TOPS (Talent Opportunity Program)
TOPs is a talent search and educational program for female gymnast ages 7-11 and their coaches. During the months of June and July gymnasts age 7-11 are evaluated on physical abilities at the state or regional level. These dates are set by a regional TOP manager in conjunction with the National Elite Program Chair.
From there, athletes are invited to participate in the National TOP test that is conducted in the month of October where they are evaluated on the same physical abilities tests along with some basic gymnastics skills. Athletes are then invited to participate in the National TOP Training camp which takes place in December of each year. A description of the program is available by clicking the “TOPS" above. Click here for the latest TOPS Manual.
Under the leadership of a USAG TOPS National Clinician, Dave Hancock, Gold Star Gymnastics is the Washington leader in the USA TOPS program.
HOPES is a pre-elite program for the 10-11 and 12 year olds that have completed the TOPS program and are moving up one level. The athletes compete both 'compulsory' and optional routines, trying to score the standard as stated by the USAG National Elite Program.
F.A.S.T. Program (Flexibility And Strength Training)
The F.A.S.T. Program is a Gold Star Gymnastics specialty geared toward the athletes attaining greater strength and flexibility through extra, specifically designed exercises. These exercises closely resemble the USAG TOPS exercises as they are truly very effective. This program is open to all ages, is not selective for ability, and is designed to enhance the gymnast's current training.