Competitions

Competition schedules do not come out until a few weeks before the competition date, so it is best to keep the whole weekend free and book your hotel early if needed.

Be prepared to pay an admission fee at competitions, usually between $15.00 and $20.00. Remember, most competitions are run by parents just like you as fundraisers for their gym. Usually this fee is expected to be paid in cash.

Make sure you arrive prior to the start of the registration time. Allow yourself ample time to get there, taking into consideration traffic and weather conditions.

Gymnasts must wear their competition leotard, tracksuit and have their gym bag with them.  Rhythmic gymnasts must wear an under bodysuit under their competitive suit.

Hair must be up in a very neat high ponytail or as directed by their coach. For Rhythmic, hair must be in a bun. Use flat hair clips only.

In your gym bag, gymnasts should have a water bottle, grips and wristbands (if applicable), hair spray, hair brush, extra elastics and hair clips. For Artistic gymnasts, coaches are responsible for taking floor music to meets when applicable.  The music files will generally be sent in ahead of time. For Rhythmic gymnasts, please bring a copy of music just in case there is a problem or the coach’s copy isn’t available.  Like artistic, the music files are generally sent in ahead of time.

Cell phones and other devices are not permitted on the competition floor or awards area with gymnasts. Please ensure your daughter leaves all devices at home or with a parent/guardian.

Even with the new scoring system now in place with Gymnastics Ontario which allows access to live results, results MUST NOT be shared prior to awards.

The Head Coach will determine a gymnast’s attendance at all competitions based on training attendance and preparedness prior to a competition.

Gymnasts must remove any nail polish and temporary tattoos.  No jewelry except stud earrings should be worn.

During the competition it is very important to remember:

• No flash photography at any time when gymnasts are competing.

• Not to call your daughter off the floor. They must stay with the coach the whole time. If there is an emergency, the coaches will get the parents.

• Never go onto the competition floor.

• Never approach any meet official before, during or after the competition.  All inquiries should go through your coach.

• If a Rhythmic gymnast loses apparatus, let them retrieve it.  Do not throw it back to them.

Make sure that your child knows that you are proud of them. Cheer for them and their teammates, and congratulate them no matter the result. Clap for all gymnasts, as some children do not always have a lot of support with them.

If you have nothing good to say, say nothing. Avoid the tendency to compare your child’s performance or scores with others as the “other” child you refer to may be the daughter of the parents sitting next to you!

It is very important for all the gymnasts to stay through the awards ceremony and behave respectfully.  No gum or frowns on the podium.

Not all gymnasts will receive a medal or ribbon at all meets so be prepared if your child is disappointed, but let them know that you are proud of them, no matter what