Springboard in Action is a new series highlighting how clubs across New Zealand are implementing Springboard in ways that work for their members, coaches, facilities, and communities. Over the coming months, we’ll share experiences from clubs of different sizes and stages of implementation to showcase the flexibility of the programme and the lessons learned along the way.

First up is St Bernadette’s Gymnastics Club, a club of around 100 members that has chosen a gradual approach to introducing Springboard.

Rather than transitioning all recreational gymnasts at once, the club decided to move new gymnasts into the Springboard pathway while allowing existing gymnasts to complete their current Kiwi GymFun badge or level. This approach has enabled the club to introduce the programme at a pace that works for both gymnasts and coaches, with the goal of having all recreational participants using Springboard by the end of the year.

Currently, one of the club’s three recreational classes has fully transitioned to Springboard, with the remaining classes moving across over time.

To support delivery, the club has adapted some aspects of the programme to suit its environment. Without internet access in the gym, coaches use customised tracking cards to record progress during classes. Gymnasts are then recognised with Springboard certificates at the club’s end-of-term prizegiving.

Like many clubs, St Bernadette’s has found that implementation sometimes requires flexibility. The club runs a lunchtime gymnastics programme at St Bernadette’s School and previously offered Kiwi GymFun up to Level 4. With Springboard, equipment and time constraints have meant the programme is currently focused on Levels 1 and 2. The club also recognises that managing multiple Springboard levels within a single class will become more complex as gymnasts progress through the programme.

Despite these challenges, the club sees Springboard as a positive long-term pathway and values the flexibility it provides. Their experience demonstrates that clubs do not need to implement every aspect of the programme in exactly the same way from day one.

Their key message for other clubs is simple: adapt the programme to suit your needs. Every club is different, and Springboard provides the flexibility to be implemented in a way that best supports your gymnasts, coaches, and community.