MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES MANUAL
MPC Adopted – 2/21/14
The USA Men’s Program has the ambitious goal of challenging for medals at the highest level at
every international event where the US men are participants. This is a goal that will require
commitment to excellence from every aspect of the men’s program and an unprecedented
attention to detail.
Previously, this document was called The International Team Meet Procedures Manual and focused
on our international program. It is evident that all activities of our national team, both domestic
and international, have a direct impact on international success. Therefore, the expectations for all
national team activities should be addressed in order to provide both direction and clarity to our
national team program. This manual will continue to be an important component to our
organizational structure in support of our ambitious goals.
National Team Goal
This national team goal was established following the 2012 Olympic Games after extensive
discussion by all stakeholders in the men’s program.
The goal of the National Team is competitive success at the World Championships and Olympic
Games defined as:
• Earn a team medal through maximizing team performance and then,
• Maximize medal potential in all around and individual event competition.
Further, in support of the team goal, the men’s program will strive to be competitive for medals on
every event and in every international event where U.S. athletes are present.
Section I: Responsibilities
This section includes the duties and responsibilities of the USA Men’s Team while engaged in any
National Team activity (competitions, training camps, tours, exhibitions, etc.). The team is defined
as the group of individuals who have an official role at a national team activity and includes personal
coaches, athletes, national team coordinator, head coach, team leader/head of delegation, medical
staff, athlete representative or other support staff.
Our performance in our various roles is highly visible to organizing committees, officials and other
delegations and is critical to our overall impression and success. This manual will provide a list of
duties and responsibilities that will allow us all to be prepared for the opportunity to represent our
country at the highest level of achievement.
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When competing as a team, we must all understand that conformance with every aspect of these
guidelines is essential to effectively function as a team in order to achieve team goals. While we
recognize that individuality is an important aspect of our culture, personal agendas and individual
needs must become secondary to our team goals. Everyone included in our delegation is compelled
to conduct himself in a professional manner for the duration of the event. Our mission is to
represent our country, our sport and ourselves at the highest level possible. These events should be
considered as an honor and a responsibility. USA Gymnastics has assisted with your preparation
and is funding the experience. Please understand that adherence to this manual is a requirement of
all delegation members. Should any delegation member be dismissed because of non-compliance,
he may lose benefits associated with team membership.
USA Gymnastics is committed to promoting a safe environment. Many policies and procedures are
in place to promote USA Gymnastics’ Safe Sport ideals, including its Code of Ethical Conduct and
Participant Welfare Policy. Abuse of any kind will not be tolerated – and specific forms of misconduct
that USA Gymnastics has deemed as Prohibited Conduct are included in this manual. National Team
members, coaches, and staff are the most visible members of the gymnastics community and it is
expected that this group set a positive example by conducting yourself in a positive, ethical manner.
It is critical that each of you upholds USA Gymnastics’ Safe Sport ideals and works together to
create the safest possible environment for our athletes.
I.
Personal Coach
The personal coach of each athlete is critical to the success of the athlete and the team. Each
personal coach is responsible for the conduct of his athlete(s) and for their competitive
performance. This includes their physical, mental and emotional performances. For
international events where the coach has been invited to attend, USA Gymnastics will make
every effort to obtain a credential. If there are not enough credentials for all coaches, the
National Team Coordinator (NTC) and the Vice President of Men’s Program or the MPC – as
applicable for the event - will determine who will receive a credential. In most cases, only one
coach per program will travel with the delegation. While we recognize that most programs
consist of two or more coaching staff members, proper training in the final preparation stage
will allow the athlete to function optimally with one coach and allow for greater flexibility with
regard to assignments and credentials.
Responsibilities are as follows:
• Support the decisions and be responsive to the National Team Coordinator and/or Head
Coach
• Manage their athlete(s) according to the established team policies
• Voice all opinions and concerns within coaches meetings, directly to the National Team
Coordinator (or USA Gymnastics personnel) or through the MPC
• Attend all coaches/team meetings
• Attend all training sessions
• Adhere to daily schedule of activities as outlined by the National Team Coordinator
• Be on time and in proper attire for all team functions
• Respect, communicate with and support all members of the delegation as needed
• Understand that each member’s role and all decisions are made in the best interest of
the USA Team
• Present a positive image at all times; especially, when in public or dealing with the
media/sponsors
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Remain focused on your duties
Refrain from any conversations or activities which could be construed as inappropriate or
divisive
Show respect for athlete rest and preparation needs by refraining from conversations
with athletes in their hotel rooms
Check the athlete’s apparel
Do not share privileged information, photos or comments from training camps or
competitions to the public via phone, social media, email or other method. Privileged
information includes selection information, injuries, athlete performance information,
skill or routine video, etc.
