TALLADEGA, Alabama — Talladega College plans to abandon its women's gymnastics program after just one season, but the historically black school's gymnasts aren't giving up on trying to save their team.
The team turned to GoFundMe to try to raise $500,000 before the end of July and, as of Monday, had raised more than $14,000. Last year, Talladega College became the second HBCU to start a gymnastics program, joining Fisk University.
Interim President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough had announced Friday that the program would close effective July 31, saying the private university did not have sufficient resources to keep it running.
“This fundraising campaign was created to show the world that Dega Gym is here to stay and the community is behind them 100%,” the GoFundMe page read. “We know our goal is daunting, but without it we will be forced to put our education and athletic careers on hold. It's too late for our team to find a home. Beyond the above, we wouldn't want to if we could. We're embarking on a journey to make history and we're not done yet!”
“We have until July 30, 2024 to show that the community wants to keep this program alive. Let's join together to keep these young women's dreams alive. Together we can make a difference.”
In February, the Tornadoes became the first HBCU program to win an NCAA-sanctioned competition, defeating the University of Alaska Anchorage and host Centenary. Freshman Kyrstin Johnson of Baltimore won the USA Gymnastics national championship on vault.
“While the decision to discontinue the gymnastics program was undoubtedly difficult, we remain incredibly proud of our gymnasts, coaches and their extraordinary accomplishments,” Kimbrough said in a statement. “Their dedication and resilience have set a high standard and their legacy will continue to be an inspiration.”
