The JumpStart Program is something that was put in place within the
Trampoline & Tumbling division of USA Gymnastics to identify elite
athletes at a young age. The objective is to discover athletes within
the ages of 7-12 years old and put them on the right path to become
successful in the elite category.
Once someone is chosen; the athlete, parents and coaches are
notified. At this time, the training requirements to pursue the elite
avenue are discussed, as well as the opportunities that follow the
specific training regimen. The coaches will receive guidance and
assistance from authorities within the program on how to train these
talented athletes. With everyone involved, the JumpStart members will
be put on a definite “fast track”. By driving down this track,
international competition will soon follow. Because an
elite/international level is the ultimate goal, skill preparation is
one of the key ingredients. The development of skills will be focused
on so that every athlete reaches their full potential. The program
will also provide a full fitness program for each athlete.
Acceptance into the JumpStart Program is by invitation only.
Testing begins at the State Level, then progresses to the National
Level. Once at the National Level, being chosen to attend the National
Training Camp is a possibility. From that, a National Team (picked
annually) will be selected. In 2009, the Women’s National Team
consisted of 21 athletes, chosen by the JumpStart Committee.
