Gymnasts at UB were flipping out the other day.
UB's Gymnastics Club held a "Flip-a-Thon" Monday in the Student Union, where for $1 students could learn a gymnastic trick.
"We just want to put the awareness out that there is a gymnastics team," said Dominic Borello, a sophomore environmental education major and member of the club.
Kristen Mccann, a sophomore business major who sold tickets and watched the event, said some of the participants were naturals.
"I think people are surprised at how good they actually are," said Mccann.
Nicholas Taylor, a senior computer science major, was a repeat visitor to the Flip-a-Thon, and said there are reasons to participate besides helping the Gymnastics Club.
"I did it because I like learning how to flip," Taylor said. "It is a courage thing; it gives you confidence just to know that you can do it."
When students were not participating, club members did some tricks of their own, launching from a springboard, twisting in the air and landing on thick, blue practice mats.
Borello said the club will use the funds raised to compete in a national competition against the Texas Coalition from April 10 to April 12.
According to Dan Toner, president of the Gymnastics Club, the club's goal is to have fun while learning.
"We try to promote gymnastics in a fun, safe environment," said Toner.
Although any student may join the club, Toner said most students who join have some gymnastics experience.
According to Toner, the club no longer practices at Alumni Arena due to space and time restrains. The club now practices every week at Flips Gymnastics located at 6017 S. Transit Road in Lockport.
For students who want to see the Gymnastics Club in action, the club will have its only home meet of the season at noon Sunday at Flips Gymnastics. Tickets are $1 for UB students and $3 for the general public.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
