We are very proud to be able to offer a variety of levels of competitive gymnastics. The following is a brief description of the different competitive programs:

Coaches reserve the right to keep athletes from competing if they are unprepared in any way – at any level.

The Aerials Program (Level 2-5)

At Pickering Athletic Centre Inc. our Advanced Competitive Recreational Program (Interclub) is subdivided into groups by age.

Athletes may also be grouped according to skill level and group dynamics. Placement is at the discretion of the coaching staff.

Club standards vary greatly and therefore so do competition requirements. Athletes can expect to compete at different skill levels from time to time.

The Rising Stars Program (Level 2-8)

At Pickering Athletic Centre Inc., our Rising Stars Program begins with the Rising Stars 5 Program. The athletes in this program are generally 5 to 6 years of age. Athletes may also be grouped according to skill level and group dynamics. Athletes are generally 7 to 8 years of age in this program. Athletes in these levels may participate in some local competitions. Coaches reserve the right to keep athletes from competing if they are unprepared in any way.

The Provincial Program (Level 5-9)

At the Provincial level, athletes compete according to age and level of skill.

Skill level increases with increased level of training.

The Provincial athlete competes each year at 3 Provincial Qualifier Meets and must achieve a pre-determined score to qualify for the Provincial Championships. Provincial athletes also compete at a number of invitational competitions each year. Eligible athletes may also compete at:

• Provincial Tour Selection
• Eastern Canadian Championships

The National (Level 10) Program

At the National level, athletes compete according to age and level of skill. Skill level increases with increased level of training.

The National athlete competes each year at a variety of competitions.

Eligible athletes may compete at:

• Provincial Tour Selection
• Eastern Canadian Championships

(If an athlete is successful in making one or both of the above teams in representing Ontario (not as an alternate) then PAC will pay ½ of the athlete’s travel. If a PAC coach is selected (not as an alternate) as team coach to one or both of the above teams then the coach’s travel and other expenses will be paid for by PAC.)

Eligible athletes may also compete at Elite Ontario. The results from this competition determines the athletes placement and possibility of competing at Eastern Canadian Championships or National Championships.

National athletes also compete at a number of invitational competitions each year.

Power Tumbling Program (Boys & Girls)

Tumblers competing in the provincial power tumbling program train on our 80’ rod floor and trampoline. Athletes compete at 3 qualifiers attempting to achieve a qualifying score to attend Provincial Championships. Athletes in this program may also attend some invitational and training camps. Our Provincial athletes may be given the opportunity to travel to away invitational meets and represent our Club in other provinces and the U.S.

Attendance

Regular, punctual attendance is important if the athlete is to get the benefit of training sessions. This includes summer months. Parents are requested to notify the club/coaches, in advance if possible, if an athlete is going to miss a practice.

Change Rooms

As you know we have recently opened a new boy’s change room which will provide more changing space for both the girls and boys in our various gymnastics/cheerleading/trampoline programs. 

It is essential that all members, their parents and caregivers respect that the change rooms are gender specific. As such, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all members that it is Pickering Athletic Centre’s policy that adults are to enter the same gender change room only.  

As we have members of all ages, who may be using our change rooms for undressing, and for the safety of our members, this policy is not negotiable and will be enforced by all of our staff.   

If you assist a child of the opposite gender, please respect this policy by using the same change room that you would use as an adult.

Mailboxes

Each competitive athlete will be given a mailbox in the foyer of the gym. Mailboxes should be checked regularly as they are a method for coaches and other members of PAC to communicate information to all members.

Grooming & Attire

Athletes are expected to be clean and neat at the gym and during competitions. Please remember coaches have close contact with your children. Gym suits should not be worn twice in a row without being washed. Body suits must be one piece, no skirts attached. Wearing gym shorts is at the discretion of the coaching staff. Athlete’s hair (if long) should be tied back securely or be short in length. Bare midriffs are not permitted. All competitive athletes will be required to own a competitive uniform, which consists of a gym suit and a "march-in" wind/warm-up suit. These are ordered through the Boutique and made to the athlete’s measurements. Payment for these suits will be required at time of order. Competition hair protocol – out of face, prefer no bun.