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~ GYMNASTICS

USA GYMNASTICS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

CHAI~ Ron Fm./did!; PR!SIDENT: Steve Penny; VICE CHAIR WOMEN: 10m KDlI; VICE CHAIR MEN: Yoichi lomita; VICE CHAIR RHYTHMIC: Andlfa Schmid, VICE CHAIR lAAMPOlINE: Shaun Kempton; VICE CHAIR ACRO-GYMNISJICS: lonya GJse; SECRETARY: Gary And""",; IRLlSURE~ Bob Wood; FIG REPS: Bob ColalOS" (Exorutive Committee), Ron fmehlich (Audit"), lanya GJse (AG led1nical Comminee) and John Roethlisbefger (Athlet. Rep.). AI LARGE MEMBERS: Steve Butcher, o.vid HoI[O!nb; ATHlETE DIRECTORS: ~m Zmeskal-Burden., John Roethlilberger, _ Howanf. Kart Heger; u\ocATHlEII DIRECTOR: Llrissaforlail<

USA GYMNASTICS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAI~ Ron Fmeblkh; PRESIDENI: Steve Penny; PRLSIDEm EMERITUS: Iandy Knapp. Mike DonahL<; IREASURE~ Bob Wood; SECRETARY: Gary Andeoon; VICE CHAIR WOMEN: 10m KDlI; VICE CHAIR MEN: Yoichi Iomrra; VICE CHAIR RHYTHMK: And.a Schmid, VICE CHAIR lAAMPOlINE: Shaun Kempton; VKE CHAIR ACRO-GYMNISJICS: lonya GJse; PUBlIC SE[J~ F~nk Manhall, Bob Wood; AMATEUR ATHlEIK UNION: Ron Ferris; AMERICAN 501(01. DRGANIZAIION: Jerry Milan; AMERICAN TURNERS: Michell. Lesperal1<e; COllEGE GYMNISTKS ASSOCIATlON­MEN: Fands Alle~ NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COlLEGIAIE COACHES-WOMEN: Mali< Coo~ NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORI: Manlyn Strawbridge; NATIONAL ASSOCIAIION OF WOMEN~ GYMNISTKS JUDGES: GJmle Id.; NATIONAl COlLEGIAIE A1HlEIK ASSOCIATION-MEN: Yoshi Hayasaij; NAIIONAL FEOffiATION Of STAlE HIGH SCHOOl ASSOCIAJ1DNS: Bedcy o.kfs; NATIONAL GYMNISTKS JUDGES ASSOCIATION-MEN: BUICh Zunich; NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: open; U.S. ASSOCIATION Of INDfPENDEm GYMNASTKS CWBS: Paul Ziert; US. EUTE COACHES ASSOCIATION-MEN: !hom Glielmi; US. EUTE COACHES ASSOCIATION-WOMEN: It ... Rybaoo and lony Gehman; US. MEN'S GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIATION: TIm ~empoauer; U.S. RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS COACHES ASSOCIAIION: Suzie OtTull~; YOUNG MEN'S CHrusnAN ASSOCIATION Of THE USA: GJsey Koer1ig; NATIONAl COllfGIATE ATHLrnc ASSOCIATlON­WOMEN: Meg Stephenson; NAllONAl MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORS MEN: Mike Bums. Abie Grossfeld; RHYTHMK: lvanka Kirov, Michell. Lmon; WOMEN: Kelli Hill, 1O!n Forster; nRAMPOlINE: Scon Uneberry, Dr. GeO!g. Drew; ACRO-GYMNASTICS: Unda Porter, My ffinder; ATHLETES COUNCil Domin~ue Dawes. o.n Gill, Mary land"" Shannon Miller, Michael Rodngues, My !homton, ASSOCIATE MEMBERS: JEWISH COtMMUNIIY CEmERS, Lori K.ll2; Sl'tCiAL OlYMPKS, Gndy Bkkman; U.S. COMPETITIVE AEROBICS FEDffiATlON, Howard Schwartz

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Unless expressly identified to the contlary, all alticles, statements and views printed herein are attributed solely to the author and USA Gymnastics expresses no opinion and assumes no responsibility thereof.

ON THE COVER: USAGriId MedalTeamsin men\ women\ and rhythmic gymnastiCI from Pa[~( Rim GymnastiCI Championship'

Phologrlphy of Men's Ind RSG 1.lm by John Cheng; women's telm by MIX Morse.

4 USA GYMNASTICS MAV · JUN~2008

nlenls MAY • JUN~ 2008

~EATURES

10 Pacific Rim - Artistic The USA earned 24 medals in artistic gymnastics at the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships in San Jose, Calif., including the men's and women's team titles and the junior and senior men's and women's all-around titles.

16 Pacific Rim - Rhythmic The USA won 14 medals at the Pacific Rim Championships, including the team gold medal.

18 Pacific Rim - Trampoline The USA won three medals in trampoline at the Pacific Rim Championships, The USA men's trampoline team finished second and the women's trampoline team finished third.

20 Dealing with Fear in Gymnastics This article goes over a few basics in order to help gymnasts get over their fears in gymnastics. Read more details on how to deal with fear in the sport.

22 Tyson Fitness Challenge What is the Tyson Fitness Challenge and how can you get involved? Read this feature to learn all the details of the program and hear why Olympic Champion Mary Lou Retton supports the Children's Miracle Network.

24 USOC Media Summit Fifteen of the USA's top gymnasts traveled to Chicago, along with approximately 100 other U.s, Olympic hopefuls, for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Media Summit. The athletes did interviews, photo shoots, press conferences and round table discusions throughout the day!

26 Website Mania Here's a list of some of our national team members' websites. Check them out!

DEPARTMENTS 6 EDITORIAL

30 EVENT SCJ.tEDULE

32 EVENT RESULTS

42 GYM UPDATE

48 FACES IN TJ.tE GYM

amazing awaits

PHOTO: JOHN CHENG

2004 Olympic Champion Carly Patterson sang her new single at the 2008 Pacific Rim Championships in San Jose.

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Samantha Peszek, Shayla Worley and Alicia Sacramone are just having a little fun during the media summit.

PHOTO: MAX MORSE

50 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING USA Men's Pacific Rim Team

USA GYMNASTICS • pu~ilhed ~month~ for 119.9S per )Oar in ... U.s., III per )Oar in GJnada " MfJIi[~ and 14S per )Oar in all other countries. USA GYMNASTICS • pu~iIhed by USA GymnaltiCl. Pan Amefkan Plaza, lOt S. GJ~tol Ave., Su~e loo,lndianapol~ IN 46lli, (l17)1l7-S0SO, www,usa-gymnastks.org. USA GymnastiCl is the sole nat~lgovem ing body for the IflOJl of gymnastics. A flOt-f"-pmfit organizat~n, USA Gymna.iCI selects, trains and admin.t.n the U.s. Gymnastkl leam, including the US. O~pi[ Gymnastkl Team. Contnbutions and IUppo!1 a. always wekome and alf tax-deducti bl •. © lOO8 USA Gymnastics. All righll reserved. Pnnted by Sport G~phiCI, IJK., lndianapol., IN, USA.

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6 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUNE 2008

nside USA gymnastics

The spring competitive season has nearly come to a close for our Junior Olympic athletes. I hope each of you is proud of your accomplishments and are working hard toward your next goal. While you stay busy with camps or learning new skills in the gym this summer, the gymnastics action continues when the elite competitive season kicks off.

It once seemed like the Olympic Games were far off in the distance, but now the end of the four-year journey is culminating in an exciting final nm of events. This summer features a jam-packed schedule with four major competitions, which will help determine the teams that will represent the United States at the Olympic Games in Beijing. We hope

you take advantage of the opportunity to see the USA's top gymnasts in person or on NBC Sports. The VIsa Championships in Houston on May 22-24 features competition in men's gymnastics,

rhythmic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling. In all three disciplines, U.s. champions will be crowned, and in addition, men's and rhythmic gymnastics will name their national team for 2008-09. For the men, performances at the Visa Championships will determine who advances to the U.S. Olympic Team Trials- Gymnastics in Philadelphia, and for trampoline, this is the third of four events in the Olympic selection process. Coverage of the men's competition will air on NBC on June 8 at 2 p.m. ET. The U.S. Oassic, which is the final opportunity for women to qualify for their VIsa Championships in Boston, will be held on May 23 in conjunction with this event.

