Schedule

11:00am - 7:00pm
11:00am - 7:00pm
National Congress Registration
Thursday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Onsite registration will be available any time during the National Congress registration hours.  Click Here to access the onsite registration form. Complete and bring it with you to the congress registration table.

Click Here for a map of the Minneapolis Convention Center.

5:00 - 7:00pm
5:00 - 7:00pm
Hall E
National Trade Show
Thursday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Visit the National Trade Show Hall to chat with vendors and check out the latest products and services in the industry, including equipment, apparel, technology and more! You won’t want to miss the many exciting Promotional Activities including Athlete Meet & Greets, Autograph Sessions, Drawings, Contests, and Giveaways!

7:00am - 5:15pm
7:00am - 5:15pm
National Congress Registration
Friday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Onsite registration will be available any time during the National Congress registration hours.  Click Here to access the onsite registration form. Complete and bring it with you to the congress registration table.

Click Here for a map of the Minneapolis Convention Center.

7:45am - 5:45pm
7:45am - 5:45pm
Hall E
National Trade Show
Friday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Visit the National Trade Show Hall to chat with vendors and check out the latest products and services in the industry, including equipment, apparel, technology and more! You won’t want to miss the many exciting Promotional Activities including Athlete Meet & Greets, Autograph Sessions, Drawings, Contests, and Giveaways!

8:30 - 9:30am
8:30 - 9:30am
101F
Class Management and Student Behavior
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Michael Taylor
Session Summary

This is an important topic for any teacher or coach who is looking for additional information on how to create an exciting and productive learning environment in which to teach. This workshop will help an individual become a better instructor by presenting techniques on effective class management and dealing with student behaviors.

8:30 - 9:30am
102F
Developing Air Awareness and Safe Landing Awareness
Friday All
Presenter(s): Derick Moellenbeck
Session Summary

A safer confidence system for building air awareness and safe landings.

8:30 - 9:30am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Easy Drills for Big Skills on the Trampoline
Friday Trampoline & Tumbling
8:30 - 9:30am
205B
How to Start an Acro & Tumbling Program + Easy Pyramids for Rec Classes
Friday Acrobatic & Tumbling
Session Summary

Find out how – and why! –  to start a youth Acrobatics & Tumbling program in your club, and learn some fun, easy pyramids to try in your recreational classes.

8:30 - 9:30am
211BC
Leadership in 2024: Sucessfully Leading Millennials
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Randy Sikora
8:30 - 9:30am
102A
Mysteries & Uh-Ohs: Xcel Judging and Coaching
Friday Women Xcel
Presenter(s): Jane Caruso Dianne Palmer
Session Summary

Exploring the the Xcel world (for coaches and judges), and solving the mysteries of the program.

8:30 - 9:30am
101I
Rebounding Revenue: How to use Trampoline to Grow Clientele and your Bottom Line
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Nick Minney
8:30 - 9:30am
103F
The Confidence Code: Inspiring Fierce Certainty in Your Athletes
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. Alison Arnold, Ph.D.
Session Summary

A heartening and insightful session that delves into the critical role coaches play in shaping the confidence of gymnasts. This presentation emphasizes how a coach’s support and approach can be the key to unlocking an athlete’s belief in their own abilities. It’s not just about perfecting routines; it’s about instilling a lifelong sense of self-assurance. With a blend of engaging stories, accessible psychological principles, and practical techniques, coaches are equipped to foster an environment where athletes grow in confidence, both in gymnastics and in life.

8:30 - 9:30am
205C
The German Giant
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Jordan Gaarenstroom
Session Summary

Drills and progressions for teaching the German Giant on High Bar.

8:30 - 9:30am
103A
Uneven Bars: Swing Half, Blind Change, and Giant Fulls
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Ian Campbell
8:30 - 9:30am
101E
Warm-ups, Games, And Other Preschool Fun!
Friday Preschool
Presenter(s): Jennifer O’Hara Evans
Session Summary

Introducing activities for preschool gymnastics that are progressive, fun, and engaging for 3-5 year olds.

8:30 - 9:30am
208BC
Women’s Development Program Update
Friday Women
9:45 - 10:45am
9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Left Side
A Coaches’ Guide to Split Flexibility: Effective and Safe Drills for Practice
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
9:45 - 10:45am
102F
Biomechanics: Where Has the Science Gone?
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

More than technique. Training your eye through skill examples. See the important stuff.

9:45 - 10:45am
103A
Common Traits in Great Vaulting
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Steve Arkell
Session Summary

What traits do the best vaulters have in common? Learn about these traits and how to develop them in your athletes.

9:45 - 10:45am
208BC
Compulsory Beam Levels 1-5: Looking at the “Throughout” Deductions
Friday Women Technical
Session Summary

How to properly apply deductions on text, posture, footwork, rhythm, artistry and dynamics.

9:45 - 10:45am
211BC
Employee Handbooks: Where Do I Begin?
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Cindy Scharns
Session Summary

We will discuss handbook basics, culture and policies. The purpose of this presentation is to give you the basic information you need to develop a handbook (or to do a review of your current handbook) to provide you employees the information they need to bring your organization together.

9:45 - 10:45am
103F
Flipping Fear: What to do When “Just Do It!” Doesn’t Work
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Sarah Sadler
Session Summary

We all know a gymnast (or many!) who struggle with a mental block. You’ve likely tried everything possible to help this gymnast overcome their fear, but nothing seems to be working—it is an incredibly frustrating process for both the gymnast and the coach. Why don’t the traditional approaches always work? What if there were a different way? In this workshop, we will learn acceptance and commitment-based strategies to help gymnasts work through mental blocks in a new, exciting way. By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to describe how fear operates; explain why acceptance and commitment strategies are helpful tools for overcoming mental blocks; and apply acceptance and commitment strategies to their work with gymnasts experiencing mental blocks.

9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Recreational Skills
Friday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Sandi McGee
Session Summary

Get hands-on spotting practice on a variety of recreational-level skills on Bars and Floor.
Uneven Bars: Pullovers, Back Hip Circles, Swings and Regrips, Squat-Ons.
Floor: Cartwheels, Back Walkovers, Front Walkovers, Backward Rolls, Handstands, Back Handsprings.
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign-up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

9:45 - 10:45am
101E
Motor Learning, Motor Development, and the Theory of Muscle Memory
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Beth Gardner
Session Summary

The effects of movement on cognitive development, sequential learning, how the human brain learns and how to apply it to our sport training.

9:45 - 10:45am
205C
Parallel Bars: The Real Value of Diamidovs and Healys
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Juha Tanskanen
9:45 - 10:45am
205B
Skill Profiling: Selecting the Best Skills for your Athlete
Friday Women
Presenter(s): Chere Hoffman
Session Summary

For an athlete’s long-term development, Skill Profiling, or choosing the right skill at the right time (level), is critical to overall success. A detailed presentation that includes specific Profile skills on the events and when they are to be taught.

9:45 - 10:45am
101F
Stations for Teaching Back Handsprings
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Annette Robert Koerth
Session Summary

Stations, stations and more stations for your back handspring learners!

9:45 - 10:45am
101I
Trampoline Fundamentals: A Roadmap to Progressing Athletes Through the Fun Skills of Trampoline
Friday Trampoline & Tumbling
Presenter(s): Nick Minney
9:45 - 10:45am
102A
Women’s Xcel Program Update
Friday Women Xcel
11:00am - 12:00pm
11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
15 Minute Trampoline Rotations
Friday Recreational
11:00am - 12:00pm
208BC
Back to Basics: Are We Evaluating Basic Skills Consistently?
Friday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Evelyn Chandler
Session Summary

Is it possible we overlook errors on basic skills in our desire to identify and evaluate the higher value parts correctly?  Let’s find out as we have some friendly “BASE-IC” competition.

