Historically Black Schools Make History in Gymnastics Championships

In a historic moment for collegiate gymnastics, Morgan Price and Kyrstin Johnson, representing historically Black schools, made waves at the USA Gymnastics women’s collegiate national championships on April 13 in West Chester, Pa. Price, a sophomore from Fisk University, became the first athlete from an HBCU to win a collegiate gymnastics national championship in the all-around category. Johnson, a freshman at Talladega College, also secured a national title in the vault event.

For Derrin Moore, founder of Brown Girls Do Gymnastics, this achievement was a dream come true. The image of Price and Johnson embracing after their victories symbolized the organization’s efforts to diversify the sport. Moore expressed her joy at seeing this milestone come to fruition after years of hard work.

Price’s journey to success was marked by perseverance and dedication. Raised in a family of athletes, she started gymnastics at a young age and overcame challenges to pursue her passion. Her decision to switch her commitment to Fisk University, where she would compete under an African American coach, proved to be a pivotal moment in her career.

Similarly, Johnson’s commitment to Talladega College and her subsequent success highlighted the importance of representation and inclusivity in gymnastics. Both athletes see themselves as pioneers at their respective schools, paving the way for future generations of gymnasts to thrive at HBCUs.

The success of Price and Johnson at the national championships not only showcases their individual talents but also underscores the impact of initiatives like Brown Girls Do Gymnastics in promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport. As Moore continues to advocate for the establishment of HBCU gymnastics programs, the achievements of Price and Johnson serve as a testament to the transformative power of representation in gymnastics.