Oakville Gymnastics Club Acrobatic Gymnastics Team

2nd Ontario Cup Acrobatic Gymnastics Mississauga pics

2012-02-20T16:45:00.001-08:00

Hi,

If you have pictures from the weekend please send me the best so I can add them here on the blog and so I can use them on our the Facebook page that has all our photos.

Great stuff this weekend.

Well done everyone.

I Love Gymnastics Week pics

2012-02-14T14:29:00.000-08:00

Kiana Wilson Loves Gymnastics

Yeah, we love acrobatic gymnastics!

Thumbs up to loving acrobatic gymnastics

I LOVE GYMNASTICS WEEK Day 1 Winner

2012-02-13T13:58:00.001-08:00

I LOVE GYMNASTICS WEEK

2012-02-13T13:55:00.001-08:00

This week is I LOVE GYMNASTICS WEEK. We will be giving a lucky Acrobatic Gymnastics Athlete a prize each day to celebrate. Your picture will be posted here.

Acrobatic Gymnastics 2nd Ontario Cup Schedule

2012-02-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here is the schedule for the

Acrobatic Gymnastics 2nd Ontario Cup.

See you all at Gymnastics Mississauga.

Morning schedule

Afternoon schedule

One of the Mississauga Girls Trios

March Schedule

2012-02-12T06:26:00.000-08:00

We usually train one weekend over the March Break. We will be training the first weekend and not the second.

Please note the time changes for some classes.

There will be more details about the Training Camp scheduled for the end of the month closer to the date.

Please note that the OGC may be closing the viewing area after 5:00pm over the March Break week. Athletes will be ushered in and out via the sliding glass doors at the front of the club.

If you will be gone over the March Break please let Don or Jane know so that we can make adjustments where needed (combine groups or reschedule). Thanks.

Acro Training Camp Simcoe Pics

2012-02-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos from the Acrobatic Gymnastics Training Camp that took place at Simcoe Gliders on Saturday, February 4th. You can find more photos on Facebook.

Everyone had a great time.

Way to go OGC Acro!

Karen striking a pose

Lea getting some assistance

maybe a little crooked

this skill needs work ladies

Not bad Mackenzie

February Schedule

2012-02-05T06:05:00.001-08:00

Event Schedule Updated

2012-01-21T09:13:00.000-08:00

1st Ontario Cup Afternoon Flight of Acrobatic Gymnasts

2012-01-17T07:14:00.001-08:00

Better than two halves.

Thank you!

2012-01-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

We just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for the gifts we received this past Christmas.

Thank you!

All the best in 2012 from the OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics program staff

Don Jane Dana

Facebook Photos 1st Acrobatic Gymnastics Competition

2012-01-15T06:41:00.000-08:00

You can find pictures of almost everyone who competed at the Acrobatic Gymnastics 1st Ontario Cup on Facebook.

Lots of photos of OGC Acrobats.

Search for Don Holmes on Facebook.

Check out my photo albums!

British Open Pics of other Teams

2012-01-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

British Open Pics of the OGC Team

2012-01-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

Acrobatic Gymnastics Training Camp Feb 4th

2012-01-12T11:51:00.000-08:00

For information on the upcoming Acrobatic Gymnastics Training Camp at Simcoe Gliders please see the following link.

http://www.ogf.com/documents/event_file_12142.pdf

Beginner Acro Training Camp Simcoe Gliders Feb 4th

2012-01-12T07:56:00.000-08:00

Just letting everyone know that we will be inviting all of our Interclub and Recreational Acrobatic Gymnastics athletes to attend a Beginner Level Acrobatic Gymnastics Training Camp on February 4th.

More details to come. Likely tomorrow from Gymnastics Ontario.

Keep your eyes on the blog.

Abs for Cash contest

2012-01-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

I have mentioned a new idea for getting us all in shape in the Tumbling and Acro Programs. It's called Abs for Cash.

We are essentially having a 'Best Ab's competition. Each contestant puts in a twoonie and the winner gets half the pot whereas the other half goes towards buying more ankle weights for the gym. Ankle weights are always in need and often disappear to the bottom of pits, under mats and fall apart easily as they take pretty rough treatment.

There are five categories of competition:

Athletes Girls/Women 17 or Under
Athletes Boys/Men 17 or Under
Athletes Women 18 and over/Coaches/Mom's
Athletes Men 18 and over/Coaches/Dad's
Over 50 years (one category)

We do not need before photos but if you would like to submit them you can. I have already started logging photos of myself to show the ultimate transformation from Christmas Chubby to March 1st Muscle Machine.

On (or around) March 1st we will have an Ab'stravaganza where all participants are expected to show up with a t-shirt that has a hole cut out where your abs are so that we can see the rectus abdominis that you have chiselled over the two months of effort.

We all have New Year's Resolutions of getting fit, eating better, and leading a healthy lifestyle so that we can be a role model for our kids, our parents and our friends. Now is your opportunity and you are not alone. I will be posting my efforts. We will be supplying you with ideas on ab exercises you can do at home with little or no equipment so that achieving leaner abs is possible for all.

Let's go OGC. Show the rest of the community that we have great abs (they're just wearing a jacket right now).

To register simply submit your twoonie in a sealed envelope with your name and category on it to Don by the end of January.

