GGIRGC
WELCOME TO THE
Greater Green Island Rhythmic Gymnastics Club
Founded in 1980
A guide for Parents
January 2021
We hope that you find this booklet contains useful information about our club, and the beautiful sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics.
Rhythmic Gymnastics is a sport that incorporates dance and ballet with the use of apparatus: Ribbon, Ball, Clubs, Hoop and Rope. Performed to music, this sport develops excellent
hand-eye coordination, flexibility, strength and a sense of rhythm and agility.
Our Club Background
The Greater Green Island Gym Club was founded in 1980 by Vicky Forrester (now Begg) who was significantly involved up until a decade ago when she moved to Brisbane. The club started off with about 80 gymnasts and a waiting list which was huge. Since then we have decreased in size to around 50, which is the perfect number of the wonderful little club. We currently have 45 members and aim to keep our numbers at a maximum of 60 to ensure that quality coaching is provided. Throughout the years GGI has been alive, we have set a name for ourselves by being a very friendly, motivating, caring and cheerful bunch of people. Rather like a great big family. Our aim is to keep this name alive as this is what makes a great club.
We cater for girls from 5 years old. When gymnasts start with us we like to teach them the basics of rhythmic gymnastics. The girls are first familiarised with each apparatus and then we move on to the more technical skills. We hope you enjoy your time with us at GGI.
About Rhythmic Gymnastics
There are five parts to Rhythmic Gymnastics in NZ: International Development, Groups, Levels, Secondary Schools and Incentive Awards. At GGI we currently offer programmes and have members competing in Levels and Groups. We are affiliated to New Zealand Gymnastics and have the potential to offer international development and assistance with the national secondary championships where a gymnast may represent their school instead of the club. However, there is not currently a secondary school network of competitions in Dunedin.
Levels
This is the main programme offered for girls to compete in. It is based on ability and there is a level for everyone. The requirements in the levels get harder as you move up also the eligibility for International Competitions becomes available once in Level 7. Once Level 5 is reached the option becomes available to be selected for the Otago Team.
Groups
Group is when there are multiple gymnasts working together out on the floor competing. Groups consist of 4/5 gymnasts. This is a fun part to the sport as it includes lots of teamwork, cooperation, sportsmanship and interaction with others. Group requires extra commitment and dedication, which are great skills to have.
Pre-International Stages/International
This is a stream for gymnasts identified as elite by coaches and judges. These gymnasts must have the potential to represent New Zealand at an exceptionally high level and includes travelling worldwide for international competitions (in times where COVID-19 does not impact travel).
Training Venues
For Rhythmic Gymnastics we require a wooden floor to train on and for the senior girls a roof that is a minimum of 10 meters high. Dunedin is very limited in the availability of suitable options but we have found our home at the Caledonian Gymnasium. 2021 will again see all the girls training in this facility of which we share with other gymnastics clubs and a variety of other sport and leisure activities from around the city.
Apparatus / Levels for 2021 (NZ)
Level 1 Free, Hoop
Level 2 Free, Ball
Level 3 Free, Rope, Hoop
Level 4 Free, Rope, Ball
Level 5 Free, Hoop, Clubs
Level 6 Hoop, Ball, Ribbon
Level 7 Rope, Ball, Clubs
Level 8 Rope, Hoop, Ball, Clubs
Level 9 Rope, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon
Level 10 Hoop, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon
Terms
The club follows the Primary school terms, but generally continues through some of the school holidays as these fall during the busy gym time in regards to routines and competitions. If training does continue through a holiday period the girls will get another holiday where possible to make up for it.
Conditioning
Conditioning is an important part of gymnastics. To avoid injury, it is important that our gymnasts are strong and to make sure that their bodies can handle the flexibility. Conditioning is included in every training session from younger girls right through to the seniors. During the first few years the basic techniques are taught and as the girls start to get more competitive, conditioning becomes part of their warm-up!
Dance
Ballet is compulsory for anyone competing in the international stream. It is a requirement of NZ Gymnastics. We encourage these gymnasts to attend a Ballet class outside of the gym and for any other gymnasts if interested to attend ballet as it is a wonderful help to your daughter’s performance and presentation on the competition floor. Other forms of dance, such as jazz, that encourage finding “flare” in your gymnasts dance style are also highly recommended as this is a major part of the judging in competition for the current code of points. Having body and facial expression as well as dance technique is a distinguishable aspect of Rhythmic Gymnastics.
Parents Attendance at Training
At GGI we have a closed training policy for all competitive athletes which means that spectating is prohibited unless otherwise arranged with your daughter’s coach. This is aligned with other dance institutions and has been implemented in the best interest of your child. We aim to keep distractions for them and the coaches to a minimum and it is important to keep the focus on training and listening to the coach. We will offer opportunities at the conclusion of each term and at competitions to watch the girls. Our expectations of the closed training is that parents do not sit in on classes. You may to enter the stands 10min before class finishing. Girls should also pack up quickly and leave the training area, so the following classes can continue in a closed manner. Social discussions after class should be out the back or downstairs. You are more than welcome to utilise the back room, where we have provided couches, tables, TV with DVD’s as well as tea and coffee for your enjoyment while you wait for your child to finish training.
The Recreational/ Level 1 class on a Saturday is open to parents, however we ask that you refrain from interacting with your child for the duration of the session.
