I hereby give my approval for my child’s participation in any and all activities prepared by Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC during the selected camp. In exchange for the acceptance of said child’s candidacy by  Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC ., I assume all risk and hazards incidental to the conduct of the activities, and release, absolve and hold harmless Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC . and all its respective officers, agents, and representatives from any and all liability for injuries to said child arising out of traveling to, participating in, or returning from selected camp sessions.

In case of injury to said child, I hereby waive all claims against Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC . including all coaches and affiliates, all participants, sponsoring agencies, advertisers, and, if applicable, owners and lessors of premises used to conduct the event. There is a risk of being injured that is inherent in all sports activities, including basketball. Some of these injuries include but are not limited to, the risk of fractures, paralysis, or death.

I fully understand that Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC staff members are not physicians or medical practitioners of any kind. With the above in mind, I hereby release the Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC staff to render temporary first aid to my child or children in the event of any injury or illness, and if deemed necessary by the Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC staff to call our doctor and to seek medical help, including transportation by a Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC staff member and or its representatives, whether paid or volunteer, to any health care facility or hospital, or the calling of an ambulance for the said child should the Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC staff deem this to be necessary. We the staff of Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC. recognize our obligation to make our students and their parents fully aware of the inherent risks and hazards associated with the sport of gymnastics, dance, and cheerleading, and that these students may suffer injuries, possibly minor, serious or catastrophic in nature due to the inherent hazards and risks with the above sports. Given the distinct possibility of injuries associated with the performance of these activities the Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC insists that all students and their parents agree to abide by all of the safety rules and policies of the Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC in regard to this matter. Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC it’s coaches and other staff members, whether paid or volunteer, will not accept responsibility for injuries sustained by any student during the course of gymnastics, tumbling, dance, cheerleading instruction, open workouts, or birthday parties, or in the course of any exhibition, competition, or clinic in which he or she may participate or while traveling to or from the event.

I further acknowledge, understand, appreciate, and agree that my participation may result in possible exposure to and illness from infectious diseases, including, but not limited to MRSA, influenza, and COVID-19. While particular rules and personal discipline may reduce this risk, the risk of serious illness and death does exist. I knowingly and freely assume all such risks, both known and unknown, even if arising from the negligence of others, and assume full responsibility my family and my child’s participation and exposure.

I also affirm that I now have and will continue to provide proper hospitalization, health, and accident insurance coverage that I consider adequate for both my child’s protection and my own protection.

I also understand that it is the parents’ responsibility to warn the child about the dangers of gymnastics and injury. The parent should warn the child according to what the parent feels is appropriate. The Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC will only warn the child through “safety messages” and our teaching style and progressions.

By signing below, I state that I fully understand the information contained in the waiver as well as the rules and policies of Tumble Shine Gymnastics, LLC.

As Parent and/or Guardian of the named athlete, I hereby authorize the diagnosis and treatment by a qualified and licensed medical professional, of the minor child, in the event of a medical emergency, which in the opinion of the attending medical professional, requires immediate attention to prevent further endangerment of the minor’s life, physical disfigurement, physical impairment, or other undue pain, suffering or discomfort, if delayed.

Permission is hereby granted to the attending physician to proceed with any medical or minor surgical treatment, x-ray examination and immunizations for the named athlete. In the event of an emergency arising out of serious illness, the need for major surgery, or significant accidental injury, I understand that every attempt will be made by the attending physician to contact me in the most expeditious way possible. This authorization is granted only after a reasonable effort has been made to reach me.

Permission is also granted to the  {Organization} . and its affiliates including Directors, Coaches, and Team Parents to provide the needed emergency treatment prior to the child’s admission to the medical facility.

Release authorized on the dates and/or duration of the registered season.

This release is authorized and executed of my own free will, with the sole purpose of authorizing medical treatment under emergency circumstances, for the protection of life and limb of the named minor child, in my absence.

SECTION 1: MISSION STATEMENT AND PHILOSOPHY

A.)    Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling believes that children are the world’s most precious gift.  Our goal is to see to it that every child who participates in our program receives the same quality instruction regardless of his/her ability.   We will work hard to ensure that all athletes build healthy attitudes about themselves and their Trampoline and Tumbling experience.  

B.)    The Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling Mission Statement and Philosophy:  

To develop happy, healthy, responsible athletes.
To build confidence through fitness and fun.
To teach Trampoline and Tumbling in a safe environment and to raise the child’s level of self-confidence.
Our coaching goal for this team is to use the sport of Trampoline and Tumbling as a mechanism to develop intrinsic motivation.  That is the internal, or self –motivation, required to set goals born out of a vision or dream and then navigate one’s way toward the achievement of such goals.  If the children take this one skill with them from the walls of Tumble Shine Gymnastics, then our program has been a successful endeavor for them.  This skill is the most important of all for which they should learn here because it has the most value in their lives in the real world that awaits them in the future, not how many somersaults, push-ups or medals they can achieve.

 

C.)    Our goal is to offer every athlete the best professional instruction in a well-organized gym, with a state-of-the-art facility, and a fun-filled and controlled learning environment.  Our program exists to provide every participant a chance to succeed through the development of long-term life skills such as confidence, perseverance, a love of exercise, and a sense of accomplishment in his/her abilities.  We believe strongly in team unity, sportsmanship, goal setting, respect for others, self-respect, and the development of a strong work ethic.  

