U.S. PRE TRIALS. For the Sport of Baton Twirling COMPETITION HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 U.S. PRE TRIALS For the Sport of Baton Twirling COMPETITION HANDBOOK Rules, Regulations, Procedures and Entry Forms for Regional & U.S. Pre Trials Athletes Sanctioned by: The United States Twirling Association Produced by: The U.S. Technical Department 2018 Edition

2 HANDBOOK: contains the following information: 1. Rules 2. Regulations 3. Procedures Information not contained in the Handbook: 1. Compulsory Descriptions 2. Movement Technique Descriptions 3. Scoring Scales 4. Score Sheets Note: Members may order the Compulsory and Movement Technique DVD s from the USTA website Shop ( for the appropriate fee. Competition Handbooks available online from the USTA website Elite members only: - They will not be mailed via U.S. Mail. - They will be updated and accessible through the website ( for Elite members convenience. PRE TRIALS COMPETITION INFORMATION PACKET: Pre Trials Information Packet [including information letter, order of appearance, and schedule of events] will also be posted on the website. No packets will be mailed. ANNOUNCEMENTS/ADDENDUMS: All announcements, addendums, entries and important information will be available via the website in the Elite Members Only section. NEW RULES & REGULATIONS: All new rules and regulations will be in red ink type to make it easier to locate rule changes for the current competition year. i

3 INTRODUCTION AND CONTACT INFORMATION This is the official handbook of rules, regulations and procedures pertaining to the Regional and U.S. Pre Trials. These rule adaptations have been established by the U.S. Technical Department and sanctioned by the United States Twirling Association (USTA). Should further clarification be necessary, write U.S. Technical Advisor; Sandi Rios, 297 S. Wildwood, Hercules, CA for interpretation of any rule, regulation, or procedure contained herein. U.S. TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT MEMBERS: Sandi Rios US Technical Advisor Address: 297 S. Wildwood Hercules, CA Stepfanie Baddour Address: 1300 W9th Street, Apt 1307 Cleveland, OH Phone: Phone: Sarah Enos Western Rep Western Regional Pre-Trials Director Michael Harris Kyle Keiser MER Rep Mid-East Regional Pre-Trials Director Jennifer Marcus Address: 14 El Conde Court Sacremento, CA Address: 393 Lincoln Street Amherst, OH Address: 3412 Bronson Boulevard Kalamazoo, MI Address: 329 SW 13 Terrace Fort Lauderdale, FL Phone: Phone: Phone: Phone: Karen Ogden Central Rep Central Regional Pre-Trials Director Alaine Robbins Northeast Regional Pre Trials Director Amby Taylor SER Rep Southeast Regional Pre-Trials Director Address: 922 Beglis Pkwy Sulphur, LA Address: 3 Neil Drive Smithtown, NY Address: 160 Kensington St. Lumberton, NC Phone: doogden@juno.com Phone: dynamicsrbw@gmail.com Phone: ambydarr@nc.rr.com U.S. TWIRLING ASSOCIATION: Karen Cammer USTA President WBTF USA Representative Keri Cooke USTA Members Services Manager Entry Coordinator USTA Web site for the latest Information and updates: Address: 47 Kilburn Ave. Huntington Sta., NY Address: 4023 Bermice Road Seaford, NY Phone: president@ustwirling.com Phone: keri@ustwirling.com ii

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS General Rules and Regulations..Section 1 Procedures..Section 2 Content Restrictions Glossary of Terminology Compulsory Competition...Section 3 Short Program...Section 4 Freestyle.Section 5 Freestyle Pairs Section 6 Team..Section 7 Tabulation..Section 8 Baton and Costume Inspection Sheet/Floor Monitor Sheets.Section 9 Compulsory Score Sheets Short Program Score Sheet Freestyle Score Sheet Official Timing & Penalty Sheet U.S. Pre Trials Entry Form Instructions Section 10 No part of this handbook may be produced in part or whole without the written permission from The U.S. Technical Department of the United States Twirling Association. iii

5 Section 1 General Rules & Regulations

6 PRE TRIALS EVENTS CONCEPTS To prepare the athlete, coach and judge for the more demanding Trials event through: Proper preparation and development for the athlete: physically, psychologically, socially Logical progression for the athlete from the Pre Trials to Trials Competition Proper preparation for coaches and judges to challenge them creatively and professionally More preparation in Trials Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 1

7 GENERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS v Pre Trials Levels A Level [Freestyle Only] offered at the Regional Pre Trials Level only AA Level [Freestyle, Pairs, Teams] offered at the Regional Pre Trials Levels with qualifiers proceeding to the U.S. Pre Trials AAA Level [Freestyle, Pairs, Teams] offered at the Regional Pre Trials Levels with qualifiers proceeding to U.S. Pre Trials Elite Level [Freestyle, Pairs] offered at the Regional Pre Trials Levels with qualifiers proceeding to the U.S. Pre Trials v Eligibility Age All athletes who are current Elite Members of the USTA may participate in the categories listed below. A. Freestyle: 1) Juvenile Division A, AA, AAA, Elite all male and female athletes who will be a minimum of 9 years of age to a maximum of 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January1 to December 31). 2) Junior Division A, AA, AAA, Elite all male and female athletes who will be a minimum of 13 years of age to a maximum of 17 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). 3) Senior Division A, AA, AAA, Elite all male and female athletes who will be 18 years of age and above for levels A, AA, AAA (Elite to Age 21) the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). **Elite see age division below 4) Adult Division-Elite all male and female athletes who will be 22 years of age or older during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). B. Pairs: 1) Junior Pairs Division: a) AA both athletes must be a minimum of 9 years of age to a maximum of 17 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). b) AAA both athletes must be a minimum of 12 years of age to a maximum of 17 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). c) Elite both athletes must be a minimum of 12 years of age to a maximum of 17 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 2

8 B. Pairs (continued): 2) Senior Pairs Division: a) AA one or both athletes who will be 18 years of age or older during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). If the pair consists of one eligible Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior athlete must be a minimum of 9 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). b) AAA one or both athletes who will be 18 years of age or older during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). If the pair consists of one Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior athlete must be a minimum of 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trial (from January 1 to December 31). c) Elite both athletes will be a minimum of 18 years of age or older during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). If the pair consists of one Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior athlete must be a minimum of 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). C. Teams: a) AA all athletes must be at least 9 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). b) AAA all athletes must be at least 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 to December 31). There is a waiver to compete as Senior Elite available to Junior Elite athletes who are 17 years of age. Request the information and waiver from the U.S. Technical Advisor. You must submit your request in writing to the Technical Advisor by the Pre Trials entry deadline. Sandi Rios at SRios93@aol.com. Requests will not be accepted after the entry deadline. Simply include the athlete s name, USTA Number and primary coach information along with a statement of request. At the U.S. Pre Trials: In the case of only one entry/athlete in a division, at the discretion of the Technical Advisor, athlete(s) may be moved up one age division to the next age division, within the same category for the competition. If there is not an age division to move up to, then they may be moved down one age division, within the same category/level. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 3

9 FREESTYLE AGE ELIGIBILITY FOR COMPETING IN REGIONAL OR U.S. PRE TRIALS (AGE DURING YEAR OF PRE TRIALS from January 1 to December 31)** LEVEL MINIMUM MAXIMUM Juvenile A, AA, AAA, Elite 9 12 Junior A, AA, AAA, Elite Senior A, AA, AAA, Elite 18 No maximum* except Elite; 21 Adult Elite 22 No Maximum PAIRS AA 9 17 AAA, Elite Senior AA, AAA, Elite 18 No Maximum TEAM All AA 9 No Maximum All AAA 12 No Maximum **Athlete s age on December 31 st of the year of the Pre Trials ***If the Pair consists of one eligible Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair and the Junior must be a minimum of 9 for AA and 12 for AAA and Elite during the year of Pre Trials. MEMBERSHIP All athletes must be current Elite Members of USTA. This includes all team members and alternates. Athletes must provide USTA Elite membership number on entry form. If the USTA cannot locate and verify your current USTA Elite Membership Record, you will be required to send photocopy of your membership card prior to the entry deadline before your entry will be accepted. INCOMPLETE ENTRIES WILL BE RETURNED. MEMBERSHIP MUST BE CURRENT BY THE DEADLINE DATE AND NO EXTENSIONS ARE GRANTED. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 4

10 v Compulsory/Movement Status A. Freestyle Athletes must PASS THROUGH the level of Compulsories and Movement Technique at which they wish to compete. (For example: a freestyle athlete wishing to compete at the AAA level, must have passed both AAA Compulsory and Movement Technique) Athletes must pass up to the desired level BY the deadline date and proof that required Compulsories/Movement Technique have been passed must be received by the deadline date. When completing entry, state current level of compulsories. If the USTA cannot verify the athlete s Compulsory status in the database records, a photocopy showing that the required level(s) have been passed must be sent in to the USTA Membership/Entry Department. Current address can be found on the website and on the entry form. B. All Pair and Team Athletes must have PASSED up to and including the A Compulsories and Movement Technique to be allowed to compete at the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials. v Determining the level of Freestyle to Compete in Regional/U.S. Pre Trials: A. Freestyle Athletes in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials will NOT be allowed to enter more than one level of Freestyle. They may enter EITHER the level they are classified at OR one level below. 1. A Athletes must have passed A Compulsories and A level Movement Technique and may only enter A level freestyle. They are not allowed to go up a level to compete. 2. AA Athletes must have passed AA Compulsories and AA level Movement Technique and may enter AA or A freestyle. They are not allowed to go up a level to compete nor to compete at both levels. 3. AAA Athletes must have passed AAA Compulsories and AAA level Movement Technique and may enter AAA or AA freestyle. They are not allowed to go up a level to compete nor to compete at both levels. 4. Elite Athletes must have passed Elite Compulsories and Elite level Movement Technique and may enter Elite or AAA freestyle. They are not allowed to compete at both levels. v Competing at Both U.S. Trials and Pre Trials: Freestyle and pair athletes, who have competed at the U.S. Trials and wish to participate in the Regionals/U.S. Pre Trials, may only enter the AAA or Elite divisions. Teams, who have competed at the U.S. Trials and wish to participate in the Regionals/U.S. Pre Trials, may only enter the AAA division. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 5

11 v Athletes who have qualified as U.S. Team Member: A. Athletes competing in both the U.S. Trials and Regional/U.S. Pre Trials 1. Freestyle Athletes who are members of the U.S. Team in the capacity of Freestyle, may not enter Freestyle in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competition in the same competitive year but may compete in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials in the Pair or Team event. 2. Pair Athletes who are members of the U.S. Team in the capacity of Pair members, may not enter Pairs in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competition in same competitive year but may compete in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials in the Freestyle or Team event. 3. Team Athletes who are members of the U.S. Team in the capacity of a Team member may not enter Team in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competition in the same competitive year but may compete in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials in the Freestyle or Pair event. v Competing in more than one Team: A. In order for individuals to compete in both a AA and a AAA Pre Trials team in the same competitive year, more than 50% of the team membership must change. B. Individuals may compete in both a Trials and Pre Trials team in the same competition year, with the exception of the winning team at the U.S. Trials, who may not compete in the Pre Trials. To clarify: Those Teams competing at the U.S. Trials, and who do not win the title, may compete in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials with the same membership. C. Any member/athlete who owes funds to the USTA or whose payments are delinquent will be prohibited from participating in the U.S. Pre Trials. v Elite Coaches: It is the responsibility of all coaches and athletes to be knowledgeable in the current rules and procedures of the Pre Trials event. We recommend that primary coaches of athletes participating in the Pre Trials event be current Elite Professional members of USTA in order to receive the Elite benefits. These benefits include: the current Trials and s; Elite Newsletters*; clarifications and updates*; floor privileges with your athlete(s) while at competition; submit and test music and the opportunity to pick up result packets*. Coaches Elite Upgrades: All primary coaches of Trials or Pre Trials athletes must have upgraded their memberships to Elite Professional at least 2 weeks prior to the event where they desire to have floor privileges with their athlete(s). Note: This means that no Elite upgrades will be accepted on site at these competitions. Also, no added or changed coaches will be accepted on site at these competitions. Coaches Credentials: Beginning in 2005, in order for a coach to be considered an Elite Professional, they must possess the following, in addition to their current USTA Professional membership: 1. At least a Level I Coach Certification OR 2. Certified Judge Classification Athlete/Coach Dual Role It is the policy of the Technical Department that no person shall serve as both coach and athlete in the year in which they, or their athletes, are competing. He/she must designate his/her role and will only be credentialed as either coach or athlete for said championships. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 6

12 Coaches Privileges: This is to clarify that coaches must be listed as the primary coach to be given floor privileges at the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials. Any change of primary coach must be submitted to TAG two weeks prior to start date of competition. v Requirements for Advancement from Regional Pre Trials to U.S. Pre Trials: Regional Pre Trials will be held at the following USTA Regional Competitions: Central Region, Mideast Region, Northeast Region, Southeast Region and Western Region v Number of Rounds of Competition at Regional Pre Trials: A. FREESTYLE At each Region, there will be one round of Compulsories and one round of Freestyle B. PAIRS and TEAMS There will be one round for Pair and Team qualifying. NOTE: For Number of Rounds of Competition for U.S. Pre Trials; See Section 2 Advancing to U.S. Pre Trials Achievement Scores: Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 7

13 MINIMUM ACHIEVEMENT SCORES FOR ADVANCING TO U.S. PRE TRIALS FROM REGIONAL PRE TRIALS REGARDLESS OF THEIR PLACING AT THE REGIONAL PRE TRIALS EVENT LEVEL AGE MINIMUM SCORE FREESTYLE A ALL Do not go on to U.S. Pre Trials AA JUVENILE AA JUNIOR AA SENIOR AAA JUVENILE AAA JUNIOR AAA SENIOR ELITE JUVENILE ELITE JUNIOR ELITE SENIOR ELITE ADULT PAIRS AA JUNIOR AA SENIOR AAA JUNIOR AAA SENIOR ELITE JUNIOR ELITE SENIOR TEAMS AA AAA The U.S. Trials judging scale will be adopted and utilized for compulsories and freestyle for the Regional and U.S. Pre Trials, adding hundredths to the scale. A Level if an A Level competitor has entered 2 or more Regional Pre Trials, they are allowed to compete for placement at all subsequent regions entered as they are competing and not qualifying. AA, AAA, Elite Levels If AA, AAA or Elite competitors enter 2 or more Regional Pre Trials and qualify at the first region entered, that competitor has the option to PERFORM at the subsequent regions entered. If they elect to participate at the second Regional Pre Trials, athletes will perform, get scored and critiqued, but will not be included in the second region s results, as qualification to U.S. Pre Trials occurred at the first Regional Pre Trials. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 8

14 v Performance Requirements for Athletes [Time Limits] Timing will begin with the first sound or note (whichever comes first) and ends with the last sound or note (whichever comes last). All Freestyle and Pairs/Team Routine times include a ten second leeway. A. Soloists 1. Compulsories (Short Program Senior Elite only) are required to perform 8 out of 15 compulsory moves (worth 25% of the total score) and a freestyle program (worth 75% of the total score). 2. Freestyle Program a) Level A Freestyle: a Freestyle routine from 1:20-1:40 minutes (including leeway). b) Levels AA and AAA Freestyle: a Freestyle routine from 1:20-2:10 minutes (including leeway) c) Level Elite Freestyle: Juvenile and Junior - a Freestyle routine from 1:20-2:10 minute (including leeway). Senior and Adult a Freestyle routine from 1:50 2:40 minutes (including leeway) B. Pairs Are required to perform a pair routine from 1:20 2:10 minutes (including leeway). Elite Senior Pairs are required to perform a routine from 1:50 2:40 (including leeway) C. Teams Are required to perform a team routine of 2:50 4:10 minutes (including leeway) v Entry Process A. Entry Forms for Regional Pre Trials: 1. Online Entries Only: Must be filled out on the USTA website at and submitted ON OR BEFORE the specified deadline date, which is determined annually and can be found on the USTA website and on the entry form. 2. Mail, Phone or Faxed Entries will not be accepted. 3. Entry Deadline: All entries must be completed online at ON OR BEFORE March 28, B. Entry Forms for U.S. Pre Trials: See Intent to Compete at U.S. Pre Trials C. Entry Fees: Entry fees for Freestyle, Pairs and Team will be assessed. The current fees can be found on the Pre Trials Entry Forms. All fees must accompany the entry form. 1. Entry payment must be in via MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover. 2. No personal checks or money orders accepted. 3. No refunds or credits will be issued. D. Entry Acknowledgement: Included in entry fee and will be sent via to the athlete(s) and/or coach(es). Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 9

15 E. Regional Pre Trials Entry Forms: Are available on the USTA website. F. Entry Process: To simplify the entry process, the Regional Pre Trials and U.S. Pre Trials entry fees have been combined. This payment is due with the Regional Pre Trials Entry Form. 1. Athletes who meet the qualifying score, required to enter the U.S. Pre Trials, will not be required to pay additional entry fees when they submit their Intent to Compete Forms on the day of qualification. No refunds or credits will be issued. 2. No refunds will be given for those athletes, pairs and teams who do not receive the qualifying score required to progress to the U.S Pre Trials. G. Music Information: A list of all music information will be required of soloists, pairs and teams. There is an official space for this information on the entry form. It must be included on the Official Regional Pre Trials Entry Form. H. Compulsory Records for Freestyle athletes only: 1. When completing entry, state current level of compulsories. If the USTA cannot verify the athlete s compulsory status in the database records, a photocopy showing the required level(s) have been passed must be sent in to the Regional/U.S. Pre Trial Director and the USTA Membership/Entry Department, before the deadline date. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE ATHLETE TO SEE THAT ALL THEIR COMPULSORY RECORDS ARE UP TO DATE AND HAVE BEEN ENTERED IN THE USTA DATABASE. If an athlete passes a level just prior to the deadline, they are responsible for seeing that the USTA office and the USTA Membership/Entry Department have a copy of the newest level passed. 2. Deadline date is the same as the Regional Pre Trials Deadline 3. No refunds of entry fees will be issued I. Waiver of Liability: All participants or their legal guardian (if athlete is under 18 years of age) must sign the Waiver of Liability. Athletes 18 years and older may sign the Waiver Form themselves. Signatures are required for EACH ATHLETE, including the Pair and Team Members (including alternates). J. Passports and Health Certificates: Not required for entry in the Regional or U.S. Pre Trials K. Official Warm-Ups: All Regional/U.S. Pre Trials athletes are required to purchase the Official Warm-up from GTM Sportswear (GTM Women's XTreme Jacket, Men's Apex Jacket, Poly Tricot Pant), as it is the required attire for all ceremonies. This includes individuals, pairs and teams. Coaches of Pre Trials competitors are eligible to purchase the Official Warm-up. Orders can be made placed on the USTA website Shop : Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 10