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
Must complete annual Safe Sport training
Athletes
As a member of the USA Men’s National Team, each athlete will be expected to assume the
following responsibilities when representing the USA at any team activity or competition.
These responsibilities should be considered prior to your acceptance and/or qualification to
the team. You are a selected representative of USA Gymnastics and your behavior must, at
all times, be that of a National Team Member.
Responsibilities are as follows:
• Attend all scheduled team training sessions and meetings at all national team camps and
assigned competitions
• Get adequate rest
• Attend all scheduled team meals
• Fully comply with all USADA, WADA, FIG and USA Gymnastics requirements regarding
anti-doping
• Discuss any physical ailments with your personal coach immediately who will report
those to the NTC
• Condition properly and follow-up with all appropriate physical therapy in order to
maximize your performance
• Communication, respect and support for the National Team Coordinator and the
designated coaches is required at all times
• Understand that you will be under the direction of the National Team Coordinator and/or
the Head Coach at camps or events. Your personal coach is in attendance as a member
of the support team.
• Demonstrate respect and support for your teammates, support staff and host country
• Responsible for extra grips and necessary items for training and competition
• Be prepared to show competitive readiness at any time
• Follow the daily schedule set up by the National Team Coordinator
• Training alterations due to injury or illness must be communicated to the National Team
Coordinator prior to workout
• Have all the listed apparel with you and in good condition
• Know and execute with excellence the National Team warm-up
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All athletes are expected to remain a part of the team and adhere to the team schedule
until all Individual and Team Competitions are completed
Do not share privileged information, photos or comments from training camps or
competitions to the public via phone, social media, email or other method. Privileged
information includes selection information, injuries, athlete performance information,
skill or routine video, etc.
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
Athlete Funding – Senior National Team athletes are provided basic funding by USA
Gymnastics as per the National Team Agreement. In addition, bonus funds, identified in
the National Team Funding document, are available to athletes through camp
attendance. Please be aware that in order to qualify for camp bonus payments, the
following criteria apply:
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Athletes must attend camp for the entire duration of the camp unless approved by
the NTC or the Vice President of Men’s Program.
Circumstances that will be considered for bonus paid without full camp attendance
are family or personal emergency or extraordinary circumstances that are outside
the control of the athlete.
Athletes who are unable to attend a national team camp, or any portion of a camp,
due to representing the men’s program at an assigned USA Gymnastics event or
function will receive full camp bonus credit.
National Team Coordinator
The position of National Team Coordinator (NTC) requires a demonstration of exceptional
responsibility and leadership. The NTC’s ability to assume the following list of responsibilities
will set the pace for our efforts and will be the key for team unity. While all of the support
team will stand ready to assist the National Team Coordinator, the difficult decisions and
sensitive issues we might face will be the NTC’s responsibility. Accountability for our team’s
finish, the impression that our team establishes with the principals of the competition, the
media, and the public will rest on the shoulders of this individual. All decisions, attitudes, and
actions must be lead by the National Team Coordinator with the best interest of the Team.
The National Team Coordinator, under the direction of the Vice President of Men’s Program,
and in conjunction with the Men’s Program Committee is responsible for the following duties:
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Know all FIG Technical Regulations and communicate those to all support staff
Know all competition details and specifications and communicate those to all
support staff
Address the team formally before and after practice
Lead, motivate, inspire, and provide an example for all athletes and support team
Conduct team meetings and present line-ups to all coaches as per international
event procedures
Explain line-up rationale and responsibilities to the team and individual athletes
Plan, coordinate and implement the training plan and activities at all team camps and
competitions
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Develop and provide weekly training schedules to each personal coach in pre-event
preparation periods as per international event procedures
Establish and maintain open lines of communication with all athletes and coaches of the
National Team
Consult with National Team athletes and coaches to develop individual training plans and
monitor progress
Oversee the Expert Clinician Program for the National Team
Represent the team with the media
Make decisions on all press issues for the team and individuals at team events and
activities
Initiate action with the team staff to address any detrimental behavior by a team
member
Meet with the judges and assign duties as needed
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
Must complete annual Safe Sport training
Head Coach
This individual will be selected based upon his ability to lead the team on the competitive floor.
His ability to assume the following list of responsibilities will, in large, determine the overall
success of the team. All actions and decisions on the competition floor will be solely the Head
Coach’s responsibility. Personal coach and individual athlete responsibilities must become
secondary when the individual assumes this new role.