'Ricardo thinks he's going to beat me. lol" Don Holmes

Snap Oakville Article 1st Ontario Cup

2012-01-06T07:12:00.001-08:00

To read click on articles to see them in a larger format

Recreational Acrobatic Gymnastics Class for the Winter

2012-01-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

If you know of anyone who is interested in trying out for the Interclub Acrobatic Gymnastics Class in the spring we do have available a RECREATIONAL Acrobatic Gymnastics Class that will be running on Sunday afternoon from 12:30 to 2:00pm with coach Dana. There is still some space in the class. You can register through the office (not online).

Thanks for sharing this info with those who you think might be interested.

Acro Session Friday Jan 6th

2012-01-05T05:53:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that we will be having a special class for the Interclub Acrobatic Gymnastics athletes on Friday, January 6th from 2:30 to 5:00pm at the OGC. Both groups will be working together with Jane and Don. It should be a lot of fun. See you all there.

Winter Fast Track Newsletter

2012-01-04T07:29:00.000-08:00

Check out the new Winter Edition of the Oakville Gymnastics Club's newsletter: The Fast Track.

http://www.oakvillegym.com/index.html

(if it's not posted on the home page yet it will be soon)

Lots of great stuff about the OGC's Acrobatic Gymnastics Program.

Snap Oakville 1st Comp Article

2012-01-02T08:00:00.001-08:00

Here we are featured in the Snap Oakville website.

http://www.snapoakville.com/?option=com_sngevents&id%5B%5D=347622&utm_source=email&utm_medium=snapd

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-02T05:53:00.001-08:00

Oakville.com Article

2011-12-28T07:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a link to another great article about the Acrobatic Gymnastics 1st Ontario Cup we hosted on the 18th.

Check out Oakville.com

Follow the link in the article for more pictures.

http://www.oakville.com/articles/local-gymnasts-win-23-first-place-titles/

Happy Holidays from OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics Staff

2011-12-26T10:16:00.001-08:00

North Oakville Today 1st Ontario Cup Acrobatic Gymnastics article

2011-12-17T07:37:00.001-08:00

Oakville Beaver Article 1st Ontario Cup for Acrobatic Gymnastics article

2011-12-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

OGC Acrobatics in Oakville Beaver and Oakville Today

2011-12-15T06:31:00.000-08:00

Check us out in the newspaper and online at the following link:

http://www.insidehalton.com/sports/article/1263948--oakville-gymnastics-hosts-acrobatics-qualifier-sunday

Twist Activewear Apparel to be picked up

2011-12-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

The Twist Activewear order is in. Please pick up your items from the office today after 3:00pm.

If you have any concerns with the order please contact Twist Activewear at twist@cogeco.ca

Thanks for your orders. Just in Time for Christmas.

1st Acro Cup Schedule

2011-12-14T09:15:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is the schedule for the 1st Ontario Cup for Acrobatic Gymnastics.

My apologies for the lateness that you are receiving this schedule. The problem with schedules is that it takes a bit to create them as we are often waiting on late registrations and dealing with corrections, changes and with-drawls.

Once we have the entire registration then we can create a definitive schedule. Please note that this is common to receive a competition schedule the week before the competition or the week of, in this case.

Simply try to plan to be there for the entire day and once you receive the final schedule then you can make alternative arrangements. I also understand that with it being the weekend before Christmas holiday many of you will have family events planned for this weekend. Please feel free to bring them along for the competition as it will be quite a show.

I was very keen to have Oakville Gymnastics host this inaugural event and the only weekend where we would not have to have rescheduled several hundred recreational athletes was this Sunday at the end of the recreational session.

Thank you for your understanding, cooperation and support as we strive to develop this new gymnastics discipline and to deliver the best opportunities for our Oakville athletes to achieve success.

Please be at least an hour early for your event as the competition may run ahead of schedule (fingers crossed).

Be sure to have your daughter's hair up in a tight bun. No nail polish. No earrings (or body piercings, etc.)

Good luck and don't forget about the Saturday night training for all OGC acrobats competing this weekend between 5:00 and 7:00pm at the OGC.

Watch British Open on BG webTV

2011-12-10T15:11:00.000-08:00

Watch the 2011 British Open Tournament for Tumbling and Acrobatic Gymnastics live on the BG web TV.

Jamie Patrick and Cory Marsh will be competing in the Junior MP Balance competition at 9:30am UK time (4:30am Canada time).

Jack McGarr will be competing in the Men's 15-16 Tumbling at 14:40 (2:40pm) UK time (9:40am Canada time).

Follow the link:

http://www.british-gymnastics.org/site/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2354&Itemid=419

January 2012 Acro Schedule

2011-12-08T15:28:00.000-08:00

Here is (an albeit not so clear) January 2012 schedule for the acrobatic gymnastics program.

Please note the special training on Friday, January 6th for all Interclub Group 1 and 2 athletes. Think of this as a mini-training camp. Please let your coach know if can come to this session.

December 2011 schedule

2011-12-08T15:23:00.000-08:00

Here it is! The December schedule.

Please note the special training set for Saturday, December 17th from 5:00 to 7:00pm for all of those acro athletes who will be competing during the competition on December 18th. This is one last run through of routines before the big day.

Please be sure to confirm with your coaches that you will be at this mandatory training session.

There are No Interclub Group 1 or 2 classes over the holiday break.

All athletes should be sure to let their coaches know when they will be away over the holiday break if they will be missing training. Note the alternative training times. The week between Christmas and New Years the viewing area may be closed so athletes will be dropped off and returned to the sliding glass doors at the front of the club.

1st Ontario Cup for Acro Poster

2011-12-03T07:14:00.000-08:00

We are getting closer. Good luck to all of our hard working acrobats as they prepare for the Acrobatic Gymnastics 1st Ontario Cup.

