STG HANDBOOK
2026-2027

Gymnasts and Parents,

Upon receiving this information and joining our competitive team program, each team parent and gymnast shall understand the guidelines outlined in this document. This informational packet will guide you through the obligations and commitments of being a competitive team member and parent of a Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. (STG) team member. Your roles are vital to the success of our program.

Our philosophy is progressive gymnastics training while having fun in a safe environment. This philosophy, which has been our goal since the club's inception in 1991, is rooted in our commitment to promoting safety and a solid foundation in the basic skills necessary to advance through the various aspects of competition.

Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. reserves the right to change this handbook at any time, without notice, when necessary. Please refer to this handbook often for explanations, and we encourage you to ask questions if they are not found in this document.


Last Updated: May 4 2026

We offer Women's Competitive Gymnastics that follows the USAG (United States Association of Gymnastics) programs and competitions. Our teams are placed by skill level and require an individual evaluation by one of our USAG coaches.

Competitive gymnastics teams are specific to an athlete's skill level and pace. We are proud to offer Women's Development Program (DP) Competitive Gymnastics teams for Compulsory Levels 3, 4, 5, and Optional Levels 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, as well as USAG Women's Xcel Program Levels Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Sapphire.

As a team member on our competitive gymnastics teams, gymnasts will learn how to set and achieve goals, develop self-discipline, learn responsibility, and develop a strong work ethic. Throughout the process of participating in our competitive team program, gymnasts will develop strong mental attributes, including a positive self-image, self-motivation, tenacity, patience, and a willingness to make sacrifices for personal growth and improvement. In addition to these exciting advancements, some of the unique characteristics of a developing gymnast include strength, flexibility, kinesthetic awareness, balance, muscular control, endurance, coordination, timing, explosive power, agility, and speed.

Each gymnast will develop close relationships with other young athletes that will demand the best of their skills to be successful and effective role models.

USAG WOMEN'S DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Competition at STG begins at the Compulsory Level 3 or 4. Compulsory means that gymnasts must compete the same routine as all other competitors at USAG events, resulting in mastery of the most fundamental gymnastics elements.

As a gymnast advances, they begin competing as an Optional Gymnast. Optional gymnastics provides opportunities for gymnasts to perform to their strengths; while they must meet specific requirements, they also have many options as they compose their competitive routines. This level of competition can take years of progression through the designated levels.

USAG WOMEN'S XCEL PROGRAM
The USAG Xcel Program was developed as an alternative to the Development Program, offering individual flexibility to coaches and gymnasts. Xcel aims to provide gymnasts of varying abilities and commitment levels the opportunity for a rewarding gymnastics experience. The program offers various skills to meet requirements, allowing for selection based on an individual athlete's strengths and abilities.

The Xcel Program focuses on sportsmanship, leadership, teamwork, and fun.
The emphasis in the Xcel Program is on correct technique, form, and performance.

PRE-SEASON
This period ranges from September to November or December. During this time of year, we will develop new skills and refine our routines to prepare for the upcoming competitive season.

COMPETITIVE SEASON
This period spans from the first competition to the last competition of the season, which varies according to the gymnast's level, typically from November/December through April/May. Therefore, we will focus on developing few new skills and primarily train in full routine endurance and strength.

POST-SEASON
This period spans from the last competition to the next pre-season (April/May through August) and is always the most enjoyable part of the year, as it's time to develop new skills. During this time, we focus a lot on strength and flexibility. Potential changes to workout times may occur during the months of June, July, and August.  

WHEN DO THE TEAMS PRACTICE?
A schedule of team workouts will be distributed to parents before the beginning of each competitive season. Schedules are subject to change at any time, and this is most likely to occur during the summer.

ATTENDANCE
Gymnasts are required to attend all scheduled practices and functions. A gymnast's dedication is essential to their progressive training of the skills needed to compete and the cohesiveness of the team spirit; 100% attendance translates into team commitment and individual success. Please note that this is a year-long commitment, which includes training during the summer months. Therefore, all team members should attend 100% of the workouts to train for the skills needed to compete progressively. Therefore, the coaches will require 100% attendance during the week of the competition for the gymnast to be prepared. At times, exceptions to this rule may apply as defined below:

School – at times, exams, projects, or functions may be due during the week of competition. We encourage schoolwork or other school obligations to take priority. If a gymnast misses workouts due to these circumstances, the coach will determine their readiness to compete.

Illness – if a gymnast is sick during the week of a meet, we ask that they stay home to recover. Family emergencies will also fall under this category. Again, each coach will determine their readiness to compete under these circumstances.

