Washington Men's Gymnastics Foundation

The Washington Men's Gymnastics Foundation (WMGF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Washington Men's Gymnastics team. Established in 1994, the foundation has been instrumental in maintaining and promoting men's gymnastics in the region.

History

The WMGF's origins date back to 1980 when the University of Washington dropped its funding for men's gymnastics. Despite this setback, the team continued to operate due to volunteer efforts and community support. The foundation was initially formed as the Washington Men’s Gymnastics Booster Club (WMGBC) and later transitioned to its current form in 2004.

Mission

The WMGF is committed to developing student-athletes by instilling values such as integrity, truth, work ethic, perseverance, dedication, desire, and reciprocity. The organization is self-funded and operates through a variety of fundraising activities to support the team. These efforts are crucial for covering costs related to training, competitions, travel, and equipment.

Program Activities

The WMGF's program is designed to allow gymnasts to compete without the limitations imposed by NCAA guidelines, as it is not funded by the University of Washington. This flexibility enables gymnasts to balance their educational pursuits with athletic activities. The team competes in several NCAA meets annually and participates in events such as the GymACT competitions.

Prominent achievements by team members include notable performances at national and international levels. For example, Jeff Johnson, a team member, competed at the 2002 World Championships in Hungary. Another notable athlete, Jeff Crockett, pioneered a double-twisting Jáger on the high bar.

Fundraising and Support

Funding for the team is primarily raised through volunteer work, hosting gymnastics meets, and operating a scoring service for local competitions. Team members also contribute by participating in fundraising activities, such as ushering at football games and moving equipment. Donations from alumni and supporters are essential to the program's continuity.

Impact

The WMGF's efforts have contributed significantly to the development of both the sport and the individuals involved, promoting a culture of hard work and dedication. Alumni often reflect on their experiences with the team as formative in building their professional and personal character.

The foundation continues to grow by organizing events like the annual Washington Open and maintaining strong ties with its alumni and supporters.