December schedule on its way...

2011-12-03T07:03:00.000-08:00

The December schedule is on its way. We have a Director's Meeting on Monday, December 5th to finalize all training times over the holiday break.

The schedule will be posted on Monday evening.

As for now all classes are running as per the normal schedule.

Please note that acro trainings will likely be in the afternoons on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of each of the two weeks the athletes have off from school.

1st Ontario Cup for Acrobatic Gymnastics

2011-11-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

The Oakville Gymnastics Club will be hosting the first ever official Acrobatic Gymnastics competition on December 18th, 2011.

For details on the competition please follow the link to the Gymnastics Ontario website events section.

http://ogf.com/events/details.php?event_id=2860

We look forward to hosting clubs from across Ontario and welcoming friends from Alberta and Quebec.

OGC Judges: We have 8!!!

2011-10-31T07:43:00.000-07:00

Sitting Front (l-r) Suren Torosyants, Sarah Thomas, Valere Binet, Don Holmes

Standing (l-r): Nancy Carss, Debbie D’Sousza, Amanda George, Suzie Owen, Jane Kirwan, Marissa Balogh, Jackie Wald, Anastasiya Torosyants, Tony Baker, Jackie Patrick, Joe Pacheco, Sandra Baker

On October 29^th and 30^th Gymnastics Ontario hosted the first ever Acrobatic Gymnastics Judging course in Canada. With 14 participants completing the course we now have a great base of judges to put to the test during this year’s Acro competitions. With two qualifiers and a Provincial Championships our new judges will have ample opportunity to perfect their eye for detail and delivery of scores.

Sarah Thomas and Valere Binet from USA Gymnastics Federation flew in from Annapolis, Maryland to instruct our group of enthusiastic new judges on the ins and outs of judging acrobatics. Sarah is also a coach at 1^st Class Gymnastics Club where she heads a program of 50 acrobatic gymnasts and Valere is a USAG Judge for Acrobatic Gymnastics formerly from Belgium. Thank you to this dynamic duo for educating our group on how to be top judges.

Thank you to Sarah and Valere as well as the USA Gymnastics Federation for the help and support we have received for this course and over the past several years as we have been developing Acrobatic Gymnastics in our Province.

Good luck to all of our new judges and we look forward to smooth adjudication throughout the 2011/2012 Acrobatic Gymnastic season.

Sunday October 30th Schedule CHANGE

2011-10-28T05:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

This Sunday Gymnastics Ontario is hosting a Judging Course for Acrobatic Gymnastics. Don, Amanda, Jane and Dana will be participating in this course so there are some changes to this Sunday's schedule so that we can get back from the course to coach.

Developmental 3 Tumbling moved to 4:30 to 6:30pm with Amanda

Provincial DC Tumbling moved to 6:30 to 8:30pm with Amanda and Dana

Developmental 2 Tumbling moved to 6:30 to 8:30pm with Amanda and Dana

Interclub Acro Group 1 moved to 4:30 to 6:30pm with Jane and Dana

Interclub Acro Group 2 moved to 4:30 to 6:30pm with Jane and Dana

Also the Provincial Acro group and the Elite Acro group WILL have class on Sunday night. I sent an email to let you know this but am posting it here as well. On the October schedule it was originally cancelled when we thought the judging course would run longer.

Our apologies for the late notice on this change. Most of you have already sent me a message back to inform me that you received this message. Thanks. For those of you who have not gotten back to Don please do so, so that we know you will not be coming to gym at the regular time.

Please Note: THE VIEWING AREA WILL BE CLOSED AFTER 7:00PM. You can collect your child from the sliding glass doors at the front of the gym at 8:30pm.

Thanks for your understanding,

Tumbling and Acro Program

OGC Apparel! More pics.

2011-10-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some better pictures of the apparel we have for sale.

OGC Apparel!!!

2011-10-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Here it is, THE OGC APPAREL LINE FOR 2011/2012!

Twist Activewear will be sizing athletes for these clothing items on

Sunday, October 23rd between 12:00 and 4:00pm

Monday, October 24th between 4:00 and 7:00pm

Tuesday, October 25th between 4:00 and 7:00pm

All items are optional.

Great Christmas presents!

You are not required by the tumbling program to get an OGC tracksuit this year but you are still welcome to. Orders for the traditional tracksuit will be done through the office at a later date. You could opt for the slimmer fitted tracksuit for the girls offered through Twist Activewear.

These items are on sale now.

You can see the samples when you are fitted.

These items are available to the athletes in the Tumbling and Acrobatic Gymnastics Program. Interclub, Provincial and National athletes are invited to purchase some great OGC items to wear to training, competitions, at the mall, wherever you want.

The sweat pants will look great with your Ugs, ladies!

Bring a Friend Family Fun Night

2011-10-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

If anyone is interested we are hosting a fundraiser for the tumbling program on Saturday, October 22nd from 5:00 to 7:30pm.

All are welcome.

See the poster below. Click on it to see it in a larger format.

Handstand Photo Contest Winners!

2011-10-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

In 1st place with a total of 20 points (3 points for a 1st place vote, 2 points for a 2nd place vote and 1 point for a 3rd place vote) is Erin Oswald and her flexible handstand photo.

2nd place was Ally Maurice's handstand photo from a beach in Alaska. Ally had a total of 16 points.

3rd place was Kelsey Horn's handstand against the rock. Kelsey had a total of 14 points.

