Greater Philadelphia YMCA Gymnastics Team
Take your gymnastics skills to the next level!
About the Team
The Greater Philadelphia YMCA Gymnastics Team was created to provide athletes from YMCA branches without large gymnastics facilities the opportunity to experience competitive gymnastics. The team welcomes gymnasts from all Greater Philadelphia YMCA locations and is designed for athletes who are ready to take their gymnastics skills to the next level.
The team trains at our Haverford YMCA Gymnastics Center and competes in the Bronze division while focusing on developing strong fundamentals, confidence, teamwork, and skills needed to advance in gymnastics. As athletes progress, they may have the opportunity to move into higher-level competitive programs at:
- Haverford YMCA
- Willow Grove YMCA
- Phoenixville YMCA
Join the team!
Team Requirements
Gymnasts ages 5–17 from any Greater Philadelphia YMCA location are welcome to be considered for the team.
Athletes should have experience with basic gymnastics skills, including:
- Forward roll with proper technique
- Handstand
- Cartwheel
- Chin-up
- Leg lift on the bar
Gymnasts do not need prior competitive experience, but they should demonstrate good body awareness, willingness to learn, and the ability to build upon foundational skills.
Skills Assessment
Interested families can contact Coach Darlene to learn more or schedule an assessment.
Coach Darlene also identifies potential team members through:
- YMCA gymnastics program visits
- Recommendations from YMCA instructors
- Assessments with interested athletes
All interested gymnasts are encouraged to reach out!
Competition Season
The team competes in the Eastern PA Girls Gymnastics League.
The season includes:
- 4 league meets
- League Championship
- State Championship
Competition locations may include:
- Haverford YMCA
- Willow Grove YMCA
- Phoenixville YMCA
- River Crossing YMCA
- Greater Brandywine YMCA
Gymnasts must compete in at least 3 of the 4 league competitions to qualify for League Championships and States.
Parent Commitment
Being part of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA Gymnastics Team requires a commitment to:
- Weekly practices
- Skill development
- Team participation
- Competing in at least two competitions
Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the benefits of gymnastics. This team provides athletes across the Greater Philadelphia YMCA association access to coaching, equipment, and competitive opportunities that may not be available at every branch.
What Happens During an Assessment?
Gymnasts will complete an evaluation at the Haverford YMCA Gymnastics Center to determine if the team is a good fit.
Athletes will try all four gymnastics events:
- Vault
- Bars
- Beam
- Floor (including tumbling)
Coaches will look at foundational skills, technique, body awareness, and potential for growth.
What to bring:
- Comfortable athletic clothing
- Water bottle
Bare feet are recommended.
Where Does the Team Practice?
All Greater Philadelphia YMCA Gymnastics Team training takes place at:
Haverford YMCA Gymnastics Center
4 Raymond Drive
Havertown, PA
When Does the Team Practice?
Current training schedule:
Saturdays | 8:00–9:30 AM
An additional practice day is being finalized for the 2026 season.
The team trains approximately 1.5–3 hours per week depending on the athlete’s schedule.