SECTION 2:  POLICY STATEMENT

A.)    The training program set up by the Tumble Shine coaching staff is designed to offer each athlete the best opportunity to reach his/her goals as a competitive athlete.  Any deviation from this schedule or activity overloading by the athlete causes inconsistency, frustration, takes away from his/her role as a team member, and breeds a “catching up” attitude which increases the possibility of burnout and injury. Illness, we cannot do much about.  Injuries can be kept to a minimum by being prepared physically and mentally, following all gym rules, following instructions and using good common sense.  Outside activities are essential during these formative years and we encourage them, however; too many, or during the competitive season, only inhibit the athlete from performing to the best of his/her ability, and create a fatigue factor.

 

B.)  Due to the complexity of competitive Trampoline and Tumbling, certain safety precautions must be included in your child’s training.  It is unsafe for your athlete to train while under the influence of any mediation that can alter his/her reaction time, sense of balance, judgmental process, sense of feel, or mental alertness.  

 
Attitudes are contagious!

C.)    It is the athlete’s responsibility to have adequate rest, proper diet, and proper mental attitude when they walk into the gym.  At times, proper mental attitudes can be affected by several stresses brought on by external and internal (with regards to the gym) stresses that cannot help but to affect mental attitudes in the gym.  With this in mind there may be instances when deviations from the normal workout routine to play games and promote team unity are used as a tool to refresh the athletes focus and intensity toward practice.  Please be aware of the benefits of our attempts to help rejuvenate our athlete’s mental attitudes as a positive measure and not just as a playful waste of your paid time.  Understand that this is the method that many Tumble Shine programs use successfully to stave off the damaging all work no play attitudes that can kill a 

child’s love for the activity.  Our goal is to make the experience of Trampoline and Tumbling an 

excellent balance between fun and work to help offset moments where mental attitudes can affect practices negatively.  However, rest and diet issues are issues we cannot help and must be completely addressed prior to attending workouts.  Case in point, we will try to help out in areas that we can but the rest is up to you in preparing your child to come to practice. 

 

D.)    We, at Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling, view Trampoline and Tumbling as a sport of opportunity...an opportunity for young people to grow with dedication and determination, an opportunity to achieve dreams, and an opportunity to grow toward a healthy and honorable adulthood.  Both individual and family dedication and sacrifice will be required.  Each advancement throughout our competitive program will demand additional efforts.  We stand ready to contribute our energy, our knowledge and experience, and our support to your efforts.  We welcome you to our program and look forward to helping your child achieve his/her dreams.

 

SECTION 3: RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ATHLETE 

RESPECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS

A.)    Respect your physical self.  All your efforts should go into building up your abilities.  Fuel your body with nutritious food; rest your body with plenty of sleep; protect your body by being safe in the gym; listen to your body when it tells you to stop either because of illness or injury; and heal your body when it tells you not to continue.

 

B.)    Respect your non-physical self.  Trampoline and Tumbling is one of the most demanding and difficult of all sports.  You will suffer setbacks, frustration, fear, and defeat.  Expect these things, learn from them, face them, and overcome them.  Set high goals and achieve them step by step.  Maintain a positive attitude when facing your fears and frustrations because it is your attitude that will help you to defeat them.

 

C.)    Respect your teammates.  They have their own goals and dreams, but they are also here to help and support you.  Cheer for them when they attempt new skills, make skills that are difficult for them, or when they are competing.  

 

D.)    Respect Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling.  You show respect by the way in which you act.  The way you act in the gym is a private reflection of your respect to yourself, to your teammates, and to Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling.  The way you act at competitions, while at team functions, and while traveling to and from the competitions and functions is a public statement about how you feel about yourself, Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling, and to the sport of Trampoline and Tumbling itself.  Only the highest standard of behavior will be acceptable.    

ATTENDANCE

A.) Each athlete is to attend all scheduled practices and meets unless ill.  Injured, but mobile athletes 12 and older athletes are encouraged by the Tumble Shine coaches to attend team practices and meets.  When an athlete becomes injured it is our goal to concentrate on the areas of the body or the areas of training that we can improve while the athlete is recovering.  This philosophy is vitally important in staying on top of the game.  Failure to return to practice following an injury could jeopardize an athlete’s place on the team.

 

B.)    Absences are excused if they are due to illness, injury, or family emergencies and accompanied by a phone call to the coach.  All other absences will be considered unexcused unless previously approved by the head coach.  One unexcused absences during any 30 day period is cause for disciplinary action, including probation and exclusion from a competition.  Three unexcused absences during any 30 day period demonstrates a lack of dedication and commitment to the Tumble Shine program and is cause for dismissal from the team.  A missed practice ten days prior to a competition may result in exclusion from the competition, with the athlete’s safety in mind.   

C.)    Athletes who insist on missing scheduled workouts may forfeit their position as a team member.  

D.)    The competitive program does not offer make-up days for missed workouts unless otherwise deemed necessary by the coach.  Athletes must attend their scheduled workouts.  Athletes are not allowed to attend another group’s workout in place of their own.  If you have a unique situation, please see your head coach.

Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling’ attendance policy has greatly contributed to the success other Tumble Shine competitive teams. For this reason, we ask for your understanding and cooperation in our strict enforcement of the attendance policy.  During the competitive season consistent attendance is imperative for success.  Those who deviate from the regularly scheduled workouts will jeopardize his/her place on our competitive team.

 SEASONAL COMMITMENTS

 A.)    Exhibitions:  Exhibitions, parades and other public appearances may occur periodically throughout the year for the purpose of team exposure and motivation. All competitive athletes are expected to participate when invited.  Competitive leotard/step in and warm-ups are required.

