Expert: Britney - 2/9/2007

Question
My daughter has "all of a sudden" developed a major tumbling block.  She was able to do a triple toe back, standing tuck, all running tumbling, etc.  She cheered all-stars for two and a half years and has cheered three years in school.  She made Varsity Competition this year as a freshman.  All was well until after the season ended, then she just shut down.  She will throw a standing tuck after being spotted numerous times, but hesitates for minutes when asked to do it by herself.  She will not even attempt her triple toe backs, but will try single toe backs with a spot.  She has never gotten hurt while tumbling, and when she throws it, her tumbling is beautiful.  Because of this block, she will not try out for Varsity Comp for the upcoming year.  She doesn't want her peers to see her the way she is currently.

How do I help her get thru this?  She is taking private lessons twice a week and wants to get her skills back, but is terrified.

Answer
Has she ever fallen or messed up during a competition or anything because after people do that they are scared they will mess up or fall again and dont want to let to team down. I have never gone through a tumbling block so I dont really know what could help her get through it.  But hopefully the private lessons and stuff can help her. I just wanna say dont let her quit competitive cause I did that for high school and regret it. It was the worst mistake of my life.  I hope all goes well for her and she gets her stuff back.  Hope this helps and sorry it took awhile my internet hasnt been working very well.