Clayton County Gymnastics Coach Battles to Preserve Program for Black Boys

A Unique Gymnastics Program in Jeopardy

James Jones, the founder of the James Jones Gymnastics Academy, is facing a critical deadline as his gym's lease is set to expire in just a few days. This situation has placed the future of what he describes as the only all-Black boys gymnastics club in the United States in serious doubt. Located in JONESBORO, Georgia, the academy has become a vital part of the community, offering young Black men an opportunity to pursue their passion for gymnastics.

A Legacy of Coaching and Community Support

Jones opened the gym six years ago with a vision to provide access to gymnastics for children who might not otherwise have the chance. Over the years, he has coached more than 500 children, many of whom are young Black men. The program has grown significantly, with up to 60 kids participating in each season at its peak. The academy is free for most families, thanks to the efforts of fundraising and sponsorships.

However, the space where the gym operates has become too small for the growing number of participants. "We have physically outgrown the space. When we first moved in, most of the boys were small, and now they are teenagers and 6 feet and when they are working out they kick the ceiling," Jones explained.

Zoning Restrictions Pose Major Challenges

Despite the success and positive impact of the academy, Jones is struggling with zoning restrictions that prevent him from relocating. His request to move the gym was denied, with officials classifying it as "industrial use and construction." This classification has created significant obstacles for Jones, as he believes there are other facilities nearby that do not face the same restrictions.

"Next to the building is a gym. It's a basketball, pickleball and tennis gym," Jones noted. He also pointed out the lack of opportunities for boys in other gymnastics programs in the area. While the city of College Park has a state-of-the-art gymnastics program, it does not allow boys to compete. This gap led Jones to invest his own money into starting the academy.

More Than Just a Gym

For Jones, the gym represents more than just a business—it is a lifelong dream that stems from his own childhood experiences. "This gym means everything to me. I wanted to do gymnastics as a kid and my family couldn't afford it, and we would drive by the gym and I would see other kids doing gymnastics and I said one day I want to do that," he shared, visibly emotional.

As the August 1 deadline approaches, Jones remains hopeful and continues to rely on the support of his community. "I'm taking the positivity from the parents and students and letting it fuel me because it's all about the kids," he said.

How You Can Help

The James Jones Gymnastics Academy is currently raising funds to find a new home. Donations can be made through their GoFundMe page. This effort is crucial for ensuring that the gym can continue to serve the community and provide opportunities for young Black men to participate in gymnastics.

Looking Ahead

While the future of the academy remains uncertain, the dedication of Jones and the support of the community highlight the importance of such programs. As FOX 5 continues to monitor the situation, the hope is that a solution can be found to preserve this unique and valuable resource for the youth in the area.