AboutJack Leonard Expertise Former 5 time Natl. Tumbling Champ, 3 time Natl. Vaulting Champ, Natl. Floor
Exercise Champ; Ass`t coach of Dominique Dawes for 6 years; Owner/Director/Head coach of Kauai Gymnastics Academy on the island of Kauai in Hawaii; Retired Physical Ed teacher; Childrens Fitness Expert; Expert Consultant for gymnastics litigation; Retired Mens & Womens HS Gymnastics coach for 32 years. National coaching honors for Men in 1981 & Women in 2001.
Experience I value the following awards because they were given by acknowlegement through my peers: The Nissen/Grissold Award given to the outstanding Tumbling and Tramp Athlete(1972), National High School coach of the year in 1981 for men and 2001 for women, 10 time County Coach of the Year. Medal Award given at the first World Tumbling Championships in London, England for dedication to the sport. Lastly, having the opportunity to coach Wes Suter(1988 Olympian)in his intermediate years and Dominique Dawes(1992 & 1996)
Question hey, I've been doing gymnastics training for about 1 yr. I'm beginner but have most advanced begginer skills. also, i really want to compete, but my parents wont let me cuz of the time commitement. if i train 2-3 hours a week, could i be in college gymnastics? also, how can i convince my parents to let me do prep opt or compete? i take gymnastics sooooo serisouly and act like a cpompetitor also am i ready for this? also how can i convince my parents to let me move up. am i too old for gym anyway? sorry if this is long. plz right back asap.
Answer Hello Carlie,
I am glad to help you. Okay…..you left some questions unanswered. How old are you?…..are you training at a club?....how many hours a week do you train?....what do your gym instructors/coaches tell you? Desire is a great indicator for achieving goals….and your coaches could see your intensity when they coach you. Your coaches can also interpret your gymnastics potential as far as your coachability, flexibility, strength, natural talent etc. Talk to your coaches. Also, usually college gymnasts were a high level in gymnastics and have proven themselves through competitions. I also know of walk-ons who have worked up to the varsity level and earned a competitive position on a college team. You have many choices. Please also understand your parents. I am sure they believe that more time in the gym means you are taking away from your studies. Prove to them you are disciplined to do both and you will gain their confidence. I wish you the best in your decision making and I hope you get what you train for.
Take Care – Jack Leonard
