The club’s journey, from its modest beginnings on the school’s cement quad to now being part of a global gymnastics event, stands as a remarkable example of the power of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of coaches, judges, and supporters.
THERE’S a buzz of excitement in the air at the Floors Gymnastics Club, a small club founded back in 2004 when the school introduced gymnastics as a school sport at Floors North Intermediate School.
The current excitement stems from the fact that the club is on the verge of sending a team of 13 gymnasts, selected as part of the Gymnastics SA team, to participate in the prestigious 2023 World Gymnaestrada in Amsterdam from July 29 to August 6. This event is the biggest participation event in the world, attracting around 20,000 participants from 60 countries, and is held every four years.
The entire club is charged with pride and anticipation as their athletes prepare to represent South Africa on the international stage.
It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent nurtured within the Floors Gymnastics Club that their gymnasts have earned this incredible opportunity.
‘Modest beginnings’
The club’s journey, from its modest beginnings on the school’s cement quad to now being part of a global gymnastics event, stands as a remarkable example of the power of passion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of coaches, judges, and supporters.
Floors Gymnastics Club has come a long way in its pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings on the cement quad of the school, the club has grown exponentially, attracting learners from neighbouring schools and the broader community.
Early on in its existence, the club was based at Assumption Parish Church Hall, where it operated for three years. It then moved to William Pescod School Hall, which posed its own set of challenges; during the school’s examinations, the gymnasts had to practise outdoors, making it difficult to adequately prepare for important competitions.
However, the club’s determination to provide its gymnasts with a fair sporting chance prevailed.
In 2011, after participating in the World Gymnaestrada, the club relocated to the old William Pescod Hostel dining hall – the Mervyn Erlank Building.
Unfortunately, this arrangement was short-lived, as they were later evacuated to accommodate the Department of Sport and Recreation’s office space.
Promises of assistance from the Department of Sport to find a suitable practice space have not materialised yet, but the club has not let this deter its commitment to its athletes.
One of the club’s gymnasts has in fact represented the South African Gymnastics Federation at the Zone 5 Championships in Namibia, where the team earned a Silver Award. Furthermore, their gymnasts have proudly represented South Africa at various World Gymnaestrada events, showcasing their dedication and skill on an international level.
‘A team of well-trained coaches and judges’
Key to the success of the club has been its team of well-trained coaches and judges. The coaching staff boasts an impressive array of qualifications and experience. Alison Miller, FIG Level 1 Rhythmic Coach, and Sharon Miller, FIG Foundation Coach, Rhythmic Level 2 coach, Aerobics Level 1 coach, Rope Skipping Level 1 coach, and Provincial coaches developer (facilitator and assessor) (SASCOC) (SAGF), bring their expertise and passion to the athletes they train. Ethne Grey, FIG Foundation coach and Disability coach, is another valuable asset to the coaching team.
The club also benefits from a group of talented and dedicated judges, including Dineo Sebolai, Sue-Ellen Botha, Thabiso Konile, and Crystal Erasmus, all of whom hold Rhythmic Gymnastics Level 1 Judge certifications.
Over the years, the club has faced several challenges but has remained resilient, producing numerous national champions in Rhythmic Gymnastics and making a mark on the international stage.
Presently, the club operates from the Aldersgate Methodist Church hall on 24 Recreation Road, Florianville. It runs daily from Mondays to Fridays, offering training sessions from 3pm to 5.30pm.
Despite the challenges it has faced in finding a permanent home, the club remains optimistic about securing a suitable-sized hall within the Floors community to accommodate its growing roster of gymnasts.
For more information about Floors Gymnastics Club and its programmes, please contact Sharon Miller on 083 360 2997
