These camps are typically three to four days in length, with both overnight or day camps offered.  The most important item to think about when picking a college summer camp is, will this team
be a realistic choice for my daughters future?. I find most of my parents pick a camp because it is either located close to the family's home or it is their gymnasts “dream” team. There is nothing wrong with
going to a camp for fun!  However, if your daughter wants to utilize this opportunity for recruiting you need to pick a camp that is realistic in regards to potential skill level and that is academically a good
fit.

Here are seven tips for picking the right summer gymnastics camp:

1. Be thinking months in advance about camps because registration fills up fast
2. Many schools open registration in January
3. You can find registration by going to each team's website
4. Discuss with your club coach which camp your athlete wants to attend
5. Pick only one to two summer camps so the athlete won't miss much practice
6. Pick a camp that is realistic for your athlete for a college choice
7. Watch videos of college teams to make a realistic choice in regards to skill level

About Jill Hicks:

Jill Hicks is a former elite gymnast, Division I college athlete, club coach and Division I college gymnastics coach (Cal State Fullerton, Oregon State) and the owner of Jill Hicks Consulting, where she provides recruiting services and choreography for prospective student-athletes and their families. For further information visit: www.jhicksconsulting.com

Editor's Note:  Publication of this article is not an endorsement of any recruiting service.  Always check with the NCAA or your school's compliance officer for any questions regarding recruiting rules, the latest timelines, or other issues.