to us adults. Each individual thinks and acts differently. The one-on-one interactions make it challenging and rewarding.Heinjo Lahring was 10 when he began wouldn’t give you lift no matter how hard you hit coaches tripped getting onto it. Naturally, I was the training at the Altadore Gymnastics it. Now the equipment clubs have is incredible! The first to trip. Why can’t I lift my feet another inch? I Club in Calgary. In High School he left formation of private clubs allowed for more space was trained all these years that to get onto a 2\" mat gymnastics and devoted most of his free time and equipment didn’t have to be taken down each and my feet weren’t about to adjust until after a good to skiing, hiking and playing music. class. These were big changes and expanded how many tumbles had been performed for the class. and what coaches taught. Our club is still a set-up/ Sheesh! Heinjo is one of the founding members of take-down club, but that’s OK. We still have so many Q: What advice would you tell a new coach starting out? the Sundre Gymnastics Club in Sundre, Alberta. more pieces of equipment than we ever had when I A: Organize, organize, organize! Keep good, accessible He started out volunteering as a coach in 1997 was a kid. records. Know where you are heading with the and became the head coach subsequently. For The development of the Cangym/Canjump season. Stick to your plan but be open to ideas. Use his outstanding service, Heinjo was honoured programs have been very important in establishing this knowledge to base your next season’s goals on. with AGF Coach of the Year award in 2010. guidelines for recreational gymnastics. Over the years Q: If you could have told your younger self some career/ I developed the idea a little further and created a coaching advice what would have that been? Heinjo graduated with a degree in botany and spreadsheet of Cangym skill requirements to be used A: Be patient. Ask someone if you do not know. Check has written several books on watergardening on the ‘country circuit’ for recreational gym meets. the manuals and ask other coaches to gather more and native wetland flora. In his spare time Basic judging forms were also developed that went information. We aren’t born knowing this stuff, we Heinjo enjoys skiing, cycling, playing, teaching with the spreadsheet. It helped make judging fair and have to learn it. Control your workload by delegating drums and studying plants. easy to follow at a recreational level meet. out tasks to other coaches and volunteer helpers. Coaching was much easier to get into when I Many parents want to be involved with their child’s Q: Why did you want to become a gymnastics coach? first started. Now my junior coaches have to jump gymnastics program. Parental help is a great resource. A: My daughter joined the Sundre Gymnastics Club through a lot more hoops to get certified. It seems to Q: What makes you still passionate about coaching be very competitively oriented. This is too bad, since today? many years ago. It brought back memories of when I most gymnasts are recreational and will never end A: As I mentioned earlier, gymnastics is a hobby for me. was a gymnast with the Altadore Gymnastics Club at up on a national team or go to the Olympics. More I enjoy working with kids. They are full of energy and Altadore Elementary School in Calgary. The Sundre focus should be on the average kid and less emphasis that spills over to us adults. Each individual thinks club was in its infancy and new coaches and ideas on training to be a competitive athlete. and acts differently. The one-on-one interactions were welcome. Taking part was a natural fit. I could Q: What is your funniest coaching memory? make it challenging and rewarding. Time goes fast learn more about the sport and help my daughter A: Humour always helps make classes fun. I think the when you are having fun. (and the local kids) out at the same time. It was a unplanned, unexpected incidents are always the best. Q: What is your favorite skill to coach? win - win situation. One that comes to mind is when I switched out our A: Vault. Gymnastics is a game of physics. Vault brings old 40 x 40 floor mat for a new one. The old mat was together so many principles of movement of mass, Q: How has coaching changed since you first started about 2\" thick. The new one is 3\" thick. You would your career? think that a 1” difference wouldn’t make a difference but it does! On day one I think half of the kids and A: First of all, coaching has not been a career for me. It is more of a hobby, and hobbies are fun. Fifty years ago we made do with very basic equipment. A wooden box horse, a few small mats and a beat board that12

