Backless Leotards


Please see below the language regarding the definition of backless for a leotard from the Women’s Technical Committee Meeting minutes.1.      Acceptable Gymnast Attire

  1. Recommendation to ADD bullet to the Junior Olympic Code of Points, page General – 6: Incorrect attire – 5., and the Women’s Program Rules and Policies, page 19, II.B.9.a.:
    • EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2020 – A leotard is considered backless when the open area extends past the bottom of the bra line and the open area extends past the vertical midpoint of the scapula, unless the open area is filled in with mesh or flesh-colored fabric.

Motion:  Marian Dykes
Second:  Linda Thorberg
Passed 

FYI, the FIG updated their apparel ruling two years ago to read:
2.3.2 Competition attire 
“b) The neckline of the front and back of the leotard/unitard must be proper, that is no further than half of the sternum and no further than the lower line of the shoulder blades.” If the neckline is lower than the limit, there must be covered by nude fabric, non transparent. 

The Women’s Rules and Policies has always read:
R&P page 19:1.
Present herself in the proper attire. A deduction for “inappropriate” attire will be applied for any infraction.
a.       No bare midriffs, backless leotards, leotards with “spaghetti” straps, T-shirts or Boxer shorts.  

However, backless had never been defined.  Some questionable leotards were brought to the attention of the Technical Committee this past season so the committee defined backless.  The 2019-2020 Rules and Policies will read:
1.      Present herself in the proper attire. A deduction for “inappropriate” attire will be applied for any infraction.
a.       No bare midriffs, backless leotards, leotards with “spaghetti” straps, T-shirts or Boxer shorts.  
·         EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2020:  A leotard is considered backless when the open area extends past the bottom of the bra line and the open area extends past the vertical midpoint of the scapula, unless the open area is filled in with mesh of flesh-colored fabric. 

So the rule that has been in place forever will stay in place for one more season.