Springfield Gymnastics Center is much more than gymnastics. Owner and coach Brad Epperson says the mission is to encourage kids to be active and healthy and appreciate what it feels like to learn to do new things. Most of all, it's about building confidence, and all of this can be learned through gymnastics.
This is the mindset of the 30 coaches who teach nearly 700 students each week at Springfield Gymnastics Center. "We take our roles seriously. So much of what these students learn are lessons that will apply to other sports and many life situations to come," Epperson says.
Epperson uses the phrase, "If first you don't succeed – try, try again." It's important the students have fun while they're learning. "We teach not to make kids gymnasts, but to be well-adjusted and confident adults. Those who become competitive gymnasts learn how to set goals, work hard and never let anyone tell them no," he says. "They become resilient as they accomplish their goals, learning that no matter how hard it might seem, they can take it on and be what they want to be."
Epperson says, "Gymnastics is a tough sport, but we do our best to make it rewarding. Ribbons are awarded at the end of each session, and that reward feels good and spurs them on to accomplish more."
Epperson says, "I believe parents appreciate their kids being active and notice that we really care about their kids and the experience they have at the gym. We strive to be the best when it comes to gymnastics."
