Hi,
My almost 11yo dd is being encouraged to take the elite route by her coach. She has been successful in the tops program and really enjoys gymnastics. I have questions and concerns about what this means.
1. What are the benefits to training to become an elite gymnast? It seems as though there are many girls striving for a very few spots on a team.
2. If she were to become an elite gymnast, what does that mean?
3. Is it true that only a few elites get to travel internationally? If so, what about all the rest - what happens to them? Is there just pride in saying "I am an elite gymnast?"
4. Is it also true that gymnastics is very political and even if a child becomes the best gymnast in the nation she may never make a team or travel internationally if Marta doesn't want her to?
5. Is the wear and tear on the body, expenses, and journey worth it?
6. Any current or previous elites out there who wouldn't mind sharing their experiences?
Thank you!
Tonya
My almost 11yo dd is being encouraged to take the elite route by her coach. She has been successful in the tops program and really enjoys gymnastics. I have questions and concerns about what this means.
1. What are the benefits to training to become an elite gymnast? It seems as though there are many girls striving for a very few spots on a team.
2. If she were to become an elite gymnast, what does that mean?
3. Is it true that only a few elites get to travel internationally? If so, what about all the rest - what happens to them? Is there just pride in saying "I am an elite gymnast?"
4. Is it also true that gymnastics is very political and even if a child becomes the best gymnast in the nation she may never make a team or travel internationally if Marta doesn't want her to?
5. Is the wear and tear on the body, expenses, and journey worth it?
6. Any current or previous elites out there who wouldn't mind sharing their experiences?
Thank you!
Tonya