Less than two weeks later, the country's top women head to Boston, June 5-7, for their VIsa Championships. Like the men, this event advances the top gymnasts to the U.S. Olympic Team Trials­Gymnastics, as well as determines the U.S. champions and the national team. NBC will cover the final ,i day's competition live on June 7 at 4 p.m. ET.

In pursuit of their dream of making the U.S. Olympic Team, the country's best athletes will take center stage at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials-Gymnastics in Philadelphia, June 19-22. NBC Sports will broadcast the women's competitions on June 21 from 8-10 p.m. and live on June 22 from 7-9 p.m., and the men's competition will air live on June 21 from 4:30-6 p.m. (All times are Eastern)

In conjunction with the Trials, Philadelphia will play host to the USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show. The National Congress offers a variety of educational opportunities, including more than 180 sessions with topics covering all levels of the sport, the Business Conference, Safety Course and " more. The USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame will induct the 2008 class during a luncheon, and the three-day Congress also includes the popular USGSA-sponsored Mega Raffle and closing dance party.

Our male and female Olympians for trampoline will be determined on July 1, including the first ever male trampolinist who will represent the u.s. in the Olympic Games. Kansas City, Mo., is hosting the fourth and final trampoline selection event in conjunction with the Trampoline and Tumbling J.O . National Championships. The top-ranked man and woman with the highest combined points total from both international and domestic competitions will be named to represent the USA at the Olympic Games.

In addition to these great events, thousands of kids across the country will participate in the Tyson Fitness Challenge this summer, not only working on becoming physically active and fit, but also raising money to benefit the Children's Miracle Network. The Tyson Fitness Challenge and its fundraising activities culminate on National Gymnastics Day, September 13.

See you in the gym!

~¥t~? Steve Penny President / CEO USA Gymnastics

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• THE MAGAZINE'S MISSION STATEMENT USA GY"lIlastics, a bimonthly magazine, is a benefit of membership from USA Gymnastics. T he mission of USA GYIIl1lastics magazine I is to communicate with gymnasts, parents, coaches, judges, volunteers, clubs and fans of the sport in order to promote the programs, people, events and services of USA Gymnastics.

VISION To inspire and enable our members to achieve excellence in the sport of gymnastics and in life.

THE ORGANIZATION'S MISSION The mission of USA Gymnastics is to encourage participation and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of gymnastics.

CORE OBJECTIVES . Build the base • Promote the sport- . Achieve competitive success

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PRESENTED BY Venus: Official Championsh ips of the

Pac if ic A lliance Gymnastics Federations

THE USA EARNED 24 MEDALS IN ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS at the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships presented by Gillette Venus in San Jose, Calif., March 28-30. The U.S. men's and women's team won the gold medals as well as the junior and senior all-around titles. The final medal count was 14 gold medals, seven sUver and three bronze.

Photography by Max Morse

USA WOMEN DOMINATE The USA won the team title with a score of 245.275,

followed by Canada in second (233.475) and China in third (233.075). The USA gold medal team included three seniors: Jana Bieger, Darlene HiU and Nastia Liukin and three juniors: Rebecca Bross, Rebecca Clark and Samantha Shapiro.

Liukin won the senior all-around with a score of 62.850, while Bieger was second with a score of 59.925. Australia's Daria Joura was third at 59.200.

Liukin's bars score of 16.650 is believed to be the highest score earned on bars since the new scoring code was adopted by the FIG in 2006. Liukin earned a 16.400 for her beam routine that included a two-and-a-half twist dismount. She scored a 15.000 on her Yurchenko one-and-a-half vault and a 14.800 on floor.

"It felt really great," Liukin said of winning the all-around. "It felt great to compete with both juniors and seniors and we're all pulling for each other."

Bieger stuck her Yurchenko one-and-a-half vault for a score of 15.050, the score she also earned on beam. She stuck her tucked full twisting, double back

REBECCA BROSS

dismount on bars for a score of 15.025 and received a 14.800 on floor. Hill competed on two events, posting a 14.900 on her Ywchenko one-and-a-half vault and a 15.125 on floor.

In the junior division, Bross earned a score of 61 .050, followed by Shapiro in second with a 60.100 and Russia's Viktoriya Komova in third at 57.600.

Bross' highest score of the night was a 15.900 on beam, complete with her double Arabian dismount. She earned a 15.350 on floor with amazing tumbling that ended with a two-and-a-half punch brani. Rounding out her scores were a 15.000 on bars and a 14.800 on a Yurchenko double full vault.

"I wish that 1 could compete on the senior level and go to the Olympics," said Bross, who turns 15 later this year, which makes her ineligible for the 2008 Olympics where gymnasts must be 16 years of age. "But I'm not old enough so I'll just stick around and go for it the next time around."

Shapiro earned a 15.800 on beam with a high 9.5 execution score. Her other scores were a 15.225 on bars, a 14.775 on floor and a 14.300 on vault. Clark ended her beam routine with a round­off two-and-a-half twist, and scored a 15.450. On floor, she earned a 14.625 and posted scores of 12.700 and 13.950 on vault and bars, respectively.

During event finals, Uukin had a few mistakes on her bar routine and Bieger claimed the gold scoring 15.550 for her solid routine. Uukin and Canada's Kristina Vaculik tied for the silver medal scoring 15.225. On beam Uukin's near flawless routine earned her the highest score of 16.175. China's Qiushuang Huang took second with a 15.675 and Bieger won bronze with a score of 15.525. On floor, Hill's powerful routine including a pike double Arabian scored a 15.425 to earn the gold. Joura took second and Russia's Anna Myzdrikova was third with scores of 15.30 and 15.050, respectively.

12 USA GYNMASTICS MAY ·JUNf 2008

Photography by Max Morse

USA MEN SWEEP TEAM AND ALL-AROUND TITLES

ALEXANDER ARTEMEV

The USA swept the gold medals in the men's competition claiming the team title with a score of 367.750. China was second at 356.900, followed by Japan with 356.100. The U.S. men's team included seniors Alexander Artemev, Raj Bhavsar and Paul Hamm, and juniors: Glen Ishino, Danell Leyva and John Orozco.

Hamm w~n the all-around title in the senior division with a score of 94.450. Artemev earned the silver medal with a score of 92.300. China's Lu 80 was third with a 91.350. Russia's Maxsim Deviatovsky

PRESENTED BY Venus:

placed fourth with a score of 90.800. Bhavsar, who finished fifth with a 90.650 in the point totals, was not ranked in the all-around because there was a limit of two athletes per country.

"Today was a really good day, the best overall meet I've had," Hamm said. "The five events I hit were great. I'm a lime frustrated with my mistake on pommel horse, but I'll go back and work harder."

Leyva won the junior men's title with a score of 89.400. Russia's Igor Pachomenko finished second with an 87.950 and Japan's Genki Takeshita was third with an 87.850. USA's Ishino and Orozco finished fourth and fifth all-around with scores of 87.50 and 86.90. Orozco was not ranked in the all-around because there was a limit of two athletes per country.

"It wenr really well today," Leyva said. "This is the biggest meet I've ever won."

The USA opened the competition on vault, taking the top three places in the senior and junior divisions afrer the first rotation. Hamm scored a 16.250 on his Kasamatsu one-and-a-half twist vault. Bhavsar and Artemev both earned scores of 16.100 on their vaults.

Hamm and Artemev both stuck their pike double dismounrs on parallel bars and earned scores of 15.900 and 15.600, respectively, while

14 USA GYMNASTICS MAV ·JUN£2008

~ I "f/~

Bhavsar scored a 15.100. On high bar, Bhavsar earned a score of 14.550 on his routine that included a stuck uiple back dismount, which the crowd loved. Hamm posted a 16.050 and Artemev earned a 15.350.

Hamm's floor exercise routine earned a 15.800, while both Artemev and Bhavsar dismounted their routines with triple full dismounts, scoring a 15.150 and a 14.550, respectively.

After four rotations, Hamm and Artemev remained in first and second, respectively, followed by Lu in third. On pommel horse, Artemev wowed the crowd with a routine that scored a 15.850. Hamm posted a 14.500 and Bhavsar a 14.350. The USA ended the competition on rings with scores of 16.000 by Bhavsar, 15.950 by Hamm and 14.250 by Artemev.