ON THE FLIPSIDE Fundraising... just got easier Official Sponsor Alberta Gymnastics Federation force, vectors, speed, flight, landings, business for 35 years have taught me COMING … it’s all there with vault. I use a to organize my projects carefully and FALL 2011 camera a lot to break it down and be selective about what I do with my show the kids and coaches what is time. Coaching and taking part in CLASSIFIEDS going on. gymnastics is well spent time.Q: What strategies do you implement to Q: Best travelling tip? Looking for a career in gymnastics? Need to sell some equipment? stay in top coaching condition? (or A: Our gymnasts are recreational and pre- Hiring a coach? The AGF classifieds are a great place to start. example: work/life balance, nutrition competitive so we mainly attend gym etc…) meets on the country circuit. I prefer Placing an ad is free for all AGF member clubs and their members.A: I always take part in stretches and if parents take on the responsibility of Just visit the AGF site and you can post your ad instantly! strength training. I am fortunate that driving them to gym meets. I always I am self-employed and can pretty travel with our club first aid kit. I Still have any questions? Contact Molly Fang at [email protected] much set my own pace and schedule. know what’s in it and can access it I ski most days in the winter, both immediately when it is required. x-country and downhill. I put in Q: What’s in your coaching toolbox? about 100 – 125 ski days a year. A: My office contains lots of manuals and When the snow melts away I switch notes I have written while attending to cycling. I long distance tour with courses and workshops. I refer to them my wife. The Mohave and Sonoran often. Lately I have found that You- deserts have been our favorite tube videos have been very helpful. I destinations in the past few years. At carry a small piece of white chalk in home base, which is a greenhouse my pocket and have been known to and nursery located in the foothills scribble all over mats to help illustrate area west of Sundre, I am active a skill. doing lots of physical work daily. My University background and running aAGF PARTNERS 13

April 2017 Just seeing kids AMY MILLER | ALTADORE GYMNASTICS CLUB “progress and being excited about learning new skills is what keeps me coming back to the gym day after day.A my Miller has been involved in the sport Q: How has coaching changed since you first started super picky. Be disciplined, but be fair and remember of gymnastics since the age of 2, when your career? athletes are kids and people first. she began Parent and Tot classes at the Take every opportunity to learn and grow. YouNorfort Gymnastics Club in Fort McMurray. A: So many new drills and ways of doing things! I think definitely won’t agree with everything you hear andAfter retiring as a competitive gymnast at the the biggest change I have seen over the last 10 years see, but that’s what coaching is about, deciding whatage of 16, she moved directly into coaching. in Alberta (and Canada) is how much the coaches works for you, your athletes and your Program.Amy's first group of athletes was a LEAP Bronze are now working together for the best possible Enjoy your job! Coaching can be frustrating atgroup of girls aged 7-8. Following high school, gymnastics throughout the province and the country. times, remember at the end of the day, it is JUSTAmy stayed in Fort McMurray for a year to gymnastics.coach full time before moving to Calgary in There are so many opportunities to work together Q: If you could have told your younger self some career/2009 to pursue a Kinesiology Degree at the and learn from each other. Alberta has such a great coaching advice what would have that been?University of Calgary. coaching team environment, and I think the results speak for themselves. Personally I have been lucky During her time in University, Amy started enough to take part in the AGF Mentorship Programto coach part time at the Altadore Gymnastics twice, where I got to learn from so many amazingClub. Following graduation from University, coaches, attend many Aspire and other Provincialshe began her full time coaching career at and National Training Camps, and the most excitingAltadore. Throughout the last three years, Amy travel was to England with Alberta Team