TNGJA Policies

RESPONSIBILITIES OF GYMNASTICS JUDGES

It is imperative that judges have a good understanding of the FIG Code of Points as well as the USAG Developmental Program Rules. The Developmental Program is very important to the training of top level gymnasts in this country and it is essential that judges are well prepared to evaluate routines. The coaches and athletes work hard and are entitled to the most accurate scores we can give them.

Judges need to arrive 30 minutes before each session. The purpose of this is to assure the meet director that the judges have all arrived for the meet and for judges to take the time to observe warm-ups and note any unusual skills or combinations the gymnasts are performing. Judges need to remain present at the conclusion of each session until released by the Meet Referee in case of a scoring issue.

It is important to remember that it is our job to evaluate the routines and rank the gymnasts. Be fair, be consistent, and strive for accuracy. It is not our job to teach lessons or coach the gymnasts. We evaluate the routines as accurately as possible and any specific comment a judge has for the coach should be directed to them after the competition. A coach should not approach a judge during the competition. After the meet judges are not required to talk to coaches or parents about scores. However, common courtesy would dictate that a judge take the time to discuss their evaluation so that the gymnast can improve his score at the next meet. Any problems you may have with a coach during the competition should be directed to the designated Meet Referee.

At each sanctioned event judges must sign the sanction form and include their USA Professional Number. Judges cannot put "pending" on the sanction form.

The TNGJA will follow the FIG attire requirements. Men should wear navy blue slacks, navy blue sports jacket, light colored shirt, tie and dark shoes. Women should wear navy blue skirt, navy blue jacket, light colored shirt and dark shoes.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE MEET REFEREE

At all competitions there will be one judge that is designated as the Meet Referee. It will be the job of the Meet Referee to coordinate the judges at the competition and to work with the Meet Director on judge accommodations, travel, and fees. The Meet Referee will be the final voice concerning any scoring issues or problems that may arise with coaches, parents or gymnasts.