THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, September 16, 1996 TAG: 9609130021
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 26 lines
I'm writing in response to the article about the parents who are suing Gymstrada Gymnastic School (Sept. 1). I trained at Gymstrada for eight years. The training was tough and the coaches were demanding. However, Gymstrada has produced several elite gymnasts, many state champions and college athletes.
I had my share of injuries during my career, including an elbow injury that kept me out of the gym for six months. I was ready to give it up following surgery. My parents never pushed me into gymnastics and told me it was my choice if I wanted to return. I talked with the coaches and decided to stay. I had to work harder to regain the skills and confidence lost during those six months.
The point is that it was my decision, not my parents'. Gymnastics is supposed to be fun, and if you're not having fun, then you should leave. Not everyone who starts gymnastics will be a Dominique Dawes or a Kim Zimeskal. If these girls weren't happy, they could have left.
The coaching staff at Gymstrada is wonderful. My coaches were caring and taught me that it takes hard work to reach your goals.
RACHEL A. PETERS
Morgantown, W.VA., Sept. 5, 1996 by CNB