 B.)    Clinics/Training Camps: It is advised that each athlete participate in any clinic advised by the head coach.  Clinics and training camps give the athletes an opportunity to work with some of the best coaches around the country, to hear information from a different voice and to gain exposure throughout the Trampoline and Tumbling community.

 C)         Clinics separate from the team:   The head coach typically receives invitations to T&T clinics.  The decision to attend or not attend is made by the head coach and decided by several factors.  These factors may include the dates, distance, cost and the clinicians.  In the event that a clinic is offered through any method other then information being channeled through the head coach, note that it is a requirement that the head coach is aware of your interest and wish 

to attend.  Furthermore, it must be approved by the head coach.  This is necessary because the TSTNT coaching staff may be able to better assess the benefit of the clinic appropriateness for the athlete in the best interest of the athlete and our program. This policy is also needed to protect our athletes from receiving coaching that is inconsistent with our training strategies, philosophy or instruction.  Inconsistent coaching strategies place the child at risk for injury! In the interest of the child’s safety, failure to acquire approval from the head coach prior to  seeking and engaging in clinics without receiving approval from the head coach first  will result in the dismissal of the athlete from the program.  

 D.)    Competitions: Competitive athletes are expected to compete in all scheduled meets for their level, unless exemption comes from the head coach.  Disciplinary action could result if an absence from a competition is unexcused. Meet attendance requirements for each team structure are listed on the meet schedule. Athletes will strictly follow the instructions of the head coach at all competitions.  Otherwise immediate and permanent dismissal from the team may result.

 SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

 A.)    Annual Banquet: Our annual banquet is hosted in conjunction with our Booster Club in July or August at the conclusion of the competitive season.  It is a time for the athletes to be honored for their hard work and effort throughout the competitive season.

 B.)    Competitive Uniforms: Competitive uniforms will generally be ordered anytime between July and November.  All athletes who wish to represent Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling must be outfitted in the current competitive attire.

 C.)    Clinics/Guest Speakers: Throughout the year there may be between 2-4 clinics that the coaches deem pertinent to the success of our competitive team.  Oftentimes we will ask nutritionists, sports psychologist, and Trampoline and Tumbling clinicians to share their knowledge and experience with our athletes.  At times these clinics may be mandatory in order for an athlete to compete.  The athletes through their Booster Accounts may pay the fees for the clinics. 

 CODE OF CONDUCT

A.)    Each athlete is expected to show good sportsmanship and moral conduct previous to, during, and after all competitions, exhibitions, demonstrations, and practices when representing the Tumble Shine competitive teams.

 B.)    Respect your teammates.  Each athlete is advised to support the efforts of all of his/her fellow teammates.  This includes coming to each other’s meets whenever possible, helping with meets, and being a comrade in competition.  

 C.)    Be at all regularly scheduled practices, on time, and remain for the entire duration. 

 Get any taping completed before practice begins.  Tumble Shine coaches plan their practices very carefully in order to gain the maximum benefits.  When an athlete arrives late or leaves early, he/she misses valuable training time, which is not easily made up.

 D.)    Call the gym to notify coaches if you will be absent for any reason.

 E.)    Be physically and mentally prepared for practices including:

Proper rest
Proper diet
Leave outside concerns outside the gym for the duration of practice.  Focus on   Trampoline and Tumbling!    
4.)    Athletes should maintain healthy eating habits at all times.  We ask that all athletes refrain from eating/drinking “junk food” when in the gym and                  at all competitions and special events.

 F.)     Athletes must maintain a good attitude.  Your teammates should enjoy having you on their team.  Any team member negatively affecting the team with a poor attitude should be notified by the coaching staff.  If the attitude does not change, disciplinary action will follow.  It is possible for an athlete to be dismissed from our competitive team because of a continual, disrespectful attitude.

 G.)      Dress Code: Have all training equipment at every practice and meet. Required workout attire for the girls are a leotard with a non visible sports bra (when necessary) and briefs, however they may be permitted to wear shorts with the leotard so long as they are not baggy, contain pockets, belt loops or strings.  No shirts will be allowed with the leotard!  Required workout attire for the boys, who generally do not have a step in available at a reasonable price for practice attire, will be a tight-fitting shirt and shorts that should not impair vision or movement without any pockets, belt loops or strings.  Trampoline shoes are suggested to prevent the discomfort that trampoline’s abrasive surface may induce.  This may also help to protect the athlete from having loose nails peeled by getting snagged in the trampoline surface. Jewelry is unacceptable workout attire and hair must be pulled back or pinned up so not to prevent impairment of vision during workouts.  Boys should maintain short hair (out of the eyes, no longer then the bridge length of the nose, short enough to remain minimally disturbed during aerial rotation) with clean-cut/neatly kept image! Girls hair is to be pulled or pinned up so as not to become snagged in the trampoline springs or impair vision.  Also, any fashionable trends that may be considered by the standards of Tumble Shine to be distracting or damaging to the image of our program may be prohibited as well.  An example is the forbiddance of unnatural (Green, Orange, Pink) hair dye, visible tattoos or body rings other then in the ears.  Image is everything because of the variety of age ranges and it is the first and last thing the judges see of our athletes during competitions.  It is also a reflection of the program by all viewing our program from the waiting area who may be attracted to our program should it appear professional in all aspects.