11:00am - 12:00pm
101F
Drills for Recreational Vaulting
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Michael Taylor
Session Summary

Fun and productive drills for your recreational vault rotations.

11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Kips; Front and Back Handsprings
Friday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Kips
Floor: Front Handsprings, Back Handsprings
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

11:00am - 12:00pm
211BC
Hire, Train, Develop, REPEAT
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Jennifer O’Hara Evans
Session Summary

Important steps for developing a powerful employment team for any department in your company.

11:00am - 12:00pm
205C
Still Rings: Preventing Shoulder Injuries
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Tom Buese
11:00am - 12:00pm
101I
TeamGym: What Is It, And How Do I Start A Program?
Friday Gymnastics for All
Session Summary

Team Gym is a great sport for all levels of athlete in your gym.  Gymnasts compete as a team on vault, mini tramp, power tumbling and floor exercise.  Team Gym fosters camaraderie and athlete retention especially as athletes get older and busier! Come find out how to add that something special to your program and keep your kids in the gym!

11:00am - 12:00pm
101E
The Power of Three: Progressions for Beginner & Intermediate Skills
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ashley Lebeau
Session Summary

Every coach should know at least three progressions for every skill.  This session focuses on beginner and advanced progressions for the most common (and some not so common) preschool and beginner gymnastics skills.  We will troubleshoot some of the most common problems coaches run into, such as not shifting hands on a pullover, landing on the wrong foot in a cartwheel, etc. Attendees will leave feeling better equipped to tailor stations to meet the needs of the gymnasts in their classes on a more individual level.

11:00am - 12:00pm
103F
Tracking Training Load & Wellness in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics: Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze?
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Training load management in sports is defined as monitoring load (intensity and volume of training) and adjusting the load based on the athlete’s response to the training. Training load management has the potential to improve sport performance and reduce injuries in athletes, but this concept has not been tested in gymnastics. We have developed a way to perform training load and wellness tracking in women’s artistic gymnastics and have tested it in developmental and collegiate athletes. We will discuss our initial findings as well as how and why you may want to do this in your own gym.

11:00am - 12:00pm
205B
Turning Your Gymnastics Stuff Into Ninja Stuff!
Friday Ninja
Presenter(s): Tony Clarno
Session Summary

Use whatcha got to run fun ninja classes!

11:00am - 12:00pm
103A
Uneven Bars: Turning Circles Into Releases
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Tom Forster
11:00am - 12:00pm
102F
Women’s Compulsory Review of Beam and Floor
Friday Women Compulsory
Presenter(s): JD MacDonald
11:00am - 12:00pm
102A
Xcel Bars: Side Stations to Maximize Time
Friday Women Xcel
Presenter(s): Megan Bankole
Session Summary

Make the most out of your bar rotations with these creative side stations that will keep your athletes productive and engaged.

12:00 - 12:45pm
12:00 - 12:45pm
208BC
NCAA Rules Update
Friday Women Technical
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

NCAA Rules Update presented by Jenna Fey, Sarah Brown and Kasey Crawford.

12:45 - 1:25pm
12:45 - 1:25pm
208BC
NAWGJ Open Meeting
Friday Women Technical
Presenter(s):
1:30 - 2:30pm
1:30 - 2:30pm
205C
2025-2028 Men’s Junior Development Program
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Raj Bhavsar
Session Summary

A look at the 2025-2028 Men’s Junior Development Program

1:30 - 2:30pm
103F
A Coaches’ Guide to High Performance Core Training: Traditional Methods Meet New Science
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
1:30 - 2:30pm
102F
Adding Sparkle and Increasing Your Score on Floor
Friday Women
Presenter(s): JD MacDonald
1:30 - 2:30pm
103A
Beam: Progressing Backward Dismounts Safely
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Lindsey Stancil
Session Summary

Increase the safety of backwards dismounting – while increasing your knowledge of all possible safe progressions that do not include spotting.

1:30 - 2:30pm
101F
Beginner Basics: One Piece at a Time
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jackie Latino
Session Summary

Strong basics create good, lasting foundations. In this session, we’ll take a look at the basic skills and break them down into creative stations to add fun, foundational reinforcement.

1:30 - 2:30pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
Conditioning to Increase Jump Height
Friday Trampoline & Tumbling
1:30 - 2:30pm
101E
Finding the Challenge Zone: Adapting for Individual Success
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ali Stoffels
Session Summary

This is the goldilocks approach to individualizing lesson planning: creating stations that aren’t too hard, or aren’t too easy – they are juuuuust right!  Every kid’s challenge zone is different and you often have several different challenge zones to consider all in one class! In this session, we’ll learn how to tell when our gymnasts are outside their challenge zone, and how to adapt any station so that it’s juuuust right!

1:30 - 2:30pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Clear Hip Circles; Round-off, Back Handspring, Back Handspring
Friday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Clear Hip Circles
Floor: Roundoff-Back Handspring-Back Handspring
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

1:30 - 2:30pm
205B
How to Raise the Bar, Revenue & Retention by Adding an Acrobatic Program!
Friday Acrobatic
Presenter(s): Kyla Knights
Session Summary

Learn how the exciting world of Acrobatic Gymnastics can boost your revenue by attracting new customers and offering more choices to your existing students.

1:30 - 2:30pm
208BC
Keep Your Head Up!
Friday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Connie Maloney
Session Summary

Did you see it?? Or were you looking down at your paper? Learn some tips to help you stay focused on the gymnast and improve your judging accuracy.

1:30 - 2:30pm
101I
Men’s Beginner Basics: Parallel Bars and Still Rings
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Beth Gardner
Session Summary

Basic skills and progressions on P-Bars and Rings for beginner/recreational boys classes.

1:30 - 2:30pm
211BC
Navigating Tomorrow: Key and Critical Trends Shaping Our Industry
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Frank Sahlein
Session Summary

The landscape of our industry is in a constant state of flux, shaped by technological advancements, socio-economic shifts, and evolving employee and consumer behaviors. Trends include artificial intelligencethe growing importance of sustainabilitycorporate responsibility, global connectivity, and regulatory frameworks. “Navigating Tomorrow” equips industry leaders with the foresight and knowledge needed to not only survive but thrive.

1:30 - 2:30pm
102A
No Space? Warm-up and Conditioning Ideas for Small Areas
Friday All
Presenter(s): Jennifer Skorski
2:45 - 3:45pm
2:45 - 3:45pm
101F
CHEEZ-OLOGY: The Many, Many, Many Ways to Use a Wedge Mat
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Steve Greeley
Session Summary

Hello my little cheese balls, you think you know everything there is to do with a cheese? You don’t know Jack! In queso you didn’t know, a cheese can be used to sharpen your little muenster’s skills on all events, not just tumbling. Bars, beams, vault, even warm ups and conditioning! By the end of this session, you’ll be a certified “Cheeze Whiz!”

