A Crumlin based gymnastics club has re-opened their doors to new and existing members following an impressive £60,000 refurbishment.
Valleys Gymnastics Academy (VGA) have kitted out their facility with a selection of the latest equipment, with an aim of increasing participation in gymnastics and bringing in new competitive members.
Fundraising efforts paid for the majority of the equipment, with competitions, raffles and other events providing funds for the building of podiums and to purchase a brand new trampoline, ring frames and A bars.
The club were also awarded a Development Grant of £12,500 from Sport Wales after support from Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Sport Development Team during the application process. This money went towards the installation of foam pits for podium training, which had not previously been available at the gym.
Melissa Anderson, Head Coach at VGA, commented, “We are delighted with the new equipment and landing pits which we have been able to install and those who have used the refurbished gym have been extremely positive. We have been inundated with enquiries from potential new members and we are lucky that we are now able to accommodate additional numbers as we have several new work stations. As part of this project we are also upskilling several coaches so that they are able to lead a greater number of participants. In addition to engaging the community, we are anticipating a higher standard from our performance level gymnasts. The refurbished gym now rivals any of the best facilities in Wales.”
Cllr Dave Poole, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure Services at the council, commented, “To have a sport club of this calibre within our county borough is something to be proud of. Not only do the gymnasts who train with VGA now have access to superior equipment and facilities but the club can provide more sessions to non-members, helping to improve the health and wellbeing of the wider community.”
Sarah Roberts, Senior Officer at Sport Wales, thinks that VGA will go from strength to strength.
“VGA has a track record as a thriving club, always looking to add to the facilities and opportunities they provide to young gymnasts,” she says.
“Our investment will help continue that growth as they provide high quality sport to the local community.”
