Ortona Gymnastics Pre-Coach in Training Program
At Ortona Gymnastics, we place great importance on our Pre-Coach in Training Program, recognizing it as a vital step in developing future leaders. Many of our current staff began their journey through a Pre-CiT program and we are proud to support our youth in their personal and professional growth.
Designed for Ortona members, this program is carefully structured to meet standards set by the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP), and Ortona’s own internal policies and procedures.
Participation in the Pre-CiT program does not guarantee future employment at Ortona. However, the program provides young participants with an opportunity to build leadership and life skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the responsibilities involved in coaching and working in a sport environment. While many participants view this program as a bridge between being an athlete and becoming staff, it is also a well-rounded developmental experience that prepares youth for success in a wide range of future roles, both within and beyond gymnastics.
Because the program runs during the school year, we prioritize balance. Academic performance, training demands, and overall well-being are key considerations. If schoolwork begins to suffer or participants feel overwhelmed, we encourage open communication with supervisors to find solutions that support both growth and balance.
Commitment Expectations
The Coach-in-Training (CiT) Program is a sought-after leadership opportunity with a limited number of spaces available each year. Acceptance into the program is a significant commitment. Because every spot is reserved for one participant, accepting a place means another applicant may not have the opportunity to participate.
Before applying, candidates and families are encouraged to carefully consider whether they can fully commit to the program for the entire year. Applicants should reflect on the following:
- If you are a competitive gymnast, how many hours are you currently training each week? Do you have the capacity to take on additional responsibilities?
- Will competitions or travel interfere with scheduled classroom sessions or coaching shifts?
- Are you planning to participate in school teams or other extracurricular activities that may create scheduling conflicts?
- Can you consistently attend all required CiT lessons and assigned coaching shifts throughout the season?
The CiT Program requires a high level of responsibility, reliability, and professionalism. Participants are expected to attend all scheduled lessons and coaching shifts, arrive on time, and actively participate in all aspects of the program.
Consistent attendance and engagement are essential to the success of both the participant and the program. Repeated absences, lateness, lack of preparation, or failure to meet program expectations may result in removal from the program. Participants who are removed due to a lack of commitment or attendance will not be eligible to reapply in the future.
Because spaces are limited and demand for the program is high, participants who choose to withdraw after accepting a position prevent another aspiring coach from accessing that opportunity. For this reason, withdrawals during the program are not eligible for a refund, and individuals who voluntarily withdraw will not be eligible to reapply for two (2) years.
Pre-CiT Program Requirements (2026-2027)
To be eligible for the Pre-CiT (Pre-Coach in Training) program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirement: Must be 14 years of age by September 1st, 2026.
2. Training Sessions: Attend structured learning sessions held periodically on Saturday mornings between September and June.
3. Event Participation: Assist with one OGC event. Examples include:
- Mock meets
- Hosted events
- Developmental testing
- Parents’ Night Out
4. Practical Coaching Hours: Complete a minimum of 20 coaching hours during both the winter and spring sessions.
Note: Only 7 spots are available in the program. Selected applicants will be interviewed. If accepted, they will be contacted via email.
Application Process
1. Complete the Volunteer Application Form Deadline: August 14th, 2026 Click 2026-2027 Pre-CiT Application Form (opens July 10th)
2. to access the form.
3. Submit a Letter of Reference Deadline: August 14th, 2026
4. Interview Invitation Selected applicants will be contacted after the submission deadline to schedule an interview.
5. Registration Upon Acceptance Accepted applicants must register online at our website
We ask applicants to accept a position only if they are confident they can honour the commitment for the full season. Doing so respects the time invested by our staff and the opportunities available to other athletes who wish to participate. If you have any questions, please contact Keltie – keltieo@ortonagymnastics.com