2:45 - 3:45pm
103F
Concussion in Gymnastics: What is the Latest Advice?
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. David Kruse, M.D.
2:45 - 3:45pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Conditioning For Success
Friday Women
Presenter(s): Brad Harris
2:45 - 3:45pm
205C
High Bar Basics and Dismounts Starting with Flyawas
Friday Men
Presenter(s): Sergei Pakanich
2:45 - 3:45pm
101I
How to Identify Nutrition-Related Performance Issues
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Learn how to identity nutrition and fueling concerns that negatively impact gymnast strength, power, focus, recovery, and adaptation to training. Learn how to safely and effectively communicate concerns about nutrition related performance issues with parents and gymnasts. Learn how to optimize gymnast performance through appropriate intraworkout nutrition + hydration policies

2:45 - 3:45pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
How to Teach Back Twisting on Trampoline
Friday All
2:45 - 3:45pm
102A
Leaps, Jumps & Turns OH MY!
Friday Women
Presenter(s): Claudia Kretschmer
Session Summary

In this practical lecture for coaches, we’ll break down the fundamental techniques for leaps, jumps, and turns on beam and floor. Learn effective drills and complexes that you can easily integrate into your daily practices to help your gymnasts perfect these important skills. Join us to enhance your coaching toolkit and support your athletes in mastering these key skills!

2:45 - 3:45pm
101E
Parent & Tot Teaching: The Triangle of Success (Teacher, Child, Parent)
Friday Preschool
Presenter(s): Sandi McGee
Session Summary

Focus on the essential core content that makes up a successful program. Learn how to keep the parent engaged with their child while allowing you to lead the class. The benefits of building an on-going relationship with these new families make Parent-Tot classes the most profitable classes in the gym!

2:45 - 3:45pm
205B
Real Life Scenarios: Working with Athletes with Special Needs and Behavioral Challenges
Friday All
Presenter(s): Dr. Shira Lewis, PT, DPT
Session Summary

Overview of common childhood disabilities, from ADHD and sensory sensitivity to developmental delays and Down Syndrome. Gain strategies for successful teaching and communication with all atheltes. Perspectives on inclusion vs. separate learning for athletes with disabilities.

2:45 - 3:45pm
208BC
Solving the Start Value Equation: Piecing It All Together
Friday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Marcy Blitz
Session Summary

This session will break down how to calculate the start value of an Optional routine and all the pieces that go into it. Learn how to make sure you are catching it all to get the start value right every time!

2:45 - 3:45pm
211BC
Top 10 Essential Ingredients for Running a Successful Gymnastics School
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Sean Dever
Session Summary

There’s a lot involved in being successful in this business, including marketing, staffing, public relations, finance, etc. I’ve built the list of the top 10 things that will benefit new owners and experienced entrepreneurs.

2:45 - 3:45pm
103A
Top 10 Skills to Set Your Team Apart
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Mary Wright
2:45 - 3:45pm
102F
Vault: Yurchenko from the Beginning
Friday Women
Presenter(s): Eddie Umphrey
Session Summary

This is a lecture designed to teach Yurchenkos from the very beginning to the end.

4:00 - 5:00pm
4:00 - 5:00pm
205C
5 Key Ways to Improving Men’s Gymnastics Performance in 2024 and Beyond: 10 Years in Review
Friday Men
4:00 - 5:00pm
103F
Beyond the Mat: Addressing Unconscious Bias in Gymnastics
Friday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Christina Callaway
Session Summary

This workshop will explore unconscious bias and how it can impact decision-making in coaching, judging, and team dynamics. Participants will learn to identify and mitigate their biases through case studies and discussions.  This session will help gymnastics professionals gain awareness of unconscious biases and acquire tools to reduce their impact, leading to fairer and more equitable practices.

4:00 - 5:00pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Competitive Team Warm-up Complexes
Friday Women
Session Summary

Should we be working basics during season? What about up-training? Fine-tuning? Drills vs skills? This lecture will help you decipher which type of general and event warm-ups are appropriate based on your training phase, program goals, and individual needs. Learn how to maximize your training plans by strategically incorporating warm ups of different lengths, construction, and difficulty level.

4:00 - 5:00pm
208BC
Connecting This & That: Improving Beam Connections (a Coach/Judge Perspective)
Friday Women Optional
Session Summary

This presentation will use a coach and judge perspective regarding various connections on beam: counter-acro, leap/jump, and gym-acro connections. Examples of what “breaks a connection” will be provided, along with multiple drills and strategies to improve your athletes’ skill connections.

4:00 - 5:00pm
211BC
Dipping Your Toe Into Ninja: Preschool Style!
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Casey Wright
Session Summary

The most waitlisted ninja classes in the country are the 3, 4, & 5 year olds! This means an opportunity for us to give parents what they want, and what kids need! This is for directors, owners, preschool directors, preschool coaches to learn about ninja, how its different, how it’s FUN, and how to integrate with existing preschool gymnastics classes the easy way, using what you have and *who you have in your club. Learn the planning steps needed before opening a new program, including space, equipment, staff, and curriculum!

4:00 - 5:00pm
102F
E is for Easy! E Tumbling Techniques and Drills
Friday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Zach Crumpton
4:00 - 5:00pm
101E
Flips, Twirls and Mighty Movements: Mastering Motor Skills Magic in Gymnastics Classes
Friday Preschool
Presenter(s): Brant Lutska
4:00 - 5:00pm
205B
How to Add Rhythmic Gymnastics Skills Into Your Recreational Classes
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jayme Riggleman
Session Summary

Enhance your recreational classes with these fun, creative activities from the exciting world of Rhythmic Gymnastics. Your students will enjoy these new challenges while developing coordination, spacial awareness, and dexterity – skills that are beneficial to all gymnastics disciplines, and other sports as well.

4:00 - 5:00pm
103A
How to Develop and Maximize Advanced Vaults (Coach/Judge Perspective)
Friday Women
4:00 - 5:00pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
How to Teach and Spot “Ballouts” and “Codys”
Friday Trampoline & Tumbling
4:00 - 5:00pm
101F
School Age Uneven Bars
Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Annette Robert Koerth
Session Summary

Uneven bars skills, drills and progressions for school-age recreational classes.

4:00 - 5:00pm
101I
Taking Advantage of Social Media: Why? How? And What If?
Friday Business
Presenter(s): Ken Harris
Session Summary

Social media is the number one cost effective marketing tool. In this lecture we navigate the online world of social media. We talk about the benefits of engaging in business pages on social media. We learn how to effectively utilize the tools given us by social media; and, we learn how to deal with negativity and trolls on our social media pages.

4:00 - 5:00pm
102A
Xcel Roundtable
Friday Women Xcel
Presenter(s): Claudia Kretschmer
7:30am - 1:30pm
7:30am - 1:30pm
National Congress Registration
Saturday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Onsite registration will be available any time during the National Congress registration hours.  Click Here to access the onsite registration form. Complete and bring it with you to the congress registration table.

Click Here for a map of the Minneapolis Convention Center.

7:45am - 8:25am
7:45am - 8:25am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Morning Stretch
Saturday All
Presenter(s): Annette Robert Koerth
Session Summary

Rise and Shine! Begin the day with a rejuventating morning stretch session led by Annette Robert Koerth.  Awaken your body, mind, and spirit in preparation for an invigorating day of learning and professional growth.

7:45am - 2:00pm
7:45am - 2:00pm
Hall E
National Trade Show
Saturday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Visit the National Trade Show Hall to chat with vendors and check out the latest products and services in the industry, including equipment, apparel, technology and more! You won’t want to miss the many exciting Promotional Activities including Athlete Meet & Greets, Autograph Sessions, Drawings, Contests, and Giveaways!

