Freedom Gymnastics: Jumping right in

SIKESTON -- There are new gymnastics instructors in town, and they say they're pumped up and ready to promote the sport in Sikeston.

Phenom Gymnastics is owned by Eric Miller and Kelly Kirby. The two will continue to offer recreational gymnastics, competitive gymnastics and competitive cheerleading, but will also expand its preschool program and added a trampoline and tumbling program.

"We are buying Sikeston Gymnastics from Jamie Rodgers and are very excited about promoting the sport of gymnastics in Sikeston," said Miller.

The owners said those additions will give a bit more variety, as well as make Phenom Gymnastics a place where boys can come to learn the sport of gymnastics, too.

"Our preschool and trampoline programs are for both boys and girls," said Miller, Phenom's trampoline coach and preschool instructor. "Young boys can get a lot out of our preschool program and, in my experience, boys love trampolines."

Classes are offered for children as young as 18 months to participate in.

Other special programs and options are available in addition to the regular classes, including birthday parties, open gym and Parents Night Out. PNOs are held the first Friday of the month and include gymnastics, movies, games and other activities.

Kirby has a background in gymnastics and dance, as well as several other sports. She has worked for different gymnastics facilities across the Midwest, offering everything from preschool to elite gymnastics. She has worked with athletes of all ages and skill levels. He forte is to teach compulsory level gymnastics.

Kirby graduated with a degree in athletic training from Ball State University.

Miller has a trampoline and tumbling background. Like women's and men's artistic gymnastics, trampoline and tumbling is a gymnastics discipline and has been an Olympic sport since 2000.

He has been involved in the sport as an athlete, coach and judge. As an athlete, Miller has won national medals on trampoline and was an elite athlete; as a coach, he has had nine national champions and numerous national medalists. He is also a brevet-level judge on trampoline and can train judges on all events.

"We are excited about this opportunity, because our passion is gymnastics," said Miller. "We are looking forward to providing a safe and friendly environment that will allow your child to continue to develop, thrive and love the sport as much as we do."

Registration has begun for fall classes, which are set to begin Sept. 1.

Phenom Gymnastics is located at 615 Davis Blvd. in Sikeston. The phone number is 471-3460.