Calypso Gymnastics Club is a new club based in Islington, North London started by Rochelle Smith. While working with British Gymnastics Rochelle noticed there were only two affiliated clubs in the borough, showing there was a lack of opportunities for young people to participate in gymnastics.
When the club opened they had only 4 gymnasts but with Rochelle and her team’s hard work the club has grown significantly. They now have 4 Satellite Club venues and over 130 gymnast club members. The club has both male and female participants and is open to all young people.
Working in partnership with British Gymnastics and London Sport, Calypso have created unique, enjoyable Satellite Clubs and have received praise from PE teachers due to the relaxed and enjoyable environment they create at their sessions. Many of the girls who attend the sessions were not previously involved in sport.
The club has run beginner sessions and inter-school competitions at secondary schools in the area. This gave those who are competitive something to work towards, while giving those who are less competition-orientated an opportunity just to try gymnastics.
Calypso is also helping young female coaches gain more experience and coaching qualifications. By up-skilling participants this will help the future sustainability of the club and allow numbers to grow.
Calypso’s latest project was their involvement in Crowdfunder and London Sport’s #MostActiveCity crowdfunding pilot. Working with London Sport and Crowdfunder, Calypso successfully raised £622 to buy new equipment to help more beginners get into gymnastics.
Do you want to run community gymnastic sessions in your borough?
The Mayor of London, in partnership with British Gymnastics, has announced the launch of a new fund – specifically aimed at community organisations across London.
Inspired by London hosting the World Cup of Gymnastics in 2017, the Mayor is inviting community organisations to apply for grant of up to £2,500 to run gymnastics sessions in the build up to the World Cup of Gymnastics and beyond. Click here to find out more and apply.