8:30 - 9:30am
8:30 - 9:30am
205B
Acrobatic: Acro Flips & Tips
Saturday Acrobatic
Presenter(s): Kyla Knights
8:30 - 9:30am
102F
Coaching Beyond Gymnastics
Saturday All
Session Summary

Learn how to apply life lessons into your everyday coaching to ensure you are not only coaching gymnastics, but preparing your athletes for a successful life after the sport. 2x Olympian and World Gold Medalist, Lance Ringnald, shares anecdotes (and some live demos:) from the lessons he learned in  gymnastics, while Nicole Langevin provides tactics for coaches to implement these lessons in their everyday training. Maximize your coaching effectiveness and enjoy the show!

8:30 - 9:30am
205C
Coaching the Judges & Judging the Coaches: Building a Community That Allows Us to Understand and Learn From Each Other
Saturday Men
Session Summary

Although the men’s gymnastics community is already strong, this lecture will explore how coaches and judges can work even closer together by building a more collaborative environment that optimizes gymnast development from the beginning levels upward through elite / NCAA competition.  This will be a positive discussion with various practical strategies on how we can build an even more professional and cohesive relationship that will benefit our athletes as they continue to develop as gymnasts.

8:30 - 9:30am
102A
Creating Successful Xcel Routines
Saturday Women Xcel
Session Summary

Tips and tools to help coaches create routines that work for your athletes. This lecture will offer practical advice and creative ideas to make your routines shine. Join us and take your Xcel routine planning to the next level!

8:30 - 9:30am
208BC
Dance Technique: Evaluating Dance Skills
Saturday Women Technical
Session Summary

The beauty of dance skills; looking at amplitude, split, completion and designated position.

8:30 - 9:30am
103F
Flipping the Switch: A Guide to Resetting Your Gymnast’s Mindset
Saturday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Natalie Gurnett, M.S.
Session Summary

Gymnastics can be a mentally challenging sport. The pressure to perform and the fear of injuries can take a toll on an athlete’s mindset. However, with the right techniques, gymnasts can reset their mindsets and perform their best. The goal of this presentation is to identify and address any negative thoughts or beliefs that may be holding gymnasts back. I will also address the importance of focusing on the present moment and not get caught up in past mistakes or future worries. With the tools presented in the presentation, we can help gymnasts flip their switch on their mindsets and achieve their goals.

8:30 - 9:30am
103A
Floor: TOPs to Elite Progressions
Saturday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Ryan Roberts
Session Summary

Progressions for Elite development on floor.

8:30 - 9:30am
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Flyaways; Yurchenko Training
Saturday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Flyaways
Vault: Yurchenko Training
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

8:30 - 9:30am
211BC
Integrating Your Team & Business Through Culture, Communication and Courage
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Steve Cook
Session Summary

Using a collection of success stories from business teams, I will discuss the building blocks of the best business teams. From accounting to cleaning and teaching to scheduling, the need to understand and share are critical. I will also weave in the need and methods of accountability including sweaty palm conversations and personal reflection.

8:30 - 9:30am
101F
Let the Music Move You! Best Music for Recreational and Preschool Classes
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Pamela Evans
Session Summary

This interactive workshop gives examples of 25 of the very best songs for Recreational and PreSchool gymnastics classes, Birthday Parties and Camps. The music is a combination of old favorites, newly cut popular songs, and new versions of classic children’s melodies. Many of these songs have original choreography which will be demonstrated. The audience is encouraged to participate.

8:30 - 9:30am
101E
Preschool Class Management: How to Help Your Coaches Avoid the Goat Rodeo
Saturday Preschool
Presenter(s): Sarah Fennell-Cooper
Session Summary

Class management doesn’t start in class- find out the simple ways to stop wild behavior before it starts.

8:30 - 9:30am
101I
Using AI for Marketing
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Andy Seeley
Session Summary

Discover how AI can revolutionize your gymnastics club’s marketing! With AI as a tool, you can instantly respond to inquiries, follow up relentlessly, and convert leads into enrollments 24/7. Maximize your revenue, fill your classes, and save time with AI-powered automation. Join us to learn how embracing AI can take your club to the next level!

8:30 - 9:30am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Warm-ups and Games That Will Make You the Most Popular Coach in the Gym
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jamie Ledford
Session Summary

The most important part of class is the first five minutes and the last five minutes. This is when parents are paying attention. It is your opportunity to make a good first impression and leave your student’s wanting to come back. Don’t blow it.

9:45 - 10:45am
9:45 - 10:45am
101I
Collaborating With Parents
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Shelba Waldron
Session Summary

This workshop focuses on enhancing the coach-parent relationship. Discover practical strategies for effective communication, navigating challenges, and fostering a supportive environment for athletes. Topics include boundary setting, managing expectations, and understanding the parent perspective.

 

9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Compulsory Floor Routine Review: Levels 3-5
Saturday Women Compulsory
Presenter(s): Linda Johnson
9:45 - 10:45am
102A
Differences Between Women’s Xcel and Development Programs
Saturday Women
Presenter(s): Gail Caspare Nancy Gibson
Session Summary

Xcel and Dev are more like fraternal than identical twins. They are a lot alike, but with their own personalities. Learn how to recognize all the ways they are the same, and when to know the important differences. Great for both coaches and judges!

9:45 - 10:45am
101E
Educational Gymnastics: Understanding How, Why and What to Teach
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jeff Lulla
Session Summary

Topics covered in this session include mission, philosophy, safety, training, behavior management, curriculum and lesson planning.

9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Flyaways; Beam Acro & Connections
Saturday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Flyaways
Beam: Acro Skills and Connections, including Back Walkovers, Back Handsprings, and Layout Stepouts
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

9:45 - 10:45am
211BC
Olympic Marketing Crash Course: Prepare Your Gym Before the Summer Games Begin!
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Morgan Kuchynka
Session Summary

Must do’s in preparation for the Olympic Boom. How to prepare your staff, programming, website, and customer service before the games begin.

9:45 - 10:45am
101F
Prop It Up! Creative Props for Preschool & Rec Classes
Saturday Preschool
Presenter(s): Annette Robert Koerth
Session Summary

Fun and creative ideas for using props in preschool and recreational classes!

9:45 - 10:45am
205B
Showtime: Create and Take Your Show(Team) on the Road!
Saturday Gymnastics for All
Presenter(s): Cindy Bickman
9:45 - 10:45am
103F
Update on the Rehab Toolkit
Saturday Athlete Health & Wellness
9:45 - 10:45am
102F
Vault: Compuslory Handspring Vaulting
Saturday Women Compulsory
Presenter(s): Brad Harris
9:45 - 10:45am
205C
Vault: Most Important Steps to Developing Elite Level Vaults
Saturday Men
Presenter(s): Thomas Meadows
9:45 - 10:45am
208BC
What a Puzzle! Navigating Difficult Judging Scenarios on Vault, Bars, Beam and Floor
Saturday Women Technical
Session Summary

Guiding judges through the process of evaluating a broken routine or unusual circumstance.

9:45 - 10:45am
103A
Women’s Elite Program Update
Saturday Women Optional
11:00am - 12:00pm
11:00am - 12:00pm
211BC
50 Years In The Trenches
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Jeff Metzger
Session Summary

For over half a century, Kids First has grown every year, recessions and Olympic cycles be darned. It has never suffered a down year. This topic is a collection of the most important lessons I have learned in my 50 year career.

11:00am - 12:00pm
101F
A Focus on Little to No Spotting Using Minimal Equipment with Skill Deconstruction
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Sandi McGee
11:00am - 12:00pm
101E
Beam is NOT Boring!
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Linda Thorberg
Session Summary

Fun and creative ways to make beam their favorite event!

