Contents. FVRG Parents Guide

Transcription

1 Parents Guide 2016/2017

2 Contents Fraser Valley Rhythmic Gymnastics Club Information... 3 History... 3 Values... 3 Vision Statement... 3 Mission Statement... 3 Program Information... 4 Class Descriptions:... 4 Practice Information... 8 Body Balance... 9 Purchasing RG Equipment and Toe Slippers... 9 Purchasing FVRG Gear... 9 Music and Choreography Policies... 9 Holidays and Celebrations Semi-Open Gym Policy Taking Pictures and Videos Other Sports and Activities Class Re-Adjustments and Cancellations Late Registration Refunds Inclusion Policy Class Information Recreational Rhythmic Gymnastics Classes Mom, Dad and Me Classes Almost Me Introductory Programs Kindergym, Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens Advanced/Pre-Competitive Programs Kindergym, Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens Class Information Competitive Classes Interclub Competitive Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens Provincial Stream Competitive Fireflies, Ravens Additional Fees and Purchases Understanding our Provincial Level system and Judging Class Information Specialty Programs Behavior Expectations Gymnasts Parents Emergency Procedures Nutrition and Hydration Coach Information Coach Training Coach Communication Contact Information

3 Fraser Valley Rhythmic Gymnastics Club Information History Fraser Valley Rhythmic Gymnastics (FVRG) was founded in 2007, consisting of five people, with one common passion: Rhythmic Gymnastics. One judge, one coach and three gymnasts represented Chilliwack in the 2008 BC Winter Games and various other events, including Provincial Championships. Today, after a short break, FVRG is running recreational programming, with a few fresh faces, but the same passion and goal of integrating the sport of rhythmic gymnastics into the Fraser Valley. With the help of our community partners and our enthusiastic coaching staff we are well on our way to meeting our goal of supporting young gymnasts achieve sport participation, active living, and successful body and skills development in a safe, fun and positive environment. Values Integrity: Genuine, honest behaviors reflect individuals with good characters. Respect: Courteous words and generous action demonstrate the value we place on others. Tenacity: Perseverance through personal challenges contributes in a large way to personal development. Growth: Expand personal borders with new experiences and challenges. Beauty: One is better able to understand themselves, others and recognize true beauty in all its forms through unique human movement. Fun: Enjoying exercise and movement is crucial to the healthy development of individuals. Vision Statement A model for other sport organizations, involving many different aspects of community, all coming together to promote the development of individuals, Rhythmic Gymnastics, and sport in general. Mission Statement To promote personal growth in individuals by encouraging participation at all levels and roles within the sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics in the Fraser Valley. Growth in our sport is reflective of the personal growth of our athletes! 3

4 Program Information The purpose of our recreational classes are to meet new friends, try new skills and have fun doing a different kind of sport, in a safe environment. Participants can begin these classes at the age of 2. Our goal is to give everyone an opportunity to participate in rhythmic gymnastics. Class Descriptions: 8 Week Introductory Programs Class Mom, Dad and Me Age Group Typical Duration 2-4 years 30 min Almost Me 3-4 years 45 min Kindergym 4-5 years 45 min Ninja Gym 5-7 years 45 min Sparkles 6-8 years 60 min Class Description This parent participation program allows young gymnasts to explore gymnastics activities in a structured class, with the guidance of a parent. Gymnasts learn fundamental gymnastics movements, and experiment using rhythmic gymnastics equipment, developing gross motor skills and coordination. Almost Me allows confident young gymnasts to independently learn fundamental gymnastics movements, with their coach. Parents are asked to stay in the gym, in case the gymnast still requires some oneon-one support. Kindergym provides gymnasts with an opportunity to learn what they are capable of doing, and further develop their gymnastics skills. Gymnasts will learn gymnastics fundamentals, such as rolls, cartwheel, and handstands, and will also learn rhythmic gymnastics skills, using apparatus such as ribbons, hoops, and balls. This class is designed just for energetic boys who always want to run and be upside down. Ninja Gym teaches fundamental gymnastics skills in a structured class, with a focus on agility, balance, and coordination. Sparkles encourages gymnasts to try new gymnastics skills, and refine those that they are already capable of performing. Gymnasts take a focus on flexibility development, and agility training, and works to coordinate gymnastics movements with rhythmic gymnastics apparatus. 4