Honorable mention, me. I tied with Kelsey for 3rd but I am not really in the contest.

Congratulations to all the those who stood on their hands. Thanks for all the great photos.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-10-08T07:50:00.000-07:00

Please note that there will be NO TRAINING for the Acrobatic Gymnastics program on Sunday, October 9th or Monday, October 10th.

Interclub Group 1 will have a Make Up Class on Wednesday, October 12th from 6:30 to 8:30pm to replace the Sunday class.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Handstand Photo Contest Prizes

2011-10-05T06:14:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

I am asking for votes on this summer's best handstand photos. So scroll down and give all the handstand photos a a second look. Choose your top three in order and send me your 1st, 2nd and 3rd place handstand photos.

Please email me, Don, either at this blog address:
dholmes.acro@gmail.com
or
dholmes_tumbling@hotmail.com
to submit your vote.

I will be bringing in a photo contest sheet to class for everyone to vote on as well.

Here are the great prizes you might win!
1st Place, a t-shirt, a program from Cirque du Soleil's Varekai, and 26 mini-chocolate bars

2nd place, a bag of Smarties because you were so smart with your photo

3rd Place, a frog or a cow that love handstand as much as you do

(Note: There are two of everything because I have a Flip Photo contest in the Tumbling Program and a Handstand Photo contest in the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program. Winners don't get double the prizes. Sorry.)

October Acrobatic Gymnastics Schedule 2011

2011-10-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the October Acrobatic Gymnastics program schedule. My apologies for not having it posted before October started.

Please note that there are a few changes to the schedule.

As mentioned at the Parent Meeting the Provincial Group schedule would be changing. For this month the Sunday and Tuesday times will remain the same. Sunday will be coached by Dana. Tuesday will be coached by Dana with Don assisting. The Thursday night training time will be moving back to 7:00 to 9:00pm so that the athletes will have more floor time to work routines as we will be starting choreography in the next couple weeks.
Once our new coach arrives the Tuesday Provincial class will also move back to the later time slot. Sorry for the changes but we have to work around the heavy gym loading on those two days. By switching to the later time the Acro program will be better served.

We are still caught up in paper work for Jane but we will have her here sooner than later. Fingers crossed.

All other groups will run normally for October with noted exceptions being Thanksgiving and Halloween. We will email you with Make Up Class times.

The weekend of October 29th and 30th there will be a training camp for the Provincial and Elite Group as well as a Judge's Course for all of those who are interested. More details to come on those two events. Interclub Acrobats will have a training camp in January.

Competition Training Suits

2011-10-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

Just letting everyone know that we will be having Saucy's World (a local gym suit manufacturer) come into the gym on Sunday, October 2nd to measure athletes for the royal blue and black leotards.

Athletes are expected to have this short sleeve leotard for Training Camps, Competitions and demonstrations. We will be using this suit during the warm up and training sessions at competition so all Provincial and Elite group acrobats need to have it. The cost is minimal. (For competitions the athletes will get other suits that are suited to the routines we will be building).

Measuring will take place between 5:30 and 6:30pm. I think all boys have the black singlet and black shorts but if there are any others they are welcome to purchase them as well.

I have sent an email to everyone who I think needs the suit.

If you are in either of the Interclub groups you are welcome to purchase the suit but you are not obligated to. If you would like a suit you should come to the measuring session on Sunday, October 2nd at the gym.

The suit looks like the one Alexandra (the base) is wearing in this picture.

Handstand Photo Contest 21

2011-09-24T07:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the last of the handstand photo contest submissions. Erin looks way too comfortable.

Acrobatic Gymnastics Event Schedule 2011/2012 in Ontario

2011-09-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

To see this image in a larger format click on the image.

Parent Meeting Notes 2011

2011-09-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

For all of those parents of athletes in Acrobatic Gymnastics program who are a little confused or missed the parent meeting here is everything that was mentioned during the meeting. Always check your emails and keep you eye here on the blog for more info. If you have questions feel free to contact Don.

Congratulations to all the Acrobatic Gymnasts who were offered spots in the Oakville Gymnastics Club Acrobatic Gymnastics Program for the 2011/2012 season. We do appreciate your dedication, commitment and loyalty towards the acro program.

Biographies:
Don Holmes – Head Coach/Director of the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program – Coach Elite Acro Group
Niki Lavoie – Coach Provincial Acro Group
Dana Khan – Interclub Acro Groups 1 & 2
See the OGC website under Competitive Staff.

The One Year Contract Policy: As you know the Acrobatic Gymnastics program offers your child a space in the program for one year and at the end of each season we do ask all of our athletes to “ReTryout”. By implementing the ‘Re-Tryout’ and ‘Tryout’ protocols we are not trying to be mean or unsupportive of those athletes that we have been working with and developing over the previous year (or years). Our program is a competitive program with a limited number of spaces. We are simply trying to ensure that those athletes who are the most deserving of a spot on the team are receiving those spots. If at some point we do ask your child to leave the program this may be thought of as a good thing allowing the athlete the opportunity to explore other sports where he/she may be more suited physically, mentally or socially.

Summer Attendance: During the summer session we expect 50% attendance as a minimum. We would prefer that your child attends 100% of their scheduled classes but we understand summer schedules are far more diverse and we would hope that kids take the time to enjoy summer camps, weeks at the cottage and time with family. Please send an e-mail to your athlete’s coach with the dates that your child will not be at gymnastics. Low attendance in some groups on specific weeks may allow us to accommodate other athletes who have summer training conflicts and permit them to make the minimum number of training hours.