MAKEUP CLASSES
Team members are not eligible for makeup classes. NO credits or refunds are given for practices not attended. We will make every effort to make up classes due to unexpected gym cancellations, which are typically caused by weather-related issues. Extended injury/illness-related absences will be managed on a case-by-case basis.

WHAT COMMITMENT DO WE HAVE TO MAKE?

Gymnasts – are expected to attend all scheduled workouts and competitions to develop necessary skills to excel at their level. Attendance is crucial and will reflect when it comes time to compete. Gymnasts will learn the virtues of competition, teamwork, winning, and losing. Gymnastics is undoubtedly a sport of dedication.

Parents – must participate in all home meets, whether hosted in-house or at an outside venue. You will be asked to assist on the floor during the competition or in the lobby area for BOOST-related activities. You must participate in at least two (2) sessions per meet weekend, in some cases, fewer than two (2). Your participation in these events is crucial to the success of our home meets and is also BOOST’s largest fundraiser.

WHEN SHOULD I BE DROPPED OFF AND PICKED UP?
It is essential for each gymnast to be picked up and dropped off for practice promptly. Gymnasts should be dropped off no more than 15 minutes before their workout and must remain in the waiting area until practice begins. After practice, pick-up needs to be done on time. Our staff have families and other obligations as well; please respect their time. If parents are more than 10 minutes late, your account will be billed a $10.00 fee for that coach's time (no exceptions).

All gymnasts must enter through the front of the building, located at the Winchester Sportsplex. Parents must always enter the building through the front entrance. Parents are permitted to pick up their gymnast(s) at the side door after practice, but the side door entrance is not permitted.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING DAILY?
• Hair Secured Tightly and Away from the Face and Neck.
• Proper Workout Attire (Leotard and Shorts); NO Sports Bras and Shirts as Only Attire.
• Grips (if applicable)
• Athletic Tape, Pre-Wrap, Ankle/Wrist Supports, etc.
• Water, Sports Drinks, and Light Snacks. NO Sodas, Dinner, or Fast Food.

CAN MY PARENTS WATCH ME WORK OUT?
Parents are welcome to view the workouts from the observation area. Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. reserves the right to revoke this privilege if sideline coaching or other events occur that warrant a change in this policy. Parents are not permitted inside the workout area, including the beginning, during, and end of practices. Please do not encourage gymnasts to wander to the observation area for drinks, conversation, coaching, or other purposes. If you need to meet with a coach, please schedule an appointment with your coach with the office administrator. Please refrain from walking onto the floor and disrupting the workout.

PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are available (pending staff availability and approval) when a gymnast needs additional time to focus on a specific area of need. Payment and scheduling are between the parent/gymnast and the coach.   

WHAT WILL IT COST TO BE ON TEAM?  
MONTHLY TUITION
Day-to-day training expenses in the gym with our coaches.

LEVEL
FEE
Level 7-9 $350.00/flat rate per month
Level 4-5 $325.00/flat rate per month
Level 3 $245.00/flat rate per month
Xcel Platinum/Diamond/Sapphire $325.00/flat rate per month
Xcel Gold $250.00/flat rate per month
Xcel Silver $240.00/flat rate per month
Xcel Bronze $230.00/flat rate per month
Training Team $190.00/flat rate per month


ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE
o Yearly Registration Fee ($30.00)
o Due each year on June 1st.

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES
o Grips (when necessary)
o Athletic Tape, Pre-Wrap, Ankle/Wrist Supports, etc.
o Choreography
o Xcel Bronze, Silver, and Gold will jointly use music.
o Xcel Platinum and above will have optional music choices.
o Choreography fees will vary based on the choreographer.
o Team Parties, Team Gifts, Awards, Picnics, etc.

MISCELLANEOUS COACHES EXPENSES
o Expenses for coaches to maintain required credentials as a USAG Member.
o Clinics, training, certifications, etc.

COMPETITIVE UNIFORMS
o Each competing team member is required to have the full uniform that the club selects.
o Competitive Leotard and Warm-Up
o Team Bookbag (not required)

USA GYMNASTICS (USAG) FEE
o A yearly membership fee paid to USAG, which allows your gymnast to compete.
o Paid to USAG through your online account (www.usagym.org).

MEET ENTRY FEES
o Registration fee to participate in a meet.
o This amount is set by the club hosting the competition.
o Paid to BOOST (see competition fees).

TEAM AWARD FEE
o Registration fee for your gymnast's group level, which allows them to be eligible for a team award.
o This fee is divided among the team members of each level.
o If applicable, to be included in the meet fee.
o Paid to BOOST (see competition fees).

