What to Expect at a Gymnastics Meet

In the last post we looked at important things to pack for a gymnastics meet and some basic ettiqitte to follow at meets.  Today I thought we would have a look at what to expect at a gymnastics meet.  This should be a good guide especially if it is your child's first meet.  

What to expect at a gymnastics meet

• The entrance fees to a meet can vary so be prepared to pay anywhere from $5.00 - $10.00 per person.
• Gymnast become the coaches responsibility once they enter the gym so do not try to talk to or go see your gymnast for any reason.  
• When a gymnast gets to a meet she should find her coach and let him/her know she is there.
• ‘Register’ – find the registration table to get their number.  They usually write the number a gymnasts hand.
• Make sure your gymnast has everything she needs because there is very little chance to contact your gymnast until the end of the meet.
• If you have any questions ask them before the meet.  Do not try to signal or contact your gymnast or coach during the meet.
• Never speak with or approach any judges at any time – if you meet one, be super nice!
• Gymnasts cannot go buy food or snacks during a meet. It is important to make sure they have what they need in their bag.
• Meets can last anywhere between 4 and 5 hours.
• Buy a program (they aren't terribly expensive)- you can see when other girls are competing and keep track of scores.
• Flash photography is a big NO during meets. It is a huge safety risk for the athletes.  Be sure your flash is off and remember your camera may reset to a flash on position if it has been turned off and back on.  Do not assume it is off. 
• Find a seat with a good view and be there early so you can get your seat when the flights are changing.  
• It can be warm at a meet so be sure to dress appropriately.
• There is usually a march in where the gymnasts are introduced by club.
• There are four events in womens gymnastics be sure to find out which event your gymnast is starting on.  
• A gymnastics meet has rotations be sure to follow your gymnast so you know where they are at all times.  
• Warm ups usually happen in two ways, there is a general floor warm up for all gymnasts and event warm ups just prior to competing.  
• Cheering is allowed and even encouraged but try to save it for the time when the team is rotating otherwise it could be distracting to the athletes. 

Things to consider after a gymnastics meet

• At fun meets there is usually a fun team competition like a crazy dance or costume wear.
• There are usually awards for each event and an all around medal.  There are often special judges awards as well for things like stuck landings or dynamic routines.  Be sure to congratulate your gymnast regardless of standings.  
• Plan on dinner out because your gymnast has probably made plans with team mates.  Dinner out with other gymnasts and their families are really a great way to end a meet on a high note.  

***All in all, enjoy the experience and be proud of your gymnast.  It takes a lot of guts to compete and be scored on every little thing you do.  Remember to let the coaches and the judges do the scoring and at home just be mom or dad, supportive and proud!***