11:00am - 12:00pm
103F
Coaching Through Mental Blocks: How Subtle Language Choices Can Make or Break Athlete Confidence
Saturday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Rebecca Smith, MA
Session Summary

Learn why athletes start freezing up, and what they need most when it happens. We’ll talk about the most effective way to reduce fear, common misconceptions, and why “quick fix” strategies actually make things worse. I’ll share the mistakes I made as a compulsory and optional coach so coaches can learn the power of their language and examples of what not to do. You’ll leave with a clear roadmap of the most effective way through a confidence dip, plus resources you can share with parents to reinforce confidence-building language at home.

11:00am - 12:00pm
102F
Floor: Developing the Round-off, Back Handspring, Back Tuck and Layout
Saturday Women Compulsory
Presenter(s): Lindsey Stancil
Session Summary

Drills and progressions to build strong tumbling from the beginning.

11:00am - 12:00pm
101I
Full Twisting Whip Progressions and Connections
Saturday Trampoline & Tumbling
Presenter(s): Andy Franke
11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Spotting Athletes With Special Needs
Saturday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Cindy Bickman April Sawyer
Session Summary

Many coches are afraid or unsure how to work with and spot athletes with special needs. This opportunity will help coaches to feel comfortable by providing guided, hands-on spotting practice that focuses on specialized spotting techniques tailored for the unique considerations of special needs athletes.
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

11:00am - 12:00pm
208BC
How High is High Enough? Beginner to High Level UB & BB Dismounts
Saturday Women Technical
Session Summary

Focus on the amplitude of dismounts on UB and BB from A to E! Evaluate a range of dismounts and discuss minimum to maximum deductions.

11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
Maximizing Choreography and Artistry: Anatomy and Mechanics Behind the Movement
Saturday Women
Session Summary

From neck to hips, hands to upper spine, learn how to increase dynamic movement and maximize available range of motion for all joints and body parts. Will be a very active and hands-on lecture spread out in the presentation room! Will include specific and tangible lists and videos of exercises for coaches to implement. Make artistry beautiful and dynamic!

11:00am - 12:00pm
205C
Moneyball and More: Data & Analytics for USA Men’s Gymnastics
Saturday Men
Presenter(s): Elliot Schwartz
11:00am - 12:00pm
103A
Uneven Bars: Progressions to Master all Circles on Bars
Saturday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Ryan Roberts
Session Summary

Mastery of elements that utilize circles as root elements.

11:00am - 12:00pm
205B
Worlds Collab: Learn Ninja Skills to Add to Your Program
Saturday Ninja
Presenter(s): Spencer Clapp Tyler Wetzel
Session Summary

Learn how different types of Ninja Programs can create stronger and more diverse athletes, and turn collision into collaboration in your space!

11:00am - 12:00pm
102A
Xcel Vault: Drills for Twisting Vaults
Saturday Women Xcel
Presenter(s): Jennifer Skorski
12:15 - 1:15pm
12:15 - 1:15pm
208BC
Bar Releases: Xcel through Level 10
Saturday Women Technical
Session Summary

Expectations and comparison of various UB release moves.

12:15 - 1:15pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Building Confidence on Beam
Saturday Women
Presenter(s): Samantha Peszek
Session Summary

I used to HATE beam. I was terrified and almost quit gymnastics because of all the fear I had on beam. I had to teach myself not only how to like it, but how to be good at it. Beam ended up being my best event, my favorite event, and the event I won 2 NCAA Championship titles on.  I would love to pass along my curriculum and beam philosophies to help gymnasts feel more comfortable and confident on beam. I hope you’ll join me!

12:15 - 1:15pm
101I
College Recruiting A to Z
Saturday Collegiate
Presenter(s): Luan Peszek
Session Summary

An overview of the college recruiting process and what opportunities are available to gymnasts – Xcel, L 8, 9, 10 and Elite. A timeline of when to start the process and how to put together realistic goals for a positive outcome. We will go over information on how to market your gymnasts’ strengths and share with coaches why they would be a good fit for their team.

12:15 - 1:15pm
102A
Developing Strong Kips and Casts
Saturday Women
Presenter(s): Derick Moellenbeck
Session Summary

Drills and stations for developing strong kips and casts on bars.

12:15 - 1:15pm
101F
Developing the Round-off Back Handspring
Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jeremy Mosier
12:15 - 1:15pm
101E
Dynamic Duo Delights: 101 Ideas for Parent-Child Gymnastics Bonding
Saturday Preschool
Presenter(s): Brant Lutska
12:15 - 1:15pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
How to Teach Front Twisting on Trampoline
Saturday All
12:15 - 1:15pm
102F
In-Season Games, Challenges and Assignments That Keep Routines Fun
Saturday Women
Presenter(s): Alison Vaughn
Session Summary

For all Development and Xcel levels, to help make the monotony of routine season more engaging and less boring. Includes ideas from some of my favorite coaches across the country.

12:15 - 1:15pm
211BC
QuickBooks for Gym Owners
Saturday Business
Presenter(s): Jennifer Skorski
Session Summary

Learn how to set up a company file in Quickbooks specific to the industry. Find out what’s useful, and what’s not, within the program.

12:15 - 1:15pm
103F
Talking to Parents About Nutrition and Recovery for their Gymnast: A Parent & Coach Perspective
Saturday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Bindee Eberle
Session Summary

In order for parents to give their gymnast the best chance for longevity in the sport, it is essential that they have the correct information and in the best form of communication in order to make the best nutrition decisions for performance and recovery. This lecture will provide attendees with an empowering plan from and parent and coach perspective.

12:15 - 1:15pm
205C
The Importance of Merging the Physical Training with the Mental Preparation
Saturday Men
12:15 - 1:15pm
103A
Training the Yurchenko Vault and How it Relates to All Events
Saturday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Tammy Biggs
Session Summary

This lecture will focus on the importance of teaching each step of the vault while building an association to all events. It applies to beginning level and advanced Yurchenko training. Improving the weak areas & increasing speed & dynamics of the skills.

12:15 - 1:15pm
205B
Understanding Neurodiversity
Saturday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Karissa Johnson
Session Summary

This educational lecture will explore traits and brain differences when working with children with special needs. When instructors can better understand the thinking processes of neurodiverse athletes, they can better set everyone up for success! Lecture will include: exploring neurodiversity, vocabulary, brain differences, perception, movement integration, how gymnastics can help support development in neurodiversity.

1:30 - 3:00pm
1:30 - 3:00pm
103F
Women’s Judging Practical Exam: Level 10
Saturday Women Technical
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

To view and/or to register online for currently scheduled in-person Practical exam sessions/locations, click here.

1:30 - 3:00pm
211BC
Women’s Judging Practical Exam: Level 8
Saturday Women Technical
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

To view and/or to register online for currently scheduled in-person Practical exam sessions/locations, click here.

1:30 - 3:00pm
208BC
Women’s Judging Practical Exam: Level 9
Saturday Women Technical
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

To view and/or to register online for currently scheduled in-person Practical exam sessions/locations, click here.

2:00 - 7:30pm
2:00 - 7:30pm
102F
R301 Brain & Body: Beyond Basics
Saturday All
Presenter(s): Beth Gardner
Session Summary

Reaching beyond simple drills and games, this course provides a better understanding of the process of learning. Topics covered include the developmental stages of self-perception, levels of thought, learning styles, motor learning, motor development and the theory of muscle memory, as well as understanding the Autism spectrum and other special needs. Perfect for preschool, recreational, developmental coaches, directors, owners and team coaches.
Pre-Registration Required. Click Here to Register! 

2:00 - 3:00pm
2:00 - 3:00pm
103A
U307: Positive Motivation: Getting the Best From Athletes
Saturday All
Presenter(s): Maureen Sanderson
Session Summary

Free Add-On Course Presented by Positive Coaching Alliance
U307: Positive Coaching: Getting the Best From Athletes

This workshop provides a deeper exploration of Filling Emotional Tanks, including discussion of research that demonstrates how positive coaching improves performance and openness to life lessons.
Space in this free course is limited. Click here to reserve your spot!

3:15 - 4:15pm
3:15 - 4:15pm
103A
U306: Leading Your Organization: Developing a Positive Coaching Culture
Saturday All
Presenter(s): Maureen Sanderson
Session Summary

Free Add-On Course Presented by Positive Coaching Alliance
U306: Leading Your Organization: Developing a Positive Coaching Culture
In this workshop, attendees learn why and how to establish Positive Coaching as a cultural norm, plus they get a takeaway action plan for implementation throughout their community of coaches, parents, athletes, officials, and spectators.
Space in this free course is limited. Click here to reserve your spot!

7:30am - 2:30pm
7:30am - 2:30pm
National Congress Registration
Sunday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Onsite registration will be available any time during the National Congress registration hours.  Click Here to access the onsite registration form. Complete and bring it with you to the congress registration table.

Click Here for a map of the Minneapolis Convention Center.

7:45am - 8:25am
7:45am - 8:25am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Morning Stretch
Sunday All
Presenter(s): Annette Robert Koerth
Session Summary

Rise and Shine! Begin the day with a rejuventating morning stretch session led by Annette Robert Koerth.  Awaken your body, mind, and spirit in preparation for an invigorating day of learning and professional growth.

7:45am - 3:00pm
7:45am - 3:00pm
Hall E
National Trade Show
Sunday
Presenter(s):
Session Summary

Visit the National Trade Show Hall to chat with vendors and check out the latest products and services in the industry, including equipment, apparel, technology and more! You won’t want to miss the many exciting Promotional Activities including Athlete Meet & Greets, Autograph Sessions, Drawings, Contests, and Giveaways!

 

8:30 - 9:30am
8:30 - 9:30am
101F
5 Simple Steps to Building the Best Recreational Program Around
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Zander Arthur
Session Summary

Have the best rec program around, with these 5 simple steps! A step by step guide on how to build a successful recreational program that will LAST, by implementing a tried and true system that works. Topics covered include class structure, coach training, ongoing education, spotting, key skills, and skill tracking.

8:30 - 9:30am
Live Hall E - Left Side
Bringing Out the Creativity in your Athletes
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Jamie Winkler
Session Summary

Get ready to get up out of your seat and be creative (or just watch)! We will be doing a variety of fun activities to help bring out the creativity in your athletes!

8:30 - 9:30am
103F
Different Strokes for Different Folks: Using Your Athlete’s Orientation to Enhance Motivation
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Dr. Windee Weiss, PhD
Session Summary

An individual’s “goal orientation” dictates the way an athlete thinks of success and how to achieve success. This presentation will teach you about these orientations, and provide you with strategies to use these orientations to increase athlete’s motivation, perceived ability, confidence, and feelings of success.

8:30 - 9:30am
211BC
Establishing and Maintaining Appropriate Boundaries with Athletes
Sunday Business
Presenter(s): Shelba Waldron
Session Summary

This workshop focuses on the vital aspect of boundary-setting in the coach-athlete relationship. Delving into the nuances of ethical and professional conduct, this session will explore practical strategies for establishing healthy boundaries, navigating challenging situations, and fostering a culture of respect and trust.

8:30 - 9:30am
102A
How To Fit Flexibility Into Your Practice
Sunday Women
Session Summary

Struggling to fit flexibility training into your practice schedule? This lecture is designed for coaches looking for practical tips on how to incorporate flexibility into event training for all levels. We’ll share strategies to maximize practice time and ensure your gymnasts are developing the flexibility they need to succeed.

8:30 - 9:30am
101I
HUGS: Program Overview and Curriculum Ideas
Sunday Gymnastics for All
Presenter(s): Cindy Bickman
Session Summary

In this session, we will explore opportunities to expand your program for gymnasts who learn differently. Coaches: learn how to implement a HUGS competitive program. Meet Directors: learn how to incorporate HUGS gymnasts into existing competitions. Judges: learn how to evaluate these very special gymnasts. Gym owners: learn how very special YOU are for offering these opportunities!

8:30 - 9:30am
Live Hall E - Right Side
Making the Warm-up Period Fun and Effective!
Sunday All
Presenter(s): Quin Shannon
8:30 - 9:30am
205B
Periodization for Men’s Gymnastics
Sunday Men
Session Summary

Once all the athletes have the skills, how do you ensure that they are ready and able to win?

8:30 - 9:30am
101E
Preschool Bars
Sunday Preschool
Presenter(s): Rhonda Zaluckyj
8:30 - 9:30am
103A
To Brace, or Not to Brace: Is Using Common Bracing Helping or Harming?
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

We will bust all the myths about bracing! Wait, bracing causes my athlete to be weak….RIGHT?!?!?  Teaser: proper bracing for the proper issue can make your athlete STRONGER! There is evidence that the use of tiger paws promotes poor biomechanics, decreased weight bearing tolerance, diminished performance and can contribute to increased pain. We will discuss: When is bracing appropriate? Who should brace? In what situation to brace? What brace to use for the most common issues (Ankle, knee, back, wrist)? How to know a brace is helpful, simple tests for the athlete to do to see if a brace is needed and best for them? When to stop using a brace?

8:30 - 9:30am
102F
Uneven Bars: Developing the Tap
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Eddie Umphrey
Session Summary

This presentation will help coaches develop fundamentals of taps on bars and how to improve taps through drills and mastering of technique.

 

8:30 - 9:30am
205C
Update to the 2025 FIG Men’s Code of Points
Sunday Men
Presenter(s): Butch Zunich
Session Summary

This presentation delves into the recently released 2025 Men’s Code of Points from the FIG. We’ll dissect the key rule changes and explore their impact on scoring, routine composition, and strategic considerations for gymnasts. Buckle up for an in-depth analysis of the evolving landscape of men’s artistic gymnastics!

8:30 - 9:30am
208BC
Xcel Challenges and Applying the General Deductions
Sunday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Gayli Craver
Session Summary

Review of Xcel judging challenges and general deductions that are applied inconsistently.

9:45 - 10:45am
9:45 - 10:45am
102A
Beam & Floor: Separating the Good from the Great
Sunday Women Technical
Session Summary

How can 2 routines look the same and get vastly different scores? Find out what it takes to go from a 9.2 to a 9.7. Get a “behind the scenes” look into what it takes to break out of the low 9’s and into the high 9’s. AND… learn tactics on HOW to make those changes immediately.

9:45 - 10:45am
101F
Class Structure and Lesson Planning for Recreational Classes
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Sarah Rhino
Session Summary

A simple and basic format structure for teaching recreational gymnastics classes that is measurable, replicable and fun for both coaches and athletes!

9:45 - 10:45am
102F
Compulsory Beam: Drills for Skills
Sunday Women Compulsory
Presenter(s): Paige Roth
9:45 - 10:45am
101I
Creative Movement Ideas for Preschool and Recreational Classes
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Jayme Riggleman
Session Summary

Creative Movement is a joyful way for children to explore movement while encouraging physical development, improved spatial awareness, fine motor skills, musical awareness, and more! This presentation gives ideas for numerous exercises that attendees can implement right away in their preschool and recreational classes.

9:45 - 10:45am
205B
Curriculum Development For Gymnasts With Disabilities
Sunday All
Presenter(s): Kaitlin Hardy
Session Summary

Working with children with disabilities provides the unique opportunity to tailor lesson plans to meet individual goals that extend beyond gymnastics without the need to prioritize progressing through the sport above all else. Prior to enrollment in our program, all families fill out a “Participation Modification Plan” focused on goal setting. While many athletes will naturally progress through the sport, most parents desire a focus on building friendships, developing language skills, and gaining independence. To maintain happy athletes and happy parents, curriculum design for inclusive programs needs to include activities that reflect these individual goals.

In this lecture we will discuss: Taking an evidence based medicine approach to designing gross and fine motor development stations; Incorporating social skills for children with autism into gymnastics based lesson plans; Family based goal-setting and expectation management for children with disabilities.

9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Left Side
How to Build an Acro Program: Levels 2-5 with Curriculum Ideas
Sunday Acrobatic
Presenter(s): Kyla Knights
Session Summary

Find out how – and why! – to start an Acrobatic program in your club, and hit the ground running with some great curriculum ideas for Levels 2-5.

9:45 - 10:45am
103A
Leaps and Turns
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Betty Okino
9:45 - 10:45am
205C
P-Bars Support Basics: Progression to Stutz, Diamidov and Makuts Skills
Sunday Men
Presenter(s): Sergei Pakanich
9:45 - 10:45am
103F
The Coach’s Compass: Navigating Gymnastics with Positive Impact
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Kim Lindauer
Session Summary

Embark on a transformative journey crafted exclusively for gymnastics coaches, exploring the pivotal role you play in shaping the lives of young gymnasts. Join me in this empowering workshop to unlock the true potential of your coaching through the lens of positivity. Discover how your coaching style acts as a compass, guiding and shaping not just routines, but the very essence of the athletes you mentor. Explore the profound influence of positive discipline, uncovering its ability to mold resilient, confident individuals both inside and outside the gym walls. Through engaging discussions and practical insights, gain the tools and wisdom to ignite positivity in your coaching approach. By the end of our session, you’ll feel rejuvenated and armed with impactful strategies to lead from a place of positivity. Embrace the understanding of your immense influence, creating an environment where your coaching becomes a beacon of inspiration. Let’s navigate the gymnastics journey together, empowering you to cultivate not just extraordinary gymnasts, but also confident, resilient individuals ready to conquer life’s challenges with grace and determination.

9:45 - 10:45am
211BC
The Marketing Trifecta: Social Media, Website and Google
Sunday Business
Presenter(s): Christie Copeland
Session Summary

Join us to discover ways you can align your marketing strategy to save time and money. These strategies can be immediately applied to gain greater virtual presence for your company to increase enrollment and visibility.

9:45 - 10:45am
Live Hall E - Right Side
Uneven Bars: Bridging the Gap Between Compulsory and Optional Bars
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Brad Harris
9:45 - 10:45am
101E
Working With Babies
Sunday Preschool
Presenter(s): Jamie Ledford
Session Summary

Fun activities that meet the developmental needs of babies and toddlers. Activities that keep babies engaged and parents feeling successful. It’s the little things that make a big difference in the world of baby gymnastics.

9:45 - 10:45am
208BC
XCELlent Bar Judging: Looking for the “Gold”
Sunday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Marilyn Blilie Jane Caruso
Session Summary

Judging criteria for Xcel UB routines through skill analysis.

11:00am - 12:00pm
11:00am - 12:00pm
101E
15 Tricks to Achieving a FUN Safe Class
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Pamela Evans
Session Summary

The true test of an extraordinary teacher is the ability to effortlessly keep a class under control – focused, safe, and productive. The answer is to implement good teaching practices. This session will describe fifteen of the most tried and true tricks – and give examples for ways of implementing them into your curriculum.

11:00am - 12:00pm
103F
Fueling as a Team!
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Presenter(s): Kerry Bair, RD, LDN, MPH
Session Summary

While adequate nutrition is one of the most important foundations for a gymnast, getting the athlete, their parents, and the coaches on the same page, bought in, and actually doing it, can be a real challenge. Learn strategies to approach the topic of nutrition, foster buy-in, and get your team reaping the benefits of performance nutrition!

11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
Fun Activities to Include in Your Recreational Classes: Games, Circus, Pyramids and More!
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Lori Laznovsky
Session Summary

Presented along with the FIG (International Gymnastics Federation) Gymnastics for All Committee.

11:00am - 12:00pm
103A
Going Hopes? Where to Start
Sunday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Tom Forster
11:00am - 12:00pm
205C
GymACT Informational Session
Sunday Collegiate
Presenter(s): Mike Burns Mark Bogoger
Session Summary

GymACT is providing post high school, competitive team opportunities to hundreds of gymnasts across the country. Come learn more about GymACT and how this organization is providing an answer to the dwindling opportunities afforded our young men who love the sport but may not see a future for themselves after they graduate high school.

11:00am - 12:00pm
Live Hall E - Right SIde
Hands-On Spotting: Clear Hips & Circling Skills; Round-off, Back Handspring, Back Tuck and Beyond
Sunday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Clear Hip Circles and Other Circling Skills
Floor: Roundoff, Back Handspring, Back Tuck, Layout, Twisting; Front Tucks, Standing Back Tucks and Aerials.
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

11:00am - 12:00pm
211BC
Leadership for Gymnastics Leaders Who Hate Leadership Topics
Sunday Business
Presenter(s): Lynn Ledford
Session Summary

We’ve all learned about the time proven qualities of great leaders.. vision, courage, creativity, competence… over and over. In this lecture, we are going to talk about leadership qualities specific to gymnastics clubs. And it’s going to be fun. We’re going to talk about how to lead a diverse staff – with lots of teenagers – because that is our reality. And how to manage time when you don’t have time to manage time. Also our reality. And as we are sorting the Lost and Found, how to determine what deserves our focus … and what does not and how to solve everything and everyone who does not understand this. And most of all, how we can be impactful leaders. We have tremendous opportunity to make a difference in the lives of so many people. Join us as we talk about how.

11:00am - 12:00pm
205B
More Guy Stuff: Let Hollywood Build Your Boys Enrollment!
Sunday Men
Presenter(s): Brian Payne
Session Summary

Need more junior stuntman adventure guys who wish they could do superhero feats like the Hulk, Captain America, Batman and more? With a little imagination, story-telling ability, basic gym mats and Hollywood props on a budget, you can run your boys classes to exhaustion and have them bringing all their friends next time!

11:00am - 12:00pm
208BC
Non-Salto Vaulting: Xcel and Development Programs
Sunday Women Technical
Session Summary

Let’s take a look at those twists!

11:00am - 12:00pm
101F
Preschool and Beginner Vault Stations
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ashley Lebeau
Session Summary

Vault basics are tricky. They require coordination, weight transfer, balance, and power. This lecture will break down vault basics with stations that can be accomplished with equipment most gyms have on hand. Attendees will leave feeling more confident teaching vault to their preschool and beginner gymnasts, and return to the gym with knowledge and stations that can be immediately applied to their programs.

11:00am - 12:00pm
101I
Trampoline for Tumbling: Using Trampoline to Develop Twisting Doubles
Sunday Trampoline & Tumbling
Presenter(s): Andy Franke
11:00am - 12:00pm
102F
Understanding Why I Don’t Always Get The Correction I’m Asking For
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Tom Koll
Session Summary

This session is designed for coaches and teachers; however, anyone is welcome. This session will take you through the steps of what you, as a coach, can ask yourself when you are struggling with getting corrections from your athletes. In the lecture, tools will be provided to assist the coach/teacher in working better with their athletes.

11:00am - 12:00pm
102A
Xcel Beam: All Things Vertical
Sunday Women Xcel
Session Summary

This presentation will focus on the various differences concerning “vertical” skills on beam for all Xcel Divisions. Multiple examples of skills and series combinations will be evaluated and discussed concerning value part and special requirement credit. In essence, we hope to “de-mystify” what counts and what doesn’t.

1:30 - 2:30pm
1:30 - 2:30pm
101E
Child Whisperers
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Stefny Kolesnikov
Session Summary

Have you noticed how some coaches possess an enchanting ability to weave magic both inside the gym and out in the lobby, effortlessly captivating their young athletes? They not only comand attention and discipline, but also infuse every moment with boundless joy, making learning a delightful adventure for their students and for themselves. Child whisperers… how do they do it?

1:30 - 2:30pm
205B
Coaching Athletes With Disabilities
Sunday All
Presenter(s): April Sawyer
1:30 - 2:30pm
101I
Conflict Resolution and the Purpose of the Conflict
Sunday All
Presenter(s): Erin Birdsall
Session Summary

Gain strategies to work through conflict, learn ways to be comfortable with conflict, use conflict to achieve positive outcomes, and increase your confidence and problem-solving in uncomfortable situations.

1:30 - 2:30pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Hands-On Spotting: Low Bar Giants; Round-off, Back Handspring, Back Tuck and Beyond
Sunday Hands On Spotting
Presenter(s): Ellie Gerber
Session Summary

Hands on Spotting Practice
Uneven Bars: Low Bar Giants
Floor: Roundoff, Back Handspring, Back Tuck, Layout, Twisting; Front Tucks, Standing Back Tucks and Aerials.
Space in this session is limited! Reserve your spot by signing up at the Congress Registration Booth beginning Thursday at 11:00 a.m.
Individuals must be present and show their Congress credential to sign up.

Session attendees aged 18+ must be U110 SafeSport Trained to participate in hands on spotting activities.

1:30 - 2:30pm
103F
Hands-On Taping
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Learn and practice various taping techniques for support, stabilization and injury prevention.

1:30 - 2:30pm
211BC
Is Four a Crowd? Boomers to Zoomers In The Gym
Sunday Business
Presenter(s): Linda Johnson
Session Summary

There are 4 generations in the workplace. How do we close the generational gaps? Come and learn about the different generations, and ways to improve how you manage, teach, coach, communicate, motivate and more!

1:30 - 2:30pm
102A
Meet Boot Camp for Coaches
Sunday Women
Session Summary

Get ready to master the in’s and out’s of gymnastics competitions in this comprehensive bootcamp for coaches. From check-in to bump-in, we will cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or new to the competitive scene, this lecture will provide valuable insights and practical tips to ensure smooth and successful meet experiences!

1:30 - 2:30pm
205C
Pommel Horse: Crash Course
Sunday Men
Presenter(s): Felippe Mendonca
1:30 - 2:30pm
Live Hall E - Left Side
Progressions and Various Obstacle Courses for Ninja
Sunday Ninja
Presenter(s): Thomas Alberti
Session Summary

Methods, riggings and progressions to safely set up and teach Ninja obstacles.

1:30 - 2:30pm
208BC
Shorthand: Scripting the Flipping and Twisting Mysteries
Sunday Women Technical
Presenter(s): Brant Lutska
1:30 - 2:30pm
103A
The Mental Game: Utilization of Mental Tools to Optimize Performance
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Resources for coaches, parents, and/or athletes to implement tools that can assist with the mental side of sport. These tools include goal-setting, self-talk, composure, focus, visualization, and performance routines.

1:30 - 2:30pm
101F
Trampoline and Tumbl Trak Skills
Sunday All
Presenter(s): Michelle Kocan
1:30 - 2:30pm
102F
Uneven Bars Levels 6-10: Logical Progressions (Coach/Judge Perspective)
Sunday Women
Session Summary

Perspectives from a coach and a judge on optional uneven bars progressions.

2:45 - 3:45pm
2:45 - 3:45pm
103A
“But I Don’t Dance!” Tips & Tricks for Creative Choreography
Sunday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Dr. Windee Weiss, PhD
Session Summary

This presentation will focus on strategies to creative innovative, unique, but yet “do-able” choreography for Development & Xcel athletes. From music selection & style to improving current routines or creating new- this presentation will help every coach, regardless of their own personal dance ability/experience.

2:45 - 3:45pm
208BC
All About Time: Spring Forward or Fall Back
Sunday Women Technical
Session Summary

Test your knowledge of skills, rules, and procedures related to time.  Conducted in a game format, see if you can make your way around a 24 hour clock and get to midnight to win!

2:45 - 3:45pm
102F
Beam Acro/Tumbling Progressions: What’s Really Important to Train
Sunday Women Optional
Presenter(s): Tammy Biggs
Session Summary

This lecture is geared toward optional level coaches. How the basic drills improve the higher level skills, building into tumblings series and connections. We will be addressing the weak areas to make better skills, and how the skills on beam effects the other events!

2:45 - 3:45pm
211BC
Empowering Your Staff: Helping Club Owners Delegate
Sunday Business
Presenter(s): Bryon Hough
2:45 - 3:45pm
101E
How to Deconstruct Skills and Make Corrections
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): April Sawyer
Session Summary

What to fix first – wrong hand position, or bent legs? Join us for some fun games, videos and discussion and learn to deconstruct skills, evaluate the common mistakes, and take the best approach to correcting those errors.

2:45 - 3:45pm
205B
How to Keep it FUN During Meet Season
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Jayden Roth
Session Summary

This lecture will include games, tips, and tricks to keep the girls entertained and engaged during meet season, while also getting the necessary work done. We will go over games and contests on all the events and some strength and flex games. This lecture is applicable to any level that is competitive (i.e. all Xcel and Dev). There will even be some takeaways for other forms of gymnastics (i.e. T&T and Rhythmic).

2:45 - 3:45pm
102A
Let’s Get Tight: How to Develop Tight Gymnasts
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Megan Bankole
2:45 - 3:45pm
101F
Preschool to Recreational Balance Beam
Sunday Recreational
Presenter(s): Beth Gardner
Session Summary

Skills, drills and activities to make beam FUN for beginners!

2:45 - 3:45pm
103F
Prevent Injuries Now For A Healthier Future
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Attendees will review over the most important injury prevention exercises every gymnast should be doing and understand the biomechanics of hanging, handstands, landing, and back handsprings to prevent injuries. These injury prevention exercises will also help gymnasts gain more power and perfect execution of the skills.

2:45 - 3:45pm
101I
Recruitment of Gymnastics from ALL Disciplines in NCAA Acrobatic & Tumbling
Sunday Collegiate
Presenter(s): Chevonne White
2:45 - 3:45pm
205C
Skeptical Recovery: Misconceptions – Male and Female Athletes
Sunday Athlete Health & Wellness
Session Summary

Recovery is important for all athletes.  However, recovery by itself is insufficient without the athlete’s adaptation that follows recovery.  Recovery is not a panacea, but really quite simple.

2:45 - 3:45pm
Live Hall E - Right Side
Teaching the Back 1.5 + Front Salto Connections From Step 1
Sunday Women
Presenter(s): Nicole Langevin
Session Summary

Start now! How to introduce, teach, drill, and perfect one of the most common tumbling passes for level 9 & 10 gymnasts. Game changer! Whether you are working with beginner athletes on step 1 or hoping to improve the technique of advanced athletes, this lecture is eye opening and approachable to coaches of ALL levels.