For the juniors, Orozco took the early lead with his vault score of 15.700, while Leyva was second at 15.650 and Ishino was third at 15.150. Leyva moved into first place after two rotations and maintained his position throughout the meet. All three U.S. juniors earned their best scores on vault.

During senior men's event finals, Harnm finished with the gold medal on pommel horse with a 15.375, tied for the gold medal on parallel bars with China's Heng Wang with a 15.825, won the silver medal on floor with a score of 15.450, and the bronze on high bar with a 15.225.

During junior men's event finals, Ishino won the silver medal on high bar with a high Kovacs and nice lines, scoring 14.750 and just missing the gold by .175 tenths of a point to Russia's Igor Pachomenko who scored 14.925. Leyva, who dismounted with a pike double back, earned the bronze medal on parallel bars with a score of 15.225. Winning gold and silver on parallel bars was China's Lixiang Fang and Xuezhang Chen who scored 15.450 and 15.400, respectively.

1. Paul Hamm 2. Alexander Artemev USA 92.300 3. Bo Lu CHN 91.350 4. Maxsim Deviatovsky RUS 90.800 *. Raj Bhavsar USA 90.650 5. Takuya Inatera JPN 90.200 6. Heng Wang CHN 89.450 7. Joshua Jefferis AUS 88.600 8. Nathan Gafuik CAN 88.100 *. Mingsheng Liang CHN 87.900 9. Adam Wong CAN 87.600 10. Sergey Khorokhordin RUS 87.100

2. Yury Riazanov, Russia, 15.725 Maxsim Deviatovsky, Russia, 15.675

1. Mingsheng Liang, China, 16.012 2. Yusuke Saito, Japan, 15.525 3. Aldo Torres, Mexico, 15.162 3. James Brochero, Colombia, 15.162

1. Paul Hamm, USA, 15.825 1. Heng Wang, China. 15.825 3. Maxsim Deviatovsky, Russia, 15.475 3. Mingsheng Liang, China, 15.475

1. Philippe Riuo, Australia, 15.450 2. Yury Riazanov, Russia, 15.400

Hamm, USA, 15.250

1. Nastia Liukin 2. lana Bieger 3. Dasha Joura 4. Ashleigh Brennan 5. Qiushuang Huang 6. Kristina Vaculik 7. MengsiTian *. Lauren Mitchell *. Xin Zhang 8. Alena Zmeu 9. Ericka Garcia

3. Ericka Garcia, Mexico, 14.100

1. lana Bieger, USA, 15.550

USA 62.850 USA 59.925 AUS 59.200 AUS 59.025 CHN 58.850 CAN 58.425 CHN 58.025 AUS 57.950 CHN 57.025 RUS 56.575 MEX 56.000 JPN 55.325

2. Kristina VaCUlik, Canada, 15.225 2. Num Liukin, USA, 15.225

1. Nastia Liukin, USA, 16.175 2. Qiushuang Huang, Ch ina, 15.675 3. Jana Bieger, USA, 15.525

1. Darlene Hill, USA, 15.425 2. Dasha Joura, Australia, 15.300 3. Anna Myzdrikova. Russia, 15.050

4. Glen Ishino * John Orozco 5. Zhanteng Liu 6. Mathew Curtis 7. Xuezhang Chen 8. Riku Munakata *. Lixiang Fang 9. David Beliavsky 10. Jackson Payne

USA 89.400 RUS 87.950 JPN 87.850 USA 87.500 USA 86.900 CHN 86.550 AUS 86.300 CHN JPN CHN RUS CAN

1. Riku Munakata, Japan, 15.575 2. GenkiTakeshita, Japan, 15.050 3. Igor Pachomenko, Russia, 14.875

1. Genki Takeshita. Japan, 14.600 2. Igor Pachomenko. Russia, 14.375 3. Mathew CurtiS, Australia, 14.325

1. Zhanteng Liu, China, 15.125 2. Hiroyuki Imai, Japan, 14.650 3. David Beliavsky, Russia, 14.550

1. Wai Hung Shek, Hong Kong, China, 16.125 2. Riku Munakata, Japan, 15.975 3. Xuezhang Chen, China, 15.550

1. Lixiang Fang, China, 15.450 2. Xuezhang Chen, China, 15.400 3. Danell Leyva, USA, 15.225

1. Igor Pachomenko, Russia. 14.925 2. Glen Ishino, USA, 14.750

1. Rebecca Bross 2. Samantha Shapiro USA 60.100 3. Viktoriya Komova RUS 57.600 4. Charlotte Mackie CAN 57.575 5. Peng-Peng Lee CAN 57.375 6. Wenli Guan CHN 56.925 *. Brittany Rogers CAN 56.875 7. Jie Cui CHN 56.750 *. Rebecca Clark USA 56.725 8. Shizuka Tozawa JPN 56.2Z5 9. Erica Lynn Danko JPN 56.050 10. Britt Greeley AUS 55.700

1. Rebecca Bross, USA, 15.025 2. Erica Lynn Danko, Japan, 14.800 3. Brittany Rogers, Canada, 14.625

1. Samantha Shapiro, USA, 15.450 2. Peng-Peng Lee, Canada, 14.925 3. Brittany Rogers, Canada, 14.575

1. Jie CUi, China, 16.025 1. Rebecca Bross, USA, 16.025 3. Ying Huang, China, 15.925

1. Rebecca Bross, USA, 15.500 2. Nailiya Mustafina, Russia, 14.700 2. Shizuka Tozawa, Japan, 14.700

UUGYMHASTICS MAY · JUN£ 2008 15

PRESENTED BY Venus.

Photography by John Cheng

USA RHYTHMIC GYMNASTS WIN 14 MEDALS The USA rhythmic gymnasts won 14 medals at the Pacific Rim

Championships, including the team gold with a score of 236.325, more than seven points higher than Canada's 228.700. Russia placed third with 218.300 points. The U.S. Team included seniors Ava Gehringer, Rachel Marmer, and Lisa Wang and juniors Tyler Rosemond, Marlee Shape and Anastasia Torba.

The USA also claimed four all-around medals in the junior and senior divisions. Shape of Buffalo Grove, IU., won the junior all-around crown with a score of 57.000 and Torba of Orinda, Calif., won the bronze with a 55.400. Rosemond posted a score of 55.525 for sixth overaU bur is not in the final rankings due to the rule of rwo gymnasts per counrry in the final rankings.

"I just tried my hardest, went out there and performed and had fun," Shape said. "I wanted to show that I had confidence and I wanted to project how much fun I was having. I couldn't have done it without my team because they really helped me throughour the whole thing."

In the senior all-around, Wang of Buffalo Grove, IU., claimed the silver medal with a score of 62.325 and Marmer of Los Angeles earned the bronze medal with a score of 59.575. Canada's Alexandra Orlando won the gold

16 USA GYMHASnCS MAY ·JUNE2008

MARLEE SHAPE

medal with a score of 63.925. Gehringer's 56.875 was the fifth-best all-around score bur did not count in the final rankings due to the rwo athletes per country limit.

"I was very excited, bur I feel like I could've done bener," Wang said. "I could've been more consistent, bur I tried to go out there and show my expression and amplitude. I hope that I was able to convey my enjoyment of the sport to the audience."

During event finals, Wang won four medals claiming the gold in hoop with score of 15.825, silver in rope and ribbon with the same score of 15.500, and a bronze medal for her clubs' routine with a score of 15.700. Marmer won a bronze medal in ribbon with a score of 15.175.

Shape claimed three medals during event finals winning first in hoop with a score of 14.600, first in rope with a 13.975, and third in ribbon with a 13.475. Torba won a bronze medal for her ball rourine with a 14.050.

Results on page 28

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18 USA GYIoIHASnCS MAV ·JUN£2008

Photography by John Cheng

USA WINS THREE MEDALS IN TRAMPOLINE

At the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships, Russia won both the men and women's team trampoline competition with scores of 200.50 and 194.80, respectively. The USA men were second with a score of 195.60 and Canada was third with 194.20. For the women, Canada was second witl1 a 193.40 and the USA was tl1ird with 186.30.

