It’s a fantastic opportunity. A number of Canadian gymnasts go each year. But, in general, foreign coaches are not up-to-date on how to apply.
Dan Kendig is a good friend to gymnastics in my country. He coached Canadian Richelle Simpson to an NCAA AA Title in 2003.
Dan Kendig is in Regina this week with options for some of the competitors at the Canadian gymnastics championships.
Kendig is the head coach of the women’s gymnastics program at the University of Nebraska. He’s scouting the female gymnasts taking part in the artistic portion of the Canadian championships, which are being held at the Credit Union EventPlex. Kendig’s also selling the concept that gymnastics doesn’t have to end after high school. The American universities and colleges offer full scholarships to male and female gymnasts.
At Canadian Championships I met and was much impressed with Oregon Beavers coaches Tanya and Michael Chaplin.
They brought Canadian Laura-Ann Chong just off NCAA Championships.
(Yeesh. It’s not easy to finally finish an intensive season, an academic semester — then change your routines for a new code of points and get “up” for another meet. Congratulations to those athletes who can do it.)
The Chaplins recommended that coaches contact any of the 88 Women’s NCAA schools directly. Ask for advice. Some gymnasts, for example, may be eligible for academic scholarship. (I had a male gymnast get into the school of his choice that way myself.)
There is room for more foreign gymnasts in the NCAA.
Gymnastics Coaching.com 