16 L. Official Leotard: All female athletes must wear the Official Women s Compulsory Leotard. Male athletes participating in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials must wear the Official Compulsory Leotard for men. v Photography No flash photography or special lighting for photography or filming will be permitted (possible exception official USTA photographer and/or press). All other photography, videotaping, etc. will be allowed when there is no special lighting required. Videotaping must be restricted to specially designated areas. Portions or all of the Regional and U.S. Pre Trials will be videotaped by the USTA. These tapes will be used for such purposes as educational, entertainment, promotion of the sport to people inside and outside the field, and, in general, growth of the sport and of the World Class programs. The USTA has exclusive rights to sell videotapes, film, etc. of these events. Some videotapes will be for sale by the USTA. v Illegal substance or items see Penalty Sheet for specific information No substance such as powder, rosin, water or other substance may be used on the competition floor by any athlete for any reason. Penalty: (see penalty sheet), to be subtracted from the Freestyle Percentage Score and the Judges Average Score for Pairs and Teams. Tape or similar substance is the only substance or attachment which may be attached to batons at the Regional Pre Trials and U.S. Pre Trials Competitions. Multiple colors may be used. Sure Grip is acceptable. Team and Pairs must use the same color(s) of tape on their batons. The baton shaft may be of any color(s). Teams and Pairs must use the same color(s). Athletes may not take towel or other items onto the contest floor. v Technical Description of Baton A standard baton is a chrome-plated steel shaft with varying sizes and weights in either end. The weights are either pounded or pressure fitted. The weights are covered with a white ball (the large end) and a small white rubber tip covering the other end. Various batons have various balance points, depending upon the size and weight. Most batons come in sizes from 13 to 32 inches and are either 3/8 inch in diameter or 7/16 inch in diameter. Some batons are available in 5/16 inch diameter. The normal standard baton weighs about 8 ounces the length would also affect the weight. v Use of Grip Tape The floor monitor will inspect all baton(s). The use of Grip Tape is optional. If Grip Tape is used, the following guidelines must be adhered to: Grip tape can cover up to 1/2 of the shaft, divided equally from the center. Grip tape can be applied in solid, striped or spiral fashion. Tape can be of any color(s). Within a Pair, Team or Group, the grip tape must be the same. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 11

17 v Beginning and Ending Presenting Pose, Salute For all events, the athlete(s) must perform a presenting pose of their choice (maximum of 4 counts) to the judging panel at both the beginning and end of their routine. The opening acknowledgement should happen before the call for the start of the music happens. The traditional salute for Compulsory Moves is no longer required. (However, a traditional salute is an acceptable presenting pose.) v Costuming All athletes must wear a costume of their own choice bearing in mind that this is a sport. Athletes (Freestyle, Pairs and Team) are not permitted to have a costume that covers the palm of the hand. All athletes must wear sport shoes of their choice bearing in mind this is a sport. Shoe soles must meet facility regulations. Socks or tights, of their choice, may be worn bearing in mind this is a sport. Athletes may wear glasses, if necessary. No sunglasses are allowed. Athletic bandages are allowed. Hair and Accessories o Must be secured by any method bearing in mind that this is a sport. o Any hair accessory may be used, but must not cover any part of the face below the eyebrows and must be reasonable, bearing in mind that this is a sport. o No jewelry of any kind or body piercing allowed. o Any tattoos must be covered. Make-up Moderate stage make-up, to enhance natural facial features, is recommended. Make-up should be designed bearing in mind that this is a sport. Athletes are not permitted to have any of the following: o Body or face paint; No glitter; No adornment o Anything stuck to the face or body o Anything drawn/stenciled on the face or body At the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials, during the costume check, the TA will have the final decision on costume, make-up, hair and accessories. v Check-In and Inspection All competitors must report to the Floor Monitor in the designated area. Athletes must report before each performance. At the Compulsory Level, Freestyle athletes will also be required to pass a costume check of their compulsory uniform. The Floor Monitor is responsible for pointing out infractions as soon as possible to the competitors so that an acceptable article of apparel may be substituted in sufficient time. Athletes should report approximately 15 minutes before their set for compulsories, freestyle, pairs and team. v Competition Procedures All competitors must report to the Floor Monitor in the designated area. Athletes must report before each performance. The athlete will use only one baton. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 12

18 The athlete enters the performance area upon signal from the announcer to take the floor for competition. Athletes may not take towels (or other items) onto the competition floor or a penalty will be assessed. (See Penalty Sheet in this handbook) Athletes may wipe hands or baton on their person. Some athletes may wish to do a short presentation before the music begins. This will be permitted. If an athlete leaves the competition floor for any reason during the performance, he/she shall be disqualified unless minimum time has been reached exceptions are made for injury, music, or uniform problems. After each freestyle program is completed, the athlete goes to the designated spot to view the scores. Once the athlete has reached the designated area, the next athlete may enter the competition floor to wait for the signal to begin. All athletes must be prepared to perform under spot or television lights if deemed necessary by a television production company and/or the USTA. Some athletes may be televised and others may not. All of them must be prepared. 5-Minute Interval: In the event that an athlete is participating in more than one event (freestyle, pairs and team) and are scheduled back-to-back, a minimum of 5 minutes between sets will be scheduled. v Intent to Compete Form A. Soloists, Pairs and Teams who qualify at their Regional Pre Trial, to advance to the U.S. Pre Trials, must submit an Intent to Compete Form. B. The U.S. Pre Trials Intent to Compete Form will be given to qualifying athletes at the conclusion of the Regional Pre Trials competition. C. The Intent to Compete Form must be completed and submitted to their Regional Pre Trials Director at the completion of their Regional Pre Trials. D. Intent to Compete Forms must be turned in to the Contest Director at the completion of the Pre Trials competition. They will not be accepted by fax or mail. E. No fees are due with the Intent to Compete Form. Section 1 General Rules & Regulations 13

19 Section 2 Procedures

20 PROCEDURES v Compulsory Draw ALL Pre Trials Regions will compete using the same set of compulsories at each region, as well as, the U.S. Pre Trials. The compulsory set will be chosen by random draw each year prior to the start of the Regional Pre Trials. v Order of Performance Drawing for order of performance for Freestyle, Pairs and Teams will be held in advance of the Regional and U.S. Pre Trials. THE ORDER OF PERFORMANCE WILL BE POSTED ON THE USTA WEBSITE AT: This order will indicate the first round only. For Freestyle athletes, this is the Compulsory/Short Program Round; for Pairs and Teams this is the Preliminary Round. Soloists will be seeded and re-drawn after each round. All drawings will be conducted by computer under the auspices of the U.S. Technical Department. In the event that equipment failure prohibits drawing by computer, the official way in which the drawing is to be conducted is that names (or numbers representing names) will be drawn from on container while the number representing the order of performance is drawn from a separate container simultaneously. This is done in designated groupings. v Competitor Not Appearing Any soloist, pair or team that does not report when their name is announced will be considered late and thus, disqualified. In the event that a Soloist, Pair or Team is a No Show, the next Soloist, Pair or Team will be given sufficient time in which to report (minimum of 5 minutes). At the U.S. Pre Trials, in the event that a Freestyle Athlete who has been chosen to compete in Finals cannot, for any reason, compete in that round, the competitor will be disqualified, relinquishing his/her placement or award. The next lower placed athlete will be allowed to compete (providing it is possible to notify that competitor in time). In the event that athlete cannot perform, the next lowest placed athlete will be asked, etc. This is an attempt to have the maximum number in each round. v Uniform Failure The Chief Judge, the Technical Chair or the Judges Chair may stop the competition for one of the following reasons: If costume failure becomes hazardous, indecent or embarrassing If a shoe lace becomes untied causing footwork to be dangerous Loss of footwear causing danger to the athlete slipping and falling Loss of ball or tip from the baton shaft Baton breaking The Technical Chair must be contacted to handle the situation. The Technical Chair will contact the Host country and competition staff. The Technical Chair may order a restart. Judging to commence at the beginning. Section 2 Procedures 1

21 v Ties A. Regional Pre Trials A, AA, AAA and Elite Pre Trials Soloists, AA and AAA Pairs, and AA and AAA Teams: All ties will remain unbroken B. U.S. Pre Trials 1. Preliminary Round a) Freestyle: Ties will remain unbroken for all places except when advancement to the final round is in question. In this case, the tie for the final position will be broken. To break a tie, the Freestyle Percentage Score will be the determining factor. The highest score being the tope place. b) Pairs and Teams: Refer to process under Finals as there is one round only for pairs and teams. 2. Final Round a) Freestyle: All ties will remain unbroken except for 1 st place. To break a tie in the Finals, the Final Freestyle Percentage Score will be the determining factor. The highest score being the top place. b) Pairs: All ties will remain unbroken except for 1 st place. To break a tie for 1 st place, use the Judges Average Score (before penalties). The highest score being the top place. c) Teams: All ties will remain unbroken except 1 st place. To break a tie for 1 st place, use the Judges Average Score (before penalties). The highest score being the top place. v Obstruction or Unusual Circumstances If a Soloist, Pair or Team is hindered in his/her performance by an outside obstruction or unusual circumstance, that Soloist, Pair or Team may have an opportunity to re-compete at the discretion of the judges, upon approval of: 1. The Regional Pre Trials Director at Regional Pre Trials 2. The Technical Department and the U.S. Pre Trials Director at the U.S. Pre Trials v Injuries To ensure the health and safety of the athlete, the following procedures and guidelines will apply: A. The Competition Director, Technical Advisor, the Judges Chair, Chief Judge or a Judge on the panel shall have the authority to immediately stop the competition whenever a risk factor related to safety becomes evident. B. Procedure Freestyle and Pairs if, due to an injury or illness 1. An athlete DOES NOT leave the competition floor, nor is the performance stopped by an official after the injury or illness occurs: a) He/she will not be allowed to re-compete in that particular round. b) Judges will score. If the score is sufficient to advance to the next round, the athlete may participate in the next round of competition. c) There will be no timing penalty assessed due to the under time of the performance Section 2 Procedures 2

22 Freestyle and Pairs (continued) 2. An athlete DOES leave the competition floor or the performance is stopped prematurely by an official after the injury or illness occurs: a) Authorized medical personnel will assess athlete. b) Competition Director and Technical Advisor in consultation with authorized medical personnel shall determine whether the athlete(s) is physically capable of continuing the competition. c) If the athlete is able to continue, performance will begin at the point of interruption. d) If the athlete is unable to continue, judges will score the portion of performance that had been completed. The athlete will not be allowed to continue to compete. e) There will be no penalty assessed for under time of performance due to injury. Teams if, due to an injury or illness: 1. The team is unable to complete their program the above procedures (1-2) will be enforced. 2. In the case of a team continuing their performance, from the point of interruption, they may do so using an alternate, with fewer members (at least minimum number), or with the injured member once authorized Medical Personnel has determined the athlete is physically capable of continuing. v Critiques Performance Evaluation There will be no critiques for the Pre Trials competitions. At the Regional Pre Trials: each soloist, pair and team will receive an audio performance evaluation from each judge. This evaluation will be directed to the coach and will be given to the coach. At the U.S Pre Trial: there will be no audio performance evaluation given. v Awards All awards are based on the number of athletes listed on entry form for each respective competition. No additional awards will be presented. A. Regional Pre Trials Participants (Levels A, AA, AAA, Elite): 1. All participants will receive: a) Certificate of Participation b) Official results folder (given to athlete s Primary Elite coach) c) Audio Performance Evaluation (given to athlete s Primary Elite coach) 2. Level A Freestyle: 1 st through 3 rd Place engraved medallions B. Regional Qualifiers to the U.S. Pre Trials (Levels AA, AAA, Elite): 1. A Special Pre Trials Pin (including members of Pairs/Teams) C. U.S. Pre Trials Participants: 1. All participants will receive: a) Certificate of Participation b) Official results folder (given to athlete s Primary Elite coach) D. U.S. Pre Trial Finalists: 1. Soloists and Pairs in each division will receive: a) 1 st through 3 rd Place engraved medallions b) 4 th through 6 th Place engraved medallions 2. Teams in each division will receive: a) 1 st through 6 th Place an engraved plaque Section 2 Procedures 3

23 v Number of Rounds of Competition Regional Pre Trials There will be only one round of compulsories and freestyle, and one round of pairs and teams U.S Pre Trials A. Freestyle: 1. There will be one (1) round of compulsory competition. 2. The procedure to be used in selecting the number of athletes to advance in Freestyle is: 19 or less competitors there will be one round of competition ONLY (considered Finals). 20 or more competitors there will be two rounds of competition; the top 10 athletes from the preliminary round will advance to the semi-final round (considered Finals). Preliminary Freestyle Percentage Scores will be thrown out and only the Final Freestyle Percentage Score will count in combination with the Compulsory Percentage Score. B. Pre Trials Pairs There will be one round of competition only (considered Finals). C. Pre Trials Teams There will be one round of competition only (considered Finals). v Music Music at Regional Pre Trials and U.S. Pre Trials will be played through a digital media source, such as a computer, ipad, ipod or mp3 player. All music files must be submitted in.mp3 or AAC format. The specific guideline for naming the music file, is as follows: o Athlete/Pair/Team Name_Category Age Division_Time_Coach.mp3 or AAC format. (Example: Susie Baton_Freestyle Sr AA_2:30_Coach Mary Smith.mp3 or AAC format Music for all athletes, pairs and teams must be submitted electronically via to the following: Northeast Region NERmusic@ustwirling.com Central Region CRmusic@ustwirling.com Mideast Region MERmusic@ustwirling.com Southeast Region SERmusic@ustwirling.com Western Region WRmusic@ustwirling.com The subject line of the must match the music file name. Example: Susie Baton_Freestyle Sr AA_2:30_Coach Mary Smith.mp3 Deadlines for receipt of music: o Regional Pre Trials music must be received no later than Wednesday, May 16, 2018 by 11:59pm Pacific. Music for US Pre-trials qualifiers will be forwarded to US Pre-trials director following Regional Pre-trials by Regional Pre-trials Competition Director following their region s competition. If music needs to be changed after Regional Pre-trials, whether it is a complete music change or simply a different edit of music, the latest submission date will June 25 th at 11:59 pm Pacific of the competition year. In addition, an official statement indicating that new music that will be used must be sent from the Coach to the U.S. Pre-trials Director before the last submission noted date and time. Section 2 Procedures 4

24 CD s will no longer be used as the primary source, only as a back-up. All athletes should bring a 2 nd copy of their music with them to the competition on a flash drive or CD, in case a backup is needed. v Music Tests & Adjustments A one-hour practice/warm-up session will be held on the floor at the Regional & U.S. Pre Trials prior to the beginning of the competition. During that time, primary coaches will be allowed to test the volume only of their athlete s music. Coaches will be allotted 30 seconds per athlete. This process will be on a first come, first serve basis, and only one hour will be utilized for music tests. The official sound equipment will be available at this time. A Designated Sound Technician is selected to run the official sound system for the competition. It is the Designated Sound Technician s responsibility to set the desired volume that was determined at the music test for each performance, for those who tested. For those who did not test, the technician will set the sound system at normal. No one other than the technician and/or official competition staff may touch the official sound equipment, unless specifically requested to by Competition Director. Volume control is the sole responsibility of the sound technician. Music Failure A failure of the music after performance has started will constitute a restart. Music failure is defined as: digital skips, sticks or will not play. Only one restart will be allowed (from the beginning of the program) using back-up CD, if needed. No additional test will be allowed. System Failure A failure of the music after performance has started will constitute a restart. System failure is defined as: system fails to operate, volume obviously fading in and out, sound cutting in and out. In this situation, and at the discretion of the Competition Director, the athlete, pair or team has the opportunity to test their music on an alternative sound system, their own sound system, or on the official sound system after repairs have been made. After it has been determined by the Competition Director that the system is working properly, or that appropriate alternative equipment has been put in place, the athlete, pair or team will be allowed to restart at the beginning of their program. Each athlete, pair and team is encouraged to have a back-up music CD. The music CD must be submitted as a single track. Any deviation from this requirement will result in non-acceptance of the CD. v Performance Area Competition floor area is 50 feet by 80 feet. The boundaries of 50 feet by 80 feet for the freestyle will not be strictly interpreted as boundaries per se, but as the size of the floor that is available to the athlete. Should an athlete step on or across the lines, the judges will each determine individually whether or not this case for lowering the score, based on the athlete s pattern and use of space. Ceiling height is to be a minimum of 30 feet. Section 2 Procedures 5

25 v Procedures The athlete will use only one baton. The athlete enters the performance area upon signal from the announcer to take the floor for competition. Athletes may not take towels (or other items) onto the competition floor or a penalty will be assessed. (see Penalty Sheet in this handbook) Athletes may wipe hands or baton on their person. Some athletes may wish to do a short presentation before the music begins. This will be permitted. If an athlete leaves the competition floor for any reason during the performance, he/she shall be disqualified, unless minimum time has been reached exceptions are made for injury, music or uniform problems. After each freestyle program is completed, the athlete goes to the designated spot to view the scores. Once an athlete has reached the designated area, the next athlete may enter the competition floor to wait for the signal to begin. All athletes must be prepared to perform under spot or television lights if deemed necessary by a television production company and/or the USTA. Some athletes may be televised and other may not. All of them must be prepared. 5-minute Interval: In the event that an athlete is participating in more than one event (freestyle, pairs or team) and are scheduled back-to-back, a minimum of 5 minutes between sets will be scheduled. v Scheduling of Regional and U.S. Pre Trials The Regional Directors are responsible for determining the schedule for their particular Regional Pre Trials, as they need to coordinate and plan this competition along with their Regional Competition Director. Once established, the Regional Pre Trials competition schedule is not subject to change. The only exception to this is if it is mandated by the Technical Department. In order to ensure the efficiency of running the Regional and U.S. Pre Trials competitions and insure the accuracy of the judging process, each event (Freestyle, Pairs and Team) must be run in its entirety within each round of competition. In the event the Technical Department determines that a Region cannot host their Regional Pre Trials for any reason, the Technical Department will determine the relocation of that Regional Pre Trials. Section 2 Procedures 6