Committee / Parent Support
When you join our club, your support is needed to ensure our club continues to grow and operate successfully. The club has a basic committee: President, Treasurer, Secretary, Coaching Coordinator, Fundraising Coordinator and Competitions Secretary - new members are always welcome! It is a good chance to get involved in your daughter’s sport and see what goes on behind the scenes. Meetings are held once a month at the Caledonian Gymnasium. Parents support at competitions is also necessary and greatly appreciated. We do require your help at 2/3 competitions per year to make sure that they run smoothly.
Fundraising
As we are such a small club fundraising is an essential part of belonging to GGI. In order to keep costs to a minimum and to support our gymnasts and coaches, parents are expected to fully participate in this aspect of our club, either by donations, time or labour. FUNDRAISERS ARE A GOOD SOCIAL TIME TO MEET AND MIX WITH OTHER PARENTS AND FAMILIES. We try to have at least one type of Fundraising Event per term. Please contact your daughter’s coach or a committee member if you have any new ideas for raising funds for our girls.
Notices
All physical newsletters/ notices/ information/ fundraising is put into the notice drawers that are at the entrance of the gymnasium. Please check the drawer relevant to your daughter (they are sorted in levels) at the beginning or end of each training session. There may often be nothing there for you but please check this regularly just in case. Everything will be named so take anything with you or your child’s name on it.
Email is our main form of contact to parents so please check and respond to these regularly. All competition entry forms are sent out electronically and must be returned by a certain deadline, so it is important that you keep up to date with this correspondence. You may also receive emails from your gymnast’s coach, so it is important that you provide an email address that you access often.
Text messages will be sent by coaches to their classes when required. Please respond to these messages to acknowledge that they have been received.
Our Facebook and Instagram pages often have reminders of upcoming events and important notices. We advise following these platforms as an extra way of receiving information.
Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ggirhythmicgymnastics
Find us on Instagram: @ggirhythmic
Costs
Equipment
The club has a small amount of equipment available for our gymnasts to use. Once gymnasts are competing seriously, it is expected that they begin to purchase their own equipment, so it is appropriate for their individual size. Equipment can be purchased through ‘Amco Gymnastics’ or ‘BagIt RG’ in Australia or Rhythmic Worldwide in NZ. There are a growing number of websites and businesses selling Rhythmic equipment. Don’t forget to check out TradeMe or various Facebook selling groups to find good quality secondhand equipment and leotards. It is also worth asking around other GGI members to see if they are selling any equipment that they no longer use. Your coach can advise you on purchases and requirements.
Equipment websites:
www.amco.com.au
www.rhythmicworldwide.co.nz.
www.bagitrg.com
Decorating equipment
We advise that the gymnasts equipment match their leotard as closely as possible. Hoops are easily interchangeable to allow for this, by removing the tape and redecorating them with duraseal or rhythmic specific hoop tape that is also available on the aforementioned websites. After decorating, seal in your hard work with a tight layer of invisible cello tape. Although our coaches are experts in this task, it is easier than it looks, so we recommend you give it a go yourselves to minimise the workload of our busy coaches. If you do not think you can do it yourself, please ask your coach if they can, with plenty of notice. It is a kind gesture to offer compensation for the cost of materials as this can get expensive for the coaches.
Leotards
Once gymnasts are competing, they need to wear a leotard at competitions. Lycra is available from most Dunedin fabric shops if you are able to sew them yourselves. Leotard makers are also working in Dunedin and stock a variety of Lycra. Before you do get a leotard made, please discuss with your coach as the Gymnastics NZ has some set requirements on leotards. Second-hand leotards are available through the club and the likes of TradeMe and a variety of Facebook selling groups. For Levels 1-3 gymnasts, our GGI club leotard is available to hire for $5 per competition.
Decorating leotards
You will soon see that sparkles on leotards are very popular in Rhythmic Gymnastics. Additional sparkles are not a requirement, however if you would like your leotards decorated you can purchase the materials required from razzledazzle.nz and give this a go yourself or if you do not think you can do it yourself, please ask your coach if they can, with plenty of notice. It is a kind gesture to offer compensation for the cost of materials as this can get expensive for the coaches.
Alternatively, contact Regan (at the gym or email regan.ggi@gmail.com) to have your leotard decorated. This service is an option for you although is completed in her spare time so requires plenty of notice to complete.
She offers the following services:
Fix up of lost diamantes: $15 – requires at least 2 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Full leotard Lite (dispersed sparkles): $30 - requires at least 4 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Full leotard (full coverage and high volume): $50 approx. (depending on size of leotard) - requires at least 6 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Tracksuits
The Club has a tracksuit and Singlet that are recommended and encouraged to be worn by all competitive gymnasts. The tracksuits will be hired out to all gymnasts at a small fee per year. Please email ggigymclub@gmail.com to order tracksuits and to purchase singlets.
Club Uniform
Training: Club uniform is compulsory for Level 4+. This consists of the club training singlet and black leggings. It is optional to wear a black training leotard under the singlet.
Younger gymnasts are welcome to purchase a singlet as it makes it easy on parents and gymnasts because you know longer have to worry about what your daughter wears to training. It also looks very formal when all our girls are wearing the same thing and therefore is compulsory at competitions. It is important to train in breathable, stretchy and tight-fitting clothing for the safety of the gymnasts. We recommend leggings and a training leotard or singlet/t-shirt. Denim, skirts or baggy shorts are not acceptable training attire.