5 Fireflies 8-10 years 60 min Ravens years 60 min Intro to Acro Gymnastics 8-10 years 60 mins Intro to Tumbling 8-11 years 60 min Advanced Tumbling 10 years + 60 min Ladies RG 19 years+ 60 min Fireflies supports gymnasts who want to try new gymnastics skills. Using both gymnastics circuits, teamwork activities, and rhythmic gymnastics hand apparatus, gymnasts are able to build strength, balance, and coordination. Ravens offers gymnasts developmentally appropriate foundational skills and the opportunity to expand on burgeoning skills through the use of circuits, apparatus and focused activity. Gymnasts will challenge themselves to build on their strength, flexibility and balance. Acrobatic gymnastics builds in fundamental gymnastics skills taught in other FVRG programs, and takes a focus on flexibility development, tumbling, and teamwork activities. This class is ideal for those looking to develop or improve their basic tumbling skills for participation in dance or cheerleading programs. Gymnasts will work on developing handstands, cartwheels, round offs, and walkovers in preparation for more advanced programs. For those athletes, dancers, and cheerleaders who have mastered the basic tumbling skills, and are looking to work on their advanced skills, this class is for them. This class will focus on strength and technique development, for gymnastics to work on skills such as aerials, handsprings and saltos. Participation in Intro to Tumbling, and coach consultation is required. Why should kids have all the fun?! Our Ladies RG class is perfect for former gymnasts and dancers, or those who are watching their kids learn gymnastics skills, and want to jump in and get active. Ladies will work on fundamental rhythmic gymnastics skills, while improving fitness. Teens 17 years + may be permitted to participate, with coach s permission. 5

6 Year Long Programs Kindergym 4-5 years 45 min Sparkles 6-8 years 60 min Fireflies 8-10 years 60 min Ravens years 60 min Advanced Recreational RG Pre-Competitive RG Kindergym ( ) Sparkles ( ) Fireflies ( ) Ravens (2006 and older) Kindergym ( ) Sparkles ( ) Fireflies ( ) 1X/week 60 minutes 1X/week 90 minutes 1X/week 90 minutes 1X/week 90 minutes 2X/week 60 mins 2X/week 90 mins 2X/week 90 mins Kindergym provides gymnasts with an opportunity to learn what they are capable of doing, and further develop their gymnastics skills. Gymnasts will learn gymnastics fundamentals, such as rolls, cartwheel, and handstands, and will also learn rhythmic gymnastics skills, using apparatus such as ribbons, hoops, and balls. Sparkles encourages gymnasts to try new gymnastics skills, and refine those that they are already capable of performing. Gymnasts take a focus on flexibility development, and agility training, and works to coordinate gymnastics movements with rhythmic gymnastics apparatus. Fireflies supports gymnasts who want to try new gymnastics skills. Using both gymnastics circuits, teamwork activities, and rhythmic gymnastics hand apparatus, gymnasts are able to build strength, balance, and coordination. Ravens offers gymnasts developmentally appropriate foundational skills and the opportunity to expand on burgeoning skills through the use of circuits, apparatus and focused activity. Gymnasts will challenge themselves to build on their strength, flexibility and balance. Gymnasts in this class will be challenged to build on the skills they have learned in previous Rhythmic Gymnastics, Artistic Gymnastics or Dance classes. Gymnasts will explore new movement and technique while developing more advanced apparatus skills. Development of jumps, balances, tumbling, and flexibility movements will be combined with conditioning and apparatus use so as to focus on all around gymnast development. Gymnasts in a Pre-Competitive class will begin a more challenging training program and spend a greater amount of time on their training. The class will continue to focus on fundamental gymnastics movements, and developmentally appropriate activities, in a fun environment. Ravens (2006 and 2X/week 90 mins 6

