The saying “when a door closes a window opens” is how our story begins. We have four children that have all had gymnastic classes over the last eight years. They have enjoyed the activity, accomplishments, and more importantly, had fun. The exception is our 7, year old daughter who has been involved in gymnastics since she was 3 years old. She did not have the best sense of balance and we felt gymnastics would provide her the core strength, spatial awareness and balance she needed. Fast forward four years. She is now an accomplished gymnast, receives tumbling instruction and is on a competitive cheer team.
Before COVID-19 altered our lives, our daughter received private gymnastics lessons from Tammy McLean. Tammy has competed and coached gymnastics for over 30 years. During that time, we learned a great deal about Tammy, and her daughter, Sydney, also a gymnastics instructor and a multi-time, Idaho State Champion.
Tammy and her husband, Todd McLean, have owned and operated two gymnastic facilities in Washington and Idaho, before settling in Apollo Beach to be closer to family. It was obvious that my little athlete was being coached by one of the best.
Our daughter fractured her ankle growth plate at cheer in July. This was a heartbreaking experience, since she was looking forward to a full summer of swimming and tumbling on her home air trak to achieve an aerial she had been working so hard on. Tammy heard about her accident and texted asking to visit as soon as possible. She stopped by with a cheerful “goody” bag. Tammy encouraged my daughter, assuring her that she would gain her strength back quickly and not to be discouraged. She visited another day to share valuable stretches and exercises to help maintain her muscle strength. We experienced first-hand Tammy’s dedication and commitment to her gymnastics kids.
It was during Tammy’s first visit that she mentioned her desire to open a new gymnastics facility right here in Apollo Beach. She had a vision to provide diversity in the programs offered. Together, our mission is to provide athletes, male and female, the opportunity to strengthen, develop, and achieve their gymnastic skills and goals. Tammy, her daughter Sydney and husband Todd, wanted to create a program that supports experienced gymnasts as well as children of all ages who may be experiencing gymnastics for the first time. We discussed ideas for the facility and equipment needed to provide higher level instruction. I was excited just thinking about the opportunities for the youth in our area. These children and teens would able to train and receive instruction from committed and accomplished coaches right here in our own community. My family and I could not wait to be a part of this exciting opportunity.
It was just a few weeks later that we opened the doors of Apollo Beach Gymnastics Academy “ABGA,” in Waterside Shops. We provide a diverse class schedule for experienced athletes and beginners.
Apollo Beach Gymnastics Academy offers it all:
* Vault
* Parallel bars
* Un-even bars
* Pommel horse
* Rings
* NEW 30’ Tumbl Trak
* Expansive, Palmer spring floor
At ABGA we use a cutting-edge cleaning solution, approved by the EPA for use against the coronavirus. This is to help ensure that our staff, athletes and families stay healthy and safe during their time in our facility, this alone sets us apart from all other gyms in the area.
It is this same passion my business partner and I have, to bring the best coaches and most diverse programs to Apollo Beach. ABGA’s Grand Opening, is on National Gymnastics Day Saturday, September 19th from 9-3pm. There has been an amazing amount of support from our neighboring businesses. Kumon Learning Center, Massimos Pizza, Grand Jeté, Bark and Purr, The Salty Shamrock and many more have donated gift cards, coupons and free month trials.
Our support extends to where my four children started their educations. Mrs. Rohini, at Montessori, is so excited for our new business venture that supports the health and wellness of children.
To learn more about our program please visit us at www.theabgacademy.com / info@theabgacademy.com / (813) 640-FLIP (3547).