26 PRE TRIAL CONTENT RESTRICTION CHART FOR FREESTYLE, PAIRS & TEAMS CATEGORY A AA AAA ELITE Spins (includes Interrupted Spins when interrupted with a MINOR body move) Gymnastic Moves (Applicable to All Other Categories) Stationary Complex & Travelling Complex (Includes Interrupted Spins when interrupted with a Major Body Move) Pairs and Teams Coaches please refer to Section 7, Page Spins Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body 1-3 Spins Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body 1-4 Spins Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton & Body No aerial gymnastics No aerial gymnastics Aerial cartwheels permitted Aerial cartwheels cannot be used in combination with any other body move or itself Single Major Body Move under the toss Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body Single Major Body Move with 1 spin under the toss Double Major Body Move is allowed under the toss either Stationary Complex or Travelling Complex. *ONLY One (1) Double Element Trick allowed Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body Single Major Body Move with 2 spins under the toss One (1) Double Major Body Move with 1 spin is allowed under the toss either Stationary Complex or Travelling Complex. *ONLY one (1) Double Element with 1 spin allowed Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS Double Element Tricks (Stationary or Travelling) Pair and Teams Coaches please refer to Section 7, Page 2 NOT ALLOWED Only 1 Double Element Trick allowed (double illusion, double cartwheel, double walkover or any combination of any 2 Major Body Moves) NOTE: Major Body Moves are not limited to the ones listed above *See Definition of Terms Major and Minor Body Moves Only 1 Double Major Body move with 1 spin under the toss is allowed Aerial cartwheels cannot be used in combination with any other Major Body Move or itself. Releases & Receptions: No Restrictions Baton or Body. No Restrictions on Double Elements used NO RESTRICTIONS Rolls No continuous front neck Partial Monster Roll is NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS rolls (with or without allowed, making 360 degree hands) around one arm No front neck figure 8 s No monster rolls (partial or complete) Contact Material NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS NO RESTRICTIONS Chart was amended in April 2011 and Updated November 2013 Section 2 Procedures 7

27 DEFINITION OF TERMS: Clarification of Spins: A. Spins (Pure) 1. Definition: a rotation of one or more turns of the body on the ball of the foot. Number of spins refers to the amount of turns the body makes. All spins to the left are done on the ball of the left foot with the right foot closing against the left ankle, knee forward. All spins to the right are done on the ball of the right foot with the left foot closing against the right ankle, knee forward. The knee of the supporting leg is straight during the spin. B. Interrupted Spins 1. Definition: Combining spins with body moves that stop the flow of the spin from its original horizontal rotation; or spins which change direction. 2. This would apply if any spin were interrupted either in the beginning, the middle or the end of the spin. C. Determining whether an Interrupted Spin Trick is in the Spin Category or the Stationary Complex Category: 1. Interrupted spins are considered Stationary Complex Moves when the spin is interrupted with a MAJOR body move (e.g. 2 spin-attitude-1 spin) 2. Interrupted spins are considered Spin Tricks when the spin is interrupted with a MINOR The following apply to ALL Content Restriction Charts: Walkovers can be front or back DEFINITION OF TERMS: Standard Reception (refers to type of catch) Vertical or Horizontal RH or LH catch or RH or LH grab. Standard Release Vertical RH or LH thumb toss. Vertical RH or LH backhand toss or Horizontal RH or LH toss. Major Body Moves: A move that requires significant control, flexibility, strength, amplitude and extension. This classification includes any body move desired and includes moves such as: Illusions, walkovers, leaps, or jumps (of any type), sauté arabesque, attitude, grand battement, sauté de basque, tour jeté, cabriole.. These moves will be approximately 3 or more counts in duration. Minor Body Moves: A move that does not require significant control, flexibility, strength, amplitude, or extension and additionally does not require horizontal or vertical reorientation to the baton (no body rotations <turns>) or maneuvering the body upside down (illusions, bows, etc). These moves will be approximately 2 counts in duration. This classification includes moves such as: hop, skip, chassé, piqué, step-step, and coupé, sauté. This category will often be used as preparation or follow through movements. Refer to the definition of terms not defined in this chart. ATTENTION: The chainé turn is in the same classification as spin. Ex. Single chainé turn = 1 spin; double chainé turn = 2 spins EXECUTION OF ANY DISALLOWED MOVES WILL RESULT IN A PENALTY TO BE ASSESSED FOR EACH VIOLATION OF CONTENT RESTRICTIONS. Section 2 Procedures 8

28 ARABESQUE ATTITUDE BATTEMENT, GRANDE BEGIN CABRIOLE CATCH CENTER OF BATON CHAINE CHASSE CLOCKWISE HORIZONTAL CLOCKWISE VERTICAL CONTACT MATERIAL COUNTER CLOCKWISE HORIZONTAL COUNTER CLOCKWISE VERTICAL COUPE DIRECTIONAL CHANGE DOUBLE ELEMENT TRICK FLIP FLOURISH (LH) FLOURISH (RH) FLOURISH WHIP (LH) FLOURISH WHIP (RH) FOLLOW THROUGH FOURTH POSITION GLOSSARY OF TERMINOLOGY FOR COMPULSORIES & CONTENT RESTRICTIONS One of the basic poses in ballet, arabesque takes its name from a form of Moorish ornament. In ballet it is a position of the body, in profile, support on one leg, which can be straight or demi-plié, with the other leg extended behind and at right angles to it, and the arms held in various harmonious positions creating the longest possible line from the finger to the toes. A position on one leg with the other lifted in back, the knee bend at an angle of ninety degrees and will turned out so that the knee is higher than the foot. The arm on the side of the raised leg is held over the head in a curved position while the other arm is extended to the side. Large beating of the leg. An exercise in which the working leg is raised from the hip into the air and brought down again, the accent being on the downward movement, both knees straight. Cue to start compulsory move. Caper. A step of elevation in which the extended legs are beaten in the air. The working leg is thrust into the air; the underneath leg follows and beats against the first leg sending it higher. The landing is then made on the underneath leg. Cabriole may be done in all directions of the body. When used with a vertical aerial, facing front in standard direction of twirl, position of L hand on reception is palm up in front with thumb up, and when used with a vertical aerial, facing back in reverse standard direction of twirl, position of R hand on reception is palm up in back with thumb up. With a horizontal aerial, position of hand on reception (L or R hand) is palm up with thumb up. The center on-third of the baton shaft. The hand is positioned on the shaft so that the thumb is well within the center one-third. Chains, links. A series of rapid turns on the pointes or demi-pointes done in a straight line or in a circle. In the Cecchetti method of a chasse is a glide into an open position and is finished in demi-plié. This movement can be executed in all the directions making seven chasses. (C) Will be understood as horizontal forward direction of the baton above eye level. Looking up at the baton, it is revolving clockwise. (C) Will be understood as vertical forward direction of the baton. If the athlete moves the baton to the back or behind the body and/or while facing or looking at the baton, it is revolving counter clockwise. The intermixture or succession of different things (diversity & change). Covering finger twirls, flips, full hand moves, wraps, swings & slides, including releases and catches. Complex use of all types with the R & L hands used equally; the risk factor involved and the consistency of it; The intricacy of the baton and body as a unit, including the releases and catches. Will be understood as horizontal forward direction of the baton below eye level. Looking down at the baton, it is revolving counter clockwise. (CC) Will be understood as vertical forward direction of the baton if the athlete moves the baton to the back or behind the body and/or while facing or looking at the baton, it is revolving counter clockwise, but in a forward direction. Cut, cutting. A small intermediary step done as a preparation or impetus for some other step. It takes its name from the fact that one foot cuts the other away and takes place. Refers to a movement changing directions of the baton from CC to C or from C to CC, going from forward direction to reverse direction. Any combination of 2 major body moves executed together under a toss. Any release (RH or LH) where the center of the baton, at its greatest distance, is only at arm s length or less away from the body. Circle L arm CC across body & up into one forward outside loop at L side above shoulder level with left arm extended from shoulder. L arm is in a V position on the loop. Circle R arm C across body & up into one forward outside loop at R side above shoulder level with right arm extended from shoulder. R arm is in a V position on the loop. Circle L arm CC across body & up into one forward outside loop at L side above shoulder level with left arm extended from shoulder. L arm is in a V position on the loop. Swing arm down, ball leading and bring baton to center back at hip level; pull hand up to waist, baton at center back; bring (tip forward) to center front (remaining at waist level); rotate hand to center front position, full hand grip, palm down, waist level. While baton is behind the back, hand should not be visible. Circle R arm CC across body & up into one forward outside loop at R side above shoulder level with right arm extended from shoulder. R arm is in a V position on the loop. Swing arm down, ball leading and bring baton to center back at hip level; pull hand up to waist, baton at center back; bring (tip forward) to center front (remaining at waist level); rotate hand to center front position, full hand grip, palm down, waist level. While baton is behind the back, hand should not be visible. Refers to the smooth continuation of movement from one skill to another after the reception or the completion of the Compulsory Move. A basic movement will lead out of the Compulsory move to a stop position. Front leg is demi-plié, back leg tendu back: hips and shoulders squared LUNGE over front leg, body erect, head facing in direction of front leg. Section 2 Procedures 9

29 FREE ARM GLISSADE GLOSSARY OF TERMINOLOGY (continued) FOR COMPULSORIES & CONTENT RESTRICTIONS Refers to the arm without the baton. Glide. A traveling step executed by gliding the working foot from the fifth position in the required direction, the other foot closing to it. Glissade is used to link other steps. After a demi-plié in fifth position the working foot glides along the floor to a strong point a few inches from the floor. GRAB HAND & ARM POSITIONS HOP ILLUSION INTERRUPTED SPINS JETE EN TOURNANT (TOUR JETE) LATERAL BODY DEVELOPMENT LAYBACK LEFT HAND (LH) LEFT LEG (LL) LOOP LUNGE MAJOR BODY MOVE MILITARY ATTENTION MINOR BODY MOVE NUCLEUS NUMBERS OF THE CLOCK PASS PATTERN CHANGE PIQUE POSTURE PRIMARY MOVE The other foot then pushes away from the floor so that both knees are straight and both feet strongly pointed for a moment; then the weight is shifted to the working foot with a tendu. The other foot, which is pointed a few inches from the floor, slides into the fifth position in demi-plié. When used with a vertical aerial, position of hand on reception is palm out to front with fingers pointing up and when used with a horizontal aerial, position of hand on reception is palm up with fingers pointing back. Will be definite on all spins. Also refers to the placement of the hands and/or arms before, during and after a move. Executed on one foot with the leg remaining straight down toward the floor. The opposite leg may be bent knee up or the leg may be held in a straight position either slightly in front or in back of the working leg. A gymnastics move in which the working leg, head and torso make a complete circle and remain in alignment with the supporting leg throughout the entire move. Arms start parallel to the ground and remain out as the body makes its vertical circular motion. Combining spins with body moves (major and minor) that stop the flow of the spin from its original horizontal rotation or spins which change direction. Interrupted spins are considered stationary complex moves when the spin is interrupted with a MAJOR body move. Interrupted spins are considered spin tricks when the spin is interrupted with a MINOR body move. Jump from one leg to the other in which the working leg is brushed into the air and appears to be thrown. At the same time the body is to turn while executing the step and the working foot passes in front of the supporting foot. Equal/Unequal. The concept of the development of both sides of the body, right and left, independently and in relation to each other. This encompasses torso and limbs. Physiologically it is important that both sides equally; over-development on one side can cause injuries to the under-developed side. While stretching the working leg forward the weight is on the standing leg as you lay back, arching the back and dropping the head back in a controlled manner as you return to the starting position. Relax the neck muscles throughout. Determines which hand is used, in this case, the left. Determines which leg is used, in this case, the left. Full revolution of the baton using wrist action forward or reverse inside or outside. Only one foot moves see descriptions of each compulsory move where lunges are used. Technique to be considered (direction of hips determines type of lunge): proper turn out must be maintained; supporting leg must bend, back straight, head in line with body. A move that requires significant control, flexibility, strength, amplitude and extension. This classification includes any body move desired and includes moves such as: Illusions, walkovers, leaps or jumps (of any type), sauté arabesque, attitude, grand battement, sauté basque, tour jute, cabriole. Minor body moves can become major body moves when executed with a high degree of amplitude or extension. These moves will be approximately 3 or more counts in duration. Feet together, hands on hips, fingers together, baton in RH, head forward, baton resting against R arm with tip end touching R elbow. A move that does not require significant control, flexibility, strength, amplitude or extension and additionally does not require horizontal or vertical re-orientation to the baton (no body rotations [turns] or maneuvering the body upside down [illusions, bow, etch.]). These moves will be approximately 2 counts in duration. This classification includes moves such as: hop, skip, chasse, pique, step-step, sauté and coupe. This category will often be used as preparation or follow through movements. The primary component(s) of a move or series. Used to determine arm position from the athlete facing the clock or from the judge s viewpoint. Means to move the baton from one hand to another. (PC) refers to the change of the twirling plane of the baton from vertical to horizontal or horizontal to vertical. Pricked, pricking. Executed by stepping directly on the pointe or demi-pointe of the working foot in any desired direction or position with the other foot raised in the air. Must be perfectly maintained on all spins with head in line with body on spins. Must be perfect for all moves. The major body element/elements displayed in each movement. This usually is one major element, but occasionally are two major elements. The PRIMARY MOVE will always be established in the Title of the movement. The primary move may be repeated in directions. Section 2 Procedures 10

30 PUSH OFFS RECEPTIONS RELEASES RELEVE REVERSE FLOURISH (LH) REVERSE FLOURISH (RH) REVERSE FLOURISH, REVERSE WHIP (LH) REVERSE FLOURISH, REVERSE WHIP (RH) REVERSE WHIP (LH) REVERSE WHIP (RH) REVOLUTIONS RIGHT HAND (RH) RIGHT LEG (RL) SAUT DE BASQUE SAUTÉ SECONDARY MOVE SECOND POSITION LUNGE SERIES SHIFT )OF WEIGHT) SINGLE BODY MOVE SLIDE SOUSSOUS SPIN(S) SPOTTING STANDARD STANDARD RELEASE STANDING/SUPPORTING LEG GLOSSARY OF TERMINOLOGY (continued) FOR COMPULSORIES & CONTENT RESTRICTIONS For spins: to be done with the ball of the push off foot touching forward (push off foot must be 90 degrees front to side opposite the spin direction). Supporting leg in relevé with leg extended (or straight). Not all spins are to be done with push-offs see individual compulsory move details. No extra footwork preparation before the push off is permitted. Are to be in the center of baton. Refers to the type of catch or grab on an aerial and how it is received into the hand. Are to be released from center of baton; refers to the type of aerial and how it is released from the hand. Raised. A rising of the body on the pointes or demi-pointes. Circle arm C into one reverse outside loop at L side above shoulder level (L arm is in a V position on the loop); continue circling L arm extended from shoulder so that circle is large and crosses in front of body. Circle R arm CC into one reverse outside loop at R side above shoulder level (R arm is in a V position on the loop); continue circling R arm extended from shoulder so that circle is large and crosses in front of body. Circle L arm C into one reverse outside loop at L side, above shoulder level (L arm is in a V position on the loop); continue circling L arm, extended from shoulder, so that circle is large and lead baton (thumb down) into midline of body to waist level. Back of hand then follows waist line from navel to center back, ball leading, extend arm down and out to L side. Circle R arm CC into one reverse outside loop at R side, above shoulder level (R arm is in a V position on the loop); continue circling R arm, extended from shoulder, so that circle is large and lead baton (thumb down) into midline of body to waist level. Back of hand then follows waist line from navel to center back, ball leading, extend arm down and out to R side. Lead baton (thumb down) into midline of body to waist level. Back of hand then follows waist line from navel to center back, ball leading, extend arm down and out to L side. Lead baton (thumb down) into midline of body to waist level. Back of hand then follows waist line from navel to center back, ball leading, extend arm down and out to R side. Are to be definitely maintained on all aerials. Refers to the number of times the baton makes a complete turn after it is released from the hand. One revolution being released thumb to ball at the point of release, the baton turns over one time and is received in the hand thumb to ball. Determines which hand is used. Determines which leg is used. Basqué jump: a traveling step in which the dancer turns in the air with one foot drawn up to the knee of the other leg. 5 th position, right foot front. Step to the 2 nd position in demi-plié on right foot, turning en dedans so that the back is to the audience, immediately thrust the left leg to the 2 nd position in l air, pushing off the floor with the right foot. Complete the turn with the right leg bent in a raccourci devant. The landing is made in demi-plié on the left foot. Both legs should be fully turned out during this step. To jump, as for example in echappé sauté. Note: In all movements the tips of the toes should be the first to reach the ground after the jump, then the sole of the foot followed by the heel. The lead-in or follow-through move, subordinate in nature. Feet in 2 nd position, one leg in demi-plié, the other in tendu to side; hips and shoulders squared front, equal turn out of legs and feet; body erect, head facing front. Two or more twirls combined one after the other. Foot is not lifted completely off the floor before the weight is placed on that foot. Either minor or major body move done in isolation or with a spin. Refers to a release of grip on the baton without losing control. Under cover. Soussous is a relevé in 5 th position traveled forward, backward or to the side. Dancer springs onto the pointes, drawing the legs and feet tightly together with the heel forced forward so that they give the impression of one foot. A rotation of one or more turns of the body on the ball of the foot. Number of spins refers to the amount of turns the body makes. All spins to the left are done on the ball of the left foot with the right foot closing against the left ankle, knee forward. All spins to the right are done on the ball of the right foot with the left foot closing against the right ankle, knee forward. The supporting leg is extended (straight) during spin. This is a term given to the movement of the head in spins, chainé turns, pirouettes, deboules, fouetté, ronde de jambe en tournant, etc. In these turns, the dancer chooses a spot in front and as the turn is made away from the spot, the head is the last to leave and the first to arrive as the body completes the turn. This rapid movement or snap of the head gives the impression that the face is always turned forward and prevents the dancer from becoming dizzy. Vertical or Horizontal RH or LH catch or RH or LH grab. Vertical RH or LH thumb toss, Vertical RH or LH Backhand toss, or Horizontal RH or LH toss. The leg which bears the body weight. Section 2 Procedures 11