7 older) Interclub Competitive RG Provincial Stream Competitive RG Mental Skill Development for Gymnasts Stretch and Strength Sport Leadership Development Sparkles ( ) Fireflies ( ) Ravens (2006 and older) Fireflies ( ) Ravens (2006 and older) Sparkles ( ) Fireflies ( ) 1X/week 120 minutes 1X/week 120 minutes 1X/week 120/minutes 2X/week 150 minutes 2X/week 150 minutes 1X/week 45 minutes Ravens (2006 and older) 10 years + 1X/week 60 minutes years 1X/week 60 minutes For those gymnasts wanting to experience competitive rhythmic gymnastics, but would like to keep training to a minimum, the Interclub Competitive program will focus on skill development, as well as routine preparation. Gymnasts will compete at one invitational competition. In a Provincial level competitive training environment, gymnasts will focus on physical conditioning, skill development, and routine preparation. Gymnasts will compete in a minimum of two events within the province. This classroom based program will help athletes discover their confidence in their sport performance, while developing their attentional control, emotional control, and goal setting skills. Parents are encouraged to join younger athletes or pair younger athletes with older athletes, to help them better develop their ideas, and write out their thoughts. This is a cross-training class, for athletes and dancers looking to take advantage of the abilities that rhythmic gymnastics can help them develop. Participants in this class will focus on strength and flexibility activities, with the goals of improving their abilities. Being an athlete is just one way to be a leader in sport. This program will use sport to develop skills commonly used in many volunteer and workplace situations including: coaching, officiating (judging), event management, and will also take a focus in selfawareness, conflict resolution and public speaking. SLD will focus on the five National Coaching Certification Program core competencies: valuing, interacting, leading, problem-solving and critical thinking. This class will draw on the expertise of the entire FVRG team. 7

8 When choosing between a 6 week set and a Year Long program, please choose the level of commitment you feel is appropriate for your child, and family. Registrations will be taken for Year Long programs until the first week of January, space dependent. Please contact FVRG for a schedule of when and where these classes will take place, and costs. Most classes that runs the full year will participate in our Year End Performance. There are no additional fees for costumes or participation in the Year End Performance, and parents/spectators will not be charged to view. This is an informal performance opportunity for gymnasts to showcase what they have learned. Additional purchases for competitive gymnasts are outlined later in this guide. Registration fees of $45.00 for recreational gymnasts (higher for competitive) will be only applied once per year, per gymnast enrolled in a year-long program, and will include registration with BC Rhythmic Gymnastics/Gymnastics Canada, and a tank top, which will be the required costume for the Year End Performance. FVRG also offers a wide range of coach education programs. Please contact us for details. Practice Information All gymnasts are expected to dress appropriately for the sport. Bodysuits are ideal, but any form fitting, flexible clothing would be fine. If a gymnast chooses to wear pants that are not tights, tight fitting capris are best as it is safest for the gymnast to not accidentally step on her own pants. All gymnasts must have their hair pulled back and will have the choice of wearing toe slippers or bare feet to practices. Footed tights, full gymnastics/dance shoes are not recommended. 8

