NAWGJ History – National Association of Women's Gymnastics Judges

Welcome to the official history page of NAWGJ. This will be a ongoing project and we hope each state and region will contribute to our archive. Information is sorely needed and you can help by sending what you can our Historian ASAP.

NAWGJ was formed in 1974 with the full support of the United Stated Gymnastics Federation as an organization to assign Women’s Gymnastics Officials. We have evolved over the years into an education focused, non-profit with over 1800 members.

NGB/RJD/SJD Officers Lists

Can you help fill in the missing puzzle pieces? Email: whatever information you can remember or find out for us. Attached is what we have so far. Can YOU supply the Essential Piece to complete the project?

National Governing Board Officers 1974-Present, View Updated 7/29/22
RJD/SJD Officers 1974-Present, View Updated 7/29/22

Judging During the 2020 Pandemic

At the 50th Anniversary Symposium, judges were asked to share their judging experiences, once again showing our community's resilience.

Dedication to Lee Bjella

Lee was a gymnast and coach at the college level before she started judging in 1974. She was a consummate professional, a technology guru, and a passionate collector of history.

NAWGJ Annual Meeting Video 2023

Presented by President Cookie Batsche at the USAG National Congress in San Jose, CA. It is an adaptation of the Then & Now historical comparison from Symposium with some annual updates interjected.

Opening Video From 2014 Symposium featured

40th Anniversary Video Playlist

All videos presented at the 2014 National Symposium

40th Anniversary Playlist

NAWGJ History....The Beginning

Article from Gymnast Magazine

Who, When, Why

National Board Members

Kirsti 'Kitty' Kjeldsen
Founding President
1974-1980

They started it all!

Newsletters

Before a website, there was the NAWGJ Newsletter. Treat yourself to a glimpse of the past..and meet at the incredible people who have made us who we are today.

Read All About It!

JCI (Judges Certification, Inc.)

"The task of JCI was to certify judging officials for the sport of women's gymnastics for a designated period of time." Varina French was the first coordinator 1966-1994.
To view JCI historical documents, scroll to JCI Archives at the bottom of this page.

Varina French

Early Pictures

A Picture page with lots of memorable women.

How many do you recognize?

The Network Awards - "Netties"

NAWGJ version of the Oscars!

Nettie Winners

JAS - Judges Assigning System for NCAA

Started in 2005 with Carole Ide as the 1st National Coordinator.

Carole Ide

It was 1974...... Judging in the Beginning

Video prepared by Cookie Batsche and presented at the 2019 National Symposium.

Click to Watch

Pioneers in Judging

A series of portraits compiled by Barb Tebben highlighting just a few of our long time members. These women have left an indelible mark on NAWGJ. We continue to benefit from their contributions

Memorable Members

Request for Projects (RFP)

Each year, members are requested to submit projects that would enhance the education of our judges. Their talent and willingness to share their expertise is always appreciated. Winning Projects are presented at National Symposium or at National Judges Cup and are available for view on this website.

Winners & Projects

JCI Archives