Comparatively little xcel in Oregon, BTW...and wide variety of JO programs. Its region 2, so due to low population density and fewer deep coaching staffs, overall less competitive than other regions, but some very well trained kids come out of here...
Portland has quite a few teams, mostly on the west side. Nadyenov is definitely the "elite" type training team, and their girls are young and clean. I've heard that their hours are much higher than others but that is absolutely just hearsay - they do look great! No idea how happy they are.
MAC and Omega have produced lots of Level 9-10s over the 7 years my kids have competed against them. Precision Elite is newer and growing (not much on the East side of Portland), thus their lower number of upper level kids. We are not directly in that area, just see the Portland teams at most meets, and I've sat through A LOT OF MEETS, so that's my perspective.
Basically lots of choices but not tons (or really any) big powerhouse gyms. I know several people who have moved then checked the gyms out before chosing - and drive a bit if need be.
Like all areas, there has been coaching flux and some gyms that are strong boys programs aren't the strongest girls. Depending upon where you are coming from you may be surprised overall. As a small region and state, in general teams are more accepting of hard working pleasant kids who may not be rockstars, but there are still good coaches and differences in team atmosphere.
Good luck and welcome to the Northwest!
