INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Dec. 28, 2010 – USA Gymnastics today announced that Susan Jacobson of Penryn, Calif., has been named the program director for trampoline and tumbling, beginning Jan. 3, 2011. She will be responsible for the overall direction and management of the trampoline and tumbling discipline. Her announcement coincides with moving the program’s administrative functions to the USA Gymnastics headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind.
“Susan brings a wealth of experience and a passion for trampoline and tumbling to the position,” said Steve Penny, president of USA Gymnastics. “As a trampoline and tumbling coach and club owner, she has a solid understanding of what is involved in the development of athletes and building awareness of the sport. We think she has the right combination of skills and commitment to direct the program toward the Olympic Games in London and beyond.”
“I am excited about this wonderful opportunity to continue the growth and development of trampoline and tumbling in the USA,” said Jacobson. “I am proud and honored to have been chosen to lead the program, and I look forward to working with the staff and members of the trampoline and tumbling community collaboratively to increase participation and opportunities in the sport, as well as excel in the international arena.”
Jacobson replaces Ann Sims of Brownfield, Texas, who has directed the program since trampoline and tumbling joined USA Gymnastics in 2000. Although retiring, Sims will continue as a consultant to assist with the management transition. The office in Brownfield, however, has been closed.
"Ann Sims and Kathy Tyler have done a tremendous job overseeing trampoline and tumbling for almost two decades," added Penny. "Their support of the athletes, coaches, volunteers, and families involved has meant a great deal for many years, and we are grateful for their leadership."
Currently, Jacobson is the owner of American Powerhouse T&T, where she also serves as the program director and head coach. Her responsibilities range from administration to athlete recruiting and retention, fundraising and meet director. Jacobson has developed a successful trampoline and tumbling team of up to 70 athletes and placed athletes nationally on the Jump Start National Team, Olympic Development Program, World Age Group Team and U.S. Junior National Team. Due to her new position with USA Gymnastics, she is in the process of selling American Powerhouse T&T.
Her other experience includes: owner and coach, Feather River Gymnastics; recreational and competitive gymnastics coach; and sales, account management and creative design at an advertising firm. She has served in a number of volunteer positions: founder and board member of the Nor-Cal State Trampoline and Tumbling Association; judge; T&T Level 1 course administrator; scholarship camp visiting coach coordinator; Olympic Development Program Committee member; co-founder, Region 2 T&T Fundraising Camp; World Age Group Competition coach, 2009-10; member of All-Star, the sports committee for Placer Valley Tourism; Pre-school Cooperative Board president; and board member for Child and Family Commission. She is a graduate of Feather River College in Quincy, Calif.