The USA qualified seven individuals to the individual evem finals. Nani Vercruyssen of Honolulu won the junior

Results on page 28

USA Men L to R: Michael Devine (Winnebago, III .) Chris Estrada (Lafayette, La.), K.J. Heger (Rockford, III .) and Jeffrey Gluckstein (Atlantic Highlands, N.J.)

women's title with a score of 35.80, followed by Canada's Samantha Sen del in second and Russia's Nadezhda Glebova in third. Dakota Earnest of Plains, Texas, posted a score of 33.00 to finish sixth.

''I'm really happy with how I did today," Vercruyssen said. "This helps me prepare me for my next competitions, and I hope I do well at those, too."

USA National Team Coordinator Dmitri Poliaroush said, "Nani is a very hard worker. She is always listening and making corrections which helped her to earn the gold medal."

In the senior competition, Brinany Dircks who trains in Belford, N.J., scored a 35.60 to place fourth for the women. Five-time trampoline world champion Irina Karavaeva of Russia scored a 38.50 to win the gold medal, with Canadian teammates Karen Cockburn and Rosannagh Maclennan in second and third, respectively. Alaina Williams who trains in Colorado Springs, Colo., finished sixth.

"I think I have a lot more to do in training before the Olympics," Dircks said. "But I think that I did very well today and I'm very happy with my performance."

The senior men's tirle went to Japan's Tetsuya Sotomura with a score of 41.40. Rounding out the top three were Russia's Drnirry Ushakov and Japan's Yasuhiro Ueyama. Chris Estrada who trains in Colorado Springs, Colo., anempted a very difficult routine in preparation for the Olympic Games but had a mistake and finished in eighth place.

in the junior men's competition, Jeffrey Gluckstein of Atlamic Highlands, N.J., just missed the medal podium in fourth and K.J. Heger of Rockford, Ill, placed fifth with scores of 33.80 and 32.50, respectively. Russia's Alexander Naumov claimed the gold medal with 38.00 points, followed by Canadians Keegan Soehn in second and Sebastien St. Germain in third.

USA Women l to R: Alaina Williams (Amarillo, Texas), Dakota Earnest (Plains, Texas), Brittany Dircks (Orland Park, ilL) and Nani Vercruyssen (Honolulu)

DEALING IN

Mental Resilie ~ St.Villcell t ~ Sports Pel!ormal1 ce Center

Chris Carr, Ph.D., HSPP Sport & Performance Psychologist

St. Vincent Sports Performance Center. Indianapolis, IN

n order to help gymnasts deal

with fear issues in their sport, it is

important to understand a few "basics"

abour fear. From a psychological perspective, if we recognize that fear is a normal componenr to development

in sport, then coaches and parenrs can be better prepared ro help their athletes deal with fear when it occurs. There is no data that indicates "when"

it is most likely to happen in gymnastics. It may occur early in tumbling,

at level 5 when she begins to master new skills, or it may happen at level 8 when she begins to deal with back series on beam. Bur at some point, most gymnasts will face fear and they will either overcome it or it may inhibit their further development in the sport. Let's move on to some menral training tips

to help with fear-related issues in gymnastics.

Fear is a multi-faceted anxiety issue . When I first begin

to work with a gymnast that presents fear issues, I explore fear in the following domains: Affective (emotional); that is, what is the intensity/

length/precipitating of the feelings of fear that the gymnast experiences; Cognitive (thinking) ... what are the thoughtslimages/self-talk that the

gymnast experiences when feeling fear; and, Behavioral (actions) ... what are the "symptoms" related to the gymnasts' fear ... tense muscles, upset

stomach, increased sweating, headaches, or other behaviors. When these

various domains of fear are explored, it allows us to create a menral skills plan to help overcome the fear. If the anxiety is disrupting their functioning

(e.g. vomiting before practice), then a more specific anxiety management

plan is developed.

Physical responses to fear can be managed with relaxation

training. It would be helpful for any gym to have available for their

gymnasts a relaxation training handour/audio CD and incorporate it early into the gymnast's career. Teaching gymnasts to learn to relax and "take a

deep breath" before executing new (or challenging) skills is always useful in optimizing an athlete's performance. I would recommend that gymnasts

begin to practice regular relaxation exercises when they begin optionals, as the increased skills required may add other external stressors to challenging new

skills. If learning a relaxation skill helps the gymnast to remove some of the "symptoms" of anxiety, they may have less cognitive/behavioral symptoms of

fear in the future.

Talking about "fear" can help. If coaches, parenrs, and gymnasts

talk about "fear" as a normal part of gymnastics skill developmenr, then

gymnasts may be more prepared to manage learning new skills when

there is more anxiety/fear potential. When a young gymnast knows that

20 USA GYMNASTICS MAY ·JUNE2oo8

FEAR

e and Focus he/she is going to feel some anxiety when they are learning their full on

the floor, or their back tuck on the

beam, they can better approach the new skill with a "mental plan" to help reduce

the physical symptoms of anxiety and

build confidence (cognitive skills) to keep persevering with new skills. I recommend that coaches learn about mental training

skills (especially composure skills, such as relaxation training and relaxation "cue" words) and incorporate these into

training when teaching new skills to

their gymnasts.

Have a "Plan" to help athletes with fear issues. Because

evetyone has his/her own developmental histoty, it is difficult to have just one managemenr strategy. It is important to recognize, first and foremost,

that gymnasts will experience fears as a "normal" process in developing gymnastics skills. When a gymnast overcomes a fear issue, then it is

important to reinforce the positives and communicate optimistically within the team. When one gymnast observes a teammate overcome a fear issue, it reinforces that they can learn the new skill and work through anxious

moments. By teaching athletes mental skills, they will be able to apply goal setting techniques (focus on basics of a new skill, which minimizes the fear),

relaxation techniques, focus strategies (visualizing a great back series on beam), and self-talk strategies (focusing on positive cues that reflect "doing"

a skill...verses a negative statement such as "Don't balk. .. ") .

In some situations, the anxietY related to a fear-based issue may create significanr stress over a longer than expected time period (2-4 weeks) with

increased symptoms of anxiety (tension/headaches/not wanting to go to practicelirritable mood at practice when approaching the feared skill).

When this is the case, a referral to a qualified sport psychologist (a licensed

psychologist in case of an ' anxiety disorder diagnosis) would be appropriate. A typical treatmenr plan would include assessment, homework assignments, relaxation training, and on-site (practice) strategies to reduce anxiety related

to skill performance. The sport psychologist may often provide education/

consultation to the parents and coaches regarding communication and managing their own emotions (for example, a coach that gets frustrated when

a gymnast acts fearful will only INCREASE ANXIETY with the athlete).

Thus, sport psychologists that treat fear-based issues often encourage parental education/behavior change, as well as coach consultation.

Always remember that one of the most wonderful aspects of gymnastics performance is the sheer athleticism, grace, strength, and skill in executing complicated routines. To achieve optimal gymnastics performance requires

managing the emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to the experience of fear and anxiety. Sport psychology and mental training can playa significant

role in helping gymnasts develop menral toughness in pursuit of these great

performances with minimal fear and anxiety. ia

St. Vincent Hospital and St. Vincent Sports Per[omlance in Indianapolis, Ind .• fire official service providers to USA Gymnastics. Call 317-415-5747 or visit sportsperformance. stvincent.org

ILLUSTRATION BY ZEMETRIA BARNES

, I l )

I I :I: ---- I I !~, ~.-= ~.-

~-.!!!!IIIional GlmnaSlics lIamn

Blaine Wilson 3-Time Olympian

2004 Olympic Silver Medalist

Nastia Liukin 3-Time World Champion

cnuID:B ~ (lli)TI]] [(]]1] lJtEfiIfiIID ~

[ill TIllrB mmrur

David Durante 2007 World Championship &

Pan American Games Team Member

2007 USA National All-Around Champion

Chellsie Memmel 2005 All -Around

World-eh-ampion

Justin Spring 2005 World Championship Team Member

2007 Pan American Games Gold Medalist

Former IGC Camper

I PHOTO: MARVIN SHARP

TYSON FITNESS CHALLENGE What exactly is the Tyson Fitness Challenge? The Tyson Fitness Challenge is an eight-session fitness initiative with two goals: helping today's kids get more physically fit and raising money through Children's Miracle Network to help kids who are fighting illnesses. The program encourages physical fitness through fun activities that emphasize four fundamentals of fitness: cardiovascular exercise, strength training, flexibility and nutrition.

