Gymnics, A Family

When I was in grade 7, the Andrews University Gymnics came to Toronto. Some of the female students stayed in our two-bedroom apartment that weekend. My sister and I gladly slept on the floor so that our guests could have our beds. Late into the night we talked about Gymnics and Andrews University. That weekend, I decided I would attend Andrews and be on Gymnics.

Five years later, in 1976, I enrolled at Andrews, tried out for Gymnics and was chosen to be on the team. What I loved about Gymnics was that it was actually a witnessing team. Our weekend trips provided four worship programs for the community and one tumbling show.

On a Gymnic retreat I dislocated my elbow; both bones popped out of place. A nurse on the team was able to pop the bones back into place. What followed was much swelling and pain. That night some Gymnic guys, led by Buz Menhardt came to my room and sang their own arrangement of “Whisper a Prayer.” They ended with, “So cheer up He’s coming soon.” I still sing that ending and I remember.

Gymnics provided an instant family, spiritual growth, numerous leadership opportunities, and lifelong friends. “Once a Gymnic, always a Gymnic.”