9 Gymnasts will be expected to bring a water bottle to each class as well. She is encouraged to also bring a snack if class is longer than an hour and a half. Finally, gymnasts are expected to be on time and prepared for class. Warm up is crucial for injury prevention, and for the gymnast to feel comfortable throughout her class. Please note that coaches are engaged with other classes, and are not available to supervise gymnasts before or after classes. Please plan appropriately for the safety of your gymnast arriving to, and departing from classes. Body Balance Rhythmic gymnastics requires gymnast to perform basic apparatus movements with both hands, and gymnasts will be encouraged to train this way. Similarly, gymnasts will be encouraged to stretch and develop both sides of their body equally. Gymnasts will not be asked to perform advanced apparatus or body skills with their non-dominant sides, if they are not comfortable doing so. If a routine is choreographed in a way that the gymnast is feeling too challenged to use a non-dominant hand, we ask that she communicates with the coach, so the coach can made necessary adjustments. Our Head Coach is left handed, and understands many of the struggles lefties experience! Purchasing RG Equipment and Toe Slippers While gymnasts are welcome to use the apparatus that we have in the gym, many gymnasts (especially competitive gymnasts) prefer to own their own apparatus. As we are a small sport, these items can only be purchased via mail order. In Canada, the places to purchase apparatus or toe slippers are: Bermo Sport in Victoria ( and RomSport in Quebec ( FVRG occasionally will put in a club order, and will notify families when planning to do so. Toe slipper can be ordered at the aforementioned locations, or can be purchased at local dance stores. There are many brands of toe slippers and there are many different fits. Brand is a personal preference of the gymnast. Purchasing FVRG Gear FVRG will put a call out for FVRG Gear approximately twice each season. Gymnasts may order hoodies, water bottles, head bands, or other items available. These items are optional, and not necessary for participation in programs. If a gymnast loses the tank top she was given for the Year End Performance, she may order another one though the Gear order, though payment will be required. Music and Choreography Policies All coaches are instructed to only play music in the gym that is appropriate for all ages, and is free of overtly sexual or violent lyrics. Most of the music we use can be heard on local radio (Star FM) and children s movie sound tracks. We will also play instrumental pieces, such as Cirque Du Soleil, which are more traditional to rhythmic gymnastics. 9

10 All music and choreography used in our Year End Performance, and for competition, must be approved by the Head Coach. If you have questions or concerns about music or choreography, please contact the Head Coach. Holidays and Celebrations Coaches enjoy celebrating seasons and special occasions with gymnasts. While we will not promote any individual religious beliefs within programs, we want to encourage gymnasts to bring the fun of the seasons into the gym, and we do so with theme days every few months. We support the choice of your family, should your child not participate in theme days for whatever reason. Please contact us if you have any questions. Semi-Open Gym Policy FVRG has a Semi-Open Gym Policy, which means we allow parents and siblings to watch all FVRG programs, but all others must check in, and receive permission to view. Parents are asked to remain in the designated areas ( Fan Zone ), unless the coach has otherwise requested. To protect our gymnasts and coaches, FVRG reserves the right to ask individuals who could be detrimental to program success, or who may compromise gymnast or coach safety (including parents), to leave the gym. Should these individuals choose to not voluntarily leave the facility, authorities will be contacted to ensure a continued safe environment. Taking Pictures and Videos We ask that anyone wishing to take pictures or videos of a class check with the coach beforehand. Photography/videography can be very distracting to gymnast and it may interfere with the coaches lesson plan. Further, we want to respect the rights and privacy of the other gymnasts. We also ask that parents use discretion when posting such pictures and videos on social media. Other Sports and Activities We encourage all gymnasts, especially those looking to become involved in competitive rhythmic gymnastics, to participate in a variety of sport programs. Developing fundamental movement skills largely happens in gymnastics but is enhanced by participation in other activities. For information about Canadian Sport For Life, and how your child can best be engaged in sport programs, please go to: We strongly encourage parents to choose programs where the club is affiliated with their respective Provincial Sport Organization (eg. Rhythmic Gymnastics BC), and that utilizes the National Coaching Certification Program to train their coaches, for all program levels. Please, check to make sure there are safety procedures, and coach training in place. For information about Provincial Sport Organizations, and how to find quality sport programs, please go to htth://viasport.ca 10