Fall/Winter/Spring Attendance: During the school year we expect 80% attendance as a minimum. Obviously the less your athlete trains the less they will progress and the less they will be prepared for competition. It is in your best interest to have your athlete at the gym as much as possible.

Note: Attendance in Acrobatic Gymnastics is very important as when one of a pair or group is not at the gym the entire group cannot work on the specific skills that make acro what it is. Please make sure that your athlete and family are accountable to the other group members. Share phone, cell numbers and emails so that you can communicate before a practice whether or not you are sick or going to be absent for some reason.

Violation of Attendance Minimums and Removal from the Program: We cannot hold spots for athletes who do not attend the program. If you have schedule conflicts that will prevent your athlete from reaching the minimum attendance requirement but wish to remain as part of the acrobatic gymnastics program please e-mail the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program Director outlining your situation.

OGC Code of Conduct: We have created a specific code of conduct for our athletes while part of the team, mostly for traveling with us while not with a parent. As we travel to competitions you will see this document and if you have any concerns with it at that time we can address them then.

Schedules: Summer Schedules and Fall/Winter/Spring schedules have been distributed. We understand the logistical difficulties that families encounter by receiving these schedules in June as summer camp registration and vacations need to be booked several months in advance. Please note that we create our schedule with careful consideration. We realize that there will be conflicts and we have outlined how we are attempting to provide concessions for these conflicts. Also note that due to the ever evolving space usage of the gym we may find it necessary to change a scheduled class temporarily or permanently depending on the situation. We cannot foresee these situations but we will try to provide you with as much notice as possible prior to changes.

Acrobatic Gymnastics Program Weeks Off during the Summer: Note that these change each year as we need to address the competition schedule that is also ever changing. We will try to let you know well in advance so that you can plan vacations/camps/etc.

Active Rest: During the rest periods we expect athletes to remain active. We give the acrobatic gymnasts a checklist of activities to do during their off time in order to keep them fit.

Maternity Leave: We are in the process of hiring a coach from abroad to take over the Provincial Group coaching for Niki as of October 1^st. If there is a delay in the paper work needed to bring this coach we will simply continue with the present groups and coaches until that coach arrives. When the new coach arrives she will also take the Interclub 1 & 2 groups. When this change over occurs the Provincial Acro group will have a change of training times: Tuesday will change from 4:30 to 6:30 to 7:15 to 9:15pm, Thursday will change from 3:30 to 5:30 to 7:00 to 9:00pm. These later times work better for gym loading and will provide out acrobats with more time on the floor as they work on building their routines. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation regarding schedules. These changes will remain in effect until June 30^th, 2012.

Nutrition: We will post some nutrition information on the blog at some point to assist you with meal planning for effective trainings and competitions so keep you eye on the blog.

Viewing Area Closure: During the summer months and on some holidays the viewing area may be closed in the evening so there will be no parent viewing. Your child will be let in at the sliding glass doors at the front of the club and be ushered out at the end of their session. When the viewing area is closed no one is permitted in the gym lobby for safety and liability reasons. Our apologies for the inconvenience that this might cause. If there is an emergency and you need to contact us inside the gym we ask that you bang on the back door of the gym to try and get our attention.

Individual Parent Meetings: We offer individual parent meetings as we or you feel they are necessary. If you have individual questions that pertain to your specific situation we ask that you not address these in a public forum but leave it to an e-mail or individual meeting.

Chain of Command: Speak to your child’s coach(es) directly for anything you may have questions about. Then you may speak to Don. If he is not able to help you then you can speak to Wayne Hussey the COO. If you have a question about an event/competition DO NOT contact Gymnastics Ontario directly. DO NOT contact the host club of an event directly. If you have a question address it through the coach(es) and we will ask GO or the event host for you as your question is likely one that other’s have.

Sponsorship: Athletes are able to search for sponsors to offset the costs of training and competitions. The OGC has created a sponsorship package for all competitive athletes. Please enquire if you are interested in sponsorship.

Fundraisers: No fundraisers are set for the Acro Program as of yet but we are open to ideas from parents. Simplicity, appropriateness and fund generation are key points to remember when making your suggestions. Thanks.

Event and Competition Schedule: See attachment.

Competitive Structure Provincial and National – See attachment, previous post

The Competitions – see attachment

Training Wear: For acro we prefer that athletes wear a leotard and shorts. Athletes with long hair are expected to keep it in a high bun so that it is out of the way while performing skills. Boys shorts should be above the knee as you may be doing elements where another athlete need to stand on your thighs. Please not long board shorts. Gymnastics shoes are optional.

Competitive Wear:
We have a warm up leotard/shorts or singlet/shorts combo for the Provincial and Elite Group that they need to have when we go to competitions. This Warm Up clothing if for the stretching and warming up portion of a competition. Usually the suit you will wear for competition is more elaborate and we don’t want to cause damage to the competition suits by doing too much activity in them. The royal and black suits for the girls can be purchased through Saucy’s World. Boys are permitted to get a black singlet and shorts from any manufacturer as it is a simple black suit. You will receive information shortly about the warm up leos soon. If you are in the Interclub groups you are welcome to purchase the warm up leos but it is not mandatory. Only a competition suit will be required.

Competition suits: Each pair or group will have a matching leotard or singlet/sorts/pants for each competitive routine they perform. We will generally keep the same suit for the season. Athletes going to larger competitions or higher levels may have three competitive outfits. Plan for this cost as competitive suits usually cost between $100 and $300 dollars per athletes.

