Base forms Gymnastics Club

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Xavier Navarro
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Spouses who have a common interest in gymnastics from Grand Forks AFB have grouped together girls ranging from 7 to 13 years of age to teach the fundamentals of gymnastics and help them prepare for competitions.

The gymnastics club on base has been established for two years and is encouraging other girls and even boys of different age groups to join.

Brianna Richmond, spouse of Jason Richmond from the 69th Reconnaissance Group, is one of two coaches who instruct the girls on the different aspects of gymnastics, such as the uneven bars, balance beam and the vaulting horse.

"Our girls are in level three which means they compete with other girls in North Dakota," said Richmond. "We practice on Mondays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Liberty Square building on base."

Gymnastic classes can provide children with a number of physical benefits such as an increased strength, flexibility, endurance and coordination. An organized sport also provides a chance for young people to boost their everyday physical activity, gain sportsmanship and develop socially.

Ashley Hatcher, daughter of Master Sgt. Charles Hatcher III of the 69th Maintenance Squadron, spends her time trying to perfect her skills at the sport.

"It gives me new experiences," said Hatcher. "I am more confident now than ever before."

The gymnastics program fundraises for necessary equipment for the team to practice with. Fundraising is their key in hopes to expand the sport and their team. The Youth Center has provided them with all the necessary equipment to compete.

"I try to make the program bigger and better," said Richmond. "I think we've come a long way."

The team practices year-round and competes during the winter months.

"What I learned from gymnastics is the basics of what any sport would teach you; hard work and dedication. I tell my girls that nobody is perfect, but in gymnastics you can strive for perfection which you can then take that mindset and strive for perfection in everyday life situations," said Richmond.

For more information or to sign up, call the Youth Center at 701-747-3151.