The Tyson Fitness Challenge program The Tyson Fitness Challenge is not about teaching gymnastics skills; it uses gymnastics to help kids build healthy foundations for the rest of their lives. The program is aimed at children 6-16 years old. The 2008 edition again includes a developmentally appropriate program for children ages 4-5 and will be available online. The 2008 Tyson Fitness Challenge has been refreshed by adding new content to the existing items favored by gym club owners. Some of the items that are new to the Tyson Fitness Challenge this year include:

• an extra month for clubs to hold the Tyson Fitness Challenge • new, more fun cardiovascular games, and • updated and more challenging exercises for the upper body, core and lower body.

For more information on the Tyson Fitness Challenge, visit www.usa-gymnastics.org/tysonfitnesschallenge

Children's Miracle Network USA Gymnastics first began raising funds for Children's Miracle Network in 2001 as part of National Gymnastics Day. The Tyson Fitness Challenge became the platform to raise funds in 2006. Clubs have the flexibility to hold the Tyson Fitness Challenge at any time between March 1 and Sept. 13, which is National Gymnastics Day in 2008.

Since partnering in 2001, USA Gymnastics and its gym clubs across the country have raised more than $834,000 for Children's Miracle Network through a variety of activities, and USA Gymnastics' goal is to increase that total to $1 million by the end of 2008. During the first two years of the Tyson Fitness Challenge, more than 36,000 kids participated and raised $323,000 for Children's Miracle Network in 2006-07.

To raise funds for Children's Miracle Network, participants and clubs obtain pledges for achieving a set number of elements in a specified time, whether it is fitness-related skills, cartwheels, flips, etc. The monies raised benefit the Children's Miracle Network hospital in the participants' and clubs' local community.

For more information on raising money for Children's Miracle Network through the Tyson Fitness Challenge, visit usagym.childrensmiraclenetwork.org.

22 USA GYMHASTICS MAY ·JUNE2008

Chil92.s Miracle _ Networ the aUiallll! a/,...i<f iIasJi1als for mild ...

MARY LOU RETTON: Why I support Children's Miracle Network How did you become involved with Children's Miracle Network? MLR: I became involved with Children's Miracle Network about 18 years ago, before I was even married or had children of my own. As you can imagine, my life was completely changed forever after winning the Olympics in 1984! I was getting 25-50 phone calls a day just for charity work and appearances. After a

I

X' USA

GYMNASTICS

www.usa-gymnastics.org/tysonfitnesschallenge

Above: Tyson American Cup champions Paul Hamm and Nastia Liukin pose with Tyson Fitness Challenge winners Andrew Wise and Lauren Briskey.

few years of trying to do as many of those as I could, I decided I wanted to do more than just lend my name to an organization's "letterhead" or send in an auction item. I wanted to make an impact ... a difference!

Children have always been a passion of mine. If that whole "Olympic thing" didn't work out for me, my plans were to go into early childhood development. So helping

raise funds for children's hospitals was a perfect fit for me. And I'm very proud to say in the 25 years Children's Miracle Network has been in operation, we have raised $3 billion for children's hospitals. Literally $1 at a time.

Have any of your kids or anyone you know been treated at a Children's Miracle Network hospital? MLR: My husband, Shannon, and I were blessed to have all four of our daughters born healthy. But a few years ago, my second daughter, McKenna (now 10 years old and a proud Level 8 gymnast) was on a bike ride with her dad and sisters and had a horrible accident. She ruptured her spleen and could have bled to death, but we immediately took her to Texas Children's Hospital, our Children's Miracle Network hospital in Houston, where she remained in the intensive care unit for eight days! Although it was scary, I had a peace because I knew she was at the best place possible. I felt so very confident that this hospital was completely prepared to heal my daughter, and they did. The doctors, nurses and entire staff took such tremendous care of her. Children's hospitals are SPECIAL places with SPECIAL PEOPLE WHO WORK THERE!!

PHOTO: MARVIN SHARP

TYSON FITNESS CHALLENGE [P~i£~ Here is what you could

win by raising money for Children's Miracle Network through the Tyson Fitness Challenge!

Club Prizes* The three clubs that raise the most money for Children's Miracle Network through participation in the Tyson Fitness Challenge receive:

First place o AAI Elite Balance Beam (retail value: $3,000)

o $250 in Tyson coupons to host a Tyson Protein Party at your gym

o One-year USA Gymnastics Club Membership (value: $160)

o Club photo featured on a USA Gymnastics promotional poster in 2009

Second place o AAI TAC/lO LZT Vault Board (retail value: $730)

1-__ ----0--<;-1 <;{'}-, fl-TysGfl-eGtJpGns-tG-hGst-a-Tyson Protein-Party-at-yotl

gym

o One-year USA Gymnastics Club Membership (value: $160)

Third place o AAIIM 1.5 Folding Mat (retail value: $185)

o $100 in Tyson coupons to host a Tyson Protein Party at your gym

o One-year USA Gymnastics Club Membership (value: $160)

Individual Prizes* The top three individuals who raise the most money for Children's Miracle Network through participation in the Tyson Fitness Challenge all receive:

o Round-trip airfare for winner and a guest to the 2009 American Cup

o Two tickets to the 2009 American Cup

o Two pre-event VIP hospitality passes

o One-night stay in the USA GymnastiCS host hotel

In addition to the above prize package, the individual who raises the most money for Children's Miracle Network will also be featured on a USA Gymnastics promotional poster in 2009.

* Must raise a minimum of $1 ,000 to qualify for USA Gymnastics prizes.

USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUNE 2008 23

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WEBSITE MANIA Want to learn more about some of your favorite gymnasts on the national team?

We asked our national team members to send us their personal websites to share with you· Here's the list we received as of press time!

Of course, don't forget to check out usa-gymnastics.org, which also has lots of information on each of our nationa l team members and upcoming events ·

CHELSEA DAVIS www.chalkbowl.com/chelsea!

MATTIE LARSON www.chalkbowl.com/mattie/

NASTIA LlUKIN www.nastialiukin.com

CORRIE LOTHROP www.gymdivas.us/corrie/

SAMANTHA PESZEK www.samanthapeszek.com

ALICIA SACRAMONE www.teamalicia.com

BRIDGET SLOAN www.bridgetsloan.com

AMBER TRANI www.ambertrani.com

SHAYLA WORLEY www.ShaylaWorley.com

RHEAGAN COURVILLE www.sitesbyspeedle.com/rheagan/

JORDYN WIEBER www.chalkbowl.com/jordyn

RAJ BHAVSAR web.mac.com/RajBhavsar

SEAN GOLDEN seangolden.com

PAUL HAMM www.makingtheolympics.com

JUSTIN SPRING www.kristypage.net/spring/

To see Webisodes featuring your favorite gymnasts, go to "USA Gymnastics: Behind the Team" at www.attblueroom.com/teamusa

PACIFIC RIM GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS :----..

2. Lisa Wang, USA, 15.500

3. Deng Senyue, China, 14.500 3. Natalia Bulycheva, Russia, 13.975

CAN 63.925 1. Lisa Wang, USA, 15.825 1. Marlee Shape, USA, 13.975

USA 62.325 USA 59.S75 3. Anastasia Torba

4. Lina Gnirovskaya RUS 58.100 4. Elizaveta Bryksina 3. Ekaterina Starodub, Russia, 13.700 • Ava Gehringer USA 56.875 5. Nataliya Bulycheva 5. Demetra Mantcheva CAN 56.450 * Tyler Rosemond USA 52.525 1. Alexandra Orlando, Canada, 16.175 1. Brenda Ka lye Yap, Malaysia, 13.800 6. Naazmi Johnston AUS 56.325· 6. Brenda Ka lye Yap MAS 51.600

2. Lina Gnirovskaya, Russia, 15.850 2. Nerissa Mo, Canada, 13.700 7. Seow TIng Foong MAS 55.225 * Ekaterina Starodub RUS 51.475 8. Senyue Deng CHN 54.375 7. Baobao Dou CHN 50.575 3. Lisa Wang, USA, 15.700 3. Marlee Shape, USA, 13.47S • Alexandra Martincek CAN 54.250 8. Sarah Briand CAN 50.300 9. Rut Castillo MEX 52.900 * Stephanie Beaulieu CAN 49.B25 1. Nerissa Mo, Canada, 14.650

RUS 52.70 9. Elaine Ee leng Tan MAS 49.200 2. Lisa Wang, USA 15.550 10. Chloe Hayes AUS 47.825

3. Rachel Marmer, USA, 15.175 3. Anastasia Torba, USA, 14.050 • A maximum of rwo orhfereJ per counrry could counr in rhe all-around ranMngl.