Responsibilities are as follows:
• Is responsible for all coaching decisions that must be made on the competition floor
• Know all FIG Technical Regulations and communicate those to all support staff
• Know all competition details and specifications and communicate those to all support staff
• Must address the team formally before and after practice
• Lead, motivate, inspire, and provide an example for all athletes and support team
• Discuss the team line-up with the National Team Coordinator
• Keep the line of communication open with every team and support team member
• Designate duties to Assistant Coach and personal coaches as necessary and as soon as
possible including areas such as:
Ø Team warm-up
Ø Auxiliary equipment (tape measure, bar scraper, spray bottle, chalk, competition #)
Ø Meal plan
Ø Apparel checks and plan
Ø Team activities
Ø Sign all official team documents on a timely basis
• Be responsible for the accuracy of all team documents
• Act as coach during podium training and all team competitions
• Act as coach during all “simulated competitive training” in the official training halls
• Direct the practice of “mock” meets and 30 sec. touch warm-up to ensure team readiness
• Know each athlete’s board setting, placement and spring usage
• Know each athlete’s routines for spotting purposes, matting, board placement, etc.
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Know each athlete’s parallel bar needs
Know each athlete’s vault number(s)
Know each athlete’s competitive number
Know the line-up and be prepared to address line-up changes during the competition due
to injuries or other unforeseen circumstances
Know the FIG Inquiry Procedure and be prepared to file an inquiry if necessary according to
the procedures using previously prepared athlete routine materials
Know each athlete’s routines and be able to recognize start value as performed for the
purpose of evaluating the need for an inquiry
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
Must complete annual Safe Sport training
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Team Leader/Head of Delegation
Responsibilities include:
• Know all FIG Technical Regulations and communicate those to all support staff
• Know all competition details and specifications and communicate those to all support staff
• Coordinate transportation for all team and support team members
• Coordinate all housing arrangements
• Coordinate and supervise all administrative personnel
• Act as liaison with the Organizing Committee for all team responsibilities
• Coordinate processing and accreditation
• Responsible for the conduct of all team and support team members
• Responsible for compliance of all parties with the Selection Procedures, Men’s National
Team Manual, USA Gymnastics Code of Ethical Conduct, and the USOC Code of Conduct
• Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
• Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
• Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
• Must complete annual Safe Sport training
VI.
Medical Staff
A Trainer and/or Doctor is sometimes included in the delegation. These individuals will
provide a full range of support for the athletes, coaches and other staff. The responsibilities of
the medical staff are as follows:
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Attend all training/competition sessions, unless dismissed by the NTC, Head Coach or
Head of Delegation
Be positive in all conversations with the athletes
Attend to all physical needs of the athletes
Provide treatments for injury or maintenance in a timely manner
Report all treatments to the National Team coordinator and Head Coach on a daily basis
Report all suspected serious injury or illness to the National Team Coordinator and Head
Coach immediately
Be responsible for all medical supplies
Be responsible for medical and emergency contact for all locations
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Carry contact numbers at all times
Secure water for the athletes for training/competition if necessary
Monitor the water source for the athletes
Make any recommendations concerning athletes’ physical welfare to the NTC
Inform and counsel athletes regarding the drug testing regulations
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
Must complete annual Safe Sport training
Judges
Responsibilities include:
• Attend all competition functions as required by the FIG
• When requested and if possible, be available to the National Team Coordinator/Personal
Coaches for advice
• When requested and available, assist with training
• First responsibility is to the team
• All correspondence between additional staff outside of direct involvement at camps or
activities as assigned must go through the NTC
• Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
• Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
• Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
• May be required to complete annual Safe Sport training
VIII. Athlete Representative
Responsibilities include:
• Attend all team functions
• Observe all training and competition
• Give input at meetings as requested by the National Team Coordinator
• Remain neutral and equally support all athletes
• Report any serious problems to the NTC, Head Coach or Vice President of Men’s Program
• Counsel team members as needed
• Act as liaison for athlete team members with the coaching staff and Team Leader/Head of
Delegation
• Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
• Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
• Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
• May be required to complete annual Safe Sport training
IX.
Additional Staff
Responsibilities include:
• Responsible for coaching, sports science or other support as assigned and directed by the
NTC.