11 Class Re-Adjustments and Cancellations All classes will run subject to minimum enrollment. If registration is too low, the class will be canceled and participants will be informed alternative classes will be suggested. If classes become too full, classes or instructors will be added. Class maximums are dependent on the age and ability of the gymnasts, space in the gym, and the coach s comfort with the group. Our club strives to follow all recommendations by BC Rhythmic Gymnastics. Some classes are purposefully combined, if it is appropriate for the age and ability level of the gymnasts. Class ratios are still enforced. If a running class must be canceled for whatever reason (eg. weather, coaches absence due to illness, etc.), the class will be rescheduled whenever possible. Anticipated cancellations due to school closures and holidays (eg. Two week winter break, Thanksgiving, Easter, etc.) have already been factored into the cost of the programs. We have also factored in a few additional cancellations, usually due to events where the school gym may be required. Funding Assistance FVRG strives to keep our prices affordable for everyone, but we understand that some families will require support to participate. At this time, FVRG is not able to provide funding assistance to families. The following are sources of potential financial assistance for youth sport programs. Chilliwack Children s Foundation 1.html Athletics 4 Kids - KidSport - pdf Jumpstart - viasport BC - Late Registration 8 Weeks Introductory Sets: FVRG encourages all children who wish to participate in gymnastics to do so, even if classes have already started. FVRG will pro-rate the class registration fees to a maximum of 60% of the total class fee. Please speak to the Business Manager, if you wish to discuss late registration fees, as each case will be considered individually. Year Long Programs: If there is space in the program, a gymnast may enter the class late, with the coach s permission. The family will be responsible for monthly 11

12 payments from that point on, or a pro-rated yearly rate (contact us for details). The registration fee will not be prorated. Refunds We understand that our programs won t meet the needs of every family. If you find that FVRG is not the right fit for your family, we are happy to recommend other quality gymnastics (or other sport) organizations. Our refund policies are as follows: 8 Week Introductory Sets: Class fees are payable on or before the first day of classes and are non-refundable. Please contact us for further consideration. Additionally, any classes where registration has taken place through a third party (eg. Community School or Rec Center) all refund inquiries must go directly through that institution, FVRG has no control over their refund policies. Year Long Programs: If a gymnast leaves the program mid-year, she will not be charged for the months she does not participate (no refunds for partial participation months). If the training fee is paid upfront at the beginning of the year, a partial refund will be given, as decided by the Business Manager. Registration fees are nonrefundable. Inclusion Policy Gender: Traditionally, rhythmic gymnastics is a female sport, however, we encourage both boys and girls to participate in our programs. Disabilities: FVRG believes that gymnastics can improve the mental and physical wellbeing of all persons. We will do our best to accommodate developmental and physical disabilities, however, we are limited by our equipment, environment, insurance and training. Most FVRG coaches do not have additional training in modifying activities for athletes with a disability, and we will therefore not be able to accommodate more severe disabilities in FVRG classes. We ask that families contact us prior to the class starting, to determine if FVRG will be able to meet the needs of the child. 12

13 Class Information Recreational Rhythmic Gymnastics Classes Mom, Dad and Me Classes Mom, Dad and Me aims to have toddlers begin to experience a structured gymnastics class, while still having the support and guidance of a parent. The coach will teach to the child (gymnast), and will direct instructions to the gymnast. Parents will support the gymnast in accomplishing the task. If the gymnast is able to complete the task on his/her own, the parents should encourage this, so the child can learn independence, and become ready for classes on his/her own. We ask that parents stay close to their gymnast, should the gymnast need help. Parents should not leave the gym during the class without their child. Parents are responsible for any other children they bring into the gym, and to ensure they remain in the Fan Zone. This is for their own safety, and to avoid interrupting other classes. We encourage parents to take their gymnasts to the bathroom before the class begins. Parents often ask if they can wear their younger babies in a baby carrier. We leave this decision up to the parents themselves. If they feel they can support their toddler, while safely wearing their baby, they are welcome to. If either the baby, or the toddler s safety is being compromised, the parent should withdraw from the class. Our goals for this class are: Have FUN! Teach the gymnasts appropriate behavior in a gymnastics environment Introduce gymnasts to a variety of types of movements, and apparatus Have FUN! Almost Me This program allow young gymnasts to transition to a program where they can independently learn fundamental gymnastics movements, with their coach. Parents should 13

