I definitely think that approach is working for a lot of programs and athletes! In what I've seen, the gyms have a way they like to do this - maybe going through gold or possibly platinum, and then scoring out and going to level 6.
I think it's completely reasonable for you to ask something...
I would initiate that now. Does your gym use Xcel in place of compulsories? Is there an opportunity to transition to developmental? Do they think your daughter would be a good fit for your gym's development program? Why/why not?
If your gym does not use Xcel in place of compulsories and they...
I honestly think the best thing to do is make it easy within your gym to switch between the two and to not prioritize one program over the other. Many are made to feel that Xcel is less than and then being asked to do it can feel like a punishment or demotion. Taking both programs seriously can...
Our (Xcel only) gym had two sets of bars and one was a smaller setting and one was bigger. When we rotated through stations, would have the girls do high bar/full routines on their setting and then low bar/drill/cast handstand work when they weren't on their setting. It worked for us.
Yes, this skill is quite a big deal, and it's very exciting! Many of the current senior elites in the US are doing a double twist of the same vault so it's a great progression.
Have you talked to your coaches about how you're feeling?
Could you repeat level 7 while continuing to train level 8 and possibly move up during season if you're prepared?
Otherwise I do think Xcel diamond could be a good move.
Gymcastic
And then All Things Gymnastics is another
Neutral Deductions for Men's program news
And then the Sam Oldham podcast is really good, mostly interviews with athletes current and former.
Lynn08 is correct.
Gold is considered entry level so bronze and silver are not required at all. In order to compete platinum, a score out at gold would be required.
The repercussions would be not being eligible to compete or earn awards at conceptions where someone checks. I know there were...
I know as a coach, I need a professional to tell me exactly what an athlete can and cannot do. It is actually required in our team handbook. Having your doctor, or even better, specialist or physical therapist, spell out your exact limitations, exercises that will help you, etc, really help me...
A tip that I got while being mentored as a young coach is to break down the major skills you're working on. What muscles are involved? What shapes are they moving through? Then you can come up with exercises to help with those skills.