Excel as ahas worked as the Developmental Coordinator Mentor Coach.at AGC, and has had several athletes attendWestern and Canadian Championships. Q: What is your funniest coaching memory? A: One of my athletes (who is now a JO 9) was attendingQ: Why did you want to become a gymnastics coach?A: I couldn’t stay away. I moved to Calgary to do a her first ever competition as a 7-year-old P2 Argo. She was a little confused on how things worked, Kinesiology Degree at the U of C because I wanted especially on floor. She warmed up all her tumbling to be an Athletic Therapist. Right away I started and I said to her “Okay, now just do the dance.” So subbing at a couple of gymnastics clubs in the city, she gets in the floor and starts dancing, and then and by my third year I had my own group at Altadore. all the sudden she’s tumbling again. A few minutes Although sometimes frustrating, I feel very lucky later, right before the judge is about to call her for her to have a job that I am so passionate about. Some actual routine, she looks at me and goes “okay so I nights I can hardly sleep I’m so excited for the next just do the dance now right?”… As she was walking day at work! It’s great to have a career that challenges out onto the floor I’m calling “Dance and tumbling, you and allows you to constantly learn and grow. I dance and tumbling!!” never get bored that’s for sure! Q: What advice would you tell a new coach starting out? A: Take your time. Figure out what is really important to you in developing a group of kids and then be14

A; Learn as much as you can from other coaches and Q: What makes you still passionate about coaching ON THE FLIPSIDE don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. Take your today? first developing. I find if I lift weights I’m in better time with young athletes and work really hard on shape to spot, and my muscles, (especially in my developing strong basics and technique. A: Helping kids achieve their goals. Sometimes the kip back) won’t hurt as much. I also find working out that took six months to learn is more rewarding than and doing other things for myself helps me to be in Be hands on as much as possible. I find physical the double back (not that first double backs aren’t the best frame of mind in the gym. correction usually works a LOT better than verbal super exciting!) Just seeing kids progress and being (ESPECIALLY with young kids first developing). excited about learning new skills is what keeps me Q: Best travelling tip? coming back to the gym day after day. A: If you are somewhere you’ve never been before, find Finding other physical cues such as hurdle mats, a foam to reach in glide swing, etc., can also Q: Favorite skill to coach: some times to sightsee! Gymnastics can show you a be very helpful. Don’t expect things to happen A: Blind change on bars lot of cool places within the world! overnight, it will take tons and tons of repetition and Q: What strategies do you implement to stay in top reinforcement to get the results you are looking for. Q: What’s in your coaching toolbox? coaching condition? (for example: work/life balance, A: It always keeps growing: If you are in a position to make decisions about nutrition etc…) the Club, make Program based decisions for the best A: I try to work out at least a few times a day. I believe • Drills and techniques I’ve learned along the of the Program as a whole. Decide what is important if you want high quality gymnastics you need to be way to you and stick to it… even when it is hard. It’s okay very hands on, especially in the beginning as they are to say no if you are saying it for the right reason. • Videos and Programs from other coaches, training camps, etc. • Friends and colleagues I can go to for adviceBoulevard Travel offers three“World’s in Montreal” Travel Packages to AGF membersIn 2017, Montreal will once again add a Package Price per person: $ 1,325.00 based chapter to the book of sports history by on Double; $ 1,100.00 based on Quad. hosting the 47th FIG Artistic Gymnastics Hotel and events only: $ 673.00 based onWorld Championships, which will take place Double.from October 2-8 in 2017. Per person: $ 445.00 based on Quad.If a trip to experience a world classgymnastics competition at the Olympic PACKAGE 3Stadium is on your calendar in 2017, here is • Airfarethe great news! AGF and its partner Boulevard • Event tickets (Oct 5 - Silver Level 100;Travel has put together three special travel Oct 6 – Silver Level 200; Oct 7-8 –packages only for AGF members. These Bronze Level 100)package ** includes airfare, event tickets for all • Hotel: Residence Inn Westmountevents (Silver Level 100 or 200 & Bronze Level • 1-bedroom suite with 2 double beds100) and hotel accommodation (3 choices), • Full kitchen; separate living spacebelow is the details: • Hot & cold breakfast buffet Package Price per person: $ 1,552.00 basedPACKAGE 1 on Double; $ 1,230.00 based on Quad.