H.)    Ask permission to leave the gym.  This applies to leaving practice early, going to the restroom, or calling home.  The main reason is so that your coaches always know where you are.

I.)    Be honest.  Cheating is the ugliest form of disrespect.  It shows disrespect to your coaches, to your parents, and most importantly, to yourself. If you cannot or will not complete an assignment, be honest about it.

J.)    Always wait inside for your ride.  Athletes are not to wait outside for pick-up following practice.

K.)    Trampoline and Tumbling must come second to school.  Although the vast majority of our athletes are very good students, there may be times when a pressing assignment or test might mean shortened or missed practice.  We emphasize the importance of time management to our athletes, but we understand that there are times when a athlete is overwhelmed with school work or needs to study for an exam. 

A grade of “B” average or better in school is recommended to compete.  It is necessary for all athletes to be in good standing with their school in order to travel.  Any athlete with college scholarship aspirations limits his/herself if their grades are below a “B” average.  As a new Olympic sport , trampoline is in the negotiation process of being picked up as a college sport and many athletes from the Trampoline and Tumbling communities have been awarded full scholarships for gymnastics and diving!  So this clearly must be a consideration for our athletes here at Tumble Shine to be in a position to compete for such scholarships that may be available.   

Because colleges focus on high school grades, freshman through seniors will need to bring a copy of their grades to the head coach at the conclusion of each term/semester, whichever system his/her school uses.  If an athlete’s grades fall below a “B” a conference will be scheduled with the coach, the athlete and his/her parents.  No athlete will be allowed to compete if his/her grades fall below a “C” in any class.          

L.)    NO TEAM MEMBER IS ALLOWED TO USE ALCOHOL, DRUGS OR SMOKE.  We spend many hours together trying to be the best that we can.  All that work is a complete waste of time if you blow it on drugs or alcohol.  Perhaps if you understand that you may be dismissed from the team if you engage in these illegal or inappropriate activities you will have one additional bit of motivation to say “no” if and when you are confronted by your peers.  In the event that the coaches are aware of drug or alcohol use by any team members, a conference with the parents will be scheduled immediately.  Disciplinary action (see below) will then follow.  

M.)  Harmony within the team structure is a must for a successful TEAM;    please do not spread rumors or false accusations.  Gossip, Rumors and accusations are insidious and destructive to the fabric of the team.  If you have an issue with another athlete, the coach or a Team rule or policy for which you feel is unfairly applied, please take the issue up with that individual and if that doesn’t bring forth resolution then bring to the attention of the coach or a higher authority. Open and Forthright communication is an important unifying principle Tumble Shine.  Athletes who insist on using the tools of gossip, rumors and false accusations to lobby for rule changes within the team or to have their own self fulfilling agenda may face consequences ranging from a verbal reprimand and warning to suspension or even dismissal from the team.    The consequence are dependent on severity and will fit the offense!

 
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

 A.)    The Policies and Procedures, which govern the athletes, have been outlined above and throughout the entire handbook.  In the event that there is an ongoing pattern of disruption or there are major rule infractions, it may become necessary to impose some disciplinary action in an attempt to improve the situation.

 The procedures noted below are not intended to be all-inclusive.  They are presented as an expression of our beliefs as to what disciplinary actions are necessary and appropriate. We will treat all of our athletes as individuals and will seek to impose the most effective disciplinary actions based on each unique set of circumstances.

 1.)    The athlete may not be permitted to rotate with his/her group at the designated time. He/ She will have to stay and finish his/her work or possibly repeat the entire assignment on a particular piece of equipment.

 2.)    The athlete may be given appropriate conditioning to perform which will help focus him/her attention and build strength to accomplish the task at hand.

    

    3.)    The athlete may be asked to sit and watch.

    

    4.)    The athlete may be asked to leave the gym and go home early.

    

    5.)    The coach may request a meeting with a parent.

    

    6.)    The athlete may be suspended from the team for one or more days or may be scratched from a competition.  Please note that if a athlete is suspended from competition due to poor attendance, a poor work ethic, or a negative attitude (or for any other reason) the entry fee is nonrefundable.

        7.)    The athlete may be asked to leave the program if he/she will not conform his/her behavior to the expectations of the team, the coach, or the gym.

 Note:  The first three actions on the above list are fairly common and we will not generally communicate these disciplinary actions to the parent.  The development of the coach/athlete relationship is paramount.  We cannot and will not run to the parents every time we have a problem with an athlete.  We will attempt to build our own relationships with our athletes.  Those relationships are built on time-shared, belief in the same dreams and values, work performed together, and the emotional ups and downs that are part of all-important ventures.  The downs include discipline problems and we will attempt to solve them within the framework of building the coach/athlete relationship.

    The fifth item on the list, requesting a conference, signifies a need to work outside the coach/athlete relationship.  In this instance, we need your help to overcome a challenge that is too much for us to accomplish on our own.  It does not necessarily mean that we are confronted with a serious problem.  It only means that we need your help.

 
The final two items on the list are reserved for the most serious violations of our rules and policies.  They are seldom used.  They are reserved primarily for times when there is an ongoing problem with disruption and disrespect within the gym that has proven resistant to improvement.   We will not let the bad attitude or poor behavior of one athlete bring down the spirit and work ethic of an entire group.

 It is also possible that an athlete will have to leave our program because of the actions or inaction of his/her parents.  While we never want to punish a child for the actions of his/her parent(s), we will not tolerate parents who, by their words and actions, do not support the policies and values of our team program.

