Just an idea. Did you ever think the reason small gyms don't go to over populated competitions like GSSA, Americas Best and so forth is because the large gyms are obnoxious sometimes? Possibility? Overbearing, not controlled, and just straight up rude. The coaches can't keep the kids under control and so forth. Just a thought. Now go ahead, KILL ME FOR HAVING A GREAT OPINION!
I know of quite a few small gyms who go to popular competitions, just like there are large gyms who don't go to particular popular ones. Personally I don't think it's that at all, it's that gyms like some competitions, and don't like others. Some competitions don't fit well into their schedule. I think if you took a look at the competition schedule of small gyms, if they are posted, or just look at competitions they have attended, you will find a nice mixture of comps that are well attended, and perhaps not so popular.
I have been to many of the competitions up here, and I agree that some of the larger gyms have rude kids and families. Yes, thats everywhere, but here it seems to be abundant. The worst is usually at America's Best and GSSA.
As a large gym, yes we all have our share. The larger your numbers, the more chance you have at having the more "inappropriate people" in your gym. We try our best to do what we can to control them. We have extremely strict rules about behavior, monthy meetings with parents, bi-weekly meetings with our board and weekly meetings with our coaches. As a large gym, we must stay on top of the situation and nip things in the bud as soon as something appears.
The good thing about being a large gym is that we can afford to lose the people who don't do what they are asked. We can afford to make the rules and strictly enforce them. It is a good advantage to having a large gym. It's tough on the kids but I will tell you this much, they KNOW they must behave or else. We've only had to ask someone to leave twice and everyone knows we don't mess around in that area. Just like a child, you only need to put your foot down a couple of times before they get the hint. The more you do the "1.... 2....2 1/2..... 2 3/4......" the more your authority is questioned.
But keeping the lines of communication open with your staff and parents, you can avoid majority of the problems. We aren't perfect of course. But we strive for it and don't settle for less. That comes thru to the parents and kids and it keeps us from having the major issues.
Our parents voted to not attend any competition located in a high school. So we listened and didn't sign up for any. They are uncomfortable, loud, too small and just not fun. If you listen to your parents, they will listen to you as well.
That could be true, but I doubt gyms avoid going to good competitions because of rude kids and families. I think closer to the truth is that they don't feel these are good competitions, for whatever reason. I don't think anybody would let rude kids and families stop them from attending a competition they like.