• Airfare Hotel and events only: $ 917.00 based on• Event tickets (Oct 5 - Silver Level 100; Double.Oct 6 – Silver Level 200; Oct 7-8 – Per person: $ 575.00 based on Quad.Bronze Level 100)• H otel: Hotel Gouverneur Place Dupuis Can’t wait to see your idols from the 2016• Superior Room with 2 double beds Rio Olympic Games live and in-person in• American Breakfast buffet Montreal? Visit AGF website to registerPackage Price per person: $ 1,493.00 based before May 24 and take advantage of the greaton Double; $ 1,203.00 based on Quad. saving; make this your family trip to discoverHotel and events only: $ 855.00 based on Montreal’s rich culture and history and be partDouble. of the City’s 375th anniversary celebrations,Per person: $ 567.00 based on Quad. and best of all, follow your favourite athletes who competed at the Rio Olympics GamesPACKAGE 2 up close at the 2017 World Championships• Airfare and cheer for all the Canadian athletes!• Event tickets (Oct 5 - Silver Level 100; Oct 6 – Silver Level 200 ; Oct 7-8 – For more information, visit Haley Bronze Level 100) http://abgym.ab.ca/Events/ World-s-in-Montreal-Travel-Package• Hotel: Sandman Montreal-Longueuil For any questions, please contact• Standard room with 2 queens directly at 403-802-4282.• Hot buffet breakfast 15

April 2017MONTRÉAL SET TO HOST THE 2017 FIG ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Montréal, I have Montréal is well known for hosting fond memories. It's the International Gymnix for the last a part of my life. I 25 years, as well as the Artistic and am proud to be the Rhythmic Gymnastics FIG World Cups spokesperson\", said in 2009, 2010 and 2011. the five time Olympic Games gold medalist. A LEGACY Like Nadia, In addition to creating considerable experience world-class gymnastics up-close to interest within the Montréal the action! Tickets for community, the presentation of the the 2017 FIG Artistic event will provide the opportunity to Gymnastics World launch, in collaboration with schools, Championships specific educational programs (https:// are on sale since goo.gl/nOYWEc)targeting young November 28th with students with precise objectives such as W20O17RLDS nearly 20 000 tickets learning about the history of Montréal already sold. Don’t and the geography of the world. miss your chance! Full details on pricing and In addition, the Move Your Body packages can be found program (https://goo.gl/5jJ4QJ), at mtl2017gymcan. launched throughout the Quebec com. school network, aims to promote physical activity and positive lifestyle Make it a habits. Discover the program online. rendezvous with history to cheer MONTRÉAL AND THE OLYMPIC for the Olympic STADIUM Champions and MONTRÉAL support the Canadian The city of Montréal is the largest team! city in the Province of Québec and OCTOBER 2 8 A MAJOR SPORT the second largest in Canada. An international destination of choice, EVENT Montréal is a dynamic and multi- ethnic city. With its past deeply rooted Hundreds of in French and British cultures, the GET YOUR TICKETS athletes, coaches, warm and tolerant city is a mosaic of mtl2017gymcan.com team officials and more than 80 cultural communities. volunteers from over Montréal awaits you in October 80 countries will help 2017 and will pulse in synch with to make this event a the high performance athletes who success. They will all will participate in the FIG Artistic be at the heart of the Gymnastics World Championships. celebrations of the 375th anniversary Designed by French architect, RogerTHE WORLD’S FINEST GYMNASTS since the Olympic Games in Rio. of the founding of Taillibert, the Olympic Stadium, mainTO GATHER IN MONTRÉAL In front of the Queen of the Montréal, the 150th anniversary of site of the 1976 Summer Olympics, the Confederation of Canada, and the is Montréal’s iconic building. Its 45° From October 2nd to 8th, be part Montréal Olympic Games and official 50th anniversary of the 1976 World 165-metre slanted tower is the tallest ofof the greatest event of the year in spokesperson of the event, Nadia Exhibition its kind in the world. A 50-passengergymnastics, the 