Harsh...

This afternoon, before Katherine's regular gymnastics class, we had to run down to the gym to pick up the official invitation package for pre-team. This class is the bridge between the recreational classes and the competitive team. Katherine has always been in an "invite-only" class, but with this pre-team invitation, it's the first time she's been officially considered on the competitive side of the gym. She could not be happier!

When we opened the invitation package and I started reading, I almost couldn't believe the contract we have to sign. Oh baby ... it's harsh. No doubt about it -- they mean business. All of the fun and games are over.

The letter started by congratulating Katherine on all of her achievements thus far, and told her that they see great potential in her future. She has what they are looking for -- strength, flexibility and attitude. It went on to say that they have chosen her and want to work with her. In turn, she has to choose them. It is a great commitment on the part of her, us as parents, and them as coaches. We all need to be on the same page going forward.

Speaking of going forward... the letter then went on to say that this was an invite only class and that at the end of each trimester she would be tested. They expected to see progress in her gymnastics -- both strength and skills, and that at the end of each trimester they would re-evaluate her, and she would either be asked back, or wouldn't be.... Just this year, one girl only made it one trimester. UUUUUGH!

So we have to sign the letter, including a sheet of rules and regulations, and return it back to the gym if we could live with all of the stipulations. Katherine was ready to sign on the dotted line immediately, but I really wanted to sit down and explain to her *exactly* what this letter said. I told her what they expected of her and that any time she could be moved out of the class. Oh, and the conditioning -- it's a totally different animal now... 5 minute handstands against the wall, 5 laps around the floor of squat jumps, oodles of sit-ups, v-ups, push ups, wheel-barrows, pull ups, etc.... I didn't want want to sugar-coat any of it. I really wanted her to go in with her eyes wide open. She looked me right in the eye, and said, "Mommy, how would I get any better if I didn't get stronger"?

I went on to tell her that I always wanted her to have fun in the gym and that when the day came that she wasn't having fun anymore, we could explore other activities. At this point, she laughs at me and says, "Mommy, it is FUN when you get better, and to get better, I need to work really hard and get stronger. I'm not afraid of anything in that gym". Needless to say, when Matt got home, he sat her down and had a similar conversation with her to make sure that this was REALLY what she wanted.... and of course, it is! She just looked at him and laughed in delight most of the time!

That's my girl. She loves gymnastics and is willing to practice harder and longer most other girls her age... which is why she's landed in the spot she has, at one of the best gyms in the nation. She has more heart and soul than anyone I know. She is determined to succeed, and truly grasps what sacrifices she'll have to make to reach her goals. Regardless of where this crazy gymnastics dream takes her, she's learning valuable lessons about life. Hard work, determination and finding a goal worth sacrificing for will get you anywhere in life. She's mature beyond her 7 years. She "gets" what many adults still don't. AAAHHH, I'm proud of her!