31 START POSITION STEP STOP SWING TENDU THUMB TO BALL (TTB) THYMB TO TIP (TTT) TOSS TRADE (WEIGHT) TRANSFER (OF WEIGHT) TURN WHIP (RH or LH) WORKING LEG GLOSSARY OF TERMINOLOGY (continued) FOR COMPULSORIES & CONTENT RESTRICTIONS Refers to the position of the body and baton before going into a compulsory move. Foot is to be lifted slightly and placed on the floor to execute the step. In compulsories or movement technique: means to end the movement and wait for the judge to signal. 1/2 revolution of the arm. Stretched, as for example, in battement tendu Refers to the fact that if the thumb were stretched out on the shaft of the baton, it would point to the ball. Refers to the fact that if the thumb were stretched out on the shaft of the baton, it would point to the tip. More than one revolution of the baton from the point of release to the point of reception. Foot is not lifted completely off the floor before the weight is placed on that foot. Foot is not lifted completely off the floor before the weight is placed on that foot. A movement resulting in direction change or (rotation) of the body. A turn can be executed on either one or both feet (as in chainé turn). Swing arm down, ball leading and bring baton to center back at hip level; pull hand up to waist, baton at center back; bring (tip forward) to center front (remaining at waist level), rotate hand to center front position, full hand grip, palm down, waist level. While baton is behind the back, hand should not be visible. The leg which is moving without weight. Section 2 Procedures 12

32 PROTESTS / APPEALS: POLICY/PROTOCOL FOR CORRECTING MISTAKES MADE IN ANNOUNCING AND AWARDING OF WRONG ATHLETE: (How to correct and award the correct athlete, how to stage re-presentation, how to correct award picture.) 1. Judges decisions are considered final and their scores cannot be appealed. The exception is penalties. Penalties incorrectly assessed for drops and/or content restrictions may be challenged ONLY if the appeal is submitted to the technical director within the 30 minutes following the announcement that the results have been posted and before the next round of competition is to take place or before the final placements are announced at awards ceremonies. An appeal must be submitted by an official coach to the Technical Advisor. Appeals are to be made in writing to the Technical Advisor of the USTA, outlining the specific individual or group, the skill(s) related penalty(ies) in question. Appeal of an incorrectly assessed drop penalty or content restriction involves the technical director and judge s chair ability to review an officially sanctioned video which clearly displays the error. It should be noted that two judges are to be used to assess drop penalties for Team and Artistic Group. If the number of drops assessed differs between the two judges the average number is taken and will be rounded up to the next whole number. For example: Penalty Judge # 1 assesses 4 drops Penalty Judge # 2 assesses 3 drops The average of 3.5 is rounded up to 4 drops In an effort to help correct penalties incorrectly assessed in error in a timely manner, the penalty judges will display the penalties immediately following the performance. Drop penalties will be displayed in Red and Content Restrictions will be displayed in Green. It should also be noted that incorrectly assessed penalties missed may be appealed (not just penalties taken in error.) All tabulated results are considered final 48 hours after the close of the competition. Section 2 Procedures 13

33 Errors in tabulation or score calculation identified within the immediate timeframe of the competition are to be reported to the competition organizers, who will investigate and correct immediately as necessary. In this case, to officially correct an error, the following procedure should be implemented: Have all competitors in the category/age division who placed report to the competition director with their medallions Explain the error to the competitors, award ceremony coordinator, and announcer Schedule, as quickly as possible, a public corrected awards presentation of the division An official picture of the corrected final placement is taken for historical documentation. In the event all competitors cannot be contacted and/or present for a publicly corrected awards presentation for the division, the process stated below will take place: o The corrected placements will be announced o The official photographer will need to photoshop the official picture with the athletes standing in their proper final placement APPEALS COMMITTEE REGARDING TABULATION: 1. The Appeals Committee shall be chaired by the President of the USTA. 2. The President shall appoint three (3) total members to the Appeals Committee. Members may include the elected Executive of the USTA, Technical Advisor and/or Executive Director of Sport. Section 2 Procedures 14

34 Section 3 Compulsory Competition

35 COMPULSORY COMPETITION (SHORT PROGRAM Senior and Adult ELITE ONLY) Compulsory moves refer to moves that are required by all solo athletes, executed in the manner established by the U.S Twirling Association. There are 15 Compulsory moves required in A, AA, AAA. These are: 4 finger twirl series (2 vertical and 2 horizontal); 4 roll moves; and 7 aerial moves (4vertical and 3 horizontal). They are divided into two sets for competition: (SHORT PROGRAM INFORMATION SEE TRIALS HANDBOOK) Set A Compulsory Numbers: 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15 Set B Compulsory Numbers: 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14 All Freestyle athletes must perform the compulsory set drawn for all Regions. The compulsory moves will be worth 25% of the total score. USTA will perform a computer draw to determine the compulsory set. All regions will perform the same set. Athletes will be notified of the set drawn via the USTA website. v Procedures for the Compulsory Moves It is required that the athlete stand at the position of attention at the designated center of the competition floor in front of the judges to execute the compulsory moves. At the signal, athlete must acknowledge the judges with a 4 count presentation or salute and pass the baton behind the back. Neither the position of attention nor the salute is judged. The compulsory moves must be executed in the required order. Athletes may need to move from the ending position of each preceding move back to the center before starting the next move. The athlete will perform each compulsory move when the judges are ready and stop between each move for the judges to score. The compulsory will be announced from the individual s lane. No microphone will be used. Athlete will perform each move one time. Soft background music will be played. All compulsory moves are to begin thumb to ball (TTB). Following the STOP position after each compulsory move, it may be necessary for the athlete to turn the baton over, changing ends so the athlete will begin the next compulsory move starting TTB. This is acceptable. No twirling is allowed between one compulsory to the next. Each compulsory move must begin with the basic twirl which leads into the compulsory move, and must follow through, out of the move to a two hand hold (2HH) position behind the back, feet together and stop. At this time the judges will score the move and the athlete must wait until the next move is announced and is signaled to begin. ONLY slight movement is allowed between compulsories. This includes wiping hands, moving back to center, etc. Body movement should be limited (no dance warm-up). Athletes may only wipe hands or baton on their person as towels are not allowed on the floor. No twirling is allowed between one compulsory and the next. Athletes will have no restarts on compulsory moves. Judges score what they see up to the point the athlete stops, after the word signal begin has been given. Section 3 Compulsory Competition 1

36 If an athlete drops a move during a move, he/she will not be permitted to perform that move again. v Judging Number of Judges: v Regional Pre Trials 2 judges for compulsories; 3 judges for Short Program v U.S. Pre Trials 3 judges They will not necessarily be the same judges as Freestyle. The judges will sit at floor level for compulsory competition and some discussion may occur. Judges will score as follows: 0.0 Points - Not attempted or skipped Points - Fair Points - Average Points - Good Points - Excellent Points - Superior Scores are not flashed. Athlete will receive: v Compulsory Score Sheets from each judge v Compulsory Tally Sheet (tally of athlete s own scores) v Compulsory Summary Sheet (summary of all athletes tallies) v Compulsory Recap (summary of all athletes Compulsory Percentage Scores) If a compulsory move is missed or done in the wrong order, the athlete will receive a 0 for that move. In the event that an athlete skips two or more compulsory moves in sequence, he/she only receives a 0 for the first move skipped. If a compulsory move is skipped or done in the wrong order, the Chief Judge will immediately inform the country s designated announcer of this fact, where upon the Chief Judge will say: Judges, compulsory number has been skipped, Chief Judge to instruct judges to score zero for compulsory. The country s designated announcer will then give the following instructions to the athlete: "You have skipped compulsory number. Please proceed to compulsory number." The country s designated announcer should then tell the contestant what the next compulsory move is, e.g. (RH fish tails or whatever) and signal the contestant to "Begin".If the announcer announces the wrong compulsory, the athlete may perform either the one announced or the one intended. In either case, the compulsory will be re-announced and the athlete will be given the option to repeat it. Compulsory elements will be judged taking into account the following deductions: o Doing the incorrect compulsory Clarification: Performing the wrong compulsory includes, for example, spinning the wrong way or presenting reverse fishtails. In these examples, the athlete will receive a zero. o Drops o Omitting fingers, spins, or rolls in the nucleus o Adding fingers, spins or rolls in the nucleus v Rationale for Determining Proficiency in Compulsory Judging The evaluation of this event is based on the technique displayed of body and baton. Emphasis is on the skill of execution (which is proficiency). Section 3 Compulsory Competition 2

37 Professionalism: This intangible element separates the amateurs from the skilled athletes. It encompasses a combination of training, discipline and a total understanding of the responsibilities of the performance. These qualities enable the athlete to handle all situations. Clearness and Sureness: The judge needs to recognize the development of these skills and how one skill builds upon another in a logical progression. v Judges Scoring TECHNICAL CHECKLIST OF BATON TECHNIQUE: Pattern of Baton The judges arrive at their specific score by evaluating the following: Placement of baton Position of baton Revolution of baton Timing and Control of baton Fluidity from reception to follow-through Mastery of Material CONSIDERATIONS WHICH AFFECT THE ABOVE ARE: Correct technique of all types of releases Wrist snap on releases Manual Grip Arm Flexibility Fluidity of passes Coordination & timing of baton and body Twirling from the center of baton (when applicable) Visual Tracking TECHNICAL CHECKLIST FOR BODY TECHNIQUE: Turn out is from the hip Body should show no strain No move affects the upper body Transitions between major tricks or series show no let down Complete control necessary on every move CONSIDERATIONS WHICH AFFECT THE ABOVE ARE: Posture Extension Control Timing & Rhythm Turn out Leg alignment Foot alignment Arm positions and the correctness of them Head positions and the correctness of them Amplitude Section 3 Compulsory Competition 3

38 The more skills an athlete exhibits and the better executed these skills are, the higher his/her level of proficiency is, thus rewarding the athlete with a higher score. Other factors include strength, flexibility, control and discipline. Reasons for deficiencies could be caused by the demand of the move itself. The level of tolerance is dependent, depending on the degree of demand. The age of the athlete can make a difference in their development of control & discipline and maturity of movement. Body structure (i.e. size, length of limbs, shoulder width, weight) may cause other problems. All errors are not equal. One must evaluate the cause of the error. The judge s tolerance for an error that is instantaneous to the performance should be much higher than one that is caused by technical deficiencies. In essence, the compulsory judging is a build-up score, not a tear down process. The more skills that are developed and the better they are executed, the higher the score should be. v Uniform All female Freestyle athletes participating in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials must wear the Official USTA Women s Compulsory Leotard. This is available only through USTA and may not be custom-made by a seamstress of the athlete s choice. All male Freestyle athletes participating in the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials must wear the Official USTA Men s Compulsory Leotard. This is available only through USTA and may not be custom-made by a seamstress of the athlete s choice. Order forms can be found on the USTA website at: The hair may be secured by any method as long as it is not used as ornamentation. Absolutely no rhinestones, sequins or any other form of costume jewelry are allowed. Costume Women: 1. Official USA Women s Compulsory Leotard must be worn. 2. Absolutely nothing may be hung or attached to the leotard. Costume Men: 3. Official USA Men s Compulsory Leotard must be worn 4. Belt (must comply with other rules) and must be sewn on. 5. Absolutely nothing may be hung or attached to the uniform, pants or shirt. Hair: The hair may be secured by any method which is not ornamentation, trim or costume jewelry. Absolutely no rhinestones, sequins or any other form of costume jewelry is allowed. Shoes: Sports shoes must be worn bearing in mind this is a sporting event. Color of shoes may be: Women Beige, White, Black; Men Beige, White, Black or the color of the pants. Socks & Tights: Ankle socks, if worn (must be above the ankle and below calf muscle), color of socks, if not white, must be the same color as pants (men). Tights of flesh color only may be worn. No Long Socks may be worn. No jewelry of any kind or body piercing allowed. No glitter on body is allowed. Athletes may wear eyeglasses if necessary. No sunglasses allowed. Athletic bandages for injuries may be worn. It is recommended that any tattoos that are visible be covered. Athletes may wear nude colored undergarments or nude colored body suits under their leotards. The Official Leotard will not change for this competition season. Section 3 Compulsory Competition 4

39 v Definitions FINGER TWIRLS are movements that go between the fingers that develop into three basic finger twirls known as the two finger, four finger and eight finger (vertical and horizontal). ROLLS are movements that make one or more revolutions on the surface of any part of the body without being held by (or caught) in the hand until the roll is completed. AERIALS are movements where the baton is released into the air. POSITION OF ATTENTION: Feet together, hand on hips, baton resting on right arm, ball of baton close to right hand, tip of baton close to right elbow. SALUTE: Swing tip of baton forward and down to right side of body, stop direction and make one reverse outside loop with tip of baton. Turn baton over and place back of right hand against left shoulder (ball up, tip down, with baton resting against left hand while on left hip). END OF SALUTE: Pass baton into left hand catching left hand palm up, thumb to tip, center of baton, turn baton over and place behind back, holding baton with both hands in a STOP position. Section 3 Compulsory Competition 5

40 FOCUS POINTS FOR A COMPULSORIES Reminders: 1. For correct technique on all lunges, the heel must be lifted to reposition foot. 2. For correct technique on all whips, the hand must disappear behind the back and move from hip to waist level in the reverse direction. 3. The loop on all flourishes is to be done above shoulder level. 4. Focus on all horizontal compulsories must be at shoulder level, not allowing arm to dip below, thus causing an incorrect pattern. A FINGERS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 1. RH VERTICAL TWO AND FOUR FINGER A 2. LH VERTICAL TWO AND FOUR FINGER B 3. RH HORIZONTAL TWO AND FOUR FINGER B 4. LH HORIZONTAL TWO AND FOUR FINGER A Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears R arm extended, in natural curve on 1-2 Step to R into 2 nd position lunge on 1-4 fingers Slight lift of L leg on follow through Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears 4 th to 2 nd position lunges Remain in 2 nd position lunge on 2-1 fingers Close R to L on 1-4 fingers Pattern Loop ball under over at beginning 2-1 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 down & 2-1 up Head front, focusing straight ahead Transfer to R foot with matched hand pass Pattern Horizontal matched hand pass Loop ball under over at beginning 1-2 & 1-4 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 up & 2-1 down Head front, focusing straight ahead Incorrect whip technique Pattern 2 nd position lunge not clearly defined Bent arm on 4-finger Incorrect whip technique 2 nd & 4 th position lunges not clearly defined Not keeping head front on 1 st 2-1 Not closing R to L on 1-4 fingers Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Posture on 4 finger Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Closing R to L with matched hand pass Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Failure to lead ball under from 1-2 up to 2-1 down Collapsing upper body on 2-1 down Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Section 3 Compulsory Competition 6

41 A ROLLS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 5. RIGHT HAND ROLL SERIES (FORWARD & REVERSE) B 6. LEFT HAND ROLL SERIES (FORWARD & REVERSE) A 7. TWO CONTINUOUS ELBOW ROLLS WITH LAYOUT (FORWARD & REVERSE) B 8. ONE FLAT BACK NECK ROLL A Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of hand rolls Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for hand rolls Pattern of hand rolls Transfer weight from L to R after reverse hand rolls On 4 th hand roll, weight evenly distributed, legs straight, in 2 nd position Transfer weight to R foot on follow through Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of hand rolls Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for hand rolls Pattern of hand rolls Transfer weight from L to R after reverse hand rolls Weight transfer to 2 nd position, legs straight on 3 rd hand roll Full arm extension on flourishes Correct timing between body & baton on roll, step with layout Pattern of actual roll Pattern on follow through Equal proficiency of forward and reverse elbow layout Head follows path of baton during layout Horizontal entrance into twirl Flat wrist twirl/reverse figure 8 executed front, feet together Roll begins with LF step to L oblique 3 steps L-R-L to face R side on reception 3 counts on the roll L-R-L Catch baton with palm up with LH at L shoulder, R arm extended to R side Oblique pattern of baton Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into roll Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on hand rolls Not transferring weight after reverse hand rolls Not executing 2 nd position, legs straight, on 4 th hand roll Keeping thumb in on hand roll Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into roll Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on hand rolls Not transferring weight after reverse hand rolls Not executing 2 nd position, legs straight, on 4 th hand roll L arm not extended on reverse flourish follow through Keeping thumb in on hand roll Beginning with flourish whip Incorrect timing of feet with layout Not allowing baton to roll out to hand on extension roll Steps & baton not coordinated on follow through Poor patter of baton Poor posture on follow through Looking front on layout Initiating roll with body/foot not to L oblique front Baton & feet not coordinated on roll Reception not executed to R side R arm not extended on reception Horizontal baton pattern on roll Reception too early on back of neck Section 3 Compulsory Competition 7

42 9. A AERIALS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS, LH CATCH A 10. VERTICAL LH BACKHAND TOSS, RH CATCH B 11. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS LH HEAD CATCH A 12. VERTICAL RH THUMB FLIP SERIES B 13. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, RH CATCH B 14. RH HORIZONTAL DEAD STICK RELEASE RH BACK CATCH A/B Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on toss & follow through Step forward to execute lunge on catch Hands on hip under toss / 2-3 revolutions of baton Correct pattern of flourish on follow through Full arm extension on flourishes Whip waist to hip, hand disappears Correct LH release off back of fingers, ball leading Release & catch in the center of baton Correct 4 th position lunge, head front on catch 2-3 revolutions of baton on toss Hands on hip under toss, left arm extended to back on catch Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in the center of baton 1 ½ revolution toss, catch TTT Pass while turning to front Step L with toss, close R with catch Catch in LH directly above head Full arm extension on flourishes Release & catch in center of baton L arm to side for reception, L arm remains straight after catch for the follow through All flips are 1 revolution (TTB, catch TTB) Close R to L after 4 th position lunge L arm swings over top to R side for catch Catch is palm down under L arm, TTB, with L step Horizontal matched hand pass Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on toss Reception is GRAB (palm up, fingers back) slide while turning L, hands on hip under toss 2-3 revolutions of baton on toss Position of body/arms on reception Horizontal entrance to wrist twirl Pattern Release & catch in center of baton, center of body Release open hand Catch at shoulder level Horizontal matched hand pass Incorrect whip technique Releasing and/or catching off center Arabesque plié on catch Poor pattern on follow through Body tilted on follow through Failure to step forward into lunge Incorrect free arm position on catch (should be on hip) Incorrect whip technique Incorrect LH backhand release (hand not rotated enough to release off back of fingers) L arm position on catch Incorrect technique of 4 th position lunge Hands never reach hips, under toss Incorrect follow through (adding an outside reverse loop) Incorrect whip technique Incorrect timing of feet with toss and catch Incorrect baton revolution on toss (may only do one revolution) Receiving baton without arm rotated and palm up Incorrect whip technique Incorrect technique of catches Not coordinating catch of 3 rd flip with the step to L side L arm dropped to vertical after catch Doing more than a flip (1 revolution) Poor posture to right side after 4 th position lunge Pass with extended arms Pattern weak Reception palm up in front Free arm position weak on reception Slide not to end of baton Toss not high enough to achieve 2-3 revolutions Free arm position weak under toss No relevé on L foot on reception Weak pattern (not releasing from shoulder level) Catch not at shoulder level Too many horizontal wrist twirls before toss (may do 3) Reception palm up in front Section 3 Compulsory Competition 8

