Why is staff education so important?  Well, first of all, how an instructor relates to his/her students is a direct impression of your program.  If a child doesn’t feel comfortable with a coach or feels unsafe, chances are he/she will not continue.  As a club owner, it is your responsibility to have the most knowledgeable and informed staff possible.  Education is the key to success.  Parents need to feel that their children are receiving the highest quality of training available.  Safety, knowledge of proper techniques and motivating instructors are all-important ingredients to have a well-rounded Tumbling and Trampoline program.  Staff education is a continuous process that is just as important for the beginner coach as the advanced coach.  New techniques and methods are constantly being learned to update teaching and provide the best training to your students.  Contact USA Gymnastics Safety and Education Department for materials by calling 317-237-5050.

     When selecting your new Trampoline and Tumbling staff, look for instructors who are fun and motivating.  The success of your program depends on it.  Important qualities for a coach are to be punctual, reliable, honest, sincere, enthusiastic, trustworthy, friendly, courteous, kind, loyal, and knowledgeable.  Teachers are role models for their students.  They are constantly setting an example for their classes an should practice what they preach.

     An excellent way to start your staff education is through USA Gymnastics Coaching Courses for Trampoline and Tumbling.  Coaches will start with level one and then progress to each new level of coaching with further courses.  These courses are offered locally, regionally and nationally.  Contact your state or Regional Director for a schedule of courses.  USA Gymnastics Safety Course is also another must for all your current employees.

     In house education can be done right in your own gym.  Regular staff meetings and clinics will help you maintain the highest level of training for your students.  Instructors should constantly be updating and finding new ways for safer and more effective teaching.  Educate your staff with the following guidelines:

Class Management-Class management should start before the students enter the gym.  Teachers should greet the class with a smile on their face.  Explain rules to children regarding safety and what is expected of them as they enter the gym.  A class that runs into the gym will be very hard to settle down and keep in control.