When I was 12, my sisters did gymnastics at the local YMCA. I would sit with my mom in a waiting lounge until they were done. At one of the practices, the Athletic Director came into the lounge and asked (more like told) me and several of the other boys in the lounge to be a part of a boys gymnastics program. That was the beginning of my journey.

I trained at the Y for several years and my love for the sport grew. I developed lifelong friendships and learned valuable lessons. I couldn’t get enough gym time. When I was in High School, I decided (with the help of a very supportive mom) to train at a private club to better my skills. I travelled an hour one way to practice three to four days a week and began coaching the girls team at my High School. I graduated High School and received an athletic scholarship to Kent State where I participated on the gymnastics team and studied teaching, athletic training, physical therapy and coaching.

I coached for various gyms and did camps and had other teaching experiences but coaching became my passion. I worked for a local gym for a few years and, in 1991, I was able to start All-Around Gymnastics Academy in a small 5000 sq. ft. warehouse with the help of several personal investors who had faith in my vision and a staff of energetic and enthusiastic individuals who shared my love for the sport of gymnastics.

Fast forward to the present. In 2006 we built the existing building, a state of the art 12,500 sq. ft. facility with many new training and safety features. The gym has tripled in size and serves hundreds of families weekly in both recreational and competitive gymnastics. We have programs that cater to all levels of interest and ability and a staff that cares about the individuals they teach and the quality of their teaching. It has been a wonderful experience and I look forward to many more years of teaching and coaching.

All-Around Gymnastics Academy exists because of the love and support of friends, family and the staff and students. Tracing back, Tom Chubb, the Athletic Director from the Y and my mom were the catalyst and I can’t express my gratitude enough. Thank you all for you continued investment in this vision. I am truly blessed because of all of you.