• Act as technical assistants to the National Team Coordinator and personal coaches
• Remain positive at all times
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Attend all training sessions
Give observations to the coaches
Report any problems to the National Team Coordinator and the Team Leader/Head of
Delegation immediately
All correspondence between additional staff outside of direct involvement at camps or
activities as assigned must go through the NTC
Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct (see Attachment)
Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
Has the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred
May be required to complete annual Safe Sport training
Section II – International Events
This section will elaborate on areas of responsibility and procedures previously mentioned for
major international team meets (i.e. Olympic Games, World Championships, Pan American Games,
etc.). The concepts that are established in this document should also guide the participants of any
international team or individual meet on how all US delegation members should conduct
themselves at events. This document will be reviewed with the delegation members at the first
team meeting once the respective team has been selected.
I.
Event Selection and Team Assignments
A. Selection Procedure Events
The Men's Program Committee (MPC) has the responsibility to develop Selection
Procedures for the Olympic Games, Pan American Games, Youth Olympic Games and the
World Championships. These selection procedures will address athlete selection and may
or may not include coach selection. Coaches’ selection may be handled separately by the
MPC or delegated to a selection committee.
All MPC developed selection procedures are subject to review and approval by the
President of USA Gymnastics as well as the USA Gymnastics Board of Directors. In the
case of USOC events such as the Olympic Games and Pan American Games, selection
procedures are also subject to United States Olympic Committee (USOC) approval.
The MPC has the ability, at its discretion, to establish selection procedures for any event
that US men will participate in.
B. Team or Individual Event Selection and Assignments
The National Team Coordinator (NTC) will provide recommendations and rationale to the
MPC for all international events where selection procedures or a qualification process
are not used. The MPC will review these recommendations and confirm final
assignments.
C. Limited Credential Events – Olympic Games, Pan American Games, World Championships
The credential process is part of most team events and can/does affect the ability of
personal coaches to fully participate during all phases of an event. Understanding the
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realities of the event rules and FIG policy regarding credentialed access as well as the
process for awarding credentials can help avoid misunderstandings or conflicts.
D. World Championships
The FIG controls the number and type of credentials that any country’s delegation will
have access to. The number of credentials and credential access is strictly limited by
category (i.e. – athlete; coach; team leader; medical; guest). Teams attending the World
Championships will be accommodated with the proper credentials for each athlete,
assigned staff, selected coaches and the named personal coaches to the extent that the
rules and financial realities allow. The Men's Program Committee, with the approval of
the President of USA Gymnastics, will make the final determination on assigning the
available credentials or the MPC may delegate this task to a selection committee. It is a
priority for the Men’s Program to ensure that each athlete has a represented coach from
their program/facility credentialed.
Coaches are reminded that the number of credentialed coaches allowed in the warm-up
hall during the competition warm-up period is limited to three, and the field of
play/competition area is limited to two by FIG rules and that these rules are subject to
change.
E. Olympic Games
The Olympic Games are an IOC/USOC organized event and the credential process and
number of credentials available is both limited and controlled by those organizations.
This fact can present its own problems. Every attempt will be made, prior to arriving at
the Olympic Games, to arrange to provide an "AO" credential to all personal coaches not
named to the recognized delegation list of five athletes, head coach, medical trainer and
team leader.
If USA Gymnastics is unable to obtain the necessary number of credentials from the
Olympic Committee to accommodate all the personal coaches, then the procedure for
distributing any additional credentials will be determined by the MPC with review and
approval of the President of USA Gymnastics and the USOC. It is a priority for the Men’s
Program to ensure that each athlete has a represented coach from their program
credentialed.
Coaches are reminded that the number of credentialed coaches allowed in the warm-up
hall during the competition warm-up period is limited to three, and the field of
play/competition area is limited to two by FIG rules and that these rules are subject to
change. When an athlete qualifies to the All-Around or Event Finals, every attempt will be
made to obtain or exchange a credential to ensure that the personal coach can be on the
competition floor with his athlete.
The IOC/USOC does not currently recognize any athlete alternates as part of the official
delegation. Therefore, alternate athletes do not receive credentials or USOC event
apparel. USA Gymnastics will do everything possible to include the alternate team
athletes in all team activities, but they are not recognized as Olympic Team alternates by
the IOC or USOC.
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The USOC is constantly reviewing how credentials are distributed for the Olympic Games.
Every attempt will be made to provide the most updated information to the coaches prior
to the selection process.
II.
Team Participant Roles and Responsibilities
The Head Coach position for all major international events, including World Championships
and Olympic Games, should remain separate from the National Team Coordinator (NTC)
position. Should the NTC be chosen as the Head Coach, then a replacement NTC/Team
Leader, chosen by the MPC, should be brought in to offset the NTC’s responsibilities, specific
to the event, leading up to and during the event.
A. National Team Coordinator
Competition Period - The primary responsibility of the NTC during the competition is to
oversee and assist the Head Coach in carrying out the competition plan. This includes:
1. The coordination of all administrative duties such as communicating transportation
and workout schedules and the submission of all competition forms.