1. Nani Vercruyssen, USA, 35.80

2. Samantha Sendel, CAN, 35.10 2. Dmitry Ushakov, RUS, 41.30

3. Rosannagh Maclennan, CAN, 36.70 3. Nadezhda Glebova, RUS, 34.70 3. Yasuhiro Ueyama, JPN, 40.60 3. Sebastien S1. Germain, CAN, 34.10

4. Brittany Dircks, USA, 3S.60 4. Ekaterina Shustikova, RUS, 34.50 4. German Khnychev, RUS, 37.20 4. Jeffrey Gluckstein, USA, 33.80

5. Michelle Garcia, MEX, 25.60 5. Alexandra Freeman, AUS, 34.30 5. Charles Thibault, CAN, 37.20 5. KJ. Heger, USA, 32.50

6. Alaina Williams, USA, 16.10 6. Dakota Earnest, USA, B.OO 6. David Sabourin, CAN, 36.90 6. Blake Gaudry, AUS, 32.00

7. Viviana Ramirez, MEX, 12.40 7. Kailey Mcleod, CAN, 32.90 7. Ben Wilden, AUS, 36.80 7. Milton Becuar, MEX, 26.50

8. Natalia Chernova, RUS, 5.20 8. Aslin Styles, AUS, 32.40 8. Chris Estrada, USA, 9.10 8. Reece Thompson, AUS, 6.00

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JUNE ---------------------------------------?~7 ........ . .. Vlsa.C~af!1pions.hi~s. (IY) . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . ... Bo~o.n, .~ ...... . . . . , . . . . . . 5~8 ... . .... .. . !O .Co.mp~I~?~ Sh~m.P.ionships (~) . . .... . ... . .... . . . . C?I.u.f!1b~~,.~H ... .. . ... . . ... . 7~8 .. ...... . .. ~~.e~r?up.IYo~h.op. (~) ... . ....... . . . .... . . . . ... . ~?s A~9~!~s! CA ....... .•.. .. . '? ~ !5 ......... Te~m.GY.mN.a.tio.na!s ~~!ional. ~¥~.Fest (GG) ... . . ....... Las Ve9~s! .NV .... . . . . . . . .. . . . '?~?! ..... . . .. US~. ~¥'!1.n.a~i~ N~~?nal. Sonwe~~ . . ........ . . . ... . . . ~hila~elp.hi~, . PA .. . .. .. •..... . '9~?2 . . . ... . .. ~:~ .. OIYI11~icTe~m.Tria!s:_ .G~~~~st!cs . . . . .. .......... Phila~elp.hi~,. PA .... . ... .. .. . . 2~~?! ...... .. . ~~rld Cup.~R) . .. . . . ... . .... . . . .. . .. . .... . .... . . Sw.itzerl~~d . . ........ ... ... .

3~ ......... . .. ~in.a! ~.I¥'!1p!c ~~I~?n Eve~! (T) .. . . ...... K~n~s Ci~,.MO . .. . . .. . .. . .. .

JULY----------------------------------------'-6

.11 ~' ~ ......... ~~!on4Co~.9f~ss . .......... . . . .. .. . . .. . .. . ..... C?~I~ille! I.A . .........•... . .

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DECEMBER----------------------------------3~7 . . . .. . ..... !~~:s.N~t!~~~I .Te~~. !ra!~i~~ .Ca~p (~) . . . . . . ... . ...... ~u~~i~I~,.TX . .. .. ... ..•. .. . . ~-.' .' . .. . ...... !O~:s.Nat!~~~I .~!ea.~ !~ai~~ng. S~'!1p. (~) . ...... . ... . . . Hu.n.~~il.I~,.TX .~ .. .. . ... . .. .

For a complete event schedule go to usa-gymnastlcs.org 1i01f:11IIIrs IIIdMIIIS.," /MIgtIJl'CIIICIIIIfM. W = Women M = Men R = Rhythmk GG = Group Gymnastics Nj = Acrobatic Gymnastks IT = Trampoline and Tumbling TR = Trampoline TIl = Tumbling

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SENDER FINISHES FOURTH IN VAULT AT WORLD CUP IN DOHA ~e USA's David Sender of Arlington Heights, .1 Ill., placed fourth in vault at the World Cup

held in Doha, Qatar, where 109 male gymnasts participated.

Sender posted a 15.950, just missing the bronze medal that went to Puerto Rico's Luis Rivera, who had a 16.000. Romania's Daniel Popescu won the vault title at 16.187, wi th Japan's Makoto Okiguchi finishing second at 16.037.

Sho Nakamori of Albany, Calif , also competed in the World Cup. Both Sender and Nakamori compete for Stanford Universiry. i3

Right: David Sender. shown here at the 2008 Wmter Cup on parallel bars. Just missed a medal on vau lt at the World Cup. fin ishing fourth

PHOTO · MAX MORSE

Ma llory Henthorn and Savannah Shie lds

• Junior Olympi( Notional Team members, •• Junior National Team members, "'Senior Notional Team members

32 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUNE 2008

MAlA INTERNATIONAL ACROCUP

T eam USA won five medals including four gold and one bronze at the second

annual Maia International Acro Cup in Maia, Portugal, March 8-9. The competition hosted nine countries including Portugal, Spain, Puerto Rico, Belgium, Wales, England, United States, Italy, and Scotland, 31 delegations and more than 270 athletes. The MAlC was very well supported providing strong competition for all age-groups in all categories.

USA Gymnastics earned the first of four gold medals by capturing the highest 11-16 team score. i3

Event Results continue on p 34

ent results

USA SWEEPS TEAM, ALL-AROUND TITLES IN ITALY

'""f"1he u.s. won the team titles for both the junior and senior divisions at .1 the Italy-Spain-Poland-USA friendly competition in Jesolo, Italy, March

8. For seniors, the USA won the title over Italy, 179.050 to 177.950. Spain was third at 151.050, with Poland scoring 150.100.

The women on the USA's senior squad were: Jana Bieger, Coconut Creek, Fla.!Bieger International Gymnastics; Olivia Courtney, Orlando/ Orlando Metro; Chelsea Davis, Lakeway, Texas/Texas Dreams; Samantha Peszek, Indianapolis, Ind.!DeVeau's Gymnastics; Bridget Sloan, Pittsboro, Ind.!Sharp's Gymnastics Academy; and Shawn Johnson, West Des Moines, Iowa/Chow's Gymnastics.

Johnson won the title with a score of 61.700 to outscore 2006 world all-around champion Vanessa Ferrari of Italy, who scored 60.100. Peszek was third with a score of 59.050.

The USA easily out-pointed second-place Italy in the junior team competition, winning 181.050 to 172.100. Romania was third at 166.000, followed by Spain at 158.400. The U.S. junior team consisted of: Rebecca Bross, Plano, TexasIWOGA; Rebecca Clark, Blue Springs, Mo.!GAGE; Samantha Shapiro, Los Angeles, All-Olympian Gymnastics Center; Morgan Smith, Clermont, Fla.!Brandy Johnson's Global Gymnastics; Jordyn Wieber, Dewitt, Mich. , Twiststars.

In the junior all-around, the USA's Wieber and Bross finished one-two, 60,900 to 60.500. Italy's Paola Galante was third at 58.300. Clark was fourth at 57.350; Shapiro fifth at 57.00; and Smith ninth at 55.800. 13

For flUl results go to www.usa-gymnastics.org

Event Results continue on p.36 34 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUN~ 2008

nt results

NAVY, ASU WIN TEAM TITLES AT 2008USA GYMNASTICS MEN'S COLLEGIATE CI-IAMPIONSI-IIPS

The u.s. Naval Academy and Arizona State University claimed the varsity and collegiate

team titles, respectively, at the 2008 USA Gymnastics Men's Collegiate Championships at Springfield College in Springfield, Mass., March 29-30. The U.S. Air Force Academy's Greg Stine claimed his second straight varsity all-around crown, and the University of Washington's Ivan Koveshnikov won the collegiate all-around.

