The week long free gymnastics clinics that were held by Oceania Gymnastics Development Manager Brooke Kneebush of Australia came to an end yesterday at the Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs (DYWA) Youth Center where the clinics took place.

“We had over 40 children participating in gymnastics over the four days. The kids had lots of fun with many parents saying that this is a great activity, with their kids loving it,” said Kneebush. She said some of the parents told her  they were looking for an activity for their kids, and now they had found something.

“Their were lots of fun things and a variety for the kids to do over the week and I am looking forward to coming back in October or November,” Kneebush said.

There was also training for adults to become involved with gymnastics through coaching, training, or being a supporter. DYWA Sports Commissioner Ethan Lake said that if anyone would like to get involved with gymnastics here on island through coaching, training or being a supporter to give him a call at the DYWA’s office at 633-2835.

Lake also said that one of the main goals is to get a Gymnastics national federation started here in the territory.  Kneebush stated that there are seven different gym sports, but gymnastics serves as a great foundation for all sports and activities like dance and cheerleading, utilizing acrobatics and so much more.

The majority of the young participants were between the ages of 7 to 12, while there were a handful under 6 years old, as well as some 13 and older.

Parents told Samoa News that they thought this might just be one of the best sports introduced to American Samoa.

“Gymnastics is not only fun for the kids to learn, it is great for their body; and with the obesity problem here in the territory, this is a great way for the kids to get into and stay in shape,” said a parent.