Competitions: The warm uniform consists of tight singlet and black bike shorts/tights for level 1-3 gymnasts, Level 4 and above are to wear club singlets and black bike tights.
All other times in the gym (including supporting other members) Gymnasts are to be in full tracksuit including black socks and hair tied back off their face. Black socks are essential at prizegiving and presentations so please ensure your child has these. Tidy (preferably sports style) shoes are to be worn with the tracksuit. Please no ugg boots or slippers while wearingthe tracksuit. We take pride in our club and aim to be well represented through tidy uniform and polite behaviour.
Microfleeces were introduced in 2017 to our club uniform to tackle the winter months. Although this is an optional piece of our uniform, we highly encourage making an order for these as they are ideal for keeping warm and safe during training during the colder seasons. STRICTLY NO HOODIES OR BAGGY SWEATERS are allowed as they are not only dangerous, but also difficult for the coaches to see the shapes and alignment of the gymnast’s body and movements. Orders for microfleeces are made when there is enough interest for a bulk order. If you are interested, please email the club
( ggigymclub@gmail.com ) or speak to Rebecca Tomlinson.
Club Hoodies are our newest addition but are more for casual wear outside of training or for coming to and from the gym. Orders are done throughout the year. You will be informed when an order is being put through. These hoodies have the option to be personalised and have our club logo and name on them. To be clear however, hoodies are not to be trained in.
Club Fees
The club attempts to set fees at a minimum for parents but must cover hall hire and coaches expenses. Fees are set as soon as the number of gymnasts attending classes is known.
Fees are sent out quarterly, based on the four-term school year. Your fees can be paid online, given to your coach at training or sent to the treasurer (whose address is on the bill). Extra costs such as holiday training (when appropriate), music fee’s and administration fees are also added onto your bill.
Association Fees
There is a Registration Fee that must be paid by every gymnast. This includes both competing and recreational gymnasts. This is set by NZ Gymnastics and is a levy which is required to cover costs such as coaching manuals, coaches training, newsletters and general NZ Gymnastics costs. This amount varies and depends on whether your daughter is a senior or junior gymnast.
Competition Fees
Competition fees must be paid to the club before the gymnast competes. These fees can range from $15.00 to $60.00 depending on whether it is a championship competition or not. Your daughter will not be able to compete in a competition if the fees have not been paid. Gymnasts competing in both Individual and Group competitions will have an entry fee for both disciplines.
Coaches
Our club now has 9 coaches ranging from Junior Rhythmic Qualified to trainee coaches.
In 2021 our coaches are:
Regan King 027 781-3444. regan.ggi@gmail.com
Lauren Isaacs 027 906-5433. lisaacs098@gmail.com
Jessica Christie 027 450-7790. jessicachristie@shcs.school.nz
Georgia Broadley 027 488-1116. georgiagbroadley@gmail.com
Ella-Rose Capil 022 348-5160. ellarosecapil@gmail.com
Lauren Eddington 027 738-1663 lauren.eddington@hotmail.com
Georgia Tomlinson 022 159-2951 georgiat1248@gmail.com
Anna Aitcheson 022 357-1129. Anna.r.aitcheson@gmail.com
Mel Vlok 022 486-7095 melandri_vlok@yahoo.com.au
Regan King is about to begin her second year as a teacher at a Dunedin High School. Regan has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Health, Wellness and Physical Activity) and Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning. Regan was an Otago and NZ Representative for many years and has brought home a collection of medals from the NZ National Champs. She is our head coach as well as a senior qualified judge and is extremely dedicated to Rhythmic Gymnastics. Regan coaches our senior levels and groups as well as assisting with the Level 1 and Recreational gymnasts. Regan has Junior coach qualification
Lauren Isaacs has recently retired from competing in Rhythmic Gymnastics but is looking forward to dedicating her time to coaching in 2021. She had a successful career as an individual and group gymnast with many achievements to her name such as 1st place in the New Zealand nationals for her Hoop routine and many other placings over the years as an Otago representative. Lauren is passionate about passing on her knowledge and experience to the younger generations. In 2021, she will be coaching Level 3, 4, 5 and Grades 2 & 4 Group. Lauren has completed her Junior accredited Coach qualification
Jessica is a year 13 student at St Hilda’s Collegiate. She has represented Otago for the past 4 years for group. 2021 will be her first year without training and competing as a gymnast herself. Jess has completed her Elementary Coach qualification. While continuing her progression through the coaching qualifications and schoolwork, Jess will be coaching Level 3 and Grade 2 Group.
Georgia Broadley has been training at GGIRGC since 2013 where she first competed as an individual gymnast and later became part of a group, representing Otago at the NZ Nationals for the past three national competitions. Georgia has finished competing gymnastics as of this year as she is beginning a Bachelor of Commerce at Otago University. However, she will continue her coaching with the level 1 class which she took over last year after co-coaching the level 3’s for a year. Georgia is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Ella-Rose Capil has been at GGIRGC since 2019 competing in grade 5 group. Ella-Rose has represented Otago at four NZ Nationals. She has now finished competing as she is beginning her Bachelor of Teaching at Otago University. She will continue coaching the level 2 class that she became primary coach of in 2020. Ella-Rose is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Georgia Tomlinson is a year 11 student at Queens High School. Georgia is a level 6 gymnast. Georgia has completed the Gymnastics NZ Xtnd coaching programme which is the first step in the coaching qualification pathway. This season Georgia will be assisting our Level 2 classes and the Level 1 class.