2017 FIG Artistic Comaneci, 500 athletes will fight for Canada will host these glass funicular will take you to the topGymnastics World Championships. the coveted title of world champion, at Championships for only the of the Tower. the same venue where Nadia reached second time in history, after a very Perseverance, strength, courage perfection and conquered the heart successful event in 1985. A leader These Championships benefit fromand artistry will inspire thousands of of the entire world, 40 years ago: The in the organization of international the financial support of the followingspectators in Montréal, as the world’s Montréal Olympic Stadium. gymnastics events, the city of public institutions and tourismbiggest stars of gymnastics will compete organizations: Government of Canada,against each other for the first time \"Every time I come back to Québec Government, City of Montréal and Tourisme Montréal.16

ON THE FLIPSIDEBEING SMART ABOUT CONCUSSIONSTHIS ARTICLE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON THE SPORT INFORMATION RESOURCE CENTRE ON DECEMBER, 2016.http://sirc.ca/blog/being-smart-about-concussions Concussion continues to be a very hot topic in sport these days. A a concussion should be removed from is organized into Prevent, Recognize, athletes, teachers, and officials concussion is the most common play and seen by a medical professional. Manage and Track. on concussion prevention, signssports injury an athlete can sustain. Treatment of concussion may take some and symptoms, management, and Parachute worked under the guidance internationally recognized return to play time and will include medical treatment, of its Expert Advisory CommitteeWhile most concussed athletes will rest and a gradual progression of and with selected members from the protocol. The Making Head Way seriesonly have mild symptoms and short- returning to school/work and to physical Canadian Concussion Collaborative to was developed in consultation withterm effects, there are a few people that activities. Athletes should be symptom select relevant, evidence-based material medical experts Dr. Jamie Kissick, Dr.experience debilitating side-effects that free before returning to activity. for Concussion Ed. The development Mark Aubry, and Dr. Charles Tator andcan last weeks or months. It is important of Concussion Ed was supported by the is available for small or large-scale useto discuss concussions in sport and how APPS ON CONCUSSION Public Health Agency of Canada. immediately via coach.ca. Informationwe can do better for Canadian youth EDUCATION/AWARENESS regarding identifying and managingto play safe and continue to become The best defence is to keep yourself • Making Head Way eLearning Series concussions is constantly evolving. Theinvolved in sport and physical activity. knowledgeable about head impacts and The Coaching Association of Canada CAC is committed to ensuring that our concussions. There are many resources (CAC) is committed to ensuring all sport Making Headway eLearning modulesWHAT DO WE NEED TO KNOW out there that can help educate and organization partners and coaches have are current and reflect the latest researchABOUT CONCUSSIONS? promote awareness. The following apps access to concussion awareness resources. in the area of concussion management.A concussion is an injury that is are great Canadian resources that can With funding from the Public Health Proof of completion of these NCCPcaused by the brain being shaken around help athletes, parents, teachers, coaches Agency of Canada’s Active and Safe Professional Development modules isinside the skull after a hit, bump or blow and the public at large better understand Initiative, and in collaboration with the available publicly through the CAC’sto the head, or a sudden jerking of the concussions and their impacts on daily Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, national database upon successfulhead or neck when the body is hit. There life. Hockey Canada, and Parachute Canada, completion. To date, the Making Headis a misconception that you have to be the CAC created the award-winning Way eLearning modules have beenknocked out to sustain a concussion, • Concussion Ed Making Head Way eLearning series. completed more than 22,800 times. Getwhen in fact any contact to the head or Created by Parachute (www. These FREE Making Head Way Concussion Smart Today!body that causes rapid head movement parachutecanada.org), Concussion Ed modules educate coaches, parents,can cause