Wilberforce University is following the trend established by Talladega and Fisk by becoming the third HBCU to being a gymnastics program. Although the university initially revealed its collaboration with Brown Girls Do Gymnastics months ago, it recently released another press release with more information.
“Brown Girls Do Gymnastics and Wilberforce University join hands to launch third HBCU gymnastics program on the 2nd anniversary of Fisk University pioneering initiative,” the release said. “Brown Girls Do Gymnastics (BGDG) and Wilberforce University proudly announce a historic partnership. This collaboration, in conjunction with HBCU Gymnastics and its Alliance, signifies a pivotal moment for both organizations, aiming to expand athletic opportunities and foster diversity within collegiate gymnastics. The new team will commence competition in January 2026, joining the pioneering initiative of Fisk University and Talladega College within the collegiate gymnastics landscape.
“This groundbreaking alliance represents a significant stride towards diversification and inclusion in collegiate athletics,” the statement continued. “As part of this commitment, BGDG and Wilberforce University will host Camp Isla, a gymnastics camp scheduled to take place on the Wilberforce Campus from June 20th to 23rd, 2024 for Level 6-10.”
In 2015, former gymnastics coach Derrin Moore founded the Brown Girls Do Gymnastics organization as a way to spread awareness and interest in the sport to Black girls. Moore previously worked with Cirque du Monde, the recruiting and youth development wing of Cirque du Soleil, according to her LinkedIn page. BGDG provides scholarships specifically for North Carolina A&T and, now, Wilberforce gymnasts who wish to participate in Camp Isla. The Camp provides training and networking opportunities for aspiring gymnasts and coaches within the HBCU space.
“The introduction of a gymnastics team aligns with our commitment to provide inclusive athletic programs and highlights our belief in the power of diversity in sports and empowering future generations of gymnasts,” said Wilberforce President Dr. Vann R. Newkirk.
Gymnastics, however, is not the only sport Wilberforce plans to add in its near future. Athletic Director John Hill announced in February that the university is creating women’s volleyball and women’s soccer programs for the upcoming 2024 fall season.
“Adding women’s volleyball and soccer to our roster is another example of how sports initiatives increase enrollment and create excitement in the activities culture for our students,” Hill said. “Members of these new teams will also be included in the athletics department scholarship offerings.”
The recent and concentrated development of athletic opportunities at Wilberforce comes on the heel of the university’s transition to the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Previously a member of the Continental Athletic Conference, Wilberforce will join the only HBCU conference within the NAIA this fall.
“We don’t expect to earn millions like the big schools, but we know that at our level every penny counts, and running an athletic program is a business,” President Newkirk said. “This move will energize our alumni base which in turn will help us to increase attendance and overall interest in the university.”
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