Lauren Eddington brings knowledge in dance, performance, and strength training. Her dance experience includes years of ballet, contemporary, jazz, and even teaching music video (kpop) choreography. She is a self-coached athlete having competed in bodybuilding previously, and has represented New Zealand in powerlifting, earning commonwealth medals. This year Lauren is helping coach the level 5/6s and Grade 4 group. Lauren is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Melandri Vlok is an archaeologist by day having just completed her PhD at Otago University. She has 15 years of coaching and judging experience under her belt, having coached rhythmic in Australia at state and national level. Prior to this, she herself competed at State and National level in Australia. Mel will assist in coaching Level 1 and the Senior classes.
Anna Aitcheson has done Rhythmic gymnastics since 2011 and recently joined GGIRGC in 2019 competing with the grade 5 group. She has represented Otago at two NZ national competitions and has now finished competing. Anna is year 12 at Otago Girls High School. She will assist with a variety of classes at GGI this year.
Gymnastic Year
The gymnastic year runs approximately like this:
Registration Day
Normally held late January. Girls will receive Class List, Club Profile, and Club Booklet, will fill out appropriate forms, Order Previous years club Photo, Enrolment Forms, Training Gear orders, Fees paid up and anything else that is required.
Term 1
Gym begins in February with competition gymnasts perfecting routines and recreational classes become familiar with equipment and begin learning skills. Senior gymnasts finishing off all routines and the first competition being at the end of March. Gymnasts who wish to be considered for selection for the New Zealand Team will have trials in February.
Term 2
Competition season is in full swing for the seniors by term 2. Senior Girls (level 5 and above) are working towards achieving good results in hope of being selected for the 2020 Otago Team. Otago Team is also announced, and the New Zealand National Champs are held at the end of Term Two.
Term 3
Competition season is in full swing for the juniors with Christchurch Club and Dunedin Competitions. The seniors are now given a break from training after nationals and start working on their skills for the next competition season.
Term 4
Competition season comes to an end for the juniors and girls start relaxing and working on Christmas break up displays as well as preparing for the next competition season and working on the following years routines/perfecting them.
Closing Day
This is our Christmas break up held in December at the conclusion of term 4. It is a fun day in which all classes perform a display and awards for the year are presented. This marks the cessation of junior training while seniors may continue with holiday sessions in preparation for the coming year.
Competitions
The competition calendar is available on our website as well as the Gymnastics NZ website:
http://www.ggirhythmic.co.nz/competitions.html
https://www.gymnasticsnz.com/national-events-calendar/
Please keep in mind that travel, accommodation and other expenses related to travel both within and outside of NZ will be at gymnasts/parents expense. From time to time we do our best to apply for funding to assist our traveling gymnasts but do not count on it. Christchurch competitions are a lot of fun and a great experience for the girls. They are not compulsory but we strongly suggest at least one Christchurch trip a year would be nothing but beneficial to your daughters. The Canterbury Champs is one of the main competitions in Christchurch. We like to make this competition a club trip and take as many girls as possible up. Auckland trips are also a great experience and we would like to take a team away to one Auckland Competition if possible, this year so please keep that in the back of your mind.
Otago Team Selection 2020
Girls must be Level 5 -10, Grade 3+ or Stage 3+ to be eligible for selection for the 2020 Otago Team.
Gymnasts must achieve a qualifying mark at one sanctioned competition throughout the year to be considered for selection. Once the qualifying mark is achieved, they then will be considered by the selection panels to travel to Nationals. Selection is determined through NZ Gymnastics who ranks all gymnasts in a level throughout the country. The top 20 and then invited to compete. It is therefore beneficial to compete in as many competitions as possible as the highest mark is taken for ranking. Qualifying Marks will be available to your coach.
Code of Conduct in the Gym
- Gymnasts must be ready to train at the time stated on their timetable.
- Long hair should be tied back off the face; headbands are not acceptable as they continue to fall off.
- Gymnasts should wear clothes that allow easy movement; layers are the best so they can be taken off as they get warmer. Leotards, bike shorts, tights and tight t-shirts are ideal. Polyprops are best for the winter. No jeans or skirts please.
- The training gym is a closed space; parents may not observe classes unless prior agreement with coach is arranged.
- Competition gymnasts must remember to bring their equipment to each class to ensure effective training.
- Each gymnast must bring a drink bottle to training. It is extremely important that when we are exercising that we keep up our fluid intake.
- Should your child not be attending class for any reason, it is important and also courteous to ring and inform their coach. Phone numbers are available in this book, please text them during class time on their cell phone or contact Regan and she will pass the message on. If a coach is sick, we will endeavour to find a replacement however if class is cancelled an extra session will be offered later in the term make up for it.
- We ask all our gymnasts to respect their teammates and also their coach. If your daughter does misbehave, you as her parents will be rung to come and collect her. Bullying or disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.
If you as the parents or your daughters have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask one of the coaches or committee members. We are here to help you understand Rhythmic Gymnastics. We as a club ensure that all decisions are made in the best interest of our gymnasts, as well as push them to be their best and gain maximum enjoyment and improvement from their training. We are a family club and need everyone to help us keep it this way. We are proud of our girls and we like to make sure that they are happy! J
Enjoy and all the best for 2020,
The GGI Coaching Team!