Tracksuits and OGC apparel: We have the royal OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics program t-shirt for $12 at the gym. This all you need as a minimum. There are OGC Tracksuits that will be available through the main office. We will also have OGC fitted women’s tracksuit in a Lululemon style available in the next couple weeks. Stay tuned for more information on these items. What do you need? The t-shirt (parents and family members are welcome to buy the royal acro t-shirt as well). If you are on the Elite or Provincial Team women should have either the general OGC tracksuit or the new fitted tracksuit. Boys we prefer that you have the general OGC tracksuit for competitions. Interclub athletes all tracksuit and OGC apparel is optional for you. I suggest getting the royal blue t-shirt if you plan to attend a training camp or competition this year (and you will be so get the t-shirt).

Other OGC Apparel: We will have a navy or white hooded sweat shirt avail and navy or white OGC sweatpants available to purchase in the next couple weeks. These additional items are optional and make great Christmas presents.

Any Financial questions please direct to Agnes Jankura in the main office.

Check your e-mails regularly for OGC info.

READ THE BLOG REGULARLY: It is VERY IMPORTANT that YOU keep up-to-date on the blog. It is the online bulletin board for our program. Everything is archived there so you can go back and pull any information that you might need. http://ogcacrobaticgymnastics.blogspot.com/

OGC AGM Sunday, October 2^nd in the Rec Centre. You get 3 volunteer hours for attending so it is worth it to come and sit through the meeting. It is an important part of your responsibilities as a Parent of a Competitive athlete to attend this annual event.
Questions?

Any questions can be directed to: dholmes_tumbling@homail.com

Handstand Work View WOW!

2011-09-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the most impressive handstand acts I've ever seen. Check it out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBSjhzYnfAs

Handstand Photo Contest 20

2011-09-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

Hi, I almost missed Karen Soliman's handstand photos. Karen did a couple nice handstands at Canada's Wonderland this summer. Great waterfall pictures Karen.

Handstand Photo Contest 19

2011-09-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

Ally Maurice sent me these great handstand pics a while back and I almost forgot to post them. More info to come about the contest soon.

Handstand Photo Contest 18

2011-09-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

Natalie Pacheco got into the handstand game. Natalie's one handstand with Spok is out of this world. What you won't find at Young and Dundas in Toronto. lol

September 2011 Schedule

2011-09-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Here is the September 2011 Acrobatic Gymnastics Schedule.

Please note that Kirby is now off to university. For the month of September Dana Khan will be taking Kirby's Interclub Acro classes.

If you would like to see the image in a larger format simply click on the image. To print the schedule first enlarge the image, then right click on it to "Save As" image and then print the image as if it were a photo.

I will be emailing you today with the schedule. If you do not receive an email today (Friday, September 2nd) then you are not on my email list for the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program. Be sure to send me a message at dholmes_tumbling@hotmail.com or dholmes.acro@gmail.com so that you can be added to the mailing list.

We will have an IMPORTANT Parent Meeting on Sunday, September 18th.

Handstand Photo Contest 17

2011-09-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Even Celina, Niki's daughter, is getting in on the handstand action.

Handstand Photo Contest 16

2011-09-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

Kiana submitted one more photo for the handstand contest. She somehow managed to get an aerial shot of a nice split handstand. Cool Kiana. Thanks for the submission.

Handstand Photo Contest 15

2011-09-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

I took a short week's worth of vacation in Cuba and managed to take a couple handstand photos.

Handstand Photo Contest 14

2011-09-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some handstands from Isabel Cummings. She captured these shots while at camp.

Handstand Photo Contest 13

2011-08-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Here is another one from Kiana but this time she has roped some friends into making a pyramid with her. A new coach in the making.

Handstand Photo Contest 12

2011-08-15T06:17:00.000-07:00

The boys at Cirque du Soleil in Toronto. The master and the apprentices showing their stuff in front of the Grand Chapeteau outside of Totem, the lastest Cirque du Soleil show to come to Toronto. Great show.

Handstand Photo Contest 11

2011-08-09T08:52:00.001-07:00

Here is Julia getting ready to take the handstand plunge. Great shot!

Handstand Photo Contest 10

2011-08-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

Excellent. This one is right side up. This handstand is even straighter Kiana. Well done. Nice sunset photo.

Handstand Photo Contest 9

2011-08-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

This is taking it a bit far.

Jack just can't stop doing handstands.

I like it.

Handstand Photo Contest 8

2011-08-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

Here is Ioana on Manitoulin Island performing a handstand.

Summer Acro fun

2011-08-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

Kelsey horn taught some of her friends to do acro while on vacation. You can too. Send me your photos.

Handstand Photo Contest 7

2011-08-04T06:33:00.000-07:00

Okay so this one is almost exactly like Jack's photo but it's a little bit better because it is Don. Note the sign in the background telling me not to fall.

Handstand Photo Contest 6

2011-08-04T06:31:00.000-07:00

Kelsey horn performing her handstand against some nature. Neat picture.

Handstand Photo Contest 5

2011-08-04T06:29:00.001-07:00

This one is Jamie Patrick in downtown Montreal with a crowd of onlookers.

Handstand Photo Contest 4

2011-08-04T06:28:00.000-07:00

Here is Jack McGarr in Banff, Alberta.

Handstand Photo Contest 3

2011-08-04T06:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is bizarre that I can't flip this picture to right side up. I tried several things and on my computer it is right side up. Anywho, this is Kiana Wilson performing her handstand outside. Nice Kiana! Thanks for the submission.