43 A AERIALS (continued) NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 15. LH HORIZONTAL DEAD STICK RELEASE RH BACK CATCH A Matched hand pass, horizontal Pattern Release & receive in center of baton Reception in R 4 th position lunge to back L arm diagonal to back on catch, back straight with your body in line with extended leg Dead stick release, palm front, with L leg tendu to front Pass with extended arm Pattern not flat Reception not in center of back Free arm position weak on reception Body alignment on catch is weak Incorrect timing of arms and feet on release Dropping left arm down on follow through Section 3 Compulsory Competition 9

44 FOCUS POINTS FOR AA COMPULSORIES Reminders: 5. For correct technique on all lunges, the heel must be lifted to reposition foot. 6. For correct technique on all whips, the hand must disappear behind the back and move from hip to waist level in the reverse direction. 7. The loop on all flourishes is to be done above shoulder level. 8. Focus on all horizontal compulsories must be at shoulder level, not allowing arm to dip below, thus causing an incorrect pattern AA FINGERS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS RH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES A LH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES B 3. RH HORIZONTAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES B 4. LH HORIZONTAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES A Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears R arm extended, elbow straight on 1-2 Shifting of weight to L leg on 4 th position lunge Step out to R for 8-finger Arm position for 8-finger judge s 11:00 o clock Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears 4 th to 2 nd position lunges Step out to R lunge for 2-1 on R side Arm position for 8-finger judge s 1:00 o clock Pattern Loop ball under over at beginning 2-1 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 down & 2-1 up Head front, focusing straight ahead Pattern Horizontal matched hand pass Loop ball under over at beginning 1-2 & 1-8 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 up & 2-1 down Head front, focusing straight ahead Incorrect whip technique Pattern 2 nd & 4 th position lunges not clearly defined Bent arm on 8-finger Incorrect whip technique 2 nd & 4 th position lunges not clearly defined Not keeping head front on 1 st 2-1 Bent arm on 8-finger Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Posture on 8 finger Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Failure to lead ball under from 1-2 up to 2-1 down Collapsing upper body on 2-1 down Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Section 3 Compulsory Competition 10

45 AA ROLLS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 5. 2 SINGLE RH 1/2 FISHTAILS FORWARD & REVERSE B 6. 2 SINGLE LH 1/2 FISHTAILS FORWARD & REVERSE A ELBOW RETRACTION / EXTENSION ROLL FORWARD & REVERSE B 1 & 1 1/2 FLAT BACK NECK ROLLS A Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of fishtails Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Pattern of fishtails Correct pattern of figure 8 follow through Lift LF slightly off floor in R 4 th position lunge with the backhand catch Transfer weight from L to R after reverse fishtails Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of fishtails Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Pattern of fishtails Correct pattern of figure 8 follow through Lift LF slightly off floor in R 4 th position lunge with the backhand catch Transfer weight from L to R after reverse fishtails Full arm extension on flourishes Correct timing between body & baton on roll (hand, neck, neck, hand) Transferring weight in relevé on the roll Pattern of actual roll Horizontal entrance into twirl Flat wrist twirl executed front feet together Roll begins with LF step in L oblique 3 steps L-R-L to face R side on reception 4 counts on the roll L-R-L-R Grab baton in LH palm down at R shoulder, R arm extended to R side Oblique pattern of baton Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into roll Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on fishtails Turning body front before executing figure 8 follow through Not lifting with the batch in 4 th position Not transferring weight after reverse fishtails Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into fishtails Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on fishtails Turning body front before executing figure 8 follow through Not lifting with the catch in 4 th position Not transferring weight after reverse fishtails Incorrect timing of feet with matching twirl & roll Bending body forward, thus ducking head on roll (poor posture) Not allowing baton to roll out to hand on extension Steps & baton not coordinated on follow through Poor pattern of baton Taking 1 st two steps early before under/over with baton Initiating roll with body/foot not to L oblique front Baton & feet not coordinated on roll Reception not executed on R side R arm not extended on reception Section 3 Compulsory Competition 11

46 AA AERIALS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 9. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS, 1 SPIN L, LH CATCH A 10. VERTICAL LH BACKHAND TOSS, RH BACKHAND CATCH B 11. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS LH BLIND CATCH A 12. VERTICAL RH THUMB FLIP, 1/2 TURN TO R RH BACK CATCH B 13. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, 1 SPIN L, RH CATCH B 14. RH HORIZONTAL TOSS, RH BACK HAND CATCH A/B 15. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, RH BACK CATCH A Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on spin & follow through Trade weight to execute lunge on catch Full arm extension on flourishes Whip waist to hip, hand disappears Correct LH backhand release off back of fingers, ball leading Release & catch in the center of baton Full R arm circle before catch Correct 4 th position lunge Head front on catch Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in the center of baton 1 ½ to 2 revolution toss, catch TTB Reception in box Pass while turning to front Full arm extension on flourishes Release & catch in center of baton L arm to side for reception Correct back catch simultaneous with L step to R side L arm remains straight after catch for the follow through Horizontal matched hand pass Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on spin Reception is a GRAB (palm up, fingers back) Slide while turning L Horizontal entrance to wrist twirl Pattern Release & catch in center of baton Release open hand Catch at shoulder level R arabesque plié on catch, L arm up in Diagonal Horizontal matched hand pass Matched hand pass, horizontal Pattern Release & receive in center of baton Reception in R 4 th position lunge to back L arm & leg move together into catch position L arm diagonal to back on catch, back straight with your body in line with extended leg Incorrect whip technique Releasing and/or catching off center Arabesque plié on catch Pattern on follow through Body tilted on spin & follow through Incorrect whip technique Incorrect LH backhand release (hand not rotated enough to release off back of fingers) L arm position on catch Incorrect technique of 4 th position lunge Incorrect whip technique Incorrect 4 th position lunge on catch Receiving late below L shoulder Receiving early head catch Spotting baton over L shoulder Deleting loop after catch, before pass Incorrect whip technique Incorrect technique of catch Not coordinating catch with the step to L side L arm dropped to vertical after catch Doing more than a flip (1 revolution) Poor posture on catch Pass with extended arms Pattern weak Reception palm up in front Free arm position weak on reception Slide not to end of baton Weak pattern (not releasing from shoulder level) Catch not at shoulder level Jumping into arabesque plié on catch Weak pattern on follow through Pass with extended arm Pattern not flat Reception not in center of back Free arm position weak on reception Body alignment on catch is weak Section 3 Compulsory Competition 12

47 FOCUS POINTS FOR AAA COMPULSORIES Reminders: 9. For correct technique on all lunges, the heel must be lifted to reposition foot. 10. For correct technique on all whips, the hand must disappear behind the back and move from hip to waist level in the reverse direction. 11. The loop on all flourishes is to be done above shoulder level. 12. Focus on all horizontal compulsories must be at shoulder level, not allowing arm to dip below, thus causing an incorrect pattern AAA FINGERS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS RH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES A LH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES B 3. RH HORIZONTAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES B 4. LH HORIZONTAL FINGER TWIRL SERIES A Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears R arm extended, elbow straight on 1-2. Lift L foot to step before 1-2 under Step out to R lunge for 8-finger Arm position for 8-finger judge s 11:00 o clock Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist; hand disappears Spin on LF for 1-2 under do not lift Step out to R lunge for 2-1 on R side Arm position for 8-finger judge s 1:00 o clock Pattern Loop ball under over at beginning 2-1 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 down & 2-1 up Head front, focusing straight ahead Pattern Horizontal matched hand pass Loop ball under over at beginning 1-2 & 1-8 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton maintaining a straight line within shoulder width on 1-2 up & 2-1 down Head front, focusing straight ahead Incorrect whip technique Pattern 2 nd & 4 th position lunges not clearly defined Bent arm on 8-finger Incorrect whip technique 2 nd & 4 th position lunges not clearly defined Posture on 1-2 under Not keeping head front on 1 st 2-1 Bent arm on 8-finger Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Posture on 8 finger Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd position lunges Failure to lead ball under from 1-2 up to 2-1 down Collapsing upper body on 2-1 down Not within shoulder width in straight line on 1-2 & 2-1 Watching baton must focus straight ahead Section 3 Compulsory Competition 13

48 5. 6. AAA ROLLS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 1 1/2 RH FISHTAILS FORWARD & REVERSE B 1 1/2 LH FISHTAILS FORWARD & REVERSE A 7. CONTINUOUS ELBOWS WITH L ARM EXTENSION ROLL B 8. 2 CONTINUOUS FLAT BACK NECK ROLLS A Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of fishtails Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Pattern of fishtails Correct pattern of figure 8 follow through Lift LF slightly off floor in R 4 th position lunge with the backhand catch Transfer weight from L to R after reverse fishtails Full arm extension on flourishes, especially into & out of fishtails Executing flourish whip in center of baton Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Pattern of fishtails Correct pattern of figure 8 follow through Lift LF slightly off floor in R 4 th position lunge with the backhand catch Transfer weight from L to R after reverse fishtails Full arm extension on flourishes No whip Correct timing of flourish & pass with chainé turn Touch RH to L upper arm to begin roll 3 elbows L-R-L with matching feet L-R- L Correct timing between body & baton on roll Posture on roll Catch LH, TTB Pattern of actual roll Horizontal entrance into twirl Flat wrist twirl executed front feet together Roll begins with LF step in L oblique Oblique pattern on roll Footwork executed in an arc Matching baton & feet on the roll L-R- L-R-L Reception must be in the back with LH at L shoulder, R arm extended to R side Oblique pattern of baton Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into roll Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on fishtails Turning body front before executing figure 8 follow through Not lifting with the batch in 4 th position Not transferring weight after reverse fishtails Incorrect whip technique Executing flourish and whip off center Not doing a flourish into ROLL Weak 4 th position lunges (turnout weak; back leg bent) Wiggling body on fishtails Turning body front before executing figure 8 follow through Not lifting with the catch in 4 th position Not transferring weight after reverse fishtails Executing a whip before roll Not touching RH to L upper arm to begin roll Incorrect timing of feet with matching elbow Ducking head on roll (poor posture) Not allowing baton to roll out to hand on extension roll Steps & baton not coordinated on follow through Poor pattern of baton Taking 1 st two steps early before under/over with baton Initiating roll with body/foot not to L oblique front Baton & feet not coordinated on roll Excessive movement of head on roll Reception not executed on R side Section 3 Compulsory Competition 14

49 AAA AERIALS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 9. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS, 2 SPIN L, LH CATCH A 10. VERTICAL LH BACKHAND TOSS, 1 SPIN L, RH CATCH B 11. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS 1 SPIN L, HEAD CATCH A 12. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS, 1 SPIN TO R, LH CATCH B 13. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, 2 SPIN L, RH CATCH B 14. RH HORIZONTAL TOSS, 1 SPIN TO L, RH CATCH A/B 15. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, 1 SPIN TTO R, RH CATCH A Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on spin & follow through Trade weight to execute lunge on catch Full arm extension on flourishes Whip waist to hip, hand disappears Correct LH backhand release off back of fingers, ball leading Release & catch in the center of baton Full R arm circle before catch Correct 4 th position lunge on follow through Full arm extension on flourishes Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Release & catch in the center of baton Catching above head, palm up Pass LR, while closing R foot to L Full arm extension on flourishes Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on spin Catch baton in front of body Horizontal matched hand pass Release & catch in center of baton Posture erect on spin Reception is GRAB (palm up, fingers back) Slide while turning L Horizontal entrance to wrist twirl Pattern Release & catch in center of baton Release open hand Hand position held during spin Catch at shoulder level Reception is GRAB (palm up, fingers back) 2 horizontal wrist twirls on follow through Horizontal matched hand pass Matched hand pass, horizontal Pattern Correct spin technique Hand position on hips Release & receive in center of baton Reception is GRAB (palm up, fingers back) RH catch directly into horizontal matched hand pass while stepping L foot to L side Incorrect whip technique Releasing and/or catching off center Arabesque plié on catch Pattern on follow through Body tilted on spin & follow through Incorrect whip technique Incorrect LH backhand release (hand not rotated enough to release off back of fingers) Incorrect technique of 4 th position lunge Double RH outside reverse loop on follow through Incorrect whip technique R tendu not to front on catch Spotting baton over L shoulder Grabbing palm down on catch Incorrect whip technique Incorrect technique of catch Poor posture on spin & catch Pass with extended arms Pattern weak Reception palm up in front Free arm position weak on reception Slide not to end of baton Weak pattern (not releasing from shoulder level) Head back on spin Catch not at shoulder level Weak pattern on follow through Incorrect follow through Reception palm up in front Pattern not flat Poor posture on spin Head back on spin Reception palm up in front Incorrect follow through Section 3 Compulsory Competition 15

50 FOCUS POINTS FOR ELITE COMPULSORIES Reminders: 13. For correct technique on all lunges, the heel must be lifted to reposition foot. 14. For correct technique on all whips, the hand must disappear behind the back and move from hip to waist level in the reverse direction. 15. The loop on all flourishes is to be done above shoulder level. 16. Focus on all horizontal compulsories must be at shoulder level, not allowing arm to dip below, thus causing an incorrect pattern WORLD (ELITE) FINGERS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS RH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL A LH VERTICAL FINGER TWIRL B 3. RH FLAT FINGER TWIRL B Full arm extension on flourish Whip hip to waist; hand disappears R arm extended, elbow straight on 1-2. Lift LF to step before 2-1 under 4 th to 2 nd position lunges with 1-2 simultaneously Cross L over R for turn to back while executing 2-1 in low arc Turn on R foot Arm position for 8 finger judge s 11:00 Full arm extension on flourish Whip hip to waist; hand disappears 2 nd and 4 th position lunges Trade weight with finger twirl 2-1 Spin on LF for 1-2 under do not lift Push off with RF for one spin/2-1 in back Keep L arm level from 2-1 in back to 8 finger L arm to judge s 1:00 to 8 finger Pattern Loop ball under over at beginning 2-1 above head level, not directly over head Correct 2 nd position lunges Baton within shoulder width on 1-2 down & 2-1 up R arm extended 90% in R side of body on 8 finger start turn facing L side RF must touch floor before stepping R Horizontal pass RH visible throughout whip Pattern Failure to lift LF before 2-1 Incorrect technique 4 th and 2 nd lunges Not coordinating 1-2 (behind head) with L-R lunges Collapsing body on 2-1 inside to R Bent arm on 8 finger LH visible throughout whip Not focusing head to front on 1-2 Turn out on 4 th /2 nd lunges Not coordinating 2-1 with L to R lunges Ducking head on 2-1 reverse pull over Maintaining L arm level Pattern on 8 finger Pattern Incorrect technique of 2 nd/4th lunges Pattern on 8 finger Not within shoulder width on 1-2 & 2-1, keeping a straight line Failure to loop baton under between 1-2 down & 2-1 up Facing front, not side to begin turn R arm not extended 90% to R side of body on 8 finger Failure to touch R toe before stepping R Section 3 Compulsory Competition 16

51 4. LH FLAT FINGER TWIRL A Pattern Horizontal pass Correct 2 nd position lunges Ball loops over-under at beginning 1-2 above head level; not directly above head Baton within shoulder width on 1-2 up & 2-1 down RF must touch before stepping Pattern Incorrect 2 nd position lunges Failure to lead ball under from 1-2 up to 2-1 down Collapsing upper body when finger is down Not within shoulder width, keeping a straight line Section 3 Compulsory Competition 17

52 WORLD (ELITE) ROLLS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS RH FISHTAIL B LH FISHTAIL A 4 ELBOW ROLL B 8. FLAT BACK NECK ROLL A Full arm extension on flourish, and into fishtails Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunges Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Lift LF slightly off floor to step close in 4 th position lunge with the backhand catch Full arm extension on flourish and into fishtails Whip hip to waist, hand disappears Correct 4 th position lunge Shoulders, hips, head to side for fishtails Lift LF slightly off floor to step close in 4 th position with the backhand catch Full arm extension on flourish No whip oblique Begin roll by stepping LF to L oblique Pattern of baton on entrance to roll oblique Footwork executed in arc Baton must hit neck after 2 nd elbow Step directly to R side on 4 th step (layout) Layout done between corners Horizontal entrance into wrist twirl Flat wrist twirl executed front feet together Flat figure 8 is executed on the oblique Roll begins with LF step in L oblique, shoulders facing L oblique front Oblique pattern on roll Footwork executed in an arc Reception MUST be in the back (90 degree L to R angle) palm down, R arm to side Arms in V position during roll Weak turn out in 4 th position lunge Whip incorrectly executed Not doing a flourish into roll Wiggling body on fishtails Too many or too few fishtails Not lifting with the catch in 4 th position Whip incorrectly executed Not doing a reverse flourish into roll Weak turn out in 4 th position lunge Wiggling body on fishtails Too many or too few fishtails Not lifting with the catch in 4 th position Pattern on follow through weak Executing a whip before roll Pattern of baton on entrance not oblique Not stepping L oblique for 1 st step Steps & baton not coordinated Footwork not in arc Executing a plié on layout 4 th step not directly to side Taking 1 st 2 steps early before under/over with baton Initiating roll with body/foot not to L oblique front Footwork not in arc Baton & feet not coordinated in roll Reception not executed to back, palm down with R arm to side Section 3 Compulsory Competition 18

