DENTON, TX – Dozens of young gymnasts performed flips on the floor and tricks on the balance beam at Achievers Gymnastics Center on Monday night, prepping for the upcoming 20th Presidential & Magical Classic in Walt Disney World at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida.
From Feb. 16 to 19, about two dozen of the Achievers athletes from the boys and girls team program will compete in Orlando, Florida, on the world stage among young gymnasts from across the country and globe.
Frank Kudlac-owner of Achievers, said he thinks the teams are looking good for the competition.
“We can’t do a big trip like this every year, but when we can, we like to show them what the big-time is all about,” he said. “There are a lot of spectators, and because it’s somewhat international, people want to watch.”
He said that the venue is stadium-like, and the stands are always full.
Head-Boys coach Ryan Turney said when he was a young gymnast, he attended the same meet. He said he’s excited to be on the other end this time.
“With this, they get to walk into a stadium and there’s people everywhere,” she said. “Plus, you can’t really beat Disney World,” he laughed.
He said it’s a plus for the young gymnasts to get out of their local competitions and compete somewhere where they aren’t familiar with the competition. And of course, hitting the parks is a plus.
“The boys & girls have been working hard all season,” he said. “We’re very proud of them. I want to see them do great, but I also think this is an opportunity for them to have a lot of fun.”
For some, the trip is the farthest they’ve traveled for a competition. For others, it’s the first time they’ve been to Disney World.
Others have their eyes on the prize and are fully focused on the competition.
“I’m really looking forward to competing with girls from around the world,” said Kaden Weatherly, a Level 6. “I guess I’m ready, but I am a little nervous.”
Putting the nerves to rest, Kudlac said that it should be treated like just another meet.
“They’re in a pretty strong position right now,” he said. “They’re going to do a great job.”
Frank Kudlac can be reached at Frank.Kudlac@Achieversgymnastics.com or 940-484-4900. Follow Achievers on Twitter @Achieversgym1
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For more information, please contact Frank Kudlac, Owner, and director of operations at (940) 484-4900, or by e-mail at Frank.Kudlac@achieversgymnastics.com
Achievers Gymnastics is owned and operated by Frank and Johnna Kudlac since 1992. Celebrating 26 years serving the Denton community, the Achievers curriculum consists of many inter-working programs including Girls and Boys USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic gymnastics teams, Girls TAAF Teams, Parkour classes, Achievers Ninja Warrior Training, and various levels of recreational gymnastics, cheer and tumbling classes for children and adults of all ages.