Navy posted a score of 339.300 ro finish first, followed by the College of William and Mary in second with a 338.450 and Air Force in third at 335.100.

Stine's score of 86.800 bested Navy's Dylan Parrott and William and Mary's Derek Gygax, who finished second and third, respectively, with scores of 84.300 and 82.950.

In the collegiate division, Arizona State won its second straight team title with 319.200 points. James Madison University was second with a score of293.200 and the University of Washington was third at 289.550.

Koveshnikov posted an all-around score of 81.850, while Arizona State teammates Anthony Naddour and Charles Baysinger were second and third, respectively, with scores of 81.350 and 78.850.

The team competition is divided into rwo categories, varsity and collegiate. The varsity competition is for Division I, II, or III , four­year institutions with gymnastics as a varsity sport. The collegiate team category is for rwo­year or four-year degree-granting schools with gymnastics as a club sporr.

During event finals , David Locke of the College of William and Mary won the floor tide with a 15 .050. Top honors on pommel horse went ro Adam Stanton of Navy, who scored a 14.600. The Air Force Academy's Jacob Schonig rook first on rings with a 15.550. The vault crown went to Jeff Crockett of University of Washington, who scored 15.400. On parallel bars, Stine took first place at 14.900. William and Mary's Andrew Hunt won the crown for the horizontal bar at 13.300. fa

Event Results continue on p.38

36 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUNE 2008

USA GYMNA N I

Colle " t t pion:.hips

PHOTOS· ART NICKLAS

ent results

TEXAS WOMAN'S UNIVEASITY WINS TEAM TITLE AT USA GYMNASTICS WOMEN'S COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Texas Woman's University won the ream tide ar rhe USA Gymnasrics Women's Collegiare Championships for the ninth rime overall. Texas

Woman's University posred 194.700 points to best Cornell University, who was second ar 193.675. Towson University was third at 193.100, with competition hosr Centenary College of Louisiana finishing fourth .

38 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUNE 2008

Stevie Waldman PHOTOS · ART NICKLAS

Texas Woman's University worked its way up to firsr place after rhree events and irs score of 49.125 on floor clinched rhe title.

After three events, Centenary, Cornell and Towson were battling for second. They were separared by eighr-tenths of a point. Cornell responded with a 49.025 on vaulr to secure second. Towson was on bars and Centenaty was on beam as borh squads vied for rhird place. Centenary encountered some problems on rhe beam, and Towson emerged wirh the bronze.

Stevie Waldman, a senior at the College of William and Mary, claimed the all-around ritle wirh a score of 38.775, followed by Towson University teammares Decelia Willacy and Jackie Schweirzer in second and third, respecrively, with scores of 38.600 and 38.500.

Texas Woman's University's Courtney Arno-Templer won rhe uneven bars and balance beam tides. Alise McDonald of Towson University and Courmey Hawkins of Centenary took top honors in the vault and floor exercise, respectively.

On vault, McDonald posred a 9.787 on vaulr ro win, with Brittany Parker of Texas Woman's University and Meredith Smirh of Centenary tying for second at 9.737.

For Arno-Templer, a 9.875 was her winning score for both the uneven bars and rhe balance beam. On bars, Waldman was second ar 9.825. Texas Woman's Amanda Walker and Towson University's Chrisrina Lindo ried for third ar 9.750. For beam, Cornell University's Megan Gilbert and Waldman both earned a 9.725 to tie for second.

On floor, Hawkins edged our Towson's Annuka Almenoksa, who was second ar 9.850. Cornell's Brittany Howse placed third wirh her 9.825. ii

Event Results continue on p 40

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TAN WINS SILVER MEDAL ON RINGS AT WORLD CUP IN COTTBUS, GERMANY

V evin Tan of Fremont, ~Calif., won a silver medal on srill rings at rhe World Cup held in Corrbus, Germany, April 11-13. Tan, who trains wirh the Penn Srare ream and is a member of Team Chevron, scored a 16.075 to finish second behind 2005 srill rings world champion Yuri Van Gelder of rhe Netherlands, who scored a 16.625. Tan also finished eighth on parallel bars. China's Li Xiaopeng placed firsr wirh a 16.250.

Also compering for rhe USA bur nor advancing to rhe finals were Team Chevron's Guillermo Alvarez of Denver and Sean Golden of Camden, N.J.

The orher men's champions were: Fabian Hambuechen of Germany, floor exercise; Kriszrian Berki of Hungary, pommel horse; Oleksandr Yakubovskyi of rhe Ukraine, vaulr; and Zou Kai of China, horizontal bar.

The USA did nor enter a women's ream. ta PHOTO · MAX MORSE

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RON GALIMORE CARRIES TORCI-I DURING 2008 OLYMPIC TORCI-I RELAY 1980 Olympic Gymnast Ron Galimore of Indianapolis, Ind., was one of the torchbearers for the 2008 Olympic Torch Relay held April 9, in San Francisco, Ca li f. Galimore was one of the torchbearers selected by the u.s. Olympic Committee. San Francisco is the only North American stop on the worldwide 2008 Olympic Torch Relay in advance of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

"It was an incred ible, once-in-a-lifetime experience;' sa id Galimore, who is the vice president for events, Olympic relations and men's program for USA Gym nastics. "It was very professional, and the mayor of San Francisco and the police department provided a safe environment for the torchbearers. ~

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42 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUN~ 2008

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN TO BE INDUCTED IN TI-IE U.S. OLYMPIC HALL OF FAME THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN, the 1996 U.s. Women's Olympic Team that WOIl the team ti t le at the Olympic Games in Atlanta, wi ll be among the 2008 inducteees

into the U.s. Olympic Hal l of Fame presented by Allstate. The induction ceremony wi ll take place June 19 in Chicago. The U.s. Olympic Ha ll of Fame Class of 2008 is comprised of nine Olympians, one Paralympian, an Olympic Coach, Veteran, Team and Special Contributor.

The 1996 squad, consisting of Amanda Borden, Amy Chow, Dominique Dawes, Shannon Miller, Dominique Moceanu, Jaycie Phelps and Kerri Strug, wi ll be the lone team inductee. They will join a number of individual honorees. ~

The Road to Beijing goes through Philadelphia ...

o t PHILADELPHIA, PA • JUNE 19 - 22, 2008

Event Schedule Thursday, June 19

7:00 pm Men's All-Around Finals - Day 1

Friday, June 20 7:00 pm Women's All-Around Finals - Day 1

Saturday, June 21 3:00 pm Men's All-Around Finals - Day 2

Sunday, June 22 6:00 pm Women's All-Around Finals - Day 2

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~ PAIGE TUCKER AND MADISON PUGLISI Vestal, New York Paige Tucker, age 10, and Madison Puglisi, age 9, on the righ~ are both level 4 gymnasts at Aero Gymnastics Academy. Each girl received a perfect 10.00 score on vault Paige received her 10.00 at the leatherstocking Invitational and Madison received her 10.00 at the I love NY Cup. They're coached by Nancy Donley and Geno Pyfrom.

A AMERICAN ELITE GYMNASTICS Scottsdale. Arizona American El~e Gymnastics paired with the Make-A-\'M Foundation to host the inaugural Make-A-\'M Oassic competition, where a portion of the proceeds from the meet were donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The girls were excited to compete in these spedal~ designed Make-A-Wish leotards made by Dreamlight Activewear.

A MORE TI-lAN GYMNASTICS ACRO TEAM H. Wayne, Indiana The More than Gymnastics Aero Team in Ft. Wayne, Ind., performed in a pre-game show for the Mad Ants, which is the NBA Development league team in Ft. Wayne. The experience was wonderful for the team and the audience really enjoyed it! To our knowledge, this is the first Aero club in Indiana.

A IVAN ALPIZAR Yorba Linda, California Ivan, 8, is in levelS at Yorba linda Gymnastics Academy. He won first place at the 2008 So Cal State Championships with an all-around score of 56.375. He placed first on floor and rings. His coaches are Alexey and Vladimir Dmitriyenko. Ivan will be competing Level 6 during 2008-09.