14 choose this class for their child, if they feel that their child is ready to be independent in a busy gym environment, but may still require some assistance from a parent, on occasion. The coach may call the parent over, to assist the child, or the parent may observe his/her child needing assistance, and may step in. Parents are encouraged to discuss with the coach how much involvement is needed for the individual child. Regardless of how much involvement is decided on, parents are asked to stay in the gym, in case the gymnast still requires some one-on-one support. Introductory Programs Kindergym, Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens Introductory programs are best for new gymnasts, who are not yet comfortable with rhythmic gymnastics as a sport, or with the training environment. The focus of these programs will be skill development, and developing a comfort with the base skills of rhythmic gymnastics. All gymnasts should be able to participate in programs independently, and follow the coach s instructions. Advanced/Pre-Competitive Programs Kindergym, Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens When deciding between an introductory or advanced programs, the most important factor will be the gymnast behavior in the class. Gymnasts in Advanced and Pre-Competitive programs are expected to be focused for the duration of her class. The gymnast s abilities should also be considered, but more important is her focus and drive. When decided between Advanced and Pre-Competitive classes, the gymnast should decide how much time she would like to dedicate to her training (enrolling in a Pre-Competitive class does not assume she is interested or able to enroll in a Competitive program the following season). Schedule depending, we try to arrange a performance at a competition in the Lower Mainland for our Pre-Competitive groups, so they can experience performing in a competitive environment. 14

15 Class Information Competitive Classes Interclub Competitive Sparkles, Fireflies, Ravens The BC Provincial Interclub program is designed for gymnasts who want to compete, but don t want to dedicate to the full training, or who have other sport commitments. We recommend gymnasts have participated in Advanced or Pre-Competitive programs previously, or have a strong background in a related sport, before enrolling in this program. Gymnasts will work towards a competitive group routine, to compete at one competition in the Lower Mainland, as well as a performance in our Year End Performance. Provincial Stream Competitive Fireflies, Ravens (Sparkles to be added in the 2017/2018 Season) The Provincial Stream Competitive program is meant for those gymnasts who would like gymnastics to be their primary sport. Gymnasts will focus on developing the base skills in competitive rhythmic gymnastics, and will work towards competing at a minimum of two events within the Province. Most events will be within the Lower Mainland, however if there is an opportunity to participate in an excellent event in Victoria or Vernon (the other main centres for competitive rhythmic gymnastics), we may explore that option. Gymnasts will all focus on group competition. Individual competition options may also be explored, however, group will always be the focus of FVRG. Additional Fees and Purchases As with any sport, the higher the level of commitment, the more there is to buy. We feel it is important for families to understand what purchases should be made, before enrolling in programs, and the rationale behind the purchases. We do our best to keep costs down for families. We do not charge additional fees for music cutting or choreography. Bodysuits: Each competitive gymnast will have to purchase one team bodysuit, to be worn at performances and competitions. We will do our best to ensure the cost does not exceed $ Typically, gymnasts can wear the bodysuit for up to two full years. As we will not change the design year to year, and as group bodysuits must be identical, the bodysuit can likely be resold to younger gymnasts, when it is outgrown. Details about ordering bodysuits will be available each fall. Those gymnasts competing in individual competition, and would like to purchase additional bodysuits, may do so, though it is suggested parents discuss anticipated purchases with the coaches. Tracksuits: Each competitive gymnast will also have to purchase one team tracksuit. We will aim to have this cost be less than $ for both jacket and pants. As with bodysuits, we anticipate gymnasts will be able to wear the tracksuit for more than one year, and can resell afterwards. Gymnasts will also need black shorts. Higher FVRG Registration Fees: Our registration fees increase in relation to the cost charge to us by the British Columbia Rhythmic Sportive Gymnastics Federation (BCRSGF). BCRSGF insurance covers to cost of participating at BCRSGF sanctioned events. For more information about the BCRSGF, please go to We anticipate FVRG registration fees being $80-$100 per 15

