Gymnastics and Culture Change
It was thrilling to watch the strength and beauty of the Artistic Gymnastics at the Olympics. As an early riser, I enjoyed watching live at 6 am when possible. During the competitions, there were numerous comments and conversations by the commentators about the impact that the team’s leaders had on those around them.
Gymnastics stars like Simone Biles, Sam Mikulak (pictured), and Brody Malone are so driven and successful that they have influenced the athletes in the gyms they practice in, and beyond. We all know the impact that one motivated individual can have on those around them, and I was glad to hear this topic mentioned by the announcers covering the events.
As we create and provide webinars and podcasts at Marching Arts Education, the most requested topic is always about how to create a culture of success and excellence. We have talked about this many times with many great educators, and you can find those most easily by putting the word “Culture” in the search bar at the website. There is no doubt that the conversations about culture at the Olympics has been interesting to many people in our activity.
We all know about the culture change in gymnastics around sport safety, abuse, and coaches. Gymnastics gyms now have a different culture where an atmosphere of positive energy has taken the place of yelling and intimidation. If anyone needs proof that this change of culture is working, just take a look at this year’s athletes and their performances! And note the attitudes about mental health and taking care of yourself in the midst of all demands. Inspiring for sure!
Top performers create the culture of hard work, grit, and pushing through challenges. This is as true in music and marching as it is in sports, and these student leaders can have as much impact as the director, instructors, or coach. The adults in charge set the tone, but the students bring it to life and make it stick. I hope you’ll consider signing up your student leadership for the new Forward Leadership Student Leadership Curriculum from the Madison Scouts. The concepts taught there will make just such a culture change possible!
The Olympics always remind us that there are much more important things than winning a medal, and the inspiring stories of the athletes and the leadership they have brought through the competitions can help us propel our own members to greater success, both in our activity and in life.
Tim Hinton
August 13, 2021
