Welcome to DGA and the WAG Competition Programme. I have put together some information, which I believe will be helpful to guide you through the year. This includes some information about the STEP Programme and how the system works. It also includes information about uniforms and contact details if you have any queries. Your daughter’s coach will send you emails throughout the term with relevant information including the competition calendar. Please do not hesitate to contact your coach or myself if you have any queries.
THE STEP & LEAP PROGRAMME
The STEP Programme encourages gymnasts to Strive Towards Excellence in Performance at the their own level and pace. There are 10 STEPS from beginners to high level gymnasts and, while most gymnasts may not reach STEP 10, it is hoped they will progress to a level at which they can fulfil their dreams and goals as a gymnast. The STEP programme begins with the compulsory exercises, (from Step 1‐5), which are designed to be achievable by the majority of gymnasts, and to encourage them to perform with attention to technical excellence. It continues from Step 6‐10 with optional exercises based on composition requirements. Again encouraging gymnasts to perform within their ability, but allowing for faster development on one or more apparatus. Each STEP has age groups to assist in retaining older gymnasts whilst giving younger ones the chance to win against their peers. The STEPS also have progression thresholds to ensure gymnasts advance, as they are ready. The age division is determined by the age the gymnast will turn during the calendar year. The gymnast must have turned 5 years already to be eligible to compete. STEP 1ST AGE DIVISION 2ND AGE DIVSION Step 1 UP TO 7 8+ Step 2 UP TO 8 9+ Step 3 UP TO 9 10+ Step 4 UP TO 10 11+ Step 5 UP TO 11 12+ Step6 UP TO 12 13+ Step 7 UP TO 13 14+ Step 8 UP TO 14 15+ Step 9 UP TO 15 16+ Step 10 UP TO 15 16+ In competitions, they often refer to the age divisions as Unders and Overs.
There is a parallel pathway in place also called the LEAP Programme (Long Term Development of Elite Athletes). This is for athletes who have the physical ability and desire to compete at a high level. There is provision for athletes to transfer between the two pathways of the programme. At present DGA does not offer the LEAP pathway. It is important to note though, that gymnasts can progress through the STEP programme and still become an elite athlete. There are simply two different routes one can take to get to the top. THE RIBBON AWARD SCHEME FOR THE STEP PROGRAMME This scheme operates for Step’s 16; giving the gymnasts an instant tangible recognition of their achievements, with different coloured ribbons signifying the different score targets they have passed. RIBBON COLOUR APPARATUS SCORE GREEN