53 WORLD (ELITE) AERIALS NAME FOCUS COMMON ERRORS 2-SPIN CATCH L A L BACKHAND; 1 SPIN CATCH BACKHAND B 11. ONE SPIN CATCH BLIND A /2 SPIN TO RIGHT B 13. LH HORIZONTAL TOSS, 2 SPIN L, RH CATCH B 14. RH HORIZONTAL 1 SPIN, CATCH BACKHAND A/B 15. RH HORIZONTAL 1 SPIN TO R, FLAT BACK CATCH A Full arm extension on flourish Whip hip to waist, hand disappears on spins Correct spin technique Release in center of baton Full arm extension on follow through Trade weight to execute lunge on catch Full arm extension on flourish Whip waist to hip, hand disappears Correct backhand release Arm position on spin - wrapped Full R arm circle before catch L arm straight up on catch head in front Correct 4 th position lunge Full arm extension on flourish Whip - waist to hip, hand disappears Correct spin technique Hand position flat on sides Reception in box Pass while turning to front Release and catch in center Full arm extension on flourish Technique of spin to R Release and catch in center of baton Hand position on small of back L arm to side for reception Correct back catch with L step to R side L arm remains straight out after catch for follow through Matched hand pass horizontal Spin technique Hand position Indian arms Release and catch in center of baton Reception is GRAB palm up, fingers back Slide while turning to L Horizontal entrance to wrist twirl Pattern Release & catch in center of baton Release open hand Hand position held for full 1 spin L arm up in diagonal on catch Catch at shoulder level Matched hand pass, horizontal Pattern Spin technique correct Hand position on hips Release and receive in center Reception on R 4 th position lunge to back L arm & leg move together into catch L arm diagonal to back on catch, back straight with upper body in line with extended leg Step on L foot turning to front L arm remains on diagonal turning to front, forming a V in front with arms Incorrect whip Incorrect or lack of quality technique Undefined hand positions on spins Arabesque plié on catch Releasing from near the end Pattern on follow through Whip technique Incorrect technique of release BH Hand position weak Circling R arm early or late (off pattern) L arm position on catch Technique in 4 th position lunge Whip technique Spin technique Undefined hand position on spin Incorrect 4 th position lunge for catch Receiving late below L shoulder Receiving early head catch Spotting baton over L shoulder Adding a loop after catch before pass Whip technique incorrect Spin technique weak Crossing over on push off Head back on spin Hand position undefined Incorrect technique of catch Incorrect timing of catch with step L Weak balance L arm dropped to vertical after catch Toss too high Pass with extended arm Incorrect spin technique Pattern weak Arm position undefined (usually up) Reception palm up in front Slide not to end of baton Weak pattern especially on release Spin technique weak Hand position not clear Catch not in level position Jumping into arabesque plié on catch Incorrect spin technique Pattern not flat Body too flat on reception Poor balance on catch Incorrect 4 th position lunge Incorrect timing of L arm & leg into position catch Section 3 Compulsory Competition 19

54 Section 4 Short Program

55 SHORT PROGRAM o Required for all Senior Women and Senior Men Elite Athletes (there is a waiver to compete as Senior Elite available to Junior athletes who are 17 years of age. Request the information and waiver from the U.S. Technical Advisor). o Short Program replaces Compulsory Competition v Concept Short Program is the bridge between the totally structured event of Compulsories and the freedom of Freestyle. It is performed to standard music and combines qualities for both events, weaving a program of required moves into a creative musical production that is shorter than Freestyle requirements and more entertaining than the Compulsory requirements. Short Program is structured from required elements that are derived from 5 categories of twirls (spins, stationary complex, travelling complex, rolls and contact material) which must be strictly performed as prescribed. v Philosophy Statement Short Program lays the foundation of skills needed for the Freestyle Program when focusing on qualities such as musical interpretation and composition and performance. When executing the 8 required elements and during the accessory material, technique of body and baton are expected to be correct. Musicality is a factor developing rhythmic variation, use of accents, conforming to the style of the music and musical phrasing. Design concepts of staging, logic, contrast and dynamics are introduced. v Primary Focus It is mandatory that the execution of the required elements be as prescribed. Prime consideration will be given to the Technique of body and baton during the execution of eight required elements derived from the three Modes of Twirling (aerials, rolls and contact material). Short Program requires the additional responsibilities of conforming to the Music and displaying performance skills and develops musical interpretation, simultaneous responsibility, movement in space, staging and continuity. These factors will be considered in composition & performance. v Eligibility and Music Because this event will be more demanding both physically and mentally, it will be done only by the Senior Men and Senior Women. The Junior Men and Junior Women will continue to compete in Compulsories and focus on the technique of baton and body. Senior Men and Senior Women will perform to different musical selections. Section 4 Short Program 1

56 v Scoring 2 Judges for Elements, 1 Judge for composition/performance Each element is worth 10 points, totaling 80% of the Score. Composition + Performance is worth 20 points, totaling 20% of the Score. All other errors and illegal moves will be considered in the Short Program Net Percentage Score. Athlete must start on count 1 of the required 8 count phrase of the Element. If the athlete does not start on Count 1 of the required 8 count phrase of the Element, they will receive a 0.1 deduction. There is a box for each Element on the Composition & Performance Scoresheet. The deductions will be taken by the judge off the Performance Score. v General Rules All required elements must be performed facing the front and as prescribed. While executing required elements, the baton must rotate in standard direction of twirl. Short Program will use between 1/3 and 1/2 of the competition floor. All required elements must begin on count #1, but may end before the 8 count phrase is finished, depending on the athlete s proficiency. If the required element is completed in less than 8 counts, the athlete may continue with accessory material. All dance movements are allowed. Acrobatic moves that are allowed include: cartwheels (1 or 2 hands), illusions, walkovers (1 or 2 hands, front or back), splits and floor rolls. All other acrobatic movements are not allowed (such as; aerial gymnastic moves and handstands). Accessory material is used between required elements. See definition at end of Required Element Descriptions Facial expressions while executing Required Elements are acceptable and will be expected to match the music. v Costuming Senior athletes (men and women) must perform in the Official Compulsory Leotard/Uniform of their country. v Judging Criteria for Short Program (Resource: WBTF Judges Manual) We will use the existing compulsory judging system as a basis to judge the required elements. We will use the existing freestyle judging system as a basis to judge the Performance and Composition captions. Short Program elements will be judged taking into account the following deductions: o Doing the incorrect compulsory Clarification: Performing the wrong compulsory includes, for example, spinning the wrong way or presenting reverse fishtails. In these examples, the athlete will receive a zero. o Drops o Omitting fingers, spins, or rolls in the nucleus o Adding fingers, spins or rolls in the nucleus Section 4 Short Program 2

57 A. Drops/Errors: We will use the existing compulsory violation definition for assessing drops and other errors in the required elements (i.e. violations 0.5 to 1.0 deductions and a drop 2.0 deduction). In the required elements, the judge will only judge to the point at which the athlete has completed the element (i.e. where the drop occurred or the roll was stopped) and the judge will consider the violations and errors the same as they would in compulsories. We will consider all drops (required or accessory) in the performance score by evaluating the drop in relation to how it affected the performance. B. Prohibited Material: We will deduct a 2.0 penalty from the total score for each time that the athlete performs prohibited accessory material (i.e. front aerial). C. Contact Material Series: On the contact material series, there is no defined entrance/nucleus/exit to this required element, it is all considered to be the nucleus. If there is a drop in the contact material series the athlete will continue and the judge must determine how much material was completed and how successful they were. A 2.0 penalty will be deducted for each drop during the 24 count contact material. If there are missed fingers or any other violation they will be assessed as they would be in compulsories (0.5 to 1.0 deduction from the score depending on the severity). D. Other Considerations: We will maintain the minimum score of 0.5 for the required element. If there is a fall anywhere in the program, there will be no specific penalty assessed, however, it will be considered in the performance caption. E. Timing/Music Errors: The required elements are to begin on the first count of the musical phrase as outlined in the Short Program description and are completed within the 8 counts. The speed and skill level of the athlete will determine the time it takes them to complete the move. There is no minimum amount of counts that the move must be completed. Section 4 Short Program 3

58 REQUIRED ELEMENTS: General Statements: The head remains upright during the execution of all required elements. Facial expressions while executing Required Elements are acceptable and will be expected to fit the music. The counts listed for Required Element #1 and #7 are for learning purposes only. The athlete may execute the move in less than 8 counts. 1. TRAVELING COMPLEX Right Leg 1-2 Body direction facing L front oblique (head, hips and shoulders facing L oblique); R chassé with RH reverse figure 8, L arm extended shoulder level to L side 3 Step L Right thumb release into a vertical toss 4 R grand jeté [developé or straight leg] (+ landing); Left arm moves down next to the left side of the body (en bas), then up to Third Arabesque position (arm straight out in front of the body, slightly above shoulder level, palm down) while the right arm moves in a natural movement to the right side Arabesque Third. The shoulder and hips must be square and perpendicular to the leg during the leap. The head will be positioned to spot the baton. 5 Step L (demi plié) catch (RH standard catch). The Left arm will move to a la second (straight out to the left side at shoulder level, palm down). 6 Step R on toe in 4 th position. Left arm moves down next to the left side of the body (en bas). Baton loops to follow through to a locked position on the right arm. Right arm continues to circle in a clockwise direction (from the athlete s point of view). 7 Finish in relevé in 4 th position, right leg in front. Arms finish in Third Arabesque (Left arm straight in front slightly above shoulder level, Right arm to the back slightly below shoulder level, both arms palm down). Left Leg 1-2 Body direction facing R front oblique (head, hips and shoulders facing R oblique); L chassé with RH reverse figure 8, L arm extended shoulder level to L side 3 Step R Right thumb release into a vertical toss 4 L grand jeté [developé or straight leg] (+ landing); Right arm moves in a natural movement to Third Arabesque position (arm straight out in front of the body, slightly above shoulder level, palm down) while the left arm stays extended should level to L side. The shoulders and hips must be square and perpendicular to the leg during the leap. The head will be positioned to spot the baton. 5 Step R (demi plié) catch (RH standard catch). The Left arm will remain to the side. 6 Step L on toe in 4 th position. Left arm moves down next to the left side of the body (en bas). Baton loops to follow through to a locked position on the right arm. Right arm continues to circle in a clockwise direction (from the athlete s point of view). 7 Take R step, continuing in the direction of the leap, into 4 th position relevé, right leg in front. Arms finish in Second Arabesque (Left arm straight in front, slightly above shoulder level, Right arm to the back slightly below should level, both arms palm down). Section 4 Short Program 4

59 REQUIRED ELEMENTS (continued): 2. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS 1 ½ SPIN TO LEFT, LH BLIND CATCH - RH vertical flourish (extending R arm) TTB or TTT step forward on RF; Whip pull LF into RF to 5 th position relevé; L arm extended at shoulder level to L side - Step forward on R toe into 4 th position relevé - RH thumb release (center of baton, center of body); 2-3 revolutions of baton - Push off into 1 ½ spin L on ball of L foot (R foot closes against L ankle), erect posture maintained with head in line with body on spin; hands placed at sides of hips, palms against body, fingers together in downward position) - Finish spin facing back lunging L in 4 th position by pushing R foot back (against floor) toward judge - LH bland catch TTB or TTT with LH above L shoulder close to L ear, L arm bent, center of baton (last eye contact with baton is off R shoulder), RH remains at side of hip for reception - Swing L arm down in back to a matched hand pass down in back (elbows straight) while turning R to face front, RH vertical flourish while stepping R foot to R side; arms passing through in V position with palm facing L side - Tendu L in 2 nd position 3. CONTINUOUS ELBOW ROLLS WITH RIGHT ARM LAY OUT - Feet in 5 th position relevé (RF front); RH vertical flourish (extending R arm), TTB; L arm extended shoulder level to L side; swing baton down across legs (while moving RH down from center on baton) and change to L front oblique pattern - Step on L foot to L front oblique; body direction facing L front oblique (heads, hips and shoulders to L oblique); begin roll on elbow (oblique pattern) - 4 continuous elbows, L-R-L-R with matching feet L-R-L-R turning on ball of each foot (coordinating elbows with feet) - Footwork executed in an arc (semi-circle) as follows: Step #1 with L foot, hips to L oblique; Step #2 is a turn on R foot; Step #3 is a step toward the front on L foot with hips facing R side; Step #4 is on R foot directly to R side (or slightly forward), R toe may be facing diagonal R side on step, hips are facing front; slight hesitation will occur between steps #3 and #4 - R arm lay out roll (directly to R side); opening L arm with palm up; shoulders and hips facing front; head to front, (weight is on R foot, Tendu L in 2 nd position Section 4 Short Program 5

60 REQUIRED ELEMENTS (continued): 4. 2 ½ CONTINUOUS FLAT NECK ROLLS - One horizontal reverse figure 8 with chainé turn L (loop under, over) with baton in front of the body between width of shoulders, LH extended shoulder level to L side of body; stepping L, R on turn to L front oblique - Move RH slightly down from center of baton while swinging baton across body (oblique pattern downward) to L side of neck - As baton is placed on L side of neck, body direction is facing L front oblique (shoulder, hips and head facing L oblique) - 2 ½ continuous back neck rolls (oblique baton pattern); footwork for entire roll executed in an arc (semi-circle); both arms down and away from torso during the neck roll (elbows straight); palms facing down; thumbs of free hands at same level of other fingers - Roll Count 1 baton released at L side of neck; step LF to L oblique corner (head, hips, shoulders facing L oblique - Roll Count 2 baton R side of neck; step R with turning step - Roll Count 3 baton on L side of neck, step L with body facing R side - Roll Count 4 baton on R side of neck; step R with turning step - Roll Count 5 baton L side of neck; step L directly to L side with body facing back; slight hesitation before receiving baton LH pal down at R shoulder with R arm parallel to floor; body direction is directly to the back, feet in 2 nd position relevé - 5. HORIZONTAL LH TOSS, 1 ½ SPIN TO RIGHT, RIGHT HAND FLAT BACK CATCH - Feet in 5 th position relevé, LF front, LH horizontal figure 8 (loop over, under) - TTB; R arm extended shoulder level to R side - Step forward on L toe into 4 th position relevé - LH horizontal toss (center of baton, center of body); 2-3 revolutions of baton - Push off into 1 ½ spin R on ball of R foot (close L foot to R ankle in spin; erect posture maintained, head in line with body on spin; hands on hips with fingers together on spin) - RH horizontal back catch (center of baton, center of waist); (last eye contact with baton over L shoulder); while pushing L foot back (against floor) toward judge into R 4 th position lunge and simultaneously extending L arm diagonally up to back (head in line with arm, back straight, upper body in line with extended leg) - Step on L foot to second position relevé R side; turn R to face front with RH vertical flourish (extending R arm) while stepping R foot to R side facing front; tendu L in 2 nd position, L arm remains diagonal from a V in front with flourish; palm facing L side Section 4 Short Program 6

61 REQUIRED ELEMENTS (continued): 6. CONTACT MATERIAL (24 COUNTS) - L 4 TH position lunge by pushing R foot out (against floor) to R side (head, hips and shoulders squared to L side) - RH Vertical finger twirls, 1-2 reverse pull over L to R (path of baton behind head as baton pulls over to R side), while simultaneously trading weight to a R lunge in 2 nd position; head, hips and shoulders squared to front (legs and feet turned out) with L arm extended at shoulder level (moving L arm level from back to L side) Vertical RH finger twirl down in back (path of baton inside between R arm and body) executed in a low arc from L side of body to R side of body, facing back, baton moving down while turning to R on ball of R foot and crossing L foot in front of R foot (when facing back) and continuing to turn R by pivoting on balls of both feet, L arm remains extended at shoulder level while moving L arm across front and around to back - From 5 th position relevé facing L side, release one to one and a half revolutions RH thumb flip to front with body (shoulder and hips) facing L side, L arm extended level to back; Step back on R foot into arabesque plié in 4 th position to L side, catch RH backhand center of body line with L arm straight up with palm facing back, arms in diagonal line; Head facing front, looking over R shoulder; Lower L foot into R 4 th position lunge (facing L side) while lowering L arm (extended at shoulder level) revolution R thumb flip to front, shoulders and hips remain facing L side; Rotate body to L into L 4 th position lunge, facing R side, move L arm straight across back to R side - Catch R hand under extended L arm (shoulders and hips facing R side, head looking over L shoulder); Follow through with one forward loop to back, while transferring weight to R foot into 2 nd position tendu (facing back) weight on RF with R supporting leg straight, L arm follows through by swinging down in a natural movement; Rotate hips to R 4 th position tendu facing L side; Shoulders turn slightly to front while pulling R elbow into body, head front - Release one revolution R thumb flip in front; Pivot L to back with weight remaining on R foot - Catch L hand behind the neck with L elbow lifted and pointed to R side, R arm extended diagonally down to L side with head and shoulder facing back. Feet in 2 nd position tendu left. Continue rotating L (shoulders and hips facing R side) while pulling L elbow down, turn head to look over L shoulder, R arm extended diagonally down - Release LH backhand one revolution flip at waist level; Pivot R to back shifting weight to L toe - Catch RH back catch in center of back; L arm diagonal down; pull baton down while stepping forward on RF into 5 th position relevé (RF front) - R flourish with L arm extended shoulder level to L side; Slide baton down to end while stepping back on R foot, square shoulder to L side, L arm extended shoulder level to back - L shoulder wrap, Head facing front, Catch RH backhand; (center of baton, center of body line), lifting R foot into arabesque plié in 4 th position to L side, L arm extended diagonally up (R arm straight line from L finger tips to R finger tips, looking front over R shoulder on catch; Follow through into horizontal pattern; Step onto L foot, lowering L arm to shoulder level, turning L with one R horizontal wrist twirl (beginning twirl to R side of body and finishing in the back); Step R foot forward into 4 th position relevé - Matched hand pass to LH in front at chest; shoulder level (elbows bent); Push off into one spin on ball of L foot, R foot at L ankle on spin; R arm extended to R side at shoulder level at start of spin; Execute horizontal 8 finger twirl over head with L arm in natural curve; Catch by rolling over 1 st finger into full hand grip; R toe touch to floor against L foot Section 4 Short Program 7

62 REQUIRED ELEMENTS (continued): 7. STATIONARY COMPLEX REVERSE ILLUSION - Right supporting leg 1 Vertical RH whip step forward on RF 2-3 Flourish pull LF into RF to 5 th position relevé 4 Step forward or at a slight diagonal to L side (maintaining turn out) on R toe into 4 th position relevé with release (L arm extended to L side, shoulder level) 5-6 R reverse illusion arms extended to side finish with body facing front, feet in 5 th position relevé (RF front) 7 Spot baton 8 Catch - Left supporting leg: exactly the reverse, but finish in 5 th position relevé (LF front) - 8. VERTICAL RH THUMB TOSS, 2 SPIN LEFT, LEFT HAND CATCH - RH vertical flourish, (extending R arm) TTB or TTT, - step forward on RF; Whip pull LF into RF to 5 th position relevé; L arm extended at shoulder level to L side; Step forward on R toe into 4 th position relevé - RH thumb release (center of baton, center of body); 2-3 revolutions of baton - Step forward on R toe into 4 th position relevé - RH thumb release (center of baton, center of body) 2-3 revolutions of baton - Push off into two spin L on ball of L foot (R foot closes against L ankle) erect posture maintained with head in line with body on spin (no extra preparation of footwork is permitted before push off); hands on hips, fingers together when spinning - LH catch (TTB or TTT) in R lunge 4 th position facing front; RF forward, LF back (center lunge by stepping on R foot slightly in front of L foot while sliding L foot back (against floor) into R 4 th position lunge); RH extended to R side, shoulder level - LH vertical reverse flourish (extending L arm), spinning L (begin spin by changing weight onto ball of L foot with slight draw-in of L foot, while swinging R arm down by leg and circling over the top of the back); Step down on RF into tendu L in 2 nd position (with arms down to sides) ALL THE REQUIRED ELEMENTS MUST BE PERFORMED FACING FRONT AS PRESCRIBED Section 4 Short Program 8