2. Final determination of the team line-up. The NTC will meet with the Head Coach,
Personal Coaches and the Vice President of Men’s Program to develop the team lineup. This group will be given until the following day to look over the first draft of the
line-up. All coaching staff members will be given the opportunity to voice any opinions
or concerns related to the line-up. Following the discussion, the NTC will make the
final decision on the line-up if the group cannot reach a consensus agreement.
Note – The goal has been, and will continue to be, to have the coaching staff work
together and agree on the final line-up.
3. Assuring that all participants are following the official competition rules and
regulations.
4. Assisting the Head Coach to the extent possible in monitoring the progress of the
competition and the submission of any meet inquiries.
B. Head Coach
The selection of the Head Coach is determined by the MPC or by a Selection Committee
as designated by approved selection procedures. Any special duties related to the head
coaching position will be included in the selection document.
Through all phases of the competition, the Head Coach is responsible for:
1. Communicating all administrative and event specific information to all team members
and coaches and/or event participants.
2. Establishing and enforcing rules for the conduct of the team. This is accomplished in
consultation with the Vice President of Men’s Program and the NTC.
3. Working with the media as requested by USA Gymnastics.
C. Preparation Period
After the team and Head Coach have been selected, the Head Coach and NTC will work
together to ensure team readiness. These duties include:
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1. The implementation of the competition plan.
2. Working with the NTC to determine and execute the coaching staff plan for training
halls, warm-up halls and for the field of play during the event.
3. Organizing training plans with the personal coaches and assist the NTC in monitoring
the agreed upon training plans and schedules for all team members. The NTC must
approve any deviations from that plan.
4. Work with the NTC in organizing and communicating the details and activities of the
preparation training camp.
D. Competition Period
1. Work with the NTC to carry out all administrative aspects of the competition including
the credentialing process, housing, transportation, training and competition
schedules and the submission of all required competition forms. This may include
coordination of duties of a designated Team Leader or Head of Delegation, depending
on the format or organizing authority for the event.
2. Work with the NTC to oversee the coaching and team activities during team training.
3. Produce a daily schedule that includes apparel, meal, training and meeting times for
the day.
4. Ensure that the guidelines are followed in determining a team line-up.
5. Handle the coaching responsibilities for the team during podium training and
competition and execute the coaching staff plan for the competition.
III.
Athletes
A. Family and Personal Relationships
With the time demands so great on the team, it is important that team members take on
these additional responsibilities:
1. Team members must inform the NTC and Head Coach if any family members,
relatives, wife, girlfriend, friends, etc. will be attending the competition.
2. Team members must inform NTC and the Head Coach of the housing arrangements
of family members, relatives, wife, girlfriend, friends, etc., who will be attending the
competition.
3. Team members should inform family members, etc., that their social time during the
time from arrival to departure of the competition will be strictly controlled and based
entirely on the team schedule and team commitments. The NTC and/or Head Coach
will establish team schedules that will include potential free time for athletes and
families.
4. Since adequate rest and recovery time are essential for optimal performance, the
NTC or Head Coach will establish “quiet hours” for team members. During these
times, athletes and family members should make it a point not to send or receive
phone calls (cell or web based) or text messages. Emergencies excepted.
5. Hotel rooms are off-limits to all but team members. Meetings with family members,
etc. should be conducted away from team hotel rooms in order to respect the privacy
and rest of roommates.
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6. Team members must attend all scheduled team activities throughout the event (team
arrival to team departure). Team members’ family members etc., are not allowed to
attend team activities unless specifically invited by USA Gymnastics or approved by
the Vice President of Men’s Program.
7. The NTC and/or Head Coach must approve any deviation from the team schedule for
all team members during the duration of the event.
8. Any request for a personal appearance, interview, etc., outside of the established
team schedule must be approved by the NTC or Vice President of Men’s Program.
B. Alcohol
Team members will not drink alcohol until the competition is over. At that time, it is up to
the Head Coach and/or NTC to decide if social drinking is appropriate for team members
who are of U.S. legal age. Athletes are reminded that until the delegation has returned
home, they are still representing the United States and are obligated to conduct
themselves in a professional manner at all times. Failure to do so could result in
disciplinary action. Athletes should also remember that drug testing is possible through
the end of a scheduled event and the possibility of in-competition testing may not end
with the last day of the athlete’s competitive participation in that event.
Section III: General Information
I.