Handstand Photo Contest 2

2011-08-04T06:20:00.000-07:00

Don doing a pseudo-handstand on a rock in Banff, Alberta.

August Acro Schedule

2011-08-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

Handstand Photo Contest 1

2011-07-27T07:47:00.000-07:00

Here is one of Jamie Patrick in Montreal. Can you find him standing on his hands in the mural?

Summer Contest THE HANDSTAND

2011-07-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

Here is a Summer Contest for everyone in the OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics program. We want you to send us pictures of you doing a handstand (spotted or supported or free) from anywhere this summer. Send Don as many or as few handstand images as you would like. The three best handstand photos will win prizes to be handed out the first week back to training in September. The pictures have to be of you, they have to be from this summer and they have to be safe. Have fun.

Thank you

2011-07-11T06:03:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to post a thank you to all of the OGC athletes who participated in Acrobatic Gymnastics this season. Thank you for the gift card to Henry's. It is much appreciated.

All the best to everyone and have a great summer.

Don

Thank you

2011-07-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a thank you to all of the OGC athletes who participated in Acrobatic Gymnastics this season. Thank you for the gift card to Henry's. It is much appreciated.

All the best to everyone and have a great summer.

Don

Gym Closing Summer Months

2011-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

Please note that the Oakville Gymnastics Club closes the viewing area at 7:30pm Monday to Thursday and at 5:00pm on Friday.

Some groups train past the viewing area and office closure time. Parents are to collect their children at the sliding glass doors at the designated time for the completion of the child's class. Coaches will usher the class to the sliding glass doors to ensure a safe pick up.

If you need to leave early please be sure to let the coach know in advance.

We will send an email with emergency pick up procedures.

Thanks for your understanding.

Acro Program Staff

July Acrobatic Gymnastics Schedule

2011-07-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Just posting the most up-to-date schedule I have for the Summer Acrobatic Gymnastics program at the OGC.

Please note that Miho Inaba will not be coaching for us this summer. Kirby Palkovic will be taking over the coaching of the Interclub Acro group that Miho was going to take.

I have just returned from Portugal where I spent the week taking an FIG Academy Course for the coaching of Acrobatic Gymnastics. My apologies for not getting back to everyone's emails promptly but was with very limited access to internet while in Portugal. I will do my best to get back to everyone this week.

Stay tuned for more information here on the OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics Blog.

Acro Groups clarification

2011-06-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

(to see the image in larger format click on the picture)

Here are the groups again. There was a question as to what the numbers beside the names meant. The number was their age not the number of training hours. The number of training hours is indicated at the top as either 4, 6 or 8 hours. My apologies for the misunderstanding.

Acro 2011/2012 Schedules & MEETING

2011-06-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

Please note that the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program for the 2011/2012 season runs year round.
Here ar the July and August schedules. We are still working to finalize the fall/winter schedule.

(click on the image to see it in a larger format)

(to print this image click on it, enlarge it, right click and save picture as, then print the picture)

What I can tell you about the Fall/Winter schedule is this:

Interclub Group 1 and 2 will train on Sunday afternoon similar to this year and then one evening training. 2 hours for each class for a total of 4 hours per week.

Provincial Group with Niki we are still finalizing. The Provincial Group will be training 6 a total of 6 hours.

Elite Group with Don your scheule will be: Sunday 6:45 to 8:45pm, Tuesday 3:00 to 5:00pm, Wednesday 3:00 to 5:00pm and Thursday 7:00 to 9:00pm. The Elite Group will be training a total of 8 hours per week.

We will be having a Meeting for all athletes and parents who have been invited to be part of the Acrobatic Gymnastics program for the 2011/2012 season this Thursday, June 16th from 8:30 to 9:00pm. Please be sure to have at least one parent there for the meeting. Also please hold onto your questions until that time and I will be sure to provide you with an opportunity to ask questions.

2011/2012 Acrobatic Gymnastics Groups

2011-06-13T12:27:00.000-07:00

(click on the image to see it in a larger format)

Here are the groups for the 2011/2012 Acrobatic Gymnastics season.
Thank you to everyone who tried out for the team. I will be calling everyone who tried out to provide feed back.

I will get the schedule for training out this evening.

Congratulations to those who made the team.

Quidam in Hamilton

2011-06-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

The OGC Acrobatic Gymnastics Provincial team was invited to go to a training session with Cirque du Soleil as it travels through Hamilton this week. The Banquine act is a classic acrobatic gymnastics performance with some of the most impressive acro being performed in CDS shows around the globe. Quidam will be playing in Hamilton for the weekend. Go check it out.
A big thanks to CDS for making this possible and a big thanks to the coach, Victor Major and the cast of artists who were so welcoming. Great experience. Great inspiration!

Acrobatic Gymnastics Spring Gala Highlight Video

2011-06-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a highlights video of the Gymnastics Ontario Acrobatic Gymnastic Spring Gala performance. Thanks to Patrick Photographic for making this happen.

Acrobatic Gymnastics Spring Gala 3

2011-06-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

The OGC Provincial Acro group put together a Banquine style act of their own to Thriller. Zombies everywhere courtesy of Karen Dance Body and Face Painting. Possibly a little too scary for some of our younger audience members.

Acrobatic Gymnastics Spring Gala 2

2011-06-10T09:58:00.000-07:00

More pics. Sorry I'm so late getting these up here. You can also find them on Facebook.