63 ACCESSORY MATERIAL: Accessory material is the material executed between required elements and it is limited to: 1. Those twirls in the contact material mode (flips*, swings, wraps, full hand, fingers and dead stick material) 2. Body/dance moves 3. The prescribed acrobatic movements 4. Hand rolls and other single element rolls will be allowed *Definition of Vertical flip: will be any release (RH/LH) where the center of the baton, at its greatest height, is never higher than an arm s length above the head OR a 1 revolution flip at any height. *Definition of Horizontal flip: when the baton (RH/LH) rotates no more than 1 ½ revolutions in a horizontal pattern in any plant. *Single element rolls: A single element roll is when the baton rolls on only one part of the body with one or less revolutions of the baton. No continuous or repetitive rolls apply. Some examples of single element rolls are: o Arm roll o Hand roll o Leg roll o Elbow roll o Single elbow pop o ½ angle roll o ½ fishtail o Shoulder wrap (roll) o Waist wrap (roll) o Neck wrap (roll) Some examples of rolls not allowed are: o Whole fishtails o No full angel rolls All dance movements are allowed. Acrobatic moves that are allowed include: cartwheels (1 or 2 hands), illusions, walkovers (1 or 2 hands, front or back), splits and floor rolls. All other acrobatic movements are not allowed (such as: aerial gymnastic moves and handstands) Section 4 Short Program 9

64 Short Program Computation Process: (these steps are followed for each athlete 1. The judges scores for each Required Element are summed to get Total Each Required Element 2. The high and low score of EACH Required Element are eliminated 3. The remaining judges scores for each Required Element are summed by the number of judges minus (high and low) to get the Judges Average Score 4. The Judges Average Score is divided by the number of Required Elements (8) to get the Average Required Element Score 5. The judges scores for Composition & Performance are summed to get Total Composition & Performance Score 6. The high and low score for EAC Composition & Performance Score are eliminated 7. The remaining judges scores for Composition & Performance are summed by the number of judges minus (high and low) to get the Judges Average Score 8. The Judges Average Score is divided by (2) Composition & Performance to get the Average Composition & Performance Score 9. The Average Required Element Score and the Average Composition & Performance Score are summed to get the Total Average Short Program Score 10. The Total Average Short Program Score is then multiplied by the conversion factor of 2.5 to get the Short Program Percentage Score. This conversion factor brings the Short Program Score to 25% of the Total Score 11. Any prohibited Material Penalties are then subtracted from this to get the Net Short Program Short Program Penalty: If the athlete does not start on Count 1 of the required 8 count phrase of the Element, they will receive a 0.1 deduction. A box for each Element will be added to the Composition & Performance Scoresheet. The judge will check the box for Elements that do not start on Count 1. The deductions will be taken by the judge off the Performance score. The Short Program percentage scores will be used to seed Senior Freestyle athletes by groupings for Freestyle. POLICY If there are 5 or more judges on the Required Element Judges Panel, the high and low scores are thrown out. If there are 4 or less judges on the Required Element Panel, the high and low scores remain to be counted in the total. If there are 5 or more judges on either the Composition & Performance Judges Panel, the high and low scores are thrown out. If there are 4 or less judges on the Composition & Performance Judges Panel, the high and low scores remain to be counted in the total. Regardless of the number of judges on the panel, it will be split, with part of the judges judging the required elements and part judging composition and performance. Section 4 Short Program 10

65 Section 5 Freestyle

66 FREESTYLE v Freestyle Program All soloists must perform the freestyle program The freestyle program will be worth 75% of the total score v Guidelines for Constructing an Individual Freestyle Program These are recommended guidelines and not required. Aerial Mode Juniors: 5 aerials Seniors: 5 or 6 aerials We suggest the following be included o 1 spin (continuous) o 1 stationary complex o 1 traveling complex o 2 free (Junior) or 2-3 free (Senior) o (at least) 1 must be Horizontal Pattern o (at least) 1 catch must be Non-Standard Rolls Mode Should be in both Horizontal and Vertical pattern Contact Mode Should be in both Horizontal and Vertical pattern v Age Limit The Juvenile Division will consist of athletes who will be a minimum of 9 years of age and a maximum of 12 years of age during the competition (from January 1 through December 31). The Junior Division will consist of athletes who will be a minimum of 13 years of age and a maximum of 17 years of age during the competition year (from January 1 through December 31). The Senior Division (for A, AA, AAA, Elite) will consist of athletes who will be a minimum of 18 years of age and a maximum of 21 years of age during the competition year (from January 1 through December 31). The Adult Division (for Elite only) will consist of athletes who will be a minimum of 22 years of age or older during the competition year (January 1 through December 31). v Timing Time limits: [include a ten second (0:10) leeway 1. A Freestyle 1:20 to 1:40 (one minute-twenty seconds to one minute-forty seconds) 2. AA Freestyle and AAA Freestyle 1:20 to 2:10 (one minute-twenty seconds to two minutes-ten seconds) 3. Elite Freestyle Juvenile and Junior 1:20 to 2:10 (one minute-twenty seconds minimum to two minutes-ten seconds maximum) Senior and Adult 1:50 to 2:40 (one minute-fifty seconds minimum to two minutes-forty seconds maximum) 4. Timing Penalty: Athletes who perform over time or under time will be assessed a penalty An official timer performs the official timing during the performance. Section 5 Freestyle 1

67 Timing will begin with the first sound or note and ends with the last sound or note (whichever comes last). It is the responsibility of the coach to make sure the timing is within the limits set in rules. It is highly recommended that coaches not use the leeway time when setting the program length for their athletes. Timing sheets for any athlete, pair or team with an over time or under time penalty will be posted after each round at the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competitions. v Music Refer to Procedures, Section 2 v Performance Area Refer to Procedures, Section 2 v Costuming Refer to General Rules and Regulations, Section 1 v Judging Procedures Number of Judges 1. Regional Pre Trials 2 judges plus 1 Content Restriction/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only). 2. U.S. Pre Trials 3 judges plus 1 Content Restriction/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only). Freestyle judges may not necessarily be the same as the compulsories judges. The judges will be seated in an elevated section of the stands in the center of the performance area. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will be made on the athlete s performance at the Regional Pre Trials and will be directed and given to their Elite coach. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will not be used at the U.S. Pre Trials. The freestyle program will be judged on: Technical Merit will include technique, speed, variety, difficulty, clearness and sureness Artistic Expression will include general content, conformity and interpretation of the music, utilization of space, effectiveness of change of pace, skill required, excellence of performance, precision, entertainment value and professionalism. Technical Merit and Artistic Expression are each scored on a scale of 1-10 points with 10 points being the best score. Judges will score, utilizing the Trials scoring scale, as follows: SUPERIOR EXCELLENT GOOD AVERAGE FAIR Scores are flashed separately for Technical Merit and Artistic Expression, Judges may elect to give hundredths of points. Section 5 Freestyle 2

68 v Judging Procedures (continued) Athlete will receive these scores from the Preliminary Freestyle round and if they have advanced to the Final Freestyle Round: 1. Freestyle Score Sheet from each judge 2. Final Compulsory Recap 3. Final Freestyle Recap Judging will begin when the music begins and end when the music ends and will be timed by an Official Timing Judge. Judging methods may include averaging of scores to determine athlete s sub-range of proficiency and brief verbal communication by the judges. These and other judging processes are based on those used at the World Championships and adapted for use at the U.S. Trials and Regional/U.S. Pre Trials. Judging methods are continuously updated. v Penalties Drop Penalty: Drops will be penalized. In Freestyle, a 1% penalty which equals 0.75 point per drop is deducted from the Freestyle Percentage ScoreThe Total Score is flashed plus the drop penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). Timing Penalty: There will be a 4 point deduction in Freestyle deducted from the Average Freestyle Percentage Score. (see Penalty Sheet in Section 9) Content Restriction Penalty: Execution of any disallowed moves will result in a 2.0 point penalty to be assessed for each violation of content restrictions. The total penalty to be subtracted from the Freestyle Percentage Score. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) The Total Score is flashed plus the content restriction penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). v Content Restrictions Content Restrictions: Refer to the Pre Trials Content Restrictions Chart below and Glossary (see Section 2 Procedures). Clarification of Spins: A. Spins (Pure) 1. Definition: a rotation of one or more turns of the body on the ball of the foot. Number of spins refers to the amount of turns the body makes. All spins to the left are done on the ball of the left foot with the right foot closing against the left ankle, knee forward. All spins to the right are done on the ball of the right foot with the left foot closing against the right ankle, knee forward. The knee of the supporting leg is straight during the spin. B. Interrupted Spins 1. Definition: Combining spins with body moves that stop the flow of the spin from its original horizontal rotation; or spins which change direction. 2. This would apply if any spin were interrupted either in the beginning, the middle or the end of the spin. C. Determining whether an Interrupted Spin Trick is in the Spin Category or the Stationary Complex Category: 1. Interrupted spins are considered Stationary Complex Moves when the spin is interrupted with a MAJOR body move (e.g. 2 spin-attitude-1 spin) 2. Interrupted spins are considered Spin Tricks when the spin is interrupted with a MINOR body move (e.g. 2 spin stop relevé with L arm up, right arm down 1 spin) Section 5 Freestyle 3

69 Definition of Terms Major Body Moves: A move that requires significant control, flexibility, strength, amplitude and extension. This classification includes any body move desired and includes moves such as: illusions, walkovers, leaps or jumps (of any type), sauté arabesque, attitude, grand battement, sauté de basque, tour jeté, cabriole. Minor Body Moves can become Major Body Moves when executed with a high degree of amplitude or extension. These moves will be approximately 3 or more counts in duration. Minor Body Moves: A move that does not require significant control, flexibility, amplitude or extension and additionally, does not require horizontal or vertical reorientation to the baton (no body rotations [turns]) or maneuvering the body upside down (illusions, bows, etc.). These moves will be approximately 2 counts in duration. This category will often be used as preparation or follow through movements. Refer to Section 2: Glossary or Terminology for definitions of terms not defined in the Content Restrictions Chart. **Walkovers can be front or back EXECUTION OF ANY DISALLOWED MOVES WILL RESULT IN A PENALTY TO BE ASSESSED FOR EACH VIOLATION OF CONTENT RESTRICTIONS. THE TOTAL PENALTY TO BE SUBTRACTED FROM THE FREESTYLE PERCENTAGE SCORE OR TOTAL AVERAGE SCORE FOR TEAMS AND PAIRS. Section 5 Freestyle 4

70 Section 6 Freestyle Pairs

71 FREESTYLE PAIRS v Pairs Program Pairs will perform a freestyle program worth 100% of the total score. Pairs will not perform compulsories. In order for pair and team members to participate in the Pre Trials program, pair and team members must have passed A compulsories and A level movement technique by the required deadline. v Content Restrictions AA and AAA Restrictions apply to Pre Trials Pairs Event. Please refer to the Pre Trials Content Restriction/Glossary and Content Restriction Chart located in the Freestyle Section (Section 5). v Age Limit A. JUNIOR DIVISION 1. The AA Junior Division both athletes must be a MINIMUM of 9 years of age to a MAXIMUM of 17 years of age in the year of the Pre Trials Competition (from January 1 through December 31). 2. The AAA and Elite Junior Division both athletes must be a MINIMUM of 12 years of age and a MAXIMUM of 17 years of age in the year of the Pre Trials Competition (from January 1 through December 31). 3. In order to qualify for the Junior Division, both members of the pair must be junior age. B. SENIOR DIVISION 1. The AA, AAA and Elite Senior Division one or both athletes who will be a minimum of 18 years of age or older during the year of the Pre Trials Competition (from January 1 through December 31). 2. If the AA Pair consists of one eligible Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior athlete must be a minimum of 9 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 through December 31). 3. If the AAA Pair consists of one eligible Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior Athlete must be a minimum of 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 through December 31). 4. If the Elite Pair consists of one eligible Junior and one Senior, they must compete as a Senior Pair. The Junior athlete must be a minimum of 12 years of age during the year of the Pre Trials (from January 1 through December 31). v Alternates A member of a Pair may be replaced by a substitute as long as it doesn t change the age category. The necessary documentation (Elite Membership number, proof of Compulsory and Movements Techniques levels) must be submitted to the Entry Chair, the U.S. Technical Advisor and the U.S. Pre Trials Director. Section 6 Freestyle Pairs 1

72 v Timing Time Limit: 1:20 to 2:10 (one minute-twenty seconds minimum to two minutes-ten seconds maximum). Elite Senior Pairs have a time limit of 1:50 to 2:40 (one minute-fifty seconds minimum to two minutes-forty seconds maximum) This includes a ten second leeway. Pairs who perform over time or under time will receive a Penalty. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) Official timing is executed by an official timing judge during the performance. It is the responsibility of the coach to make sure the timing is within the limits set in rules. It is highly recommended that coaches not use the leeway time when setting the program length for their athletes. Timing sheets for any athlete, pair or team with an over time or under time penalty will be posted after each round at the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competitions Timing will begin with the first sound or note (whichever comes first) and ends with the last sound or note (whichever comes last). v Music Refer to Procedure, Section 2 v Performance Area Competition floor is 50 feet by 80 feet. The boundaries of 50 feet by 80 feet for the freestyle will not be strictly interpreted as boundaries per se, but as the size of the floor that is available to the athletes. Should an athlete step on or across the lines, the judges will each determine individually whether or not this is cause for lowering the score, based on the pair s floor pattern and use of space. Ceiling height is to be a minimum of 30 feet. v Procedures Each athlete will use only one baton, but the pair program may include two baton moves performed by one athlete. The pair enters the performance area upon signal from the announcer to take the floor for competition. Upon reaching starting formation, the announcer will say music. Athletes may not take towels (or other items) onto the competition floor. Athletes may wipe hands or batons on their own person. Athletes are permitted to do a short presentation before the music and timing begin. If one of the athletes leaves the competition floor for any reason during the performance, the pair shall be disqualified unless minimum time has been reached exceptions are made for injury, music or uniform problems. After each pair program is completed, athletes go to the designated spot to view the scores. One the athletes have reached the designated area, the next pair may enter the competition floor to wait signal to begin. All athletes must be prepared to perform under spot/tv lights if deemed necessary by a TV production company and/or the USTA. Some athletes may be televised and others may not. All of them must be prepared. In the event that an athlete is participating in more than one event (Freestyle, Pairs and Teams) and the events are scheduled back-to-back, a minimum of 5 minutes between sets will be scheduled. Section 6 Freestyle Pairs 2

73 v Costuming Refer to General Rules and Regulations, Section 1 v Judging Procedure Number of Judges: Regional Pre Trials 2 judges plus 1 Content Restrictions/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only) U.S. Pre Trials 3 judges plus 1 Content Restrictions/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only) The judges will be seated in an elevated section of the stands in the center of the performance area. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will be made on the athlete s performance at the Regional Pre Trials and will be directed and given to their Elite coach. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will not be used at the U.S. Pre Trials. The pairs program will be evaluated on: CONTENT (30 points) to include Variety of Body Moves & Baton, Difficulty of Baton & Body Moves together, Exchanges, Baton Handling with Movement and Ambidexterity. PRECISION & UNISON (30 POINTS) to include Smoothness & Flow, Speed in Relation to the Music, Uniformity of Body Positions, Aerials, Correct Technique with Baton & Body, Pair work. GENERAL EFFECT (40 POINTS) to include Music Interpretation/Visual Musicality, Utilization of Time & Space, Choreography with Baton, Staging, Continuity, Floor Design, Entertainment Value, Appearance & Grooming, Overall Performance, Dance Technique. One score is flashed to audience after each pair s performance, which encompasses the three captions of the pair score sheet Content, Precision & Unison and General Effect. Each pair will receive a Recap Sheet in their Official Results Folder. Judging will begin when the music begins and end when the music ends and will be timed by an official timing judge during performance. Judging methods may include averaging of scores to determine athlete s sub-range of proficiency and brief verbal communication by the judges. These and other judging processes are based on those used at the World Championships and adapted for use at the U.S. Trials and Regional/U.S. Pre Trials. Judging methods are continuously updated. v Penalties Drop Penalty: Drops will be penalized. In Pairs: 1% penalty which equals 1.0 point penalty per drop will be deducted from the Judges Average Score. The Total Score is flashed plus the drop penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). Timing Penalty: There will be a 5 point deduction in Freestyle Pairs deducted from the Judges Average Score. (see Penalty Sheet in Section 9) Content Restriction Penalty: Execution of any disallowed moved will result in a 2.0 point penalty to be assessed for each violation of content restrictions. The total penalty to be Section 6 Freestyle Pairs 3

74 subtracted from the Total Average Score. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) The Total Score is flashed plus the Content Restriction Penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). Section 6 Freestyle Pairs 4

