Professionalism (September 1998)
by Patty Shipman
As we begin the 1998-99 competitive year it is wise to review what professionalism is
and what it means to us as gymnastics judges. We have heard it all before, but it bears
repeating and applies equally to all.
The essence of professionalism is the manner in which we portray ourselves in our
profession. We are being paid for our roll as a gymnastics judge and, according to the
dictionary, that alone makes us professionals. However, the respect we expect from
coaches, gymnasts, spectators, and each other as a professional does not come from a
definition. We have to earn it by demonstrating our professionalism each time we step into
the role of a gymnastics official.
Some of the things required of us as a professional are obvious. We have to achieve a
rating by passing a certification exam. We now have to attend a specified Safety Course.
We have to maintain our memberships with USAG and NAWGJ. We have to complete an Active
Status card in each year that we judge. Then we have to provide proof that we have done
all of this by mailing copies of our cards to our Active Status Coordinator. However,
there are many other contributing factors to how others view us as professionals.
We need to honor our contract commitments, and we have an obligation to be as prepared
as possible for those assignments on our contracts. We should be prompt, equipped, and in
the proper uniform; including shoes appropriate for walking on gym surfaces.
Other considerations which seem to be a little less obvious still demand our attention.
How you treat your fellow professional is very important to your perception by others.
Discussion with others, including that in a conference or judges' meeting, should always
be treated confidentially. Words heard by a runner, flasher, timer, or any meet assistant
can be, and have been, misconstrued over the years sometimes resulting in hurt
relationships. Your remarks may be setting the next judge up to fail and threatening the
integrity of all of us.
We all have had frustrating judging situations at some time or another. How we handle a
situation is the part we can control. Think before you speak. Could your words, if
repeated, have undesirable consequences?
In a meet situation it is important to be kind and polite, treating everyone equally.
Remember nearly all of the other meet personnel are volunteers. You are the paid
professional with the obligation to behave accordingly.
The question of affiliation requires special attention. Never put yourself in a
vulnerable position to have your integrity or performance questioned. Such situations are
often difficult to put behind you. It is your responsibility to make the assigners aware
if there is an affiliation problem with one or more of your assignments.
In summary, our professionalism is our protection. If our appearance, our conduct, and
our preparedness are all in order, our level of professionalism will shine.