A 5280 GYMNASTICS Wheat Ridge, Colorado 5280 Gymnastics Level 4 won the 2007 Colorado State Championship with a team score of 194.65. Team members from left to right include (front) Anna Hamelin, Taylor Hickox, Elizabeth Belecky, Claire HarTis, logan O'Donnell, (middle) KariWinkelried, Rachel Heald, Sydney Hauffman, Haley Simpson, (back) coaches Iryna Gryshayeva and Rick Dunn. Not present were Jiang Braley, Katya Raska Victoria Milczek, and Tabitha Taormina.

~VANESSA AND DESTINV DENIZ Whippany, New Jersey

~ KERRY ARONE

Sisters Vanessa and Destiny Deniz are the 2008 New Jersey level 4 State Champions. Vanessa, 6, took gold in the all-around with a 35.60

while Destiny, 8, won the all-around with a 38.65. Both girls helped their gym, Go for the Gold Gymnastics, to place third as

a team. They're coached by Juan Carlos Agudelo, Viviana Blanco, Monica Vargas, Jaime Galindo and Dennis Moreno.

~ TYLER ROSEMOND Fresh Meadows, New York Tyler is a rhythmic national team member and trains at Aviator with her coach Lucy Kerznerman. She took second all-around at the 2008 Rhythmic Challenge in the junior division. She was also a member of the gold-medal team at the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships.

Westampton, New Jersey Kerry is the 2008 level 7 All-Around New Jersey State Champion for the 11 year old Junior division. In addition to being the all­around State Champion, she placed third on bars and floor, fifth on beam and seventh on vault. She is currently training Level 8 at YViIl-Moor School of Gymnastics in Mt Laurel, NJ.

~ NICOLE COUKART

.... RAYMOND ALTMEYER 1:1 Cajon, California

Portage. Pennsylvania Nicole,8, has been in gymnastics for on~ one year and is a state champion in Level 4 with a score of37.275. Nicole also captured first place in floor and beam at the state championships, March 2, 2008. She trains at Uzelac Gymnastics and is coached by Kristal and Brenda I Himes.

Ray, 10, is a LevelS gymnast and anends Elite Gymnastics Academy. He's coached by Greg McCalester. At the 2008 California

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HEAD COACH and TEAM COACH openings at Jody's Gymnastic Zone in Columbus, Indiana. New facility, excellent equipment, and great pay with benefits. Potential future ownership in the business is an option for a Head Coach. Would like a positive, motivational coach with a desire to continue growing a strong team program. The gym is located in an attractive city known for architecture, great schools, good cost of living for home ownership, and less than an hour drive to Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Louisvi lle. Mail: 3880 North Long Road, Columbus, IN 47201. Email: news@jodysgymzone.com or ca ll Jody Tompkins 812-344-0408.

INSTRUCTORS/COACHES. Paragon Gymnastics of Norwood (Bergen County), NJ is looking for instructors and coaches, PIT-FIT. Requirements: Positive attitude, responsible, reliable, love of children. Positions available for competitive team coach Level 6 and up with flexible hours. Also preschool through intermediate instruction. Company sponsored cert ifications (Safety, CPR, First Aid) Full benefits/paid vacation & sick days, company matched retirement plan. Will train. Salary commensurate with experience. NEW facility, state-of-the-ar~ approx. 11,000 sq. ft. Located in the NY /NJ Metropolitan area, easily accessible from all major highways. Contact Dot: email:dot@paragongym.com .• 201-767-6921 or fax resume to 201-767-6693 or at 49 Walnut Street, Suite 4, Norwood, NJ 07648. www.paragongym.com.

Team coach needed in Wyoming. Great career opportunity for a team coach girls levels 4-optionals. Applicant must be knowledgeable of level 4-optional skills, drills, USAG requirements, and safe spotting techniques. We are dedicated to providing a fun and safe environment where gymnasts can gain personal confidence and reach their fu ll potentiaL We are looking for a coach who has a positive attitude and is interested in working with our existing coaches and staff. Pay based on experience. Contact: Donna 307-689-3204307-686-0008. Email: elites@vcncom

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50 USA GYMNASTICS MAY · JUN~ 2008

training and technical support. Packed with features, easy to use, and networkable. Flexible setup, easy assignments, rosters, attendance, marketing analysis, automated tuition calculation, multiple discounts, additional/retail charges, inventory management, sales tax support, late charges, early payment discounts, invoices/statements, receiveables reports, financial and enrollment summaries, instructor schedules, waiting and makeup lists, mailing labels, send messages and invoices bye-mail, support for bank draft and credit card payments, and much more. Only $600 ($300/additional workstation). Contact Vaughn Software Services at 800-821-8516, vaughnsoftware@bellsouth.net, or www.vaughnsoftware.com MCNISA/ AMEX

GK RISK FREE PROGRAM: Get with the program! It's better than ever, with a terrific assortment of NEW styles and fabrics and incomparable sales potentiaL Plus, it's easier than ever to order, sell and return your RISK FREE garments. We offer customized packages for your pro shop, meets and summer camp. You only pay for what you've sold and may return the rest, there is absol utely NO RISK! If you haven't tried us lately, it's time you started earn ing extra profits with our RISK FREE merchandise. Call 1-800-345-4087 for more information on how you can get started todayl Email: customerservice@gkelite.com

EDUCATION Laurel Springs SchOol is a world-renowned independent study program for grades preK-12. We provide elite athletes the education they deserve by offering flexible schedules, learning styles profiles, state-of-the-art online and text-based courses, customization options and custom curriculum. We have exceptional teacher services, college prep and honors classes, transcripts, diploma, even a yearbook, prom & graduation ceremony available, so your child won't sacrifice one of life's major milestones. Laurel Springs is accredited by WASC as well as NISAC. Our college prep courses are articulated for the NCAA and UC System. Enroll any time by ca ll ing 800-377-5890 or go to www laurelsprings.com

Available now! The NEW GYMCERT Gymnastics training manuals (Levels 1, 2, 3, & the NEW Skills & Drills for the Compulsory Coach Level's 4, 5 & 6) a must for training your staff; cut your lesson planning time significantly; use to coordinate class progressions and skill training methods; and, best of all have a quick reference that is easy to use which includes Lesson Planning Forms and Class Evaluation Forms by leveL The GYMCERT manuals provide concise instruction, clear illustrations, and

several coaching, spotting, and safety tips. Will your staff be ready for your fall students I Order direct by calling toll free: 1-866-591-8500 or online: www.GYMCERl com.

COMPETITIONS

Coaches and Jewish Gymnasts. On December 7, 2008, the Trials for the 18th World Maccabiah Games, will be held in Norman, Oklahoma. The Games will be in Israel, in July of 2009. The trials for the team are for girls and boys level 9 & up. In addition to the Trials, there will be a Maccabi/USA Gymnastics InvitationaL This is open to all Jewish gymnasts, from USAG level 4-8. For more information on the Trials and the Maccabi Gymnastics Invitational, go to www.maccabiusa.com. or contact Ben Fox at bhf1161@aoLcom i3

~OWTOPLAC~

A CLASSI~I~D AD

RATES: 1-100word5=$I00, 101-200word5=$200 Your ad in USA Gymnastics magazine will automatically be placed onnne for 30 days at no additional charge. The address is: www.usa-gymnastics.orglclassifieds/. Your 30 days will begin on the next regular posting date.

DEADLINES: Issue Deadline for ad & payment Jan-Feb December 1 Mar-Apr February 1 May-Jun April 1 Jul-Aug June 1 Sep-Oct August 1 Nov-Dec October 1 NOT£: Wthe Istfal~ona~nd 01 holiday, the preceding woIIt day ~ considered the deadline. LISA GyrnnasOO ~ re<eNed by more than 80,000 subsaiber5 pius thousands ofviewer5 will be exposed to your ad online. Advertise your employment opportunity, product, 5er'Ii<e, 01 competition here for great results. Questions? Caliluan Peszekat 317-829-5646.

PAYMENT: Mail your ad and payment to: USA GymnastICs. Pan American Plaza. 201 S. (apltol Avenue. SUite 300. Indianapolis. If! 46215 or fax to 317 -137-1069. If you fax. please mcludr your credit card number. exprratlon date and signature.

ADS SUBMITIE DWITHDUT PAYMENT Will NOT BE PUBLISHED. USA Gymnastics rell'M'S the nght to vary format.

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