COACHES FEES
o Expenses for coaches to attend the meet.
o Travel, lodging, meals, mileage, and session fees.
o Paid to BOOST (see competition fees).

All team members, regardless of the number of competitions you attend, are responsible for this fee. If you do not compete during the season but fulfill a competitive spot on the team, you will be obligated to pay this fee unless otherwise arranged with the coaching staff.

TRAVEL EXPENSES
o Traveling expenses to and from meets will be the responsibility of the parents (including hotel, gas, meals, etc.).

BILLING INFORMATION
Monthly tuition is due by the 1st of each month and is considered late after the 7th. Delinquent accounts can prevent a gymnast from attending weekly practices and will forfeit a gymnast's ability to compete at the next scheduled event. If your meet fee is paid and your tuition remains unpaid, your child will be withdrawn from the meet. A refund will not be applicable. Continuous delinquency will result in the suspension of the gymnast from practicing with the team and participating in any scheduled competitive events. NO refunds will be given.

Monthly tuition rates are calculated based on a yearly amount that includes scheduled holidays, calendar closures, and practice hours per week, and then divided into a monthly flat rate. Tuition is NOT prorated, and NO makeup classes are permitted due to scheduled holidays or calendar closures.

All competition fees must be paid directly to BOOST by the published deadline. BOOST then pays these fees to the appropriate party.

All gym (STG) and competition accounts (BOOST) must be current before submitting competition entries, or you will not be eligible for that competition. You are required to attend all scheduled competitions. Again, if the deadlines are not met, your child will not be eligible to participate in the competition. THIS POLICY WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED. NO EXCEPTIONS.

A gymnast on suspension will continue their tuition payments while absent from the gym. Once all fees are up to date and in good standing, the gymnast may resume attending practice and events. Charges and late fee applications will be applied as per the gym's policy.

HOW DO I ADVANCE THROUGH THE LEVELS?
Advancements are based on skill proficiency and mandatory scores as set forth by USAG and the coaching staff's expectations. Our coaching staff will determine the readiness of each gymnast on an individual basis. Many factors determine level advancements, including required scores, consistency, skills, attendance, maturity, and readiness. At any time during the season, STG reserves the right to place a gymnast where it will be most beneficial for them to succeed. Placements may be a move up or down in levels or to our recreational program, but will always be in the gymnast's best interest. New placements are not 100% secure for the following season or during the year and will be determined by the coaching staff.


WHAT ARE MEETS?
USA Gymnastics (USAG) is the national governing body for the sport of gymnastics in the USA. It gets this designation from the International Olympic Committee and the International Gymnastics Federation. USA Gymnastics sets the rules and policies that govern gymnastics in the United States. Training and selecting the U.S. teams for the Olympics and World Championships are among the many responsibilities of USAG.

The ultimate goal in the sport is to become a member of the USA National Gymnastics Team. To become a member, a gymnast must first work their way through a series of qualifying meets. The preliminary meets range from USAG-sanctioned competitions organized by private clubs to state, regional, and national qualification meets. Each meet allows the athlete to meet minimum qualification scores and placement requirements established by USAG. Gymnasts meeting the requirements are eligible to compete in their respective US National Championships, the most prestigious competition of the year.

USAG is the governing body that sets forth the rules and policies for competition. Here at Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc., we begin competing our gymnasts at Level 3 or Xcel Bronze/Silver, and they can advance through to the elite level of competition.

WHEN ARE MEETS; DO I HAVE TO ATTEND ALL OF THEM?
Each fall, your coach will create a tentative competition schedule that will prepare gymnasts and parents in advance for competition dates and associated costs. Your gymnast will attend a series of meets throughout the state of Virginia and the surrounding areas. We require gymnasts to attend all scheduled meets. Missed competitions will be managed on a case-by-case basis.



ELIGIBLE COMPETITIONS PER LEVEL

Level Competitions
Level 10Invitationals, States, Regionals, Easterns, Nationals
Level 9Invitationals, States, Regionals, Easterns
Level 8Invitationals, States, Regionals
Level 7Invitationals, States, Regionals
Level 6Invitationals, States
Level 5Invitationals, States
Level 4Invitationals, States
Level 3Invitationals, States
Xcel SapphireInvitationals, States, Regionals, Easterns
Xcel DiamondInvitationals, States, Regionals
Xcel PlatinumInvitationals, States, Regionals
Xcel GoldInvitationals, States
Xcel SilverInvitationals, States
Xcel BronzeInvitationals, States
Training TeamNO COMPETITIONS





SCRATCHING AN EVENT/COMPETITION
There are several reasons that a gymnast may be required to scratch (not compete) an event(s) at a meet or an entire meet altogether. This decision may be made before the meet or, in some cases, at the meet. While it is not our goal to scratch a gymnast, sometimes it may be necessary, as safety is our top priority. Please see below some common reasons a scratch may be made:

o A required skill has not been performed safely and consistently in the gym for a minimum of one week.
o Attendance requirements have not been met.
o Poor sportsmanship towards other gymnasts, towards coaches, or inappropriate behavior in which STG is displayed poorly.
o Any situation in which a coach deems necessary.

