Coaches Connecting with Rec

[Mom.coach.director]

What is one thing you love that your gym does to better connect with the recreational program and students?

 

[raenndrops]

Our team doesn't practice in July.
For 2 weeks in July (M-F for 2 hours a day), there are gymnastics camps (it is the same each week, but usually with different kids). Any team gymnast who competed the previous season ... or really, any previous season ... can come and be volunteer "Junior Camp Counselors." They can work with the campers at different stations, and they can even help the campers come up with floor and beam routines for the SHOWCASE on Friday.
The gymnasts are all evaluated on day 1, especially those that aren't in our rec program to determine groups for the week.
The highest group learns either the Level 2 or Level 3 floor and beam routines (Level 3 is usually with modifications). The other groups create their routines within their skill abilities. For example, on floor, they have to do a jump, a leap, a turn, and an acro skill. They get to choose a floor music from a set of 30 second musics I made years ago.
If the camper is nervous, their junior counselor can go out and do the routine beside them or just remind them what to do next.
Everyone has a good time, and at the end of the showcase, there is an awards presentation ... on the podium ... including each gymnast saluting with their medal around their neck.
After that, the kids can show their parents things they learned on all events.

Junior counselors can stay after for about an hour 2-3 days each week to get some practice of their own.

We have been known to invite gymnasts from camp to join team if they are ready.