WELCOME TO THE
Greater Green Island Rhythmic Gymnastics Club
Founded in 1980
A guide for Parents
January 2021
We hope that you find this booklet contains useful information about our club, and the beautiful sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics.
Rhythmic Gymnastics is a sport that incorporates dance and ballet with the use of apparatus: Ribbon, Ball, Clubs, Hoop and Rope. Performed to music, this sport develops excellent
hand-eye coordination, flexibility, strength and a sense of rhythm and agility.
Our Club Background
The Greater Green Island Gym Club was founded in 1980 by Vicky Forrester (now Begg) who was significantly involved up until a decade ago when she moved to Brisbane. The club started off with about 80 gymnasts and a waiting list which was huge. Since then we have decreased in size to around 50, which is the perfect number of the wonderful little club. We currently have 45 members and aim to keep our numbers at a maximum of 60 to ensure that quality coaching is provided. Throughout the years GGI has been alive, we have set a name for ourselves by being a very friendly, motivating, caring and cheerful bunch of people. Rather like a great big family. Our aim is to keep this name alive as this is what makes a great club.
We cater for girls from 5 years old. When gymnasts start with us we like to teach them the basics of rhythmic gymnastics. The girls are first familiarised with each apparatus and then we move on to the more technical skills. We hope you enjoy your time with us at GGI.
About Rhythmic Gymnastics
There are five parts to Rhythmic Gymnastics in NZ: International Development, Groups, Levels, Secondary Schools and Incentive Awards. At GGI we currently offer programmes and have members competing in Levels and Groups. We are affiliated to New Zealand Gymnastics and have the potential to offer international development and assistance with the national secondary championships where a gymnast may represent their school instead of the club. However, there is not currently a secondary school network of competitions in Dunedin.
Levels
This is the main programme offered for girls to compete in. It is based on ability and there is a level for everyone. The requirements in the levels get harder as you move up also the eligibility for International Competitions becomes available once in Level 7. Once Level 5 is reached the option becomes available to be selected for the Otago Team.
Groups
Group is when there are multiple gymnasts working together out on the floor competing. Groups consist of 4/5 gymnasts. This is a fun part to the sport as it includes lots of teamwork, cooperation, sportsmanship and interaction with others. Group requires extra commitment and dedication, which are great skills to have.
Pre-International Stages/International
This is a stream for gymnasts identified as elite by coaches and judges. These gymnasts must have the potential to represent New Zealand at an exceptionally high level and includes travelling worldwide for international competitions (in times where COVID-19 does not impact travel).
Training Venues
For Rhythmic Gymnastics we require a wooden floor to train on and for the senior girls a roof that is a minimum of 10 meters high. Dunedin is very limited in the availability of suitable options but we have found our home at the Caledonian Gymnasium. 2021 will again see all the girls training in this facility of which we share with other gymnastics clubs and a variety of other sport and leisure activities from around the city.
Apparatus / Levels for 2021 (NZ)
Level 1 Free, Hoop
Level 2 Free, Ball
Level 3 Free, Rope, Hoop
Level 4 Free, Rope, Ball
Level 5 Free, Hoop, Clubs
Level 6 Hoop, Ball, Ribbon
Level 7 Rope, Ball, Clubs
Level 8 Rope, Hoop, Ball, Clubs
Level 9 Rope, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon
Level 10 Hoop, Ball, Clubs, Ribbon
Terms
The club follows the Primary school terms, but generally continues through some of the school holidays as these fall during the busy gym time in regards to routines and competitions. If training does continue through a holiday period the girls will get another holiday where possible to make up for it.
Conditioning
Conditioning is an important part of gymnastics. To avoid injury, it is important that our gymnasts are strong and to make sure that their bodies can handle the flexibility. Conditioning is included in every training session from younger girls right through to the seniors. During the first few years the basic techniques are taught and as the girls start to get more competitive, conditioning becomes part of their warm-up!
Dance
Ballet is compulsory for anyone competing in the international stream. It is a requirement of NZ Gymnastics. We encourage these gymnasts to attend a Ballet class outside of the gym and for any other gymnasts if interested to attend ballet as it is a wonderful help to your daughter’s performance and presentation on the competition floor. Other forms of dance, such as jazz, that encourage finding “flare” in your gymnasts dance style are also highly recommended as this is a major part of the judging in competition for the current code of points. Having body and facial expression as well as dance technique is a distinguishable aspect of Rhythmic Gymnastics.
Parents Attendance at Training
At GGI we have a closed training policy for all competitive athletes which means that spectating is prohibited unless otherwise arranged with your daughter’s coach. This is aligned with other dance institutions and has been implemented in the best interest of your child. We aim to keep distractions for them and the coaches to a minimum and it is important to keep the focus on training and listening to the coach. We will offer opportunities at the conclusion of each term and at competitions to watch the girls. Our expectations of the closed training is that parents do not sit in on classes. You may to enter the stands 10min before class finishing. Girls should also pack up quickly and leave the training area, so the following classes can continue in a closed manner. Social discussions after class should be out the back or downstairs. You are more than welcome to utilise the back room, where we have provided couches, tables, TV with DVD’s as well as tea and coffee for your enjoyment while you wait for your child to finish training.
The Recreational/ Level 1 class on a Saturday is open to parents, however we ask that you refrain from interacting with your child for the duration of the session.