The Decision Making Process
The decisions that are made during international events (primarily team events) need to
follow a set policy so that coaches, athletes, officials and staff understand their involvement
in this process. This decision making process is an essential part of the team plan in order to
ensure that our team members eliminate as many distractions and disagreements among
the participants as possible. This process affects line-up (including podium, qualification
competition and the team finals), training plans for preparation camps, training plans at the
competition and activities outside the training and competition times.
Throughout the process, all coaches will be asked for their input concerning schedules,
training plans, activities, line-up, etc. Each coach will need to be prepared to present his
ideas to the NTC and Head Coach. All participants must remember that discussion must
involve objective ideas and information that will support team goals and objectives.
A. Pre-meet Phase
All national team coaches will be asked by the Head Coach and/or NTC to contribute to
the overall competition plan.
B. Preparation and Competition Phases
1. The personal coaches will be asked by the NTC to contribute to a more detailed
preparation and competition plan following the selection event.
2. The NTC will establish a schedule for coaches meetings for the preparation camp and
during the event. These meetings will review and update daily team schedules and
ensure the clear communication of upcoming team activities and responsibilities.
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3. The decision on the line-up will take place prior to the podium training. This enables
the team to prepare more consistently with what will actually happen in the
competition. However, the order for the team may be changed following the podium
training. This will be discussed at the coaches meeting.
4. Each coach will have the opportunity to voice his opinion on the subjects discussed.
5. The NTC will listen and offer input for the coaches to consider.
6. The NTC has the final decision in regards to the line–up, training plan schedules and
strategies should the entire coaching staff not be able to come to a consensus
decision.
Note: The goal has been, and will continue to be, to have the coaching staff work
together and agree on the final line-up.
II.
Conflict Resolution
It is important that all team delegation members are aware of the process that they can use
to resolve conflicts with other delegation members or with decisions that affect them. It is
also important that all delegation members act in a completely professional manner in
attempting to resolve any conflict.
A. The first step that is encouraged in the resolution of any conflict is to approach the
delegation member with whom the conflict exists to discuss the conflict and its resolution
in a professional manner. If the person does not feel comfortable with this process then
the following options exist:
1. Athlete members should discuss their problem with the team captain who would then
discuss the problem with the Head Coach and/or NTC.
2. Coaching staff or other delegation members should discuss their problem with the
Head Coach and/or NTC as they feel is most appropriate.
B. If the conflict is not resolved using the options above, then the athlete, team captain or
coaching staff member can request a meeting with the Head Coach, the NTC and the Vice
President of Men’s Program to discuss the problem. The Vice President of Men’s
Program or the President of USA Gymnastics can be consulted regarding conflicts
involving the NTC or Vice President of Men’s Program respectively.
C. The Head Coach, the NTC, and the Vice President of Men’s Program or the President of
USA Gymnastics will make all final decisions concerning appropriate action to resolve a
team conflict.
III.
Removal from the Team or Disciplinary Action
A. Removal from the team
Obviously, removal from the team is a serious matter for the entire team. The Men's
Program Committee has established a set of guidelines for removal of a team member
that are included in the selection procedures for major events. Coaches should make use
of these guidelines at all international events. The basic guidelines are:
An athlete or coach may be removed from the team if he violates the USA Gymnastics
Code of Ethics. He may also be removed from the team if a preparation camp is organized
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and he fails to attend the training camp for the full duration of the camp. An athlete may
also be removed from the team in the event of injury, illness or other factor that inhibits
peak performance at the event. Verification of injury or illness will be by two neutral
doctors selected by USA Gymnastics. Removal may only occur by action of the President
of USA Gymnastics after consultation with the MPC, USA Gymnastics Men’s Staff and an
interview with the athlete or coach. Any decision to remove an athlete or coach is subject
to review through the USA Gymnastics Grievance Procedures.
B. Disciplinary Action
At any event that the USA Men’s Team participates in or attends as a delegation (this
includes team as well as an individual event), the following guidelines will apply when
disciplinary action must be taken.
1. Should a coach, athlete, official or staff member break the team’s conduct or behavior
rules, the Head Coach, the NTC and the Vice President of Men’s Program will be
notified.
2. The individual who has to face disciplinary action will first meet with the Vice
President of Men’s Program, Head Coach and the NTC.
3. The individual will have an opportunity during this meeting to explain the incident in
his own words and to add any pertinent information.
4. The Vice President of Men’s Program, Head Coach and NTC will recommend a
disciplinary action, if any, that will take place based on the level of severity of the
incident. The Vice President of Men’s Program will inform the President of USA
Gymnastics of the recommended disciplinary action. The final decision will be made
public to the team at a scheduled meeting.