a concussion. is designed to give Canadians free accessCommon symptoms may include (but to critical concussion resources. Thisaren’t limited to): headache, dizziness, free mobile app was primarily developed SIRC RESOURCES ON CONCUSSION: After Concussion: Student-athletes Return-to-Learn (Blog) http://sirc.ca/blogbeing in a daze, nausea, sensitivity for youth, parents and educators, but Need to Know Facts about Concussions (Blog) http://sirc.ca/blogto light/noise, confusion, memory covers concussions throughout differentproblems, and/or loss of consciousness. scenarios for a wide audience. Available Concussion Resources page http://sirc.ca/resources/concussionAny athlete who is suspected to have in English and French, Concussion EdBECOME A CHARTERED PROFESSIONAL COACH (ChPC)Coaches are highly regarded and value the importance of achieving and Association of Canada, Registered Coach (ChPC) provides a framework their time is always in demand. adhering to excellence. Coaches. to regulate coaches own conduct and Being a gymnastics coach can standards. The CAC is committedbe fun, rewarding and hard work, Chartered Professional Coaches Through its National Coaching to raising the skills and stature ofBUT it can also be a career path. (ChPC) is a new national designation Certification Program, the Coaching coaches, and ultimately expanding established to recognize coaches that Association of Canada (CAC) their positive reach and influence. Like other professions, coaches can earn their living as a coach or are empowers coaches with knowledge Alongside partners such as Gymnasticsnow be recognized with a professional willing to uphold the highest standards and skills, promotes ethics, fosters Canada, the CAC promotes anddesignation. It gives further credibility, of ethics, conduct and best practices. positive attitudes, builds competence, protects the investment coachesand shows that professional coaches and increases the credibility and make to sport in adopting standards The ChPC designation is sport- recognition of coaches. They of ethics and respect in sport. This neutral but recognizes the individuals understand the importance of ethical includes partaking in ethical training that have achieved education, National and positive behaviours in their practices, adopting the Rule of Two, Coaching Certification Program coaching philosophy and practice and encouraging and supporting our (NCCP) and experiential excellence which enhances the experience of partners in developing and employing over their career. their athletes. The CAC’s Professional a comprehensive screening process. Coaching Designations of Registered Coaches that have not yet met the Coach and Chartered Professional criteria for ChPC can register with the CAC and be recognized as Coaching 17

April 2017 AT A GLANCEMEMBERSHIP & INSURANCEAGF MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION DID YOU KNOW? AGF COVERS THE COST The current (2016-17) AGF fee structure can be Did you know that clubs are required to register OF AMBULANCE RIDES! broken down as follows:all athletes and coaches with Alberta Gymnastics for Did you know that if a participant in your gymnastics • Elite athlete: $230.00each season? Coming Summer 2017, in addition facility needs an ambulance ride, the member club can • Competitive athlete: $155.00to using Goformz for registration, AGF will also be submit the ambulance invoice for reimbursement? All • Developmental (WAG): $78.00incorporating an online system with AGF secure file reimbursement should go through the club. For more • General Member: $19.25transfer, for all member clubs. info, please do not hesitate to contact Joanna at AGF. • 5% GST PLUS: Registrations are completed at four different WHAT MAKES UP THE AGF FEE? • GCG (Gymnastics Canada) fee: $8.00times during the year: Summer – due in September, As a member, you may wonder why you need to pay • AGF Insurance fee: $4.80 or $7.50 (ProvincialFall – due October (competitive) and November(recreational), Winter – due in February, and Spring for an “AGF Fee” when you sign up with a gymnastics and Elite athletes)due in May. Athletes and coaches need only to register club. Think of the AGF membership as support for For example, if your child is currently at the JO 6 level,once per calendar year. The AGF calendar year runs your club and each of its members including your your AGF fee will be: $178.25-($155.00+$7.75[GST]+from July 1st – June 30th. gymnasts, coaches, and our judges. 