Committee / Parent Support
When you join our club, your support is needed to ensure our club continues to grow and operate successfully. The club has a basic committee: President, Treasurer, Secretary, Coaching Coordinator, Fundraising Coordinator and Competitions Secretary - new members are always welcome! It is a good chance to get involved in your daughter’s sport and see what goes on behind the scenes. Meetings are held once a month at the Caledonian Gymnasium. Parents support at competitions is also necessary and greatly appreciated. We do require your help at 2/3 competitions per year to make sure that they run smoothly.
Fundraising
As we are such a small club fundraising is an essential part of belonging to GGI. In order to keep costs to a minimum and to support our gymnasts and coaches, parents are expected to fully participate in this aspect of our club, either by donations, time or labour. FUNDRAISERS ARE A GOOD SOCIAL TIME TO MEET AND MIX WITH OTHER PARENTS AND FAMILIES. We try to have at least one type of Fundraising Event per term. Please contact your daughter’s coach or a committee member if you have any new ideas for raising funds for our girls.
Notices
All physical newsletters/ notices/ information/ fundraising is put into the notice drawers that are at the entrance of the gymnasium. Please check the drawer relevant to your daughter (they are sorted in levels) at the beginning or end of each training session. There may often be nothing there for you but please check this regularly just in case. Everything will be named so take anything with you or your child’s name on it.
Email is our main form of contact to parents so please check and respond to these regularly. All competition entry forms are sent out electronically and must be returned by a certain deadline, so it is important that you keep up to date with this correspondence. You may also receive emails from your gymnast’s coach, so it is important that you provide an email address that you access often.
Text messages will be sent by coaches to their classes when required. Please respond to these messages to acknowledge that they have been received.
Our Facebook and Instagram pages often have reminders of upcoming events and important notices. We advise following these platforms as an extra way of receiving information.
Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ggirhythmicgymnastics
Find us on Instagram: @ggirhythmic
Costs
Equipment
The club has a small amount of equipment available for our gymnasts to use. Once gymnasts are competing seriously, it is expected that they begin to purchase their own equipment, so it is appropriate for their individual size. Equipment can be purchased through ‘Amco Gymnastics’ or ‘BagIt RG’ in Australia or Rhythmic Worldwide in NZ. There are a growing number of websites and businesses selling Rhythmic equipment. Don’t forget to check out TradeMe or various Facebook selling groups to find good quality secondhand equipment and leotards. It is also worth asking around other GGI members to see if they are selling any equipment that they no longer use. Your coach can advise you on purchases and requirements.
Equipment websites:
www.amco.com.au
www.rhythmicworldwide.co.nz.
www.bagitrg.com
Decorating equipment
We advise that the gymnasts equipment match their leotard as closely as possible. Hoops are easily interchangeable to allow for this, by removing the tape and redecorating them with duraseal or rhythmic specific hoop tape that is also available on the aforementioned websites. After decorating, seal in your hard work with a tight layer of invisible cello tape. Although our coaches are experts in this task, it is easier than it looks, so we recommend you give it a go yourselves to minimise the workload of our busy coaches. If you do not think you can do it yourself, please ask your coach if they can, with plenty of notice. It is a kind gesture to offer compensation for the cost of materials as this can get expensive for the coaches.
Leotards
Once gymnasts are competing, they need to wear a leotard at competitions. Lycra is available from most Dunedin fabric shops if you are able to sew them yourselves. Leotard makers are also working in Dunedin and stock a variety of Lycra. Before you do get a leotard made, please discuss with your coach as the Gymnastics NZ has some set requirements on leotards. Second-hand leotards are available through the club and the likes of TradeMe and a variety of Facebook selling groups. For Levels 1-3 gymnasts, our GGI club leotard is available to hire for $5 per competition.
Decorating leotards
You will soon see that sparkles on leotards are very popular in Rhythmic Gymnastics. Additional sparkles are not a requirement, however if you would like your leotards decorated you can purchase the materials required from razzledazzle.nz and give this a go yourself or if you do not think you can do it yourself, please ask your coach if they can, with plenty of notice. It is a kind gesture to offer compensation for the cost of materials as this can get expensive for the coaches.
Alternatively, contact Regan (at the gym or email regan.ggi@gmail.com) to have your leotard decorated. This service is an option for you although is completed in her spare time so requires plenty of notice to complete.
She offers the following services:
Fix up of lost diamantes: $15 – requires at least 2 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Full leotard Lite (dispersed sparkles): $30 - requires at least 4 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Full leotard (full coverage and high volume): $50 approx. (depending on size of leotard) - requires at least 6 weeks prior notice before you require it to be completed.
Tracksuits
The Club has a tracksuit and Singlet that are recommended and encouraged to be worn by all competitive gymnasts. The tracksuits will be hired out to all gymnasts at a small fee per year. Please email ggigymclub@gmail.com to order tracksuits and to purchase singlets.
Club Uniform
Training: Club uniform is compulsory for Level 4+. This consists of the club training singlet and black leggings. It is optional to wear a black training leotard under the singlet.
Younger gymnasts are welcome to purchase a singlet as it makes it easy on parents and gymnasts because you know longer have to worry about what your daughter wears to training. It also looks very formal when all our girls are wearing the same thing and therefore is compulsory at competitions. It is important to train in breathable, stretchy and tight-fitting clothing for the safety of the gymnasts. We recommend leggings and a training leotard or singlet/t-shirt. Denim, skirts or baggy shorts are not acceptable training attire.