Acrobatic Gymnastics Spring Gala

2011-06-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

The OGC hosted the Gymnastics Ontario Spring Acrobatic Gymnastics Gala performance on May 17th. The OGC's athletes dominated the evening's show with the acro, tumbling and woman's programs providing highlights to the spectacle. We had guest performances by the Tyo Brothers from Ottawa.

Excellent show overall.

TRYOUTS Acrobatic Gymnastics Program 2011 2012

2011-05-31T14:16:00.000-07:00

Tryouts for the Acrobatic Gymnastics Program will take place on

Sunday, June 5th from 6:45 to 8:45pm

and

Sunday, June 12th from 6:45 to 8:45pm

Please sign up in the office if you are a new athlete or part of the Interclub or Recreational Acro groups.

Please choose one of the two nights. Do not come on both evenings as we only need to see you once.

Acro Gala pics Patrick Photographic

2011-05-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

Though I haven't had much time to blog about the Gala you are able to get photos through Patrick Photographic at the following web link. If you click on the image below you will find a contact print of all the photos available.

Follow the link for order forms and more photos from the Acrobatic Gymnastics Gala Performance.

http://www.patrickphotographic.blogspot.com/

The order form relates to the photo reference number.

Acro Gala Poster

2011-05-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Jackie Patrick for putting this together. More details to come.

May Schedule

2011-04-28T07:26:00.000-07:00

Here is the May schedule for Acrobatic Gymnastics.

Points of note:

May 14th Acrobatic Gymnastics Spring Gala Performance we have an extra practice on the Friday, May 13th from 7:30 to 9:00pm.

On the Saturday we have rehearsal and warm up from 5:00 to 7:00pm.

The show runs from 7:00 to 9:00pm.

Tear down of the gym and clean up runs from 9:00 to 10:00pm.

Between now and then athletes are expected to be at ALL Sunday trainings in order to prepare.

Victoria Day weekend we will have practice as the facility is only closed on the Monday.

Tryouts will be run as one large group with present acro athletes and new athletes on June 4th from 3:30 to 5:00pm. Please make plans to be there as there will be no other tryout offered. All athletes need to be at this tryout.

2011 Trampoline & Tumbling Ontario Championships

2011-04-28T06:01:00.000-07:00

Skyview Acro Comp Level 5 WP Kelsey and Isabel routine

2011-04-24T19:50:00.000-07:00

Here is Kelsey and Isabel performing their Level 5 Women's Pair routine at the Skyview Acrobatic Gymnastics competition on April 17th.

http://www.youtube.com/user/donaldarchieholmes#p/a/u/2/JIMwX9NN1As

Skyview Acro Competition Level 6 MxP Steven & Tessa routine

2011-04-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the Level 6 Mixed Pair routine performed by Steven and Tessa at the Skyview Acrobatic Gymnastics competition on April 17th.

http://www.youtube.com/user/donaldarchieholmes#p/a/u/1/2fX_lV2F08E

Skyview Competition Routines Level 7 MP Jamie & Cory

2011-04-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the Level 7 Men's Pair of Jamie Patrick and Cory Marsh performing their routine at the Skyview Acrobatics regional competition on April 17th.

http://www.youtube.com/user/donaldarchieholmes#p/a/u/0/75OOL0szdeU

You can also find it on Don's Youtube channel by simply doing a Youtube search for donaldarchieholmes all one word.

Skyview Acro Competition extra pics

2011-04-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

A big thank you has to be said to the cheering squad that traveled with us. The OGC parents we loud and proud throughout the competition. Thanks for all of your support.

Again thank you to the athletes and to the whole group for a great weekend.

Skyview Acro Competition Steven & Tessa Level 6 Mixed Pair

2011-04-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Steven and Tessa really stepped up their routine for the competition. They easily outscored their opponents to take the gold medal in the Level 6 Mixed Pair category. Tessa really showed her flexibility and Steven carried the routine (literally). Congratulations to Tessa on competing in her first ever gymnastics competition.

Skyview Acro Competition Kelsey & Isabel Level 5 Women's Pair

2011-04-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

Isabel and Kelsey delivered a creative and performative routine. This pair not only gave an excellent performance, they nailed the final que and finished right in time with the music. Congratulations girls on a strong level 5 Women's Pair routine and a special congratulations to Isabel on competing in her first ever gymnastics competition.

Skyview Acro Competition Jamie & Cory Level 7 Men's Pair

2011-04-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of Jamie Patrick and Cory Marsh. Jamie and Cory performed a dramatic Level 7 Men's Pairs routine. The boys delivered a strong routine and demonstrated the highest level of acrobatic skills from our club.

Skyview Acrobatic Gymnastics Competition

2011-04-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Congatulations to the Oakville Gymnastics Clubs Acrobats who competed at the regional Skyview Acrobatic Gymnastics Competition in Mount Airy, Maryland. The OGC contingent of Tessa Chiricosta, Steven Tucker, Kelsey Horn, Isabel Cummings, Jamie Patrick and Cory Marsh participated in the first locale level acro event for our club. The competition was small so only Steven and Tessa had another team to directly compete against. What was important was that our athletes looked great with solid routines and strong performances. Here are some pictures from the weekend. I will also post videos of the routines here.

I would like to make a special mention to Epson Canada for sponsoring this event.

Way to go OGC Acrobatics!

Acro Gala at OGC May 14th

2011-04-19T13:32:00.000-07:00

Please note that on May 14th the OGC will play host to the Gymnastics Ontario Acrobatic Gymnastics Gala. Make a note of this date on your calendars as we will need your help to make this event a huge success.

See you there!