REFUNDS
Each competition has a deadline by which you can scratch a gymnast and still receive a refund. When a gymnast is scratched before this refund deadline, the host club will provide a refund, typically on the day of the meet. Once the refund is received, these funds will be allocated to BOOST and credited back to your child's BOOST account.

In the event of a meet cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances, USAG's policy is for the host club to make its best effort to refund all or part of the entry fee. The best advice we can provide is not to expect a refund. As a gym that hosts competitions, numerous expenses arise throughout the year related to hosting these events. Therefore, while this situation is not common, it should be understood and accepted as such.

If your gymnast is required to scratch a competition altogether or event(s) based on the circumstances listed in the above section, NO refund will be given. Typically, these decisions are made after a refund deadline has passed, and there is NO option to receive any funds in return.

At no time are you to make contact with the host club of an attending competition. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding a refund, please bring them to our attention. If we need further clarification, we will contact the host club. More information is provided below regarding the no-contact policy with other clubs.

WHAT DO I NEED AT A MEET?
o Competition Leotard
o Warm-Up Jacket
o Warm-Up Pants
o Team Bookbag
o Hair Bow
o Grips (if applicable)
o Wrist/Ankle/Knee Supports (if applicable)
o Tape/Pre-Wrap (if applicable)
o Water/Sports Drink (plastic containers with lids ONLY)
o Small Packaged Snacks (in a container with a lid)

If a gymnast forgets any necessary items for a meet (grips, wrist/ankle supports, etc.), they are still expected to participate in the events they can and scratch the ones they can not. A gymnast will not be permitted to use other gymnasts' equipment.

MEET ETIQUETTE BEFORE THE COMPETITION
Gymnasts and parents should arrive no more than 30 minutes before their assigned open stretch/registration time (this time will be given to you prior) unless otherwise advised. Often, your gymnast's competition will follow another, and to be respectful of those spectators, we kindly ask that you arrive no earlier than necessary to avoid overcrowding.

When you arrive, please follow all rules and policies provided by the host club or venue.
Your coach may give you a dedicated meeting place to gather all those competing for an easy transition.

Once your gymnast is with their coach or group, you are welcome to shop or eat (if they offer this) and locate your seating. Once your gymnasts are with us, they are under our supervision and will only reach out to you if deemed necessary by the coach – more information is provided in the next section.

MEET ETIQUETTE DURING THE COMPETITION
Gymnasts are required to remain with their coach or group at all times. Parents are not to encourage gymnasts to approach them for any reason.

We will seek you out if we need to discuss a matter with you.

Gymnasts are to remain quiet and focused and encouraged to cheer on their teammates. The expected behavior is detailed below in Section VI. EXPECTATIONS (CONDUCT/BEHAVIOR) – UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT/BEHAVIOR.

MEET ETIQUETTE AFTER THE COMPETITION
After a competition, your gymnast is required to attend the award ceremony in its entirety.

If your gymnast is not expected to receive an award or your gymnast's age group has already been completed, they are still expected to attend the award ceremony.

Leaving before this (unless there is an emergency and it is conveyed to your gymnast's coach) is unacceptable. It is important to show support for your teammates and fellow gymnasts.

GENERAL MEET ETIQUETTE
At no time, under any circumstance, is a gymnast or parent to approach a judging official. If you have a question regarding a score, skill, or any aspect of the competition, please consult your coach (when time allows) to discuss your concerns.

If you have a question regarding your child's performance, please schedule an appointment through the office to meet with your coach.

A staff person, meet director, or coach from another team at a competition should also not be approached (unless it is to thank them for hosting us).

NO-CONTACT OTHER CLUB POLICY
Under no circumstances should a parent or gymnast contact the host club of a competition. We will provide you with any pertinent information. If there is a question, comment, or concern, please bring it to our attention. If we need further clarification, we will contact the host club. Please see examples below of questions that may need further clarification that we will be happy to acquire answers for:
o Location
o Parking
o Handicap Accessibility
o Hotel Accommodations
o Gate Fees 

HOME MEETS (PARENT OBLIGATION)
Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. proudly hosts two (2) competitions each year, typically held in March and April. These events are an important part of our program and provide valuable competitive opportunities for our athletes while also supporting the continued growth and success of our gym.