Competitions: The warm uniform consists of tight singlet and black bike shorts/tights for level 1-3 gymnasts, Level 4 and above are to wear club singlets and black bike tights.
All other times in the gym (including supporting other members) Gymnasts are to be in full tracksuit including black socks and hair tied back off their face. Black socks are essential at prizegiving and presentations so please ensure your child has these. Tidy (preferably sports style) shoes are to be worn with the tracksuit. Please no ugg boots or slippers while wearingthe tracksuit. We take pride in our club and aim to be well represented through tidy uniform and polite behaviour.
Microfleeces were introduced in 2017 to our club uniform to tackle the winter months. Although this is an optional piece of our uniform, we highly encourage making an order for these as they are ideal for keeping warm and safe during training during the colder seasons. STRICTLY NO HOODIES OR BAGGY SWEATERS are allowed as they are not only dangerous, but also difficult for the coaches to see the shapes and alignment of the gymnast’s body and movements. Orders for microfleeces are made when there is enough interest for a bulk order. If you are interested, please email the club
( ggigymclub@gmail.com ) or speak to Rebecca Tomlinson.
Club Hoodies are our newest addition but are more for casual wear outside of training or for coming to and from the gym. Orders are done throughout the year. You will be informed when an order is being put through. These hoodies have the option to be personalised and have our club logo and name on them. To be clear however, hoodies are not to be trained in.
Club Fees
The club attempts to set fees at a minimum for parents but must cover hall hire and coaches expenses. Fees are set as soon as the number of gymnasts attending classes is known.
Fees are sent out quarterly, based on the four-term school year. Your fees can be paid online, given to your coach at training or sent to the treasurer (whose address is on the bill). Extra costs such as holiday training (when appropriate), music fee’s and administration fees are also added onto your bill.
Association Fees
There is a Registration Fee that must be paid by every gymnast. This includes both competing and recreational gymnasts. This is set by NZ Gymnastics and is a levy which is required to cover costs such as coaching manuals, coaches training, newsletters and general NZ Gymnastics costs. This amount varies and depends on whether your daughter is a senior or junior gymnast.
Competition Fees
Competition fees must be paid to the club before the gymnast competes. These fees can range from $15.00 to $60.00 depending on whether it is a championship competition or not. Your daughter will not be able to compete in a competition if the fees have not been paid. Gymnasts competing in both Individual and Group competitions will have an entry fee for both disciplines.
Coaches
Our club now has 9 coaches ranging from Junior Rhythmic Qualified to trainee coaches.
In 2021 our coaches are:
Regan King 027 781-3444. regan.ggi@gmail.com
Lauren Isaacs 027 906-5433. lisaacs098@gmail.com
Jessica Christie 027 450-7790. jessicachristie@shcs.school.nz
Georgia Broadley 027 488-1116. georgiagbroadley@gmail.com
Ella-Rose Capil 022 348-5160. ellarosecapil@gmail.com
Lauren Eddington 027 738-1663 lauren.eddington@hotmail.com
Georgia Tomlinson 022 159-2951 georgiat1248@gmail.com
Anna Aitcheson 022 357-1129. Anna.r.aitcheson@gmail.com
Mel Vlok 022 486-7095 melandri_vlok@yahoo.com.au
Regan King is about to begin her second year as a teacher at a Dunedin High School. Regan has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Health, Wellness and Physical Activity) and Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning. Regan was an Otago and NZ Representative for many years and has brought home a collection of medals from the NZ National Champs. She is our head coach as well as a senior qualified judge and is extremely dedicated to Rhythmic Gymnastics. Regan coaches our senior levels and groups as well as assisting with the Level 1 and Recreational gymnasts. Regan has Junior coach qualification
Lauren Isaacs has recently retired from competing in Rhythmic Gymnastics but is looking forward to dedicating her time to coaching in 2021. She had a successful career as an individual and group gymnast with many achievements to her name such as 1st place in the New Zealand nationals for her Hoop routine and many other placings over the years as an Otago representative. Lauren is passionate about passing on her knowledge and experience to the younger generations. In 2021, she will be coaching Level 3, 4, 5 and Grades 2 & 4 Group. Lauren has completed her Junior accredited Coach qualification
Jessica is a year 13 student at St Hilda’s Collegiate. She has represented Otago for the past 4 years for group. 2021 will be her first year without training and competing as a gymnast herself. Jess has completed her Elementary Coach qualification. While continuing her progression through the coaching qualifications and schoolwork, Jess will be coaching Level 3 and Grade 2 Group.
Georgia Broadley has been training at GGIRGC since 2013 where she first competed as an individual gymnast and later became part of a group, representing Otago at the NZ Nationals for the past three national competitions. Georgia has finished competing gymnastics as of this year as she is beginning a Bachelor of Commerce at Otago University. However, she will continue her coaching with the level 1 class which she took over last year after co-coaching the level 3’s for a year. Georgia is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Ella-Rose Capil has been at GGIRGC since 2019 competing in grade 5 group. Ella-Rose has represented Otago at four NZ Nationals. She has now finished competing as she is beginning her Bachelor of Teaching at Otago University. She will continue coaching the level 2 class that she became primary coach of in 2020. Ella-Rose is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Georgia Tomlinson is a year 11 student at Queens High School. Georgia is a level 6 gymnast. Georgia has completed the Gymnastics NZ Xtnd coaching programme which is the first step in the coaching qualification pathway. This season Georgia will be assisting our Level 2 classes and the Level 1 class.
