Parents Financial Transparency?

[NCGymnMomma]

Hi all, this is our DD first year on team. Level Xcel silver at a competitive gym in NC.

We are wondering if our experience with the lack of financial transparency is normal.

Examples:
- team pool fund from fundraiser funds: we have no idea how much is raised, where it goes, what it is used for. etc
- coach costs for meets: we are given a flat fee for travel, per diem and coaching cost. HOWEVER, cost is a few dollars different than a meet far away, more days included? We are given no idea of cost breakdown, how much coaches get paid, etc. (and when we asked we are reprimanded for started drama or that we should just ‘be grateful’ and be supportive of our girls.
- staff pay: I am aware that staff is no longer ‘on the books’ and being paid under the table. (This is what sparked my concern along with the backlash when asking any questions)


1) re: $$$ — is this normal? I have no experience in gymnastics. I have experience with team/clubs in other sports. We are given full breakdown of costs and funds raised.

2) re: aggressive responses for asking questions — Is this how most gyms and coaches are? They just continually tell you that you owe money (outside of monthly fee and uniforms) and then get defensive if you ask for transparency?

3) do we suck it up and keep bleeding money for our child, or are we correct in being concerned? I understand that any club team is hella expensive today and would expect to spend loads of money. But is lack of transparency normal?

TIA

 

[Dahlialover]

1. “Fundraisers” can only be done by nonprofit organizations, not businesses. Nonprofits, like the parent booster clubs, need to have legal status as a 501c3 and follow specific procedures to raise funds. If a business is doing a “fundraiser” then they are actually just doing business while violating labor laws and committing tax fraud. Same goes for paying coaches under-the-table, it’s tax fraud and a violation of labor laws. It’s a crime.

2. If you pay meet-fees directly to the gym, then you are not entitled to a breakdown of how your money is spent. (It’s like buying a hamburger at a restaurant: they don’t have to tell you how much they pay the cook). However, you should be informed, well in advance, what your annual meet fees will cost and what will be covered. You should never get unexpected bills. At most gyms, there is a written contract that details the costs and other procedures.

3. They are obviously unethical business owners and you should get away from them as quickly as possible.