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Though Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have made major strides in sports, Talladega College recently announced that its gymnastics program will be cut after just one season. “While the decision to discontinue the gymnastics program was undoubtedly difficult, we remain incredibly proud of our gymnasts, coaches, and their remarkable achievements,” Talladega College Interim President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough said. “Their dedication and resilience have set a high standard, and their legacy will continue to inspire.”
After a financial review, the Alabama HBCU could no longer afford to sustain the program, which highlights the larger issue of the lack of funding for sports at historically Black colleges. Last year, Talladega College became the second HBCU to start a gymnastics program, joining Fisk University. “With one hour to prepare, the Talladega team was told that the announcement would go public and that their team would be no more,” the team said in a statement.
The program was on a historic trajectory following Fisk to help continue to attract students to HBCUs and fostering community within sports. Still, the gymnastics team must find a way to save their program. “As most of you are aware, Talladega College is trying to dismantle our gymnastics team,” Krystin Johnson, the top gymnast in the program, tweeted. “This is devastating to us, but WE ARE STILL FIGHTING to keep it.”
Read ‘Fisk Gymnastics Team Opens Up About Making History For HBCUs’
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Johnson and many others have taken to social media to announce their crowdfunding strategy, which aims to raise $500,000 by July 30, 2024. “This fundraiser was created to show the world that Dega Gym is here to stay and the community is behind them 100%,” the team wrote in a statement. “We know that our goal is daunting, but without it we will be forced to put our education and athletic careers on hold.”
Predominantly white institutions and athletes have often dominated gymnastics, and the presence of a program at Talladega College helps to break down the racial and socioeconomic stigma, offering Black gymnasts a platform to showcase their talents and inspire future generations. “It is too late for our team to find homes,” the team said. “More than the aforementioned, we wouldn’t want to if we could. We set forth on a journey to make history and we are not done yet.”
Preserving Talladega College’s gymnastics program is crucial for promoting diversity in sports, providing opportunities for student-athletes, and supporting the mission of HBCUs. Continuing the program is imperative for the current and future students of Talladega College and the broader gymnastics community, enabling Black gymnasts to pursue their dreams, advance the sport, and make history.
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.