Lauren Eddington brings knowledge in dance, performance, and strength training. Her dance experience includes years of ballet, contemporary, jazz, and even teaching music video (kpop) choreography. She is a self-coached athlete having competed in bodybuilding previously, and has represented New Zealand in powerlifting, earning commonwealth medals. This year Lauren is helping coach the level 5/6s and Grade 4 group. Lauren is working towards her Foundation Coach qualification.
Melandri Vlok is an archaeologist by day having just completed her PhD at Otago University. She has 15 years of coaching and judging experience under her belt, having coached rhythmic in Australia at state and national level. Prior to this, she herself competed at State and National level in Australia. Mel will assist in coaching Level 1 and the Senior classes.
Anna Aitcheson has done Rhythmic gymnastics since 2011 and recently joined GGIRGC in 2019 competing with the grade 5 group. She has represented Otago at two NZ national competitions and has now finished competing. Anna is year 12 at Otago Girls High School. She will assist with a variety of classes at GGI this year.
Gymnastic Year
The gymnastic year runs approximately like this:
Registration Day
Normally held late January. Girls will receive Class List, Club Profile, and Club Booklet, will fill out appropriate forms, Order Previous years club Photo, Enrolment Forms, Training Gear orders, Fees paid up and anything else that is required.
Term 1
Gym begins in February with competition gymnasts perfecting routines and recreational classes become familiar with equipment and begin learning skills. Senior gymnasts finishing off all routines and the first competition being at the end of March. Gymnasts who wish to be considered for selection for the New Zealand Team will have trials in February.
Term 2
Competition season is in full swing for the seniors by term 2. Senior Girls (level 5 and above) are working towards achieving good results in hope of being selected for the 2020 Otago Team. Otago Team is also announced, and the New Zealand National Champs are held at the end of Term Two.
Term 3
Competition season is in full swing for the juniors with Christchurch Club and Dunedin Competitions. The seniors are now given a break from training after nationals and start working on their skills for the next competition season.
Term 4
Competition season comes to an end for the juniors and girls start relaxing and working on Christmas break up displays as well as preparing for the next competition season and working on the following years routines/perfecting them.
Closing Day
This is our Christmas break up held in December at the conclusion of term 4. It is a fun day in which all classes perform a display and awards for the year are presented. This marks the cessation of junior training while seniors may continue with holiday sessions in preparation for the coming year.
Competitions
The competition calendar is available on our website as well as the Gymnastics NZ website:
http://www.ggirhythmic.co.nz/competitions.html
https://www.gymnasticsnz.com/national-events-calendar/
Please keep in mind that travel, accommodation and other expenses related to travel both within and outside of NZ will be at gymnasts/parents expense. From time to time we do our best to apply for funding to assist our traveling gymnasts but do not count on it. Christchurch competitions are a lot of fun and a great experience for the girls. They are not compulsory but we strongly suggest at least one Christchurch trip a year would be nothing but beneficial to your daughters. The Canterbury Champs is one of the main competitions in Christchurch. We like to make this competition a club trip and take as many girls as possible up. Auckland trips are also a great experience and we would like to take a team away to one Auckland Competition if possible, this year so please keep that in the back of your mind.
Otago Team Selection 2020
Girls must be Level 5 -10, Grade 3+ or Stage 3+ to be eligible for selection for the 2020 Otago Team.
Gymnasts must achieve a qualifying mark at one sanctioned competition throughout the year to be considered for selection. Once the qualifying mark is achieved, they then will be considered by the selection panels to travel to Nationals. Selection is determined through NZ Gymnastics who ranks all gymnasts in a level throughout the country. The top 20 and then invited to compete. It is therefore beneficial to compete in as many competitions as possible as the highest mark is taken for ranking. Qualifying Marks will be available to your coach.
Code of Conduct in the Gym
- Gymnasts must be ready to train at the time stated on their timetable.
- Long hair should be tied back off the face; headbands are not acceptable as they continue to fall off.
- Gymnasts should wear clothes that allow easy movement; layers are the best so they can be taken off as they get warmer. Leotards, bike shorts, tights and tight t-shirts are ideal. Polyprops are best for the winter. No jeans or skirts please.
- The training gym is a closed space; parents may not observe classes unless prior agreement with coach is arranged.
- Competition gymnasts must remember to bring their equipment to each class to ensure effective training.
- Each gymnast must bring a drink bottle to training. It is extremely important that when we are exercising that we keep up our fluid intake.
- Should your child not be attending class for any reason, it is important and also courteous to ring and inform their coach. Phone numbers are available in this book, please text them during class time on their cell phone or contact Regan and she will pass the message on. If a coach is sick, we will endeavour to find a replacement however if class is cancelled an extra session will be offered later in the term make up for it.
- We ask all our gymnasts to respect their teammates and also their coach. If your daughter does misbehave, you as her parents will be rung to come and collect her. Bullying or disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.
If you as the parents or your daughters have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask one of the coaches or committee members. We are here to help you understand Rhythmic Gymnastics. We as a club ensure that all decisions are made in the best interest of our gymnasts, as well as push them to be their best and gain maximum enjoyment and improvement from their training. We are a family club and need everyone to help us keep it this way. We are proud of our girls and we like to make sure that they are happy! J
Enjoy and all the best for 2020,
The GGI Coaching Team!