Expert: Jack Leonard - 6/27/2009

Question
Dear Mr. Leonard,

Our daughter is 9 years old and is a level 7 gymnast.  She recently placed 3rd in the state for Level 6 all-around and 1st in the state regardless of age on beam.  Our daughter has been talking to us and her coaches about working for elite with the ultimate goal of making the national team.

After discussing this path with the gym owners, they told us they are not interested in coaching elite gymnasts, although they have in the past.  They are willing to do additional privates (4 hours a week) in addition to her 16 hours of team, but will only help us to level 10.  

While we love her coaches (we have been with them since she was 4) we are frustrated that we are coming upon this roadblock in her training.  Should we begin the search for another program that is able and willing to try for elite or should we stay with the current gym through level 10?  We appreciate your help/advice in making this big decision for our daughter's training.

Answer
Hello Lynn,
           I am glad to help you.  You have a tough decision.  Most kids get very used to their coaches and are in a comfort zone with the work demands and goals that have been set up by the gym.  A lot of young coaches are hungry to make their mark and get an elite….on the other hand some coaches have been there and done that.  I think what has to be asked from the coaches at your gym is what their personal and gym goals are.  Some coaches doubt their abilities and are not willing to learn with the athlete.  Some are so hungry and will go to every clinic to improve at their the craft of gymnastics and take every path possible to see how much potential their talented athlete can possess.  You need to see what the philosophies at the gym are.  Obviously….taking a gymnast to elite is a commitment to many people.  Is the gym headed in that direction or are they instructing gymnastics and paying the bills.  Please understand this from the business aspect and coaching aspect and things will appear to make more sense.  You may have to change gyms to get your child on a fast track…..and some gyms are all about that.  Other gyms instruct/teach the wonderful sport of gymnastics at the comfort zone of their abilities and do not what to go outside of that box.  I wish you the very best in the quest for finding your child’s potential and take care – Jack Leonard