YMCA East Surrey is passionate about delivering sports and recreational activities to children across East Surrey.
Mike Roberts, YMCA Recreation and Sports Manager, says:
“A major element of our wider ethos is to encourage everyone, regardless of age and ability, to enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle. Positive opportunities and experiences at a young age help sow the seeds which lead to an active life.”
According to Sport England, more than half of the seven million children between the ages of five and 15 in England are not doing the recommended 60 minutes of exercise daily.
Aliza is 12 years old. She first attended our gymnastics classes at the age of seven and very quickly progressed into the competitive squad once her talent was spotted and recognised.
“I was really nervous at first because I didn’t know anyone!” Aliza says. “The coaches were kind, though, and the other children made it fun.”
Aliza’s mother, Bethany, adds:
“Gymnastics has given Aliza friends outside of school and, because age is invisible when children are bonding over a shared interest, they are friends with a mixed age group. They work hard but there’s no pressure from the coaches – just the pressure Aliza puts on herself!”
Aliza took first place in her very first competition and went on to win a vast array of medals across the South East region events, recently taking first place at our very own ESA Invitational. She has gone on to become heavily involved within the club as a Young Leader, volunteering her time to inspire future gymnasts.
“I love helping to teach others. It’s really rewarding,” says Aliza. “I like to stay busy and keep active and want to train to be a qualified gymnastics coach in the future.”
“I used to get frustrated with myself if I couldn’t do something, but I’ve learned that I can achieve anything I want if I just push on. Gymnastics has been good for my confidence and I’m proud of where it’s taken me.”
YMCA East Surrey gymnastics and trampolining courses are run in Reigate and Redhill by East Surrey Acrobatics. Classes are structured and ability-led with an emphasis on developing gymnasts’ skills working on flexibility, coordination, strength, fun and enjoyment.
We also offer an extensive YMCA recreational football programme run by a UEFA B licensed coach during term-time & school holidays. In addition, we have three competitive girls football teams who play in the Surrey County Women’s & Girls Football League.
Mike Roberts says:
“Within the discipline of Acro, a large emphasis is placed on teamwork and communication when working within partnerships – important skills which can be transferred into future careers.”
“Aliza has been an integral part of our gymnastics competitive squad over the last five years, representing the YMCA in Acro Gymnastics at both regional and national competitions and coming away with multiple 1st place finishes and placed efforts.”
“As a Young Leader, she’s showed great enthusiasm in helping younger gymnasts develop and, in turn, has become a great role model for all to aspire to. Our Young Leader programme has allowed Aliza to build up her poise and understanding, enabling her to lead successful warm ups and small group stations within class. We all are extremely proud of her!”