75 Section 7 Pre Trials Teams

76 v Pre Trials Team Competition Requirements o Number of Members: A team will have a minimum of 5 members and a maximum of 9 members o Number of Alternates: A team may have a maximum of 2 alternates. Age Limits o AA Level All team members must be a minimum of 9 years of age or older during the Pre Trials Competition year (from January 1 through December 31). o AAA Level All team members must be a minimum of 12 years of age or older during the Pre Trials Competition year (from January 1 through December 31). o The team may consist of members of both sexes, if so desired. o Individuals may compete in both a Trials and Pre-Trials team in the same competition year, with the exception of the winning team at the U.S. Trials, who may not compete in the Pre- Trials. To clarify; those teams competing at the U.S. Trials and do not win, may compete in the Regional/U.S. Pre-Trials with the same membership. If participating in the Pre Trials, they must enter the AAA category. o In order for individuals to participate in both an AA and an AAA Pre Trials Team, 50% of the team membership must change. o A team routine will be a mixture of twirling team and dance twirl team. o There will be no compulsories for team competition. o In order for team members to participate in the Pre Trials program, Team & Pair members must have passed A Compulsories and A level Movement Technique by the required deadline. v Alternates A member of a team may be replaced by a substitute as long as the necessary documentation is submitted to the U.S. Pre Trials Director and the Technical Advisor. That any team wishing to change a member or an alternate, at any time, between the entry deadline and the start of the Regional or U.S. Pre Trials, must submit the change in writing with the appropriate documents; new member s USTA Elite membership number, documentation of having passed the required compulsory and movement technique levels and a corrected team roster. The new member s USTA Elite membership and passing the required compulsory and movement technique levels must meet the entry deadline requirement. All appropriate documents must be received by the U.S. Pre Trials Director prior to the start of the competition. This information must be submitted in its entirety for the change to be accepted. Section 7 Pre Trials Teams 1

77 v Content Restrictions AA and AAA Content Restrictions apply to the Pre Trials Team event. Refer to Freestyle Content Restrictions: Content Restrictions Chart and the Glossary (in this Handbook). DOUBLE TRICKS A. AA Teams 1. Limited to one occurrence 2. Any number of team members executing a double trick counts as one occurrence. A solo feature would count as one of the double tricks allowed. 3. A sequential counts as one occurrence. Sequential defined as: all members execute the same trick in connection with, as an extension of, or in contrast with the same thought from the first athlete to the last athlete. This could be executed in groups of 1 groups of 2, etc. B. AAA Teams 1. Only 1 Double major body move with 1 spin under the toss is allowed. Aerial cartwheels cannot be used in combination with any other major body move or itself. 2. Same as #2 above. v Timing Time Limit: 2:50 to 4:10 (minimum of two minutes-fifty seconds and a maximum of four minutes-ten seconds). This includes a ten second (0:10) leeway in the timing due to the variances in CD players, electric current, etc. Official timing is executed by an official timing judge during the performance. Teams who perform over time or under time will receive a penalty. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) It is the responsibility of the coach to make sure the timing is within the limits set in rules. It is highly recommended that coaches not use the leeway time when setting the program length for their athletes. Timing will begin with the first sound or note (whichever comes first) and ends with the last sound or note (whichever comes last). Timing sheets for any athlete, pair or team with an over time or under time penalty will be posted after each round at the Regional/U.S. Pre Trials competitions. v Music Refer to Procedures, Section 2 v Performance Area Refer to Procedures, Section 2 v Competition Procedures Refer to General Rules and Regulations, Section 1 v Costuming Refer to General Rules and Regulations, Section 1 Section 7 Pre Trials Teams 2

78 v Scoring Teams will be evaluated on: CONTENT (30 points) to include Variety of Body Moves & Baton, Difficulty of Baton & Body Moves together, Exchanges, Baton Handling with Movement and Ambidexterity. PRECISION & UNISON (30 POINTS) to include Smoothness & Flow, Speed in Relation to the Music, Uniformity of Body Positions, Aerials, Correct Technique with Baton & Body, Teamwork. GENERAL EFFECT (40 POINTS) to include Music Interpretation/Visual Musicality, Utilization of Time & Space, Choreography with Baton, Staging, Continuity & Form Development, Entertainment Value, Appearance & Grooming, Overall Performance, Dance Technique. v Penalties Drop Penalty: Drops will be penalized. In teams: 1% penalty which equals 1.0 point penalty per drop will be deducted from the Judges Average Score. One judge is used to record drops. The Total Score is flashed plus the drop penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). Timing: A penalty will be assessed for over time and under time of performance. There will be a 5 point deduction in team deducted from the Judges Average Score. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) A team will be penalized if, during the performance, one or more of the members leave the floor before the minimum time requirement has been reached, (other than for first aid purposes i.e.: injury, costume, music). This penalty will be subtracted from the team Judges Average Score. In event that a team has the minimum amount of members (5) and sometime during the performance one of the members leaves the floor, that team would then be disqualified because there would then be less than the minimum required number of members performing. However, if that member or members left the floor for first aid purposes, the team would not be disqualified. Equipment: A penalty will be subtracted for violations of equipment and costuming rules. All equipment penalties are described on Penalty Sheet in Section 9. Content Restriction: Execution of any disallowed moves will result in a 2.0 point penalty to be assessed for each violation of content restrictions. The total penalty to be subtracted from the Total Average Score. (See Penalty Sheet in Section 9) The Total Score is flashed plus the content restriction penalty is displayed by the penalty judge (in a different color). Section 7 Pre Trials Teams 3

79 v Judging Procedures Number of Judges 1. Regional Pre Trials 3 judges plus 1 Content Restriction/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only) 2. U.S. Pre Trials 3 judges plus 1 Content Restriction/Timing and Penalty judge (Elite Division: T-P judge only) Three judges will evaluate the build-up portion of the score sheet (content, precision, unison and general effect). One judge will do the timing. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will be made of the team s performance at the Regional Pre Trials. The Verbal (audio) Evaluation will be directed to the coach and given to the coach. Verbal (audio) Evaluation will not be used at the U.S. Pre Trials. Judges will be seated in an elevated section of the stands and in the center of the performance area. Section 7 Pre Trials Teams 4

80 Section 8 Tabulation

81 TABULATION v Method of Tabulation for Freestyle Competition A. Compulsories (all levels of Juvenile, Junior, Senior and Adult athletes (except Senior Elite) (these steps are followed for each athlete): 1. The judges scores for each compulsory are summed to get the Total for Each Compulsory. 2. These 8 total scores are then added to get the Total of All Compulsories. 3. This is divided by the total number of judges to get the Judges Average Score. 4. The Judges Average Score is divided by the number of compulsory moves (8) to get the Average Compulsory Score. 5. The Average Compulsory Score is then multiplied by the conversion factor of 2.5 to get the Compulsory Percentage Score. This conversion factor brings the Compulsory Score to 25% of the Total Score. 6. Compulsory penalties are subtracted from this to get the Net Compulsory Percentage Score. B. Short Program (for Senior Elite and Adult Elite): 1. The judges scores for each Required Element are summed to get the Total of Each Required Element. 2. The judges scores for Each Required Element are summed by the number of judges to get the Judges Average Score. 3. The Judges Average Score is divided by the number of Required Elements (8) to get the Average Required Element Score. 4. The judges scores for Composition & Performance are summed to get Total Composition & Performance Score. 5. The judges scores for Composition & Performance are summed by the number of judges to get the Judges Average Score. 6. The Average Required Element Score and the Average Composition & Performance Score are summed to get the Total Average Short Program Score. 7. The Total Average Short Program Score is then multiplied by the conversion factor of 2.5 to get the Short Program Percentage Score. This conversion factor brings the Short Program Score to 25% of the Total Score. 8. Any Prohibited Material Penalties are then subtracted from this to get the Net Short Program. 9. The Short Program percentage scores will be used to seed Senior and Adult Elite Freestyle athletes, by groupings, for Freestyle at the U.S. Pre Trials. C. Reseeding for Freestyle 1. To determine the placement for seeding, use the Compulsory Percentage Score. 2. The placements are then subdivided into 3 equal groups (e.g. 15 = 5, 5, 5) OR when there is an unequal number in the subgroups (e.g. 20 = 6, 7, 7) the tope group is the group that will use the lesser number. 3. A random draw within each subgroup will determine order of performance. 4. The lowest place sub-group will perform first. Section 8 Tabulation 1

82 D. Freestyle ( these steps are followed for each athlete) 1. Regional Pre Trials a. The scores for Technical Merit and Artistic Expression are totaled separately. b. The scores are then added together to get the Total Freestyle score. c. The Total Freestyle Score is divided by the total number of judges to get the Judges Average Score. d. That is then multiplied by 3.75 for the Freestyle Percentage Score. This conversion factor brings the Freestyle Score to 75% of the Total Score. e. All Freestyle Penalties are subtracted from this to get the New (Freestyle) Score. f. The Freestyle Percentage Score plus the Compulsory Percentage Score are totaled together to arrive at the Total Score. g. For AA, AAA and Elite Level Freestyle Athletes This score determines whether or not the athlete qualifies for U.S. Pre Trials. There is no second round. h. For A Level Freestyle Athletes Athletes are placed with the highest score being 1 st Place and proceeding to last place in descending order. 2. U.S. Pre Trials Preliminary Round a. The scores for Technical Merit and Artistic Expression are totaled separately. b. The scores are then added together to get the Total Freestyle Score. c. The Total Freestyle Score is divided by the total number of judges to get the Judges Average Score. d. That is then multiplied by 3.75 for the Freestyle Percentage Score. This conversion factor brings the Freestyle Score to 75% of the Total Score. e. All Freestyle Penalties are subtracted from this to get the Net (Freestyle) Score. f. The Net Score plus the Compulsory Percentage Score are added together to arrive at the Total Score. g. The Total Score is used to seed Freestyle athletes for the next round of competition. Final Freestyle Round a. Follow steps 1-6 from above using the Freestyle scores from the Final Round b. The Preliminary Freestyle Percentage Score is disregarded. c. The Net Score from the Final Freestyle Round and the Compulsory Percentage Score are added together to get the Total Score. d. Athletes are placed with the highest score being 1 st Place and proceeding to the last place in descending order. E. Reseeding for Final Round of Freestyle in U.S. Pre Trials 1. To determine the placement for seeding, use the Total Score (25% Compulsory Score [Short Program in Senior Elite Level ONLY], 75% Freestyle Score) 2. The placements are then subdivided into 3 equal groups (e.g. 15 = 5, 5, 5) OR when there is an unequal number in the subgroups (e.g. 20 = 6, 7, 7) the top group is the group that will use the lesser number. 3. A random draw within each subgroup will determine order of performance. 4. The lowest place sub-group will perform first. Section 8 Tabulation 2

83 F. Freestyle Pairs 1. Each of the judges score sheets will be totaled. These scores are then added together and divided by the number of judges (to arrive at the Judges Average Score). Drops and other errors are considered within the performance. 2. All penalties are subtracted from the Judges Average Score to get the Pairs Final Score. G. Team 1. Each of the judges score sheets will be totaled. To arrive at the Judges Average Score, these scores are then added together and divided by the total number of judges. 2. All penalties are subtracted from the Judges Average Score to get the team s Final Score. Section 8 Tabulation 3

84 v Freestyle Competition Tabulation Process The Freestyle Competition Tabulation Process Step 1 COMPULSORIES/ SHORT PROGRAM 1 Total Compulsory Score Total score of the 8 Compulsories 2 Judges Average Compulsory Score The Total Score divided by the number of judges 3 Judges Average Compulsory Score The Judges Average Score divided by 8 4 Compulsory Percentage Score 5 Deduction of Any Penalty 6 Compulsory Net Score The result of the above The Judges Average Compulsory Score multiplied by 2.5 to figure 25% of the Average Score Any Penalty incurred is then deducted from the Compulsory Percentage Score Step 2 FREESTYLE 1 Total Freestyle Score 2 Judges Average Freestyle Score 3 Freestyle Percentage Score 4 Timing Penalty 5 Other Penalty 6 Freestyle Net Score Step 3 FINAL PROCESS 1 Compulsory Net Score 2 Freestyle Net Score Total of Scores from all judges The Total Freestyle Score divided by the number of judges The Average Score multiplied by 3.75 to figure 75% of the Average Score Deducted for Over time or Under time of Performance Deducted for any other violations The result of the above The 25% of the Compulsory Average Score minus deductions (if any) carried over to the Scoring Process The 75% of the Average Freestyle Score minus deductions (if any) of the Scoring Process 3 TOTAL COMPOSITE SCORE The final result of the calculation Section 8 Tabulation 4

85 WORLD BATON TWIRLING FEDERATION BATON AND COSTUME INSPECTION FORM FOR COMPULSORIES, SHORT PROGRAM, FREESTYLE, TEAM AND PAIRS ATHLETE'S NAME/S: COUNTRY/REGION: BATON YES - YES - YES - YES - YES - YES - YES - YES - NO - BATON SHAFT must be made of steel & the TIP/BALL must be white The use of grip tape is optional Grip tape can cover up to 1/2 of the shaft, divided equally from the center Grip tape can be applied in solid, striped, or spiral fashion Tape can be of any color(s) Pair/Team members must use same color of grip tape on baton(s) for uniformity Athletic bandages for injury MAY BE WORN Eyeglasses MAY BE WORN No Sunglasses OTHER (applies to NO - No powder, rosin, wate, or any other substances are allowed on competition floor all events) NO - No towel, sweatbands or other items are allowed on competition floor NO - NO - No jewelry or body piercing allowed Any tatoos must be covered COMPULSORIES - SHORT PROGRAM HAIR YES - Hair must be secured by any method which is not ornamentation, trim or costume jewelry COSTUME WOMEN YES - NO - Jr. Women Sleeveless leotard must be in colors of National Flag or Federation, or in recognized colours of their National Sports Federation, or in any colour providing their National Federation sports badge or emblem of the Nation is attached to the uniform Absolutely nothing may be hung or attached to the leotard YES - Top with no sleeves OR short sleeves, scooped or "V" neckline YES - Pants must be long COSTUME YES - One piece suit (as above) must be colors of National Flag or Federation, or in recognized colours of their National Sports Federation, or in any colour providing their MEN National Federation sports badge or emblem of the Nation is attached to the uniform YES - Belts may be worn, but must comply with other costume restrictions NO - Absolutely nothing may be hung or attached to the uniform YES - Sports shoes must be worn bearing in mind this is a sporting event FOOTWEAR YES - Color of shoes may be: (WOMEN - Beige, White, Black) (MEN - Beige, White, Black or the color of the pants) & YES - Ankle socks, if worn (must be above the ankle and below calf muscle), color of socks must be the same color as pants (men) LEGWEAR YES - Tights of flesh color only may be worn NO - Long Socks HAIR & ACCESSORIES MAKE UP COSTUME FOOTWEAR & LEGWEAR YES - YES - NO - YES - YES - NO - NO - NO - YES - YES - YES - NO - YES - YES - YES - FREESTYLE - PAIRS - TEAMS Must be secured by any method bearing in mind this is a sport. Hair decorations must be secured to the hair Any hair accessory or attached costume accessory may be used, but Must not cover any part of the face below the eyebrows and must be reasonable, bearing in mind this is a sport Moderate stage make up, to enhance natural facial features Make up should be used bearing in mind this is a sporting event No body make up, paint or glitter is allowed Nothing stuck to the face or the body Nothing drawn/stenciled on the face or body All athletes, pairs & teams may wear a costume of their own choice, bearing in mind this is a sport Athletes must perform in the same costume worn during music test and use the same baton Pairs & Teams may have any costume combination possible, bearing in mind this is a sport No costume may cover the palms of the hands Sport shoes must be worn, bearing in mind this is a sporting event Shoe soles must meet facility regulations Socks or tights of choice may be worn, bearing in mind this is a sporting event Athletes who intentionally disregard the clothing or equipment infractions pointed out by the Floor Monitor will automatically be assessed the penalty for violation FLOOR MONITOR ATHLETE'S REPRESENTATIVE 1st CHECK 1st CHECK PRELIMINARIES PRELIMINARIES SEMI-FINALS SEMI-FINALS FINALS FINALS COMMENTS: FLOOR MONITOR'S SIGNATURE Section 8 Tabulation 5

86 Section 9 Score Sheets

87 JUDGE S OFFICIAL SCORING FOR WORLD COMPULSORY MOVES Athlete s # Judge: Athlete s Name: Division: Compulsory Set A 1 RH Vertical Finger Series 4 LH Horizontal Finger Series 6 LH Fishtails 8 2 Continuous Flat Back Neck Rolls 9 Vertical RH Thumb Toss, 2 Spin L, LH Catch 11 Vertical RH Thumb Toss, 1 1/2 Spin L, LH Blind Catch 14 Horizontal RH Toss, 1 Spin L, Flat RH Backhand Catch 15 Horizontal LH Toss, 1 1/2 Spin R, RH Flat Back Catch Judge s Signature Section 9 Score Sheets 1

88 JUDGE S OFFICIAL SCORING FOR WORLD COMPULSORY MOVES Athlete s # Judge: Athlete s Name: Division: Compulsory Set B 2 LH Vertical Finger Series 3 RH Horizontal Finger Series 5 RH Fishtails 7 4 Continuous Elbow Rolls with R Arm Layout 10 Vertical LH Backhand Toss, 1 Spin L, RH Backhand Catch 12 Vertical RH Thumb Toss, 1 1/2 Spin R, RH Back Catch 13 Horizontal LH Toss, 2 Spin L, RH Catch 14 Horizontal RH Toss, 1 Spin L, Flat RH Backhand Catch Judge s Signature Section 9 Score Sheets 2

89 FREESTYLE SCORE SHEET Athlete s # Judge: Athlete s Name: Division: ROUND: TECHNICAL MERIT SCORE ARTISTIC EXPRESSION SCORE TOTAL Technical Merit Score (circle numbers) (circle for scores requiring 3 numbers) Artistic Expression Score (circle numbers) (circle for scores requiring 3 numbers) Judge s Signature Country Section 9 Score Sheets 3

90 JUDGE S OFFICIAL SCORING FOR WORLD SHORT PROGRAM REQUIRED ELEMENTS Athlete s # Judge: Athlete s Name: Division: Senior Women Required Elements Score 1 Traveling Complex Vertical Toss, Grand Jeté 2 Vertical Toss, 1 1/2 Spin to L, LH Blind Catch 3 4 Continuous Elbow Rolls with R Arm Layout 4 2 Continuous Flat Back Neck Rolls 5 Horizontal LH Toss, 1 1/2 Spin R, RH Flat Back Catch 6 24 Count Contact Material 7 Vertical RH Toss, Reverse Illusion 8 Vertical RH Toss, 2 Spin to L, Catch LH Composition & Performance Scores 9 Composition 10 Performance Penalties for not Starting Required Elements on Count 1: (0.1 pts per infraction) Circle Number of Infractions: # of infractions X 0.1 = Prohibited Material Penalties (2 pts per infraction) Circle Number of infractions: # of infractions X 2 = Judge s Signature Section 9 Score Sheets 4

91 OFFICIAL USTA TIMING & PENALTY SHEET for Regional & U.S. Pre Trials Athlete/Team/Pair: Section 9 Score Sheets 5