A few observations from a 1st time Summit Attendee:
- This is about the competition 1st, Orlando and all of it's activities 2nd. You will have some free time, but it is important that your CP is 100% for competition.
- You will never fully understand how a judge thinks or scores. You think you will or do, then you don't. As a parent, so much is out of your control. So, in the end, you must be a good role model, supportive and an encourager.
- Your child picks up a lot of your behavior, mannerisms and vocabulary. Parents, think 2x before opening your mouth. Your child not only represents their gym/team, but they are a direct reflection of you. We witnessed this many times both good and bad.
- Make it a point to talk with other parents from other teams. Many of those conversations will be enjoyable. Some people are just not the type to talk to random strangers, but once the conversation starts, they are comfortable. Remember, you do have something significant in common.
- Take pictures, lots of pictures. If you can, take lots of video too. Six months from now your CP will watch it over and over (probably, as soon as you get home).
- Summit is an amazing experience for everyone who attends. The emotional roller coaster is one my CP will never forget. Thank You Varsity for making this happen.
The list for The Disney, personal, and comfort side of things:
- Don't buy to many of the refillable cups. We only had one and were fine. Two probably would have been easier.
- If using the Disney Magical Express Service:
*It took us 3 hours to get our bags upon arrival to the All Star Resort. Just be prepared with what you pack in a carry on.
- We purchased an extra day on our park hopper pass (giving us 5 days). That we used 3 days of it. We were there from Wednesday night, late through Tuesday morning. Next time we will go to a water park one day.
- Disneyworld lacks the overall customer service experience Disney is known for. From food court employees to bus drivers, they just don't exude "Happiest Place on Earth." Disneyland is much better.
- Cell Service stinks at the ESPN Sports Center. Just like any major sporting event.
- There are no exercise facilities at All Star Sports Resorts.
- Linking you Magic Bands to your park hopper passes and Credit card make life so much easier (you need a pin # to use it). You will get a one time debit/credit charge for the combined total of all your purchases on the last day (it was a lot!).
- Take a picture of you passes the moment you get them (just in case the get lost).
- If there is any chance of rain in the forecast, buy the .99 cent ponchos at Walmart (at least 2 per person in your group).
- Water is free everywhere. Bring a refillable bottle. to carry with you.
- Bring those small rechargeable batteries for your cell phone. We had 4, and used them everyday.
- Most rooms at the All Star Resorts have small refrigerators. Use the online grocery delivery service or have someone take you to Super Target.
- Bus Service was timely.
- Purchase any Summit Gear/Clothing as early as possible. If your CP is a tiny Flyer and wears anything smaller than a YM, forget it cause they wont have it anyway.
- Carry hand sanitizer.
- Carry a small travel deodorant. Use that deodorant when necessary. Nobody wants to smell you.
- Turn off your work email and send business to VM. Deal with it after your CP goes to bed. This is amazing bonding time that you will never get back.
- Pack less and do a load of laundry.
- Be there to support your gym's other teams.
There are more things that i can't remember right now, but all in all, this was an amazing trip that my CP (11), her sister (6), my wife and I will remember for ever. Now it is back to reality, tryouts and a whole new season.
Hopefully some of this info helps one of you. If not, just hit the shimmy button and move along.