The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team is one of the most exciting and competitive programs in the NCAA. With a rich history of producing talented athletes and achieving success in the conference and national championships, the Hokies have become a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate gymnastics.
History of the Program
The Virginia Tech Gymnastics program was established in 1976, and since then, it has undergone significant transformations and improvements. Over the years, the team has had its fair share of ups and downs, but under the guidance of experienced coaches and the dedication of its athletes, the program has continued to grow and thrive.
In the early 2000s, the Hokies began to make a name for themselves in the Eastern Atlantic Gymnastics League (EAGL), consistently finishing in the top three in the conference championships. In 2007, the team won its first EAGL championship, a milestone that marked the beginning of a new era of success for the program.
Coaching Staff
The success of the Virginia Tech Gymnastics program can be attributed in large part to the expertise and leadership of its coaching staff. The team is led by Head Coach Thomas Skinner, who has been at the helm since 2012. Skinner, a veteran coach with over 20 years of experience, has a proven track record of producing successful teams and developing talented athletes.
Skinner is joined by a talented group of assistant coaches, including Associate Head Coach Amy McClure and Assistant Coaches Taylor McLean and Rachel Morris. Together, the coaching staff has created a positive and supportive team culture that emphasizes hard work, discipline, and teamwork.
Notable Alumni
The Virginia Tech Gymnastics program has produced a number of talented athletes who have gone on to achieve great success in the sport. Some notable alumni include:
- Katie Bond, a two-time NCAA champion and three-time EAGL Gymnast of the Year
- Brittany McGee, a two-time NCAA All-American and 2014 EAGL Co-Gymnast of the Year
- Jenna Marino, a 2016 NCAA All-American and 2015 EAGL Rookie of the Year
These athletes, along with many others, have helped to establish the Virginia Tech Gymnastics program as one of the top programs in the country.
Facilities and Equipment
The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team trains and competes in the Cassell Coliseum, a state-of-the-art facility that features a 14,000-square-foot practice area and a 9,000-seat competition arena. The Coliseum is equipped with top-of-the-line equipment, including four spring floors, two vaulting tables, two uneven bars, and two balance beams.
In addition to the Cassell Coliseum, the team also has access to the Beamer-Lawson Indoor Practice Facility, a 5,000-square-foot training space that features a spring floor, a vaulting table, and a set of uneven bars.
Community Involvement
The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team is committed to giving back to the community through various outreach and charity initiatives. Each year, the team participates in a number of community service events, including the annual "Gymnastics for a Cure" meet, which raises money and awareness for breast cancer research.
The team also offers a number of camps and clinics for young gymnasts, providing them with the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and athletes.
Conclusion
The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team is a program that is rich in history, tradition, and success. With a talented coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to community involvement, the Hokies are poised for continued success in the years to come.
Whether you're a die-hard gymnastics fan or just looking for a exciting and competitive sport to follow, the Virginia Tech Gymnastics team is definitely worth checking out.
What is the Virginia Tech Gymnastics team's mascot?
+The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team's mascot is the HokieBird.
Who is the head coach of the Virginia Tech Gymnastics team?
+The head coach of the Virginia Tech Gymnastics team is Thomas Skinner.
What conference does the Virginia Tech Gymnastics team compete in?
+The Virginia Tech Gymnastics team competes in the Eastern Atlantic Gymnastics League (EAGL).