AboutPam Rafe-Borges Expertise I can answer questions about technique, choreography, skill values for both Women's USAG JO rules and NFHS rules. I have been in this sport for 35 plus years as an athlete and a coach. I have been a judge for 15 plus years.
Experience I have been in the sport for 30 plus years, as a gymnast, coach, choreographer,pre-school gymnastics instructor, and official.I was the gymnastics director for 10 years at a summer day camp
Organizations I have a USAG level 10 judges rating. I am also a NJSIAA judge which uses the NFHS rules.
Question In the level 5 floor routine, coming out of the split, is the leg supposed to come around in a high "fan-kick" fashion or come around low to the ground before the kneel up to the finish position? I see most girls go low but have come across some really high-scoring routines with the leg going high.
Thank you very much for your time!
Answer Hi Susan,
When dealing with compulsory routines, you should always refer to the text.
The text states;
Lower the torso forward. Circle (rond de jambe) the Right leg backward (the leg may be bent or straight) and simultaneously lean and transfer the weight to the Left hip while executing a 225* turn to the Right finishing with the Right leg bent, Right foot turned out slightly and pointed on the floor to face Side 3.
In the past any unusual interpretation of the wording has been addressed (ie. beam, L4,no kick or arabesque on coupe walk). I have seen the leg fan and consider it an acceptable variation of the Rond de Jambe. Since it has never been addressed I would consider it safe to assume that the writer's of the text feel that is fine.
Keep in mind, one little leg fan is NOT going to make or break a high scoring routine. It is a "TEXT ERROR". Page 161 of the Compulsory Code; Incorrect position of arms, head, feet or legs (text errors) Up to .40 ((Deduct in general- not each time-according to small, medium & large errors)
We have been trained to observe several text errors before any deduction is taken.
In other words, as long as you are in the parameters of the text, don't worry what others are doing. If you can, bring a judge into the gym to go over the little details.