As a member of the competitive team, each family is required to contribute to the success of these events. All competitive team parents are expected to volunteer for a minimum of one (1) session at each competition hosted by Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc.

These competitions rely heavily on the support and participation of our families. Parent volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that each event runs smoothly, professionally, and efficiently. Thanks to the dedication and teamwork of our parent community, our competitions have become extremely successful and well-respected within the gymnastics community. Visiting gyms from the surrounding region look forward to returning each year because of the welcoming atmosphere and well-organized events our volunteers help create.

Your time, support, and commitment are essential to maintaining the high standard of competitions hosted by Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. We appreciate your partnership in helping make these events a continued success.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT/BEHAVIOR
In general, if a gymnast or parent displays a negative attitude during a competition, practice, or STG event, towards another individual, coach, or parent, that gymnast or parent will be removed from the current event or the gym and be suspended from practice and future activities until a meeting with the coaching staff has taken place.

Poor sportsmanship at any level will not be tolerated, including by parents. Foul language will also not be tolerated. Parents, be mindful that you are in the environment of children.

Bullying or any negativity towards teammates will not be tolerated. We have a zero-tolerance policy for all forms of bullying. We ask that any gymnasts who witness bullying or are being bullied report the incident directly to their coach.

It is expected that all gymnasts follow directions given to them by their coach(es) in a respectful manner. Disrespectfulness towards coaches will result in being sent home from practice. Repeated failure to follow directions and remaining disrespectful will result in being removed from the team.

Gymnasts are expected to have a good attitude, not only at practice but also at meets. Therefore, pouting, crying, and refusing to participate will result in being sent home and, ultimately, removal from the team if the behavior continues.

It is expected that participants will be actively involved in the practice, meaning they should avoid sitting or lying down, playing on equipment that is not being used, and wandering away from the group. When it is not a gymnast's turn, it is expected that they will wait in line respectfully and not distract their teammates.

WHAT IF MY SCHOOL GRADES DROP?
School comes before gymnastics. The coaching staff supports the idea that if a gymnast is overwhelmed by schoolwork or struggling with failing grades at any time during the school year, they should spend time outside of the gym to catch up in this area. Again, school is of priority.

WHAT CONSTITUTES SUSPENSION FROM THE TEAM PROGRAM?
A team member or parent may be suspended for the following reasons:
o Delinquent STG account
o Unsportsmanlike Conduct
o Failing School Grades of a Gymnast
o Lack of Attendance
o Disrespect Toward Coaches/Teammates

Continual suspended status will result in dismissal from the competitive team program or the gym.

CAN I PARTICIPATE IN OTHER SPORTS?
If a gymnast chooses to participate in another sport and there is interference with their workout time, parents and gymnasts must understand that progression and performance can be hindered. It will be essential for them to work hard, and they may have to play catch-up for missed training. Special concessions will not be made for missing practice due to participation in other sports. Tuition will not be prorated for time missed at the gym due to participation in other sports. 

SICK GUIDELINES/ILLNESS POLICY
Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. requires sick gymnasts to remain at home. You should notify the front office (info@stgymnastics.com) if your gymnast is ill and will not attend practice.  

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

EVENT
DATE
Annual Membership Fee Due ($30.00) June 1, 2026
Independence Day (CLOSED) July 3–4, 2026
Labor Day (CLOSED) September 7, 2026
Halloween (OPEN) October 31, 2026
Fall Break (CLOSED) November 25–29, 2026
Winter Break (CLOSED) December 23, 2026–January 1, 2027
Spring Break (CLOSED) March 26–29, 2027
Apple Blossom Festival (CLOSED) April 30, 2027–May 1, 2027
Memorial Day (CLOSED) May 31, 2027

*WE WILL MAKE OUR BEST EFFORT TO HOLD MODIFIED PRACTICES DURING EXTENDED BREAKS.

PROBLEM-SOLVING?
If there is a question or concern about team activities, please consult with the proper Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. coaching staff. We cannot solve problems or answer questions if they are not brought to our attention. Creating a hostile environment will jeopardize both the gymnasts' and their parents' opportunities to be club members. For any concerns you may have, please schedule a meeting with your coach by arranging an appointment with the office administrator. Additionally, the BOOST board of directors should never entertain questions regarding the operations of Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. Please be aware that BOOST and Shenandoah Tumblers, Inc. are two separate entities.