Parents Preparation grade 1 age 8 (nearly 9) - is it possible?

[Dbecca]

My daughter (aged 7) was moved into a 3 day a week squad in August, with the aim of completing the prep grade 1 in February. Prior to moving to 3 days a week she was making great progress.

After asking for an update last week, I was told she isn’t ready for grades and she will temporarily move back to 2 days a week.

I’m a bit disappointed (as is she because she’s being moved back and had been really proud of moving up) as I was under the impression gymnasts have to complete grades the year they turn 8. She will turn 8 in May. Does this mean if she doesn’t do grades this February, she won’t be the right age to do grades next year? She will be 8 years 9 months by then. I’ve tried to find this out online but can’t work it if I’ve understood correctly…Her coach has said it doesn’t mean she’ll never do grades but she didn’t say if it would be possible next year. I’m worried it’s less likely in the future for her to be on a national pathway if it doesn’t happen at this point. She’s been on track for this since she was 4 and it seems that this is a pivotal age in gymnastics.

Also, I feel as if my daughter regressed after being moved to 3 days. Has anyone else’s child ever experienced this?
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[rd7]

Hi there, Prep 1 is a regional grade and your region will decide which age is the maximum to compete. Your daughter will be gym year 8 in 2026 and gym year 9 in 2027. This usually isn't too old to compete the Prep 1 grade.
It may look like she's regressing as the skills are very simple with the aim for them to be nearly perfect. Did your coach say why she isn't ready? It will generally be bars strength, flexibility for the Range and Conditioning, or her not really enjoying the repetitive nature of trying to perfect the skills.
The coaches do know which is the best path for their gymnasts so I wouldn't worry too much about whether she competes Prep 1 or not.

 

[Dbecca]

Hi, thanks for your reply. That’s good to know.

Bars is what’s holding her back mainly. Just worried as I thought prep 1 was something they needed to continue progressing through grades.

I’m sure they do know what’s best and it’s not a criticism of them. Regression could be for lots of reasons, but as her mum I’m invested in her gymnastics journey and want her to achieve her potential, plus she tries hard and loves the sport. Just don’t want it to hold her back in future if she hasn’t done it, that’s all. Thanks again.