Talladega College to become second HBCU to sponsor NCAA gymnastics team
Brown Girls Do Gymnastics (BGDG) and Talladega College have partnered with the HBCU Gymnastics Alliance to launch the college’s first-ever women’s artistic gymnastics team, the organizations announced Saturday at the HBCU Gymnastics Alliance Collaboration in Atlanta.
The Talladega Tornadoes team will become the second HBCU to compete in NCAA gymnastics. Fisk University was the first HBCU to sponsor gymnastics, beginning its inaugural season in early January.
“This historic moment will have a lasting impact. Establishing a women’s gymnastics team at Talladega College will expand opportunities for HBCU student athletes to compete in a rewarding sport that fosters discipline, confidence, and success,” Talladega College President Gregory J. Vincent said. “Developing our first-ever women’s gymnastics team will also promote student and alumni engagement and pride; enhance the college’s brand; and help create a pipeline of diverse gymnasts.”
“While there are over eighty intercollegiate women’s gymnastics teams in the nation and many gymnastics clubs, Talladega will be one of only two HBCU teams,” Talladega College Vice President and Athletic Director Michael Grant added. “Having a team will give our athletes greater visibility and recognition.”
BGDG aims to provide more opportunities for black and brown gymnasts, as well as raising awareness surrounding issues like injury prevention, coaching, recruiting, and judging.
