Ali Stoffels
Rec Gym Pros

Ali's Regional Congress Sessions

Region 5 - Friday
8:30 - 9:30am
Aminah Ballroom
Conditioning Can Be FUN!
Region 5 Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ali Stoffels
Session Summary

There isn’t always much time for conditioning during recreational classes, so when we do it, often it’s pretty un-exciting. This session is full of ideas for conditioning – many of which double as warm up activities – all with elements of play, contests & games so kids don’t complain!

9:45 - 10:45am
Aminah Ballroom
5-Minute Time Fillers
Region 5 Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ali Stoffels
Session Summary

Oh no! You finished your rotation or class 5 minutes early, so now what!? You can’t just sit there or send the kids home yet– parents pay too much money for you to do that! Don’t panic – come to this session and learn a handful of easy, productive, creative & FUN ways to fill those time gaps. You’d be amazed what you can teach in 5 minutes!

3:00 - 4:00pm
Gina Knee
Building Character on Beam and Beyond
Region 5 Friday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ali Stoffels
Session Summary

Even at the beginner level, beam is more than just a test of balance — it’s a place where gymnasts can develop confidence & character that will carry far beyond the gym. Beam is a fantastic teacher with lessons about courage, perseverance, focus, resilience and so much more.  With the right words, a coach can turn a “same old” beam rotation into an empowering experience for gymnasts, no matter their level.  In this session, you’ll learn a simple but powerful praise technique that will reinforce the best lessons that beam has to offer. We’re going to focus on preschool & rec beam as we practice this technique together, though it’s an amazing tool for even the most advanced coaches to learn, so that we can support our gymnasts’ growth to their fullest potential on beam, in the gym, and beyond!

Region 5 - Saturday
8:30am - 12:15pm
Milton Caniff (3rd Floor)
Recreational & Preschool Leaders Summit
Region 5 Saturday Recreational
Presenter(s): Ali Stoffels
Session Summary

Are you a coach, manager, or owner of a recreation or preschool gymnastics program? Join us for a dynamic and interactive summit designed to foster meaningful discussions, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to the challenges you face every day.

Instead of the traditional lecture format, we are utilizing an Open Space approach—a collaborative method that encourages organic conversations and peer-driven learning. There is no single speaker or pre-set agenda; instead, participants will collectively shape the topics based on the most pressing questions, challenges, and ideas in recreational and preschool gymnastics.

Through guided small-group discussions, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders, exchange valuable insights, and gain fresh perspectives. Whether you’re seeking innovative coaching strategies, improved management techniques, or answers to those “how do other gyms do this?” questions, this summit is your chance to learn, contribute, and grow alongside industry peers.

Click Here for More Details!

NOTE: This extended session runs from 8:30a.m – 12:15p.m.