Black Gymnastics Team Comprised Exclusively of Boys Fights to Preserve Their Program
Struggling Gymnastics Academy Faces Zoning Hurdles in Clayton County
James Jones, the founder of the James Jones Gymnastics Academy, is facing a challenging predicament as strict zoning ordinances in Clayton County, Georgia, are preventing him from relocating his gym within the county.
Despite the obstacles, Jones remains hopeful and is currently in talks with local leaders to find a solution that aligns with the county's zoning policies.
Jones believes there is a misconception among parents that their sons would not take an interest in gymnastics. He asserts that if Black boys see other Black boys excelling in gymnastics, or boys in general, it will spark their curiosity and inspire them to join.
In an effort to make gymnastics accessible to all, around 600 boys and teens have participated in the academy for free or reduced rