Introduction & Dilemma (long)

[gymnomore]

Hi and welcome! Just wanted to say that I've been a gym-mom for about 15 years and I have to agree with just about everything the previous posters have said. It's great that your gymie had a good year- she must be very talented! But, I've seen many girls do well at levels 4 and 5 and then it gets hard. Plus other factors come into play as they progress such as burnout, injuries, growth and bodily changes, and here's a biggie- fear! It's impossible to judge how a gymnast will be performing several years in advance. My advice is to stay where she is happy and feels comfortable. She's still young and has plenty of time to move up the ranks if that is what she wants to do. We have switched gyms a couple of times due to bad coaching. The first time was the best move we ever made. The second time did not work out at all even though the new gym was great. My dd had been with her teammates for so long that she couldn't deal with being away from them. Not only that, but there was such an extreme change in her workouts that it was hard for her to adapt. So I have to agree with the PP who said "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". Besides, it's a sport, and at your DD's age, it's all about having fun.

[flippymonkeysmom]

Gosh - that is a really tough one. It does sound like she is doing really great where she is now. Of course if there are gyms that seem to have stronger programs, the temptation to check them out is very strong. I too can only speak from personal experience. My dd also had a very successful level 4 season- not quite as high as yours - but always top 3 on all events and all around. We moved gyms between level 4 and 5 - only because we moved to a different state. For various reasons level 5 was not a good year for my daughter, i.e. tough time adjusting to move and some health issues. Anyway, in our area we have a few gyms to choose from. One turns out elites and has the highest scoring gymnasts in the state (and is the closest to us). That is the first gym we tried when we moved. We realized quickly that it wasn't the right fit though. Then she tried another for a season and the team was just too big and she felt lost in the shuffle. Now she is at a gym (of course the furthest of the 3) and she has found a home. She may not place 1st at all the meets - but as a level 6, she pretty much medaled on all events at all the meets - sometimes even in the top 3. Most important though - she LOVES her coaches and her gym. I have always said I would rather my daughter be good and happy than great and miserable. Good luck in whatever you decide - and congrats to your dd on an awesome season.