Hi everyone! I'm posting this here to get some advice and insight from both parents and gymnasts alike!
So, about two weeks ago I asked my parents if they would be willing to let me compete Xcel before I graduate high school in the next few years. I've always wanted to experience a competition as a gymnast and feel I could really benefit from even just participating in one. My mom said she would think about it after we talked to the gym owner.
Now, before I go on let me give you a little bit of history. The gym I go to is excellent as far as recreational programs go, but team seems to be a different story. They have recently just lost one of the best coaches and have hired another one, as well as some "junior" coaches. My friend was hired as a junior coach around October and was actually coaching the team even though she has never actually done anything on any apparatus, except floor. It's scary to think that unqualified people are coaching. (I've actually told my friend this and she feels the same way. She no longer helps out with team.) Also, the gym has always been a little disorganized and relaxed. But, now it's getting a little bit worse as the gym owner no longer has most of the control over finances and the team because of illness. Instead, it's being managed by one of the owner's children, who we respect and like, but sometimes worry about her coaching methods.
Anyways, when we spoke to the gym owner, who automatically said yes and told me more information would be given later. I was told I could come twice a week or add in an extra day as well. That was pretty much it. My mom and I worry about the lack of communication/disorganization and aren't sure if we should look into another gym for competition. We have always dealt with this gym since I began, and I have bonded closely with the gym owner and one of the coaches. I don't want to leave the gym or upset anyone, but I don't know if it's the best gym for competing at.
Has anyone ever been in a similar situation? Any advice or tips?
Thank you for reading this really long post!
So, about two weeks ago I asked my parents if they would be willing to let me compete Xcel before I graduate high school in the next few years. I've always wanted to experience a competition as a gymnast and feel I could really benefit from even just participating in one. My mom said she would think about it after we talked to the gym owner.
Now, before I go on let me give you a little bit of history. The gym I go to is excellent as far as recreational programs go, but team seems to be a different story. They have recently just lost one of the best coaches and have hired another one, as well as some "junior" coaches. My friend was hired as a junior coach around October and was actually coaching the team even though she has never actually done anything on any apparatus, except floor. It's scary to think that unqualified people are coaching. (I've actually told my friend this and she feels the same way. She no longer helps out with team.) Also, the gym has always been a little disorganized and relaxed. But, now it's getting a little bit worse as the gym owner no longer has most of the control over finances and the team because of illness. Instead, it's being managed by one of the owner's children, who we respect and like, but sometimes worry about her coaching methods.
Anyways, when we spoke to the gym owner, who automatically said yes and told me more information would be given later. I was told I could come twice a week or add in an extra day as well. That was pretty much it. My mom and I worry about the lack of communication/disorganization and aren't sure if we should look into another gym for competition. We have always dealt with this gym since I began, and I have bonded closely with the gym owner and one of the coaches. I don't want to leave the gym or upset anyone, but I don't know if it's the best gym for competing at.
Has anyone ever been in a similar situation? Any advice or tips?
Thank you for reading this really long post!