8.00[GCG fee]+$7.50[insurance]). Another example, if your child is doing recreationalDID YOU KNOW? AGF MEMBERSHIP IS With 83 member clubs and 51,000 plus members in gymnastics at the CanGym level, such as Orange, yourTRANSFERRABLE! Alberta, the Alberta Gymnastics Federation is a leader total AGF fee will be $33.01 - ($19.25+$0.96 [GST]+ in assisting our member clubs achieve excellence. $8.00 [GCG fee]+$4.80 [insurance]). Did you know that the AGF athlete membership Each club may also choose to add administrativefee can transfer from one club to another, if an athlete AGF Fee Structure break down: fees in addition to the AGF fee. Depending on thedecides to move to a new club during the season? Just Every athlete is required to pay an AGF membership club you are associated with, their administration feeshave the new club contact the AGF office for the athlete fee. The higher the level of the athlete, the more the are different in regards to how each club operates.membership number, and the paid membership to a AGF fee will be. AGF operates on a system similar These additional fees are not collected by AGF, butclub can be transferred to the new club. No need to to a ‘user pay’ concept. The higher the fee the more used by each club for their own operations.pay twice! services the athlete will receive. So, once you do a simple calculation, you can figure The AGF fees collected are utilized to offset out the AGF fee and the administration fee for your training camps, competition costs, workshops, events, club. coaching and judging clinics, as well as member club support and additional membership services.18

AGF INSURANCE MEMBERSHIP GUARANTEES ON THE FLIPSIDE SUPPORT AND IMPROVES CLUB When a club registers their athletes EXCELLENCE www.3rdLevelConsulting.comand coaches with AGF, Toole PeetInsurance covers all AGF members The primary role of the Federation is ASSOCIATION BASIC GROUP MEMBER BENEFITS(coaches/athletes/directors/clubs) for the to provide administrative support in thefollowing: development and delivery of programs, Professional Business Management www.SuccessDash.com – light version and competitions in Recreational Gym- Success Solutions Dashboards™ (Professional version available to individual clients) Commercial General Liability – nastics, National Coaching CertificationCurrently the AGF carries a primary 5 Programs, Women’s and Men’s Artistic “Building Your Business Potential” EBook Included (most recent version)million Commercial General Liability Gymnastics, Trampoline and Tumbling,policy. This policy will defend the club in Acro Gymnastics and Special Events. Online Best Practices Library 100 business essentials templatesthe case of allegation from a third party Business Managementfor their Property Damage and/or Bodily In addition to ongoing support and Success (BMS) Courses Level 1 online BMS Course includedInjury loss as a result of any AGF sanc- communication through many availabletioned activities. channels, AGF is committed to provid- Business Issues - Email and Forums Canadian Gymnastics Industry Consultant Lorraine Currie ing you with all you will need to run Periodic Business Education Sets The policy will first act in defense of successful and enjoyable gymnastics pro- Includedthe Club including employees, volunteers grams across Alberta. RiskAssure Solutions Applicationetc. and if legal responsibility or negli- Included free for 3 months; then justgence is determine, then, to the extent of Here is a list of the perks we provide to The Transformations Institute™ $99 per year Association ratecoverage and limits, the policy will pay clubs as members: Personal Development Resource sitefor those Third Party damages. Access based on Client Level 1. Services and Resources: Discounts on additional Services within the Association Sports Accident Policy – The AGF • C lub management toolsSport Accident policy provides a reim- – 3rd Level Consulting, 10% off regular rates (services can include On Demandbursement for “out of pocket” expenses http://3rdlevelconsulting.com/ or On Site Consultations, Business Expansion Planning,that pertain to injuries sustained in a • Regulation of coaching standardsmember gym. • C omprehensive insurance package Business Valuations, Buy | Sell | Negotiations – including reimbursement for Expenses such as, but not limited to; ambulance AGF STAFFambulance charges, splints or casts, and • Comprehensive coach & volunteerphysiotherapists could be reimbursed screening President/CEO: Scott Hayesthrough this policy after private benefit • Sport & club promotion Women’s Program Coordinator: Carolyn Foster (Mat. leave)plans through an employer or provincial • Respect in Sport certificationhealth care provider (Blue Cross for ex- • G rants, funding support letters Women’s Program Assistant: Karen Beresnakample) are exhausted. & funding through partnering Men’s Program, Trampoline & Tumbling Program and organizations These private plans are treated as the • Input into operation & policy Acro Program Coordinator: Derek Hansonprimary coverage for these expenses while development Recreational Gymnastics/the additional coverage through the AGF • ActiveNet on-line registrationprogram is to viewed as a “top-up”. Kids Can Move Program Coordinator: Heather Sjostrom 2. Events and Activities: Education Program Manager: Gina Peake In order to make a claim, the injured • E ducation courses for coaches andmember is to complete and submit a judges Events & Partnerships Manager: Robin McDougallclaims form (found on the AGF website • Recreation events Membership & Finances Manager: Joanna Lowunder the insurance section). • Conferences & seminars Communications Manager: Molly Fang Online Systems Manager: Jacqueline Escobar Club Directors and Officers Liabili- Sanctioned competitions for all Program Support: Cassie Crook competitive athletes (Zones, Cups,ty – The AGF has a 1 million D&O limit Provincials, Trials to Westerns, Trials to AGF’s website contains a lot of information; be surefor the boards of member clubs. This por- Canadians, etc. to check out abgym.ab.ca or follow us on alltion provides coverage for claims made the social media platforms for theagainst one or all of your Directors and Host for large scale events such as West- most current updates on AGF happenings!Officers for losses for which they have ern Canada Cup (T&T), Western Cana-become legally obligated to pay as a re- dian Championships (Artistic), Canadiansult of any; error, breach of duty, neglect, Championships (T&T and Artistic).omission, other act done, or wrongfullyattempted by them, to the extent of the Training camps for athletes from pre-policy, on behalf of your association. competitive to Elite Level gymnasts Recreational events such as Gymfest and Gymnaestrada. 19

April 2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS an company WHEN WHAT WHEREQuantity: 2 Feb. 1–5, 2017 Artistic Elite Canada Halifax, Nova Scotia Apr. 7–9, 2017 Artistic Provincial Championships Fort McMurray Apr. 9, 2017 Acro Provincial Championships Fort McMurray Apr. 26–29, 2017 Artistic Western Canadian Championships Brandon, Manitoba May 3–7, 2017 T & T Canada Cup Genesis Centre, Calgary May 6–7, 2017 Western Gymnaestrada Mount Royal Univ., Calgary May 12–14, 2017 T & T Provincial Championships Genesis Centre, Calgary May 23–28, 2017 Artistic Canadian Championships Montréal, Québec Jun. 2–4, 2017 T & T Western Canada Cup Port Moody, British Columbia Jul. 12–16, 2017 T & T Canadian Championships Oshawa, Ontario Oct. 13–15, 2017 AGF AGM & Awards Gala Edmonton JUST A REMINDER ON THE FLIPSIDE Publisher: Scott Hayes Alberta Gymnastics Federation Art Director: Molly Fang DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION: Contributing Editors: AGF Staff Spring – Third Friday in May 207, 5800 – 2nd Street SW Photos: Dave Holland Photography Summer – Third Friday in Sept. Calgary, AB T2H 0H2 Suggestions, questions, please email: Fall (Competitive) – Third Friday in Oct. Fall (General) – Third Friday in Nov. 403-259-5500 or 1-800-665-1010 [email protected] Winter – Third Friday in Feb. www.abgym.ab.ca ORDER FORMS AVAILABLE ONLINE! AQUATIC GYMNASTICS  All badge orders for CanGym, and CanJump, can be found on our website  CROSS TRAINING  under Resources. If you need to order badges, please fill out the simple form COME TRY A FREE SESSION!  and it will be sent directly to the office for processing. Quantity: 1 Visible Area Each 33.375” x 83.375” Chalk order forms are also available Bleed Area Each: online. Go to www.abgym.ab.ca/ 35.375” x 92.125” Resources Quantity: 1 Visit the AGF website: abgym.ab.ca for the most current news about AGF *TRY YOUR DISMOUNTS INTO OUR SOFT events and courses. Follow AGF on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. FOAM WATER BUBBLE LANDING AREA *IMPROVE YOUR VISUAL SPOTTING IN OUR SLOW MOTION SPINNING SIMULATOR *IMPROVE YOUR AESTHETICS WITH OUR OLYMPIC DIVING COACH, OUR BALLET TEACHER AND OUR YOGA INSTRUCTOR. CALL 780-951-0198 TO SIGN UP PRESENTED BY EDMONTON SPRINGBOARD AND PLATFORM DIVING20