5. The disciplinary action taken can be no action, a warning or to the extreme of
suspension or dismissal from the team for a period of time.
IV.
Who Speaks for the USA Men's Team
When participating at international events, there is always the chance of encountering an FIG
official, judge for the event or local organizing official. To ensure that the team does not
offend or provide contradictory information to any individual who can affect the team’s
performance, the following guidelines will benefit the team:
•
•
•
Comments concerning FIG Technical Committee issues will be handled by the Vice
President of Men’s Program, the NTC and Head Coach with input from the coaching staff.
Comments concerning judging issues will be handled by the Vice President of Men’s
Program, the NTC and Head Coach with input from the coaching staff.
The President of USA Gymnastics will handle comments concerning FIG Executive
Committee issues.
This policy will help to maintain a professional image from the USA Men’s Delegation.
Conflict Resolution for Unusual or Controversial Situations Surrounding the Competition
As the men’s team has discovered on more than one occasion, some conflict or controversy
can accompany the competitive process. This includes disputes surrounding judging issues
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as well as actions associated with a team coach or member. It is important that the event
staff, USA Gymnastics and the USOC (at their events) work with the affected participants to
establish a plan of action to insure that an unusual or controversial situation is resolved in
the best interest of the athlete(s) and the team and that a correct and unified message is
presented to all observing parties.
In the event of such an unusual or controversial situation and prior to any statements being
made to any officials or media, a meeting should take place between the affected team
participants, the Head Coach, National Team Coordinator, the Vice President of Men’s
Program and, depending on the situation, may also include the President of USA Gymnastics
and officials from the USOC. The affected participant(s) would also have the ability to include
individuals deemed appropriate to the situation.
The goal of such a meeting should be to:
1. Identify the actual details of the situation using all facts and sources available
2. Determine possible solutions and/or courses of action
3. Work with the affected individual(s) to determine what solution or course of action best
represents their interest and the interest of the sport of men’s gymnastics in the U.S.
4. Prepare an action plan to deal with the situation in the agreed upon manner
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Men’s National Team
Team Responsibilities Manual
Agreement
I,
(print name), have read, understand and agree to
comply with the responsibilities of my position as outlined within this manual.
Signature
Date
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Prohibited Conduct
The safety of national team athletes during training camps, competitions, and other official national team
activities is of paramount concern. When any national team athlete is subjected to abuse, harassment,
bullying or hazing, it undermines the mission of USA Gymnastics and is inconsistent with the best interests
of the sport of gymnastics and the athletes USA Gymnastics serves.
Abuse, Harassment, Hazing and Bullying
Abuse, including child abuse, harassment, hazing and bullying are defined in various sources. USA
Gymnastics has not adopted any specific definition of abuse; rather, it has chosen to defer to such general
sources and definitions for reference and application. Nonetheless, in general, the following conduct may be
considered abusive:
(a)
Physical Abuse.
(i)
Any physical contact with a participant that intentionally causes or is likely to cause the
participant to sustain bodily harm or personal injury, including without limitation striking,
hitting, kicking, biting, shaking, shoving, forcing an athlete to train or compete when
seriously injured or mandating excessive exercise as a form of punishment.
(ii)
Any physical contact with a participant that intentionally creates or is likely to create a threat
of bodily harm or personal injury.
(iii)
Giving alcohol or inappropriate drugs to a participant.
(iv)
Any violation of applicable law involving physical contact, or that is specifically designed to
protect minors.
Physical contact that is reasonably intended to coach, teach or demonstrate a gymnastics skill or to
prevent or lessen injury (e.g., spotting, catching) does not constitute physical abuse. Infrequent,
non-intentional physical contact, particularly contact which arises out of an error or a misjudgment
on the part of the gymnast, participant or coach, does not constitute physical abuse.
(b)
Sexual Abuse.
(i)
Rape, incest, fondling, exhibitionism or sexual exploitation.
(ii)
Any form of sexual contact or inappropriate touching, unwanted physical contact,
unwelcome advances or requests for sexual favors.
(iii)
Any form of wanton or obscene gesturing, lewd remarks or indecent exposure.