16 competitive gymnast (per year), and will be able to confirm this amount when BC Rhythmic Gymnastics has published registration fees for the season. Competition Fees: Each competition will have a participation fee. Fees range from $50 - $250 depending on the level of the gymnast, the level of the competition and sometimes the amount of routines she will perform. At our discretion, FVRG will add on a small amount per gymnast (usually $20-$30 per gymnast), to cover coaches honorariums and local travel. Should the event be outside of the Lower Mainland, participating families will be responsible for covering coach s travel costs/honorariums (costs will mostly depend on competition location and number of gymnasts attending). Fees must be paid prior to the deadline FVRG has communicated, or the gymnast will not be permitted to compete (as per competition organizers). Understanding our Provincial Level system and Judging Canada has Provincial Level system that is the same in each province and BC has an additional program to support the development of our Provincial Level athletes. The Code of Points along with our Provincial Level requirements are complicated and change every year (sometimes more often!). If the interest is there, we will host a workshop to help parents understand our Provincial gymnasts are judged. Class Information Specialty Programs Tumbling?? Mental Skills SLD S/S 16

17 Behavior Expectations Gymnasts Gymnasts are taught and are expected to follow the values of FVRG. Gymnasts who do not show understanding of these values in their actions will be asked to sit out of the class; gymnasts who repeatedly do not show an understanding of these values will be asked to leave the program. Disrespect will not be tolerated. Parents We expect the same of parents as we do of their children. Parents are welcome to stay and watch their athletes, sitting on the designated benches. We do ask that parents watch the practices either from a respectable distance from their child, allowing the coach to be able to communicate with the child undistributed. If you would like to watch from the side of the floor, or take pictures/videotape of your child, please check with your child s coach. If you do need to talk to your child during the practice, please let the coach know. Gymnasts are aware that they are not allowed to leave the gym at any time without the coach knowing and we encourage parents to assist us in achieving this by taking young gymnasts to the washroom before class starts and providing a water bottle for training. We also expect parents to take responsibility for other children they bring into our gym. Siblings will not be permitted to play around the classes, and must stay close to their parents, as to not distract the gymnasts and coaches in the gym. If you have questions at any time, or have suggestions for the program, please contact us. Emergency Procedures All FVRG staff have been trained in First Aid, emergency procedures, and is in possession of the FVRG Emergency Action Plan. Coaches will take charge in a medical or safety emergency. If you have any questions about our emergency procedures, please contact us. Nutrition and Hydration Gymnastics is a demanding sport and requires a great amount of energy. This is especially important when the athlete is a child. Eating properly and staying hydrated will allow a child enough energy to learn more at school and make better use of their time at the gym. A gymnast who eats well and drinks enough water is stronger, faster and more flexible than those who do not pay attention to what they eat. The Canada Food Guide provides a good guideline for what a healthy individual should eat. Athletes should pay particular attention 17

18 to hydration levels, and ensuring they are eating properly before, during, and after training sessions. Specific to training, we have very few rules when it comes to food. Gymnasts must bring a water bottle to each practice. Staying hydrated is extremely important during a workout and having a water bottle within arm s reach at practice is a big help. It is also very helpful to not have young gymnasts leave the gym to find a water fountain, during her class. Gymnasts are asked to limit sports drinks in the gym. If your child s class is longer than an hour and a half, it is suggested that she bring a healthy snack. Please try to limit the salt and sugar in their snacks, as that will affect their hydration levels. Coach Information Coach Training All FVRG coaches have engaged in training through the National Coaching Certification Program. Our coaches are further trained in first aid, Respect in Sport, and through inservices and mentorships with the Head Coach or other gymnastics specialists. Each coach is registered with BC Rhythmic Gymnastics, which requires a criminal record check. Please see our website for coach bios. Coach Communication Coaches will often have classes before and after your child s class, and will often not have much of an opportunity to speak with parents. If you would like to speak to your child s coach, please let her know so the appropriate time can be made to address your questions or concerns. Alternately, contact FVRG administrators. Contact Information Natasha Chappell Business Manager Responsible For: Club management, organizational growth and strategic planning FVRG@FVRhythmics.com Kate Kloos Head Coach Responsible For: Coach training, program development, competitive program management Kate@FVRhythmics.com 18

19 Phone: or Website: 19