Based in Ballina, 12×12 Gymnastics is a not-for-profit club established in early 2019. The club exists to provide an inclusive, supportive space where children can learn, grow, and build confidence through gymnastics.
Read more in their Club Focus blog here…
Tell us about your club and when it began.
Our club started out of necessity when the Ballina RSL Youth Club was closed in 2018.
We started our not-for-profit business in early 2019 and have finally been able to lease our own premises over the past two years. Ballina needed a gymnastics club and we were not about to let Ballina down.
Who makes up your club today?
Last year we had around 426 registered gymnasts ranging from toddlers through to teenagers. We run non-competitive classes, with club gala’s on twice a year.
Do you offer any inclusive programs or pathways for athletes with different abilities or needs?
Everyone is welcome at our club. We offer private lessons for children with different abilities or needs. They can be included in any of our classes that we provide (if they wish to join these classes). We have been running classes throughout the term for Biala Support Services.
What values guide your club?
We are a not-for-profit organisation who operate purely to provide a safe all-inclusive space for the children in our community to be exposed to gymnastics where they can learn body awareness, build core strength, functional movement and confidence.
What are you most proud of in your club?
We are very proud of our team and all our gymnasts that try their hardest, no matter what.
Are there any goals or plans you’re excited about for the future?
We would like to add competitive classes as options to our schedule to allow our gymnasts to expand their abilities and knowledge. We are continually upgrading our equipment to replace anything worn out. We would like to add new and different equipment once we have upgraded. Our long-term goal is to own our own premises.
Why do you think your club is important to families and your community?
We are here for the families and our community to build confidence and friendships. We are here to teach our children to never give up and keep on trying.
What piece of advice would you give to a gymnast/student?
Gymnasts are best to master the basic skills and extend from there. Set goals and positive habits. Look after your body with good nutrition. Stay strong by keeping safe and believe in the process of gymnastics. If you train enough, you will improve your skills.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your club, your team, or your community?
Our club is here for the community, and we are very proud of how our community is growing. We have an awesome team and committee that are committed to our gymnastics family.
You can follow 12×12 Gymnastics, Ballina on Instagram or Facebook.