(iv)
(v)
Sexual abuse of a minor includes without limitation:
• Touching a minor participant for the purpose of causing the sexual arousal or
gratification of either person; or
• A minor participant touching any person, if the touching occurs at the request of or
with the consent of such other person, for the sexual arousal or gratification of either
person;
Neither consent of the participant to the sexual contact, mistake as to the participant’s age,
nor the fact that the sexual abuse or contact did not take place at or in conjunction with a
gymnastics function is a defense to a complaint of sexual abuse;
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(vi)
(vii)
Sexual abuse also includes sexual misconduct described in the USA Gymnastics Code of
Ethical Conduct, including:
• Soliciting or engaging in sexual relations with a minor;
• Engaging in any behavior that utilizes the influence of a member’s position as coach,
judge, official or administrator to encourage sexual relations with an athlete or
participant; or
• Engaging in sexual harassment by making unwelcome advances, requests for sexual
favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, where such conduct
creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment; or
Any violation of applicable law involving sexual misconduct or child abuse, or that is
specifically designed to protect minors.
(c)
Emotional or Verbal Abuse.
(i)
Insulting, threatening, mocking, demeaning language, behavior or other conduct which is
intimidating, frightening, humiliating or offensive.
(ii)
Any improper or inappropriate comment, action or gesture directed toward a person or
group that is related to race, sex, creed, sexual orientation, age, national origin or mental or
physical disability.
(iii)
Creating an environment, through behavior or course of conduct, that is insulting,
demeaning or offensive.
(d)
Harassment
(i)
A repeated pattern of behavior that is intended to cause fear, humiliation or annoyance;
offend or degrade; create a hostile environment; or reflect discriminatory bias in an attempt
to establish dominance, superiority or power over an individual or group based on race, sex,
creed, sexual orientation, age, national origin or mental or physical disability.
(ii)
Sexual harassment; the sexual solicitation, physical advances, or conduct that is sexual in
nature and is unwelcome, offensive and/or creates a hostile environment.
(e)
Hazing
(i)
Coercing, requiring or forcing any humiliating, unwelcome or dangerous activity that serves
as a condition for being socially accepted by team members.
(ii)
An athlete’s willingness to cooperate or participate is not a defense to a complaint of hazing.
(iii)
Team activities that are meant to promote team cohesion do not constitute hazing.
(f)
Bullying
(ii)
An intentional, persistent and repeated pattern of committing behaviors that are intended, or
have the reasonable potential to cause fear, humiliation or physical harm in an attempt to
socially exclude, diminish or isolate the targeted athlete(s).
Romantic or Sexual Relationships
Romantic or sexual relationships, which began during the sport relationship, between athletes or other
participants and those individuals who have direct supervisory or evaluative control, or are in a position of
power and trust, over the athlete or other participant, are prohibited.
Coaches are presumed to have direct supervisory or evaluative control and be in a position of power and
trust over those athletes or other participants they coach. They can rebut such presumption by
demonstrating that no imbalance of power exists.
Relationships where it can be demonstrated that there is no imbalance of power do not violate this policy.
Pre-existing relationships between two spouses or life partners do not violate this policy, provided that the
relationship is between adults and remains consensual.
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Prohibited Conduct – Policy Documents
Introduction in Responsibilities Manual/Conduct Document
USA Gymnastics is committed to promoting a safe environment. Many policies and procedures are in place to
promote USA Gymnastics’ Safe Sport ideals, including its Code of Ethical Conduct and Participant Welfare
Policy. Abuse of any kind will not be tolerated – and specific forms of misconduct that USA Gymnastics has
deemed as Prohibited Conduct are included in this manual. National Team members, coaches, and staff are
the most visible members of the gymnastics community and it is expected that this group set a positive
example by conducting yourself in a positive, ethical manner. It is critical that each of you upholds USA
Gymnastics’ Safe Sport ideals and works together to create the safest possible environment for our
athletes.
Under each relevant stakeholder, the following will be added:
• Shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct.
• Shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct.
• Have the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any suspicions that
Prohibited Conduct has occurred.
• Must complete annual Safe Sport training. (does not apply to athletes)
Introduction in Employee Handbook
Many of USA Gymnastics’ staff members have the honor and privilege of working with the members of the
gymnastics community, including our elite national teams – those athletes, coaches, and officials who
represent our country and our sport at the highest level. With that privilege comes a responsibility to uphold
USA Gymnastics’ Safe Sport ideals to ensure that athletes are free to train and compete in an abuse-free
environment. Below, six forms of misconduct are defined that USA Gymnastics has deemed as Prohibited
Conduct. As a staff member, it is your responsibility to commit to the following:
• Employees shall not engage in any form of Prohibited Conduct
• Employees shall not willfully tolerate Prohibited Conduct
• Employees have the duty to report any actions that may constitute Prohibited Conduct, or any
suspicions that Prohibited Conduct has occurred.
• Employees must complete annual Safe Sport training and, if applicable, administer the Safe Sport
training to those national team participants within your auspices.
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