 SECTION 4: RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENTS

Parents play a huge role in the development of a successful athlete.  Your role is every bit as important as that of the gym or of the coaches.  It is also every bit as difficult.  We want your support because we want your child to succeed.  

A.)    Ensure that your child gets enough of the proper kinds of food and drink, gets enough sleep, gets to and from the gym on time, has the proper clothing and equipment, and receives proper instruction from knowledgeable and caring coaches.

 B.)    Have family representation at all team parent meetings.  

 C.)    Be willing to serve on or head a committee for team-related projects.

 D.)    Attend Booster Club Meetings

 E.)    Speak and act in the best interest of Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling, the coaches, parents, and athletes.

 F.)    Please stay in the waiting area and out of the gym.  Parents who venture out on the floor create a danger to themselves and to the athletes.  Parents are often unaware of traffic patterns and often get in the way of the athletes performing their skills.  If it is imperative that you contact your child, ask any coach or even another athlete to contact your coach.  If it is not an emergency, please wait until practice is over.  

 G.)    Parents should refrain from talking with their child during practice.  Parents perform their role at home and outside the gym area.  Within the gym, the coaches play their roles.          Please do not coach your child.  Your comments detract from what the coach is doing,     they give the athletes another thing to think about, and it interferes with the development of the coach/athlete relationship which is critical for long term success.  Parental coaching from the viewing area is not beneficial to your child’s training, nor is it respectful to his/her coach.  The Tumble Shine staff consists of trained professionals; let     them do their job.  

 H.)    All athletes Booster Accounts and Tumble Shine Accounts must be up to date prior to being entered into any competition, camp or clinic.

 I.)    Please come to any of your child’s coaches if you have a problem or concern.  We are in business to serve you and your child.  Your thoughts are important to us.  If we cannot help you, we will explain why and we will work to find another way to solve whatever is bothering you.  Complaining to other parents cannot solve your problem, nor can we solve them if we do not know about them.  If you respect us enough to allow us to play a large role in your child’s life, please respect us enough to know that we have your child’s best interest at heart.

    SECTION 5:    COMPETITION

 THE TUMBLE SHINE PHILOSOPHY ON COMPETITION

A.)    Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling has always set a high priority on rewarding the effort and accomplishments of our athletes by providing them with an opportunity to participate in great competitions.  

 
B.)    We are a competitive Trampoline and Tumbling team.  We measure our work and progress by going out on the competition floor to do our best in front of our families, our coaches, our friends, and our teammates.  While winning is not so important, trying to win epresents everything we strive for.  We do not try to win the abstract.  We try to win the real world where rules apply, comparisons are made, judgement calls are the norm, grace under pressure is expected, and where falling and failing is part of everyday life.

 

COMPETITIONS:    ATHLETES    

 A.)    “LOOK GREAT”.  Athletes should be well groomed.  The athlete’s hair should be pulled up away from the face and arranged as requested by the head coach.  This is because if the hair touches the apparatus (tumbling floor, double mini or trampoline pads) the routine or pass will be stopped. The use of make up should be limited. 

 BE EARLY!  Athletes should arrive at every competition 60 (Some meets require an earlier arrival, such as nationals) minutes prior to their competition.  If the child is in the first session, they should just arrive in time for their general warm up.  All athletes are expected to attend their general warm ups when provided.  Also, at Nationals, our athletes are required to attend their training sessions.  If everyone arrives early we will have time to mentally prepare for the day’s events.  Any athlete arriving late may risk being scratched with their safety in mind.  Athletes are expected to arrive at every competition wearing their competition  leotard/step in and competitive warm up.  

 Underwear that is visible (possible deduction), is not to be worn under the leotard.  Matching briefs and a sports bra should be worn when necessary.  

    No jewelry: Necklaces, bracelets, anklets, rings, dangling earrings are not to be worn.         

* Trampoline Shoes are mandatory for double mini and trampoline with no visible markings.  Tumbling may be barefooted. 

 C.)    Athletes must find their coach as soon as arriving at the meet site.

 D.)    Athletes must remain in the area designated for athletes throughout the duration of warm-up and competition.   Once the athlete has stepped into the competition area, they may not leave without permission from his/her coach.  

 E.)    Athletes must present themselves in proper attire including a Tumble Shine warm-up leotard/step in, competition leotard/step in, and warm-ups during the awards presentation and throughout all aspects of the meet. 

 All of the Tumble Shine athletes will be dressed the same for all competitions unless otherwise instructed by the coach.  Athletes not wearing the Tumble Shine uniform may not be allowed to compete.  Only athletes with full warm-ups will be allowed to march in with the team.  Only athletes with full warm-ups will be allowed to stand and receive awards.  

 
F.)    Athletes should not keep track of their event scores or placement during the competitions.     Your concentration should center on your performance and on the performance of your team. However they are expected to find their own scores after the competition and turn     them into the coach with placements and number of competitors they have competed     against. 

 
G.)    Only coaches are allowed to approach a judge or the meet head table.  At no time should an athlete or parent approach a meet official.  This is a USTA rule as well.

 
H.)    Be courteous, respectful, and polite to all meet officials, hosts and hostesses, competitors,     and coaches.  

 I.)    Proper presentation, posture or saluting of the judges before and after routines and passes     (as designated by our coaching staff) is strictly enforced.  This is the image the coaching staff wishes our athletes to represent T.S.T.T within.  What the judges see during first and last impressions of our athletes can greatly influence the outcome of the scores given     in a more positive manner.  Failure to do so properly constitutes violation of competition     rules to compete as a Tumble Shine competitor and is subject to possible removal from the     next event.  Also, removal from the meet or event may possibly occur with a suspension     of future competitions until the mastery of presentation conforms to that of the rest of the     teams.   Presentation and Saluting or signaling of the judges that one is ready to begin or         has ended a pass or routine is repeatedly practice in daily workouts so there may be no     confusion the day of the meets as to how our athletes should present themselves while     competing. 

 J.)    Stay with the team until the competition is over and the coach has released you.  Once the athlete has entered the competition area, there should be no contact between the athlete and his/her parents unless there is an emergency.

 K.)    Stay for awards dressed in your Tumble Shine warm-ups.  Most meets have a formal system for presenting awards.  As a participating athlete, you have an obligation to stay for all the awards. Stand to accept any presented to you with courtesy and gratitude.  It is customary to accept awards with a smile.   Congratulate and shake hands with the other athletes as well.  Remember that you are not just representing yourself.  You are representing Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling.

 TEAM TRAVEL POLICIES

A.)    Team uniforms are your responsibility.  Please do not wear leotard/step-ins or warm-ups unless attending a function of Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling.

 B.)    A dress code for meets, exhibitions, and etceteras will be in effect.

    1.)    Competition attire will consist of team warm-ups and leotard/step-in.

    2.)    Shorts, sweats, T-shirts, etc. will not be allowed during warm-ups.

    

C.)    Team members must maintain good conduct, etiquette, and discipline at all times when     representing Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling and their team.

 D.)    Team members will be selected for participation in meets based on the level of the meet,         the number of athletes allowed for entry, and the weekend the meet falls on.  Not all team members will participate in every scheduled competition.  We will decide our entries as early as possible to allow travel and school arrangements to be made at the earliest possible date (should the meet require an absence or early dismissal from school).  Any changes in meet assignments for athletes will be determined as early as possible.  Changes may have to be made if attendance, practice progress, attitude, and performance records so dictate.  

 E.)    We try to schedule our events to miss as little school as possible.  Athletes should try to make up schoolwork in advance or bring it on the trip.

 F.)    Our method of transportation is determined by the distance traveled, staff, and school schedules.  Most often, parents will be responsible for their child’s transportation to and from the competition.  Most meets within the region will be driven.  At the optional level,     the coaches will generally choose one or two flight meets a season.

 G.)     When packing for air travel please carry on a bag with your competitive uniform and overnight necessities.  There are never any guarantees that your luggage will reach the same destination, at the same time you do! 

 SECTION 6:    RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS AT COMPETITIONS

 It is the philosophy of Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling that the coaches, the gym, the parents, and the athletes are all part of the team.  We encourage all of our parents to attend every competition.  Having a strong cheering section does wonders for the team’s motivation and is something we can be proud of.

A.)    Promote Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling in every way you feel is appropriate: T-shirts, banners, and cheers; but refrain from speaking in a negative way about another     club, coach, athlete or judge in the process.

 B.)    Under USTA rules, the only adults allowed in the competitive areas are judges, those helping run the competition, and USTA professional members.  The only time a parent     should approach the meet director or a parent form the club hosting the meet is to thank     them for a job well done and for inviting us to their meet.  If you have a complaint, you need to bring it to the attention of your coach.  

 C.)    Under no circumstance is a parent or an athlete ever to approach a judge or meet     official before, during, or after a competition to comment on, complain about, or     even ask about a score.

 D.)    Please do not contact or talk to your athlete once he/she is on the competitive floor.  We ask all of our athletes to focus all of their attention and energy on the competition and we want as few distractions as possible.  After the meet is over, your son/daughter will come to see you.

 E.)    Parents are always encouraged to attend every competition.  However, there may be times when you will be unable to attend.  If you are not going to attend the competition,     please take care to cover the following details:

    1.)    Know the name and phone number of the facility in which the competition is being held.

    2.)    Communicate clearly with your child who is taking him/her and picking him/her up.  

    3.)    Provide your child with an emergency number to use in case he/she needs to call home and you are not there.

    4.)    Arrange for him/her to call home if the meet runs late.

    5.)    Send enough money with him/her to cover meals, snacks call home, and to contribute for gas if appropriate.

 F.)    In many cases we register every athlete for every competition.  We often send meet entries several months in advance to ensure our spots for the meet.  If your child becomes ill or injured or is otherwise unable to compete, it is sometimes possible to get a refund.      However, it is up to the hosting club whether or not to refund entry fees after the     “pull out” deadline.

 G.)    In case of injury during warm-up or competition, please wait for your coach to give some indication that you should come onto the competition floor.  In most cases you will not be invited onto the floor because the injury will be relatively minor and the coach and/or trainers will take care of it.  Your son/daughter will continue the competition and she will need to maintain his/her focus.  In cases of more serious injury where the athlete may be finished for the day, then it would be appropriate for you to contact your son/daughter after he/she has been moved away from the competitive area for treatment.  If the injury should be serious enough to require any emergency medical attention then your presence will certainly be needed and you should be close at hand.  In some cases where the athlete is very young or new to the sport it might also be a good idea for you to make early contact with him/her.  Please try to get thumbs up from your coach prior to making any contact with your child.

 SECTION 7:  MOBILITY BETWEEN LEVELS & TEAMS

A.)    The mission of the Tumble Shine Team Program is to develop happy, healthy, responsible athletes.  Our primary goal is to guide our athletes to success and to help build each athlete’s level of confidence.  One way in which we can help meet this demanding goal is to place the athlete at a level where she can be happy, safe, and confident.  What this means is that every athlete must be able to perform the skills and routines required at a given level comfortably.  The skills should not be at the edge of or beyond his/her ability.  We can never ask or expect our athletes to perform skills or routines in a competition that they cannot perform consistently in practice.  Therefore, we plan to compete our athletes at about 75%-80% of their current skill level.

 B.)    Advancement and success in the sport requires mastery of basic skills.  Similar to a     pyramid, the larger the base of support (basics), the higher the pyramid will stand               (ultimate skill level).  It seems rather ridiculous and simplistic to think that merely achieving a minimum “move up” score will indicate an athlete’s readiness to achieve success at the next level.  A score is meaningless without mastery of the underlying skills.  The athlete will eventually “hit a wall” if the basics are not mastered.              Advancement to a higher level does not mean an athlete is better.  Executing skills     precisely makes a better athlete.  

 C.)     Mobility between Team Structures is a subjective decision made by the Coaching Staff based on a combination of the criteria below and the needs of the Team structures numbers of participating athletes.  It is possible that an athlete who is moved up to a higher team grouping can be returned to the previous team group structure should the reasons for the promotion not be upheld or maintained by the athlete/s.  Movement in either direction within the team structures is also regulated by taking into account a list of objective skill guidelines.  The skills selected are plastic and flexible from any point in the year and may be skill minimum requirements based on where any particular team may be in their collective progress.  This is to protect the athletes from falling behind or slowing down a team group’s progress.  Neither of those scenarios would be desirable or in the best interest of the athlete or the team.  Our team typically operates on a 8:1 athlete/coach ratio but can handle a 10:1 ratio if the number of athletes and criteria level warrants it.  If a team grouping should expand beyond the 10:1 ratio, a secondary instructor will be added.  

 E.)    In addition to the aforementioned criteria for advancing to a higher level, coaches will     also take into consideration the following (No particular order of value):

    1.)    Current skill level

    2.)    Success at the current level

    3.)    Individual desire

    4.)    Coachability

    5.)    Competitive experience

    6.)    Age

    7.)    Attendance

    8.)    Mental attitude

    9.)    Potential for success at a higher level

    10.)    Individual confidence and courage

    11.)    Team orientation and spirit

    12.)    Work ethic

    13.)    Physical abilities: Strength/Flexibility

    14.)    Parental support

            15.)      Commitment to the sport 

 SECTION 8: RECOMMENDATION FOR SUCCESS

Every athlete has his/her own individual goals.  Our coaches plan and schedule the best path for reaching those goals.  Every deviation from that path (missed practice, long breaks, tardiness, etc.) makes it more difficult and less likely to reach those goals.

 ATTENDANCE

A.)    Vacations during the competitive season can be detrimental to an athlete’s performance.         Family vacations are best scheduled during the off-season or summer months.              Vacations longer than two weeks are not advised.  Remember when an athlete takes a          week off, it can take two weeks to come back.  Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling recommends that athletes take a minimum of one week off a year (post season).    

B.)    Training must remain consistent in order for an athlete to learn and retain new skills.          Unscheduled breaks disrupt the flow of workouts and may hinder an athlete’s     performance, causing him/her to fall behind the rest of the group.

 C.)    Each workout group has been given a minimum of one day off during the week to give athletes an opportunity to catch up on homework and rest.  Please try to manage this time in order to be ready for a new week.

 GUIDELINES FOR PARENTS OF ATHLETES

A.)    The Role of the Parent in the Tumble Shine Family:    The parent of an athlete on our team can have one of the most difficult of all jobs.  While all members of our “family”, the athlete, the coaches, and the parents are all equally important, the parent has the smallest role in actually controlling the performance of the athlete.  At the same time the parent may feel the greatest sense of emotional attachment to that performance.  This combination of a high emotional stake in the performance with little or no direct control over the outcome can produce stress and can lead to some bizarre behavior.  Parents have been known to lose sight of the important role that they have to play.  They often step outside their sphere of influence and enter the domain of other members of the “family”.  This can create conflicts with the coaches.

 Let the coaches coach.  The coaches do their job in the gym and on the competition floor.  When a parent starts to coach their child they actually interfere with the very performance they are trying to improve.  The athlete can only concentrate on one part 
of his/her performance at a time.  If a parent is telling the child to “keep your legs straight”, or to “run faster”, or to “smile”, they are directing the child’s attention away from what the coach is telling the athlete.  The child cannot make two corrections at once so either she does both poorly, or he/she focuses on one and not the other.  No matter which choice he/she makes, someone is going to be upset with him/her and she may not progress in the way she should.  Coaching your child puts him/her in a no-win situation.  It is unfair to him/her and to his/her coaches.

In addition, you are interfering with the development of the coach/athlete bond, which is critical to any long-term success in the sport.  The athlete must be able to trust his/her coaches, rely on his/her coaches to direct his/her training, and to receive important emotional support from their praise.  You interfere with all of that when the child is confused as to which way to turn for direction or support.

C.)    Provide unconditional love, encouragement, and support.  Your love is not based on whether he/she made his/her triple salto in practice. Moreover, your support is not dependent on him/her scoring a mobility score; and your encouragement is not conditioned on his/her somehow making you look good by being the best in his/her group, on his/her team, in his/her state, or in the country.

 D.)    Let your child know that you appreciate his/her effort and that you won’t be disappointed in him/her if she fails.  Be the person in his/her life she can always look to for support.

 E.)    Be helpful, but don’t coach your child on the way to the meet, at the breakfast table, or at the meet!  Think how tough it must be to be continually inundated with advice, pep talks and criticism!

 F.)    Try to be completely honest with yourself about your child’s athletic capabilities, his/her competitive attitude, sportsmanship, and level of skill.

 G.)    Teach your child to enjoy the thrill of competition, to be out there trying to constantly improve his/her skills, to take the physical bumps and come back for more.  Help him/her develop a healthy competitive attitude, a “feel” for competing, for trying hard, for having a good time.

 H.)    Try to separate your child’s goals from the goals you have for your child.  Don’t push him/her in the direction that will give you the most satisfaction.

 I.)    Be careful not to compete with your child’s coach.  A coach may become a hero for a child, someone who can do no wrong, and you may find that hard to accept.  Or your child may become disenchanted with the coach.  Talk to him/her about the importance of learning how to handle problems and how to react to criticism.  Try to help him/her understand the necessity of discipline, rules and regulation.

 J.)    Don’t compare your child with other members of the team.

 K.)    Understand the level of dedication and training required at the level this sport can reach.  Not every child is prepared to make such a commitment, but those who do will enjoy the rewards that come with participating in Trampoline and Tumbling.  A certain amount of sacrifice must be given to allow a child the opportunity to reach goals.  Help your child understand the sacrifices and the benefits that can be gained.

 L.)    Remember that children tend to exaggerate when they are praised and when they are criticized.

 M.)     Teach your child the meaning of courage.  Everyone is frightened of something.  Courage isn’t the absence of fear.  Courage is learning to perform in spite of fear.  Courage isn’t getting rid of fear....it is overcoming it!

 N.)     Harmony within the parent’s organization is a must for a successful organization; please do not spread gossip, rumors or false accusations.  Gossip, Rumors and accusations are insidious and destructive to the fabric of the team.  If you have an issue with another parent, the coach or a team rule or policy for which you feel is unfairly applied, please take the situation up with the person of issue and if that doesn’t bring forth resolution then seek a higher authority. Open and Forthright communication is an important unifying principle at Tumble Shine.  Parents who insist on using the tools of gossip, rumors and false accusations to lobby for rule changes within the team or to have their own self fulfilling agenda will face consequences.  These consequences may include suspension from the gym or even removal of their child from the program.  As noted earlier:

 It is also possible that an athlete will have to leave our program because of the actions or inaction of his/her parents.  While we never want to punish a child for the actions of his/her parent(s), we will not tolerate parents who, by their words and actions, do not support the policies and values of our team program.

 COMMUNICATION

A.)    Communicating effectively with everyone on our team is a challenge.  We work very hard to get information to you in a timely way by putting handouts, gym newsletters and remind texts.

B.)    There exists a necessary line of communication if all parties are to be satisfied in their understanding of an athlete’s Trampoline and Tumbling training.  If a parent has a questions or concern regarding their child’s training, the only way to obtain an answer is to ask your child’s respective coach or the head coach of his/her program.

 C.)    If an athlete does not understand an instruction or other coaching decisions, they should approach his/her coach for further information.  Coaches are not mind readers and cannot automatically detect the wants and needs of every athlete.  Coaches are not always aware of an injury or pain if the athlete does not communicate.

 UN-RECOMMENDED SPORTS POLICY

A)      While some athletes may choose to participate in these sports activities are permitted, they must keep their progression expectations commiserate with all variables associated with multi-sports participation. In most cases, conflicts in practice times, energy levels and overuse injuries can burden the progression of the athlete in both sports considered.  Practices missed due to other sports are the choice of that athlete, all-time commitment requirements in hours are still commitments considered in tuition, tuition cannot be adjusted to reflect team hours missed due to other sports conflicts.

  B). Sports Beneficial for Cross Training  - Some sports are beneficial in certain circumstances. These sports are mainly those that do not conflict with our training or where other sports coach’s are willing to work with or around our practice times and competitions.   Even as these other sports will at some point require a commitment that may dictate a choice to be successful either way chosen.  

    A.)    Beneficial Sports Examples- Some sports do enhance the skills needed for T&T and thus are encouraged when not detrimental to TnT practice schedules

a).  Track, cross country and other related running sports T&T has elements of aerobic and anaerobic components depending on the event.  Sports like soccer, swimming, etc…, help increase conditioning and benefit or supplement what we do in the gym.  These are allowable activities so long as their coaches are flexible and they work with us or around our schedule.

b). Dance and Figure Skating - enhances our sport by paying attention to foot work and developing leg and ankle strength.  .  It is encouraged where possible because of this emphasis and attention to aesthetics, flexibility development and body awareness.  

c). Diving – is acceptable because many of the positions are the same.  The conditioning and flexibility requisites are the same.  It also compliments our sport and allows for us to use our T&T activity to attract scholarships for our athletes in the years beyond T&T.  

 The policies and procedures outlined in this handbook have been created to aid in the development of successful athletes and an overall successful competitive program.  The coaching staff at Tumble Shine Trampoline and Tumbling believes strongly that every athlete should have the opportunity to succeed, and every athlete should have to work hard for success.  We pride ourselves in our positive coaching, our ability to make hard work “fun”, and our genuine love for children.  We welcome you to our competitive team and look forward to an eventful year with both you and your child.