It is our goal to bring every young athlete to her fullest potential in competitive gymnastics. The Stars & Stripes staff is extremely passionate about their role in guiding gymnasts through training and helping them develop into strong, disciplined athletes both mentally and physically. We hope to install emotional strength that will help them excel in the sport and beyond. Our program puts an emphasis on discipline, perseverance, mental awareness and team unity. We are dedicated to offering every gymnast the best professional instruction in an organized program that sets a high standard. We will strive to bring out the best in every gymnast.

        The TOPs Program (Talent Opportunity Program) is a physical ability based program created by USA Gymnastics. Gymnasts ages 7 through 11 have the opportunity to participate in regional testing every summer in the areas of strength and flexibility including leg lifts, rope climb, cast handstands, press handstands, handstand hold, sprint, vertical jump, splits and shoulder flexibility. If gymnasts test well at the regional level they have the opportunity to participate in national testing where they will perform their physical abilities as well as skills on each apparatus. At Stars & Stripes gymnasts are hand selected from the Junior Olympic team program to the TOPSs program based on their strength, flexibility, attitude, work ethic and natural ability.

       The Pre Competitive Program is designed to prepare young gymnasts for future competition by emphasizing strong basic fundamentals, strength, flexibility, discipline and respect for the sport.  Gymnasts are hand selected for this program (from recreational gymnastics classes) based on their attitude, work ethic, desire, gymnastics skills, strength and flexibility. Pre Competitive gymnasts at Stars & Stripes are provided with a challenging, disciplined environment to further build their abilities with other gymnasts who share similar potential and desire. Training will maintain a balance of seriousness and fun, and the entire experience will be extremely enjoyable for children who are passionate about the sport!  
       The Pre Team Program is non-competitive. Time commitment is limited, but will increase as gymnasts are promoted through the levels. In addition to preparing the gymnasts physically, we strongly believe in training them to cope with the inevitable mental adversities they will face in gymnastics that may include fear, doubt and struggle, while also building a foundation of confidence and pride in accomplishment.  Team work and respect for fellow teammates is also emphasized. Curriculum will be based on Level 1, 2, & 3 progressions. Proper skill progressions and technique are emphasized which are vital for long-term success.

   Pre Team Practice Schedule
(regular training schedule September through June, schedule will be
adjusted during summer months).

   Level 1 Wed./Fri. 4:15-5:15 pm
    Level 2 Tue./Thur. 4:20-5:20 pm
      Level 3 Wed. 4:15-6:15 pm and Sat. 10-12pm

       Gymnasts begin participation in competitive USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic sanctioned meets beginning at level 4. Time commitment increases tremendously when gymnasts begin competing. Competition is at the state level; however two out of state travel meets per year (within driving distance) are required. Gymnasts will compete in approximately 10 meets per year. Gymnasts perform compulsory routines in each level. The compulsory routines are developed by USA Gymnastics with varying levels of difficulty. The intent is to make the level 4, 5 and 6 routines progressive to one another.  All level 4 athletes will perform the same routines as well as levels 5 and 6. These levels are the introductory levels of competition where gymnasts learn to perform and have their skills critiqued by certified judges. Routines are extremely intricate with little room for variation. Core skills are emphasized in these routines as well as dance movements. Gymnasts are required to conform to the styles and techniques of the compulsory routines where an emphasis is placed on form, posture and presentation. The compulsory levels provide gymnasts with a foundation of  discipline and strong basic skills.

Junior Olympic Competitive Compulsory Schedule
(regular training schedule September through June, schedule will be adjusted during summer months, fees include training and cost of competitions).

Level 4 Tue./Thur. 4:30-7:30 pm & Sat. 12:30-3:30pm
Level 5 Mon. 5:15-8:45 pm, Tue./Thur. 5:30-9 pm & Fri. 4:30-8pm
Level 6 Tue. 5:30-9pm, Wed. 5-9 pm, Thur. 5:30-9 pm & Sat. 9am-1pm

       At the optional level gymnasts have the opportunity to qualify for regional and national championships with each progressing level. In addition to travel for championships, gymnasts will have two out of state travel meets per year (within driving distance). All other competitions are held within the state.  The optional levels require a very serious commitment due to the grade of difficulty and increased risk involved. Gymnasts will begin performing more complex skills and combinations. Proper training and preparation at the early pre team and compulsory levels is essential for success at these levels. Beginning with Level 7, routines are designed specifically for the individual athlete, where routines will enhance strong points and distinctive style. Gymnasts will be scored upon their level of difficulty, execution, artistry, and originality. Each level provides a new set of more difficult requirements on each event that must be included in routines. Currently Stars & Stripes offers training for gymnasts through level 9. As our gymnasts approach the upcoming levels, we will grow with our gymnasts and cater to their needs by providing the level of training they require.

Junior Olympic Competitive Optional Schedule
(regular training schedule September through June, schedule will be adjusted during summer months, fees include training and cost of competitions).
Level 7  Mon. 4-8pm, Wed. 5-9pm, Thur. 5:30-9pm & Sat. 9-1pm
Level 8 & 9 Mon. 4-8pm, Tue. 3:45-7:45pm, Thur. 3:45-7:45pm,
Fri. 4-8pm & Sat.9-3:30pm

For more information about the Competitive Team Program please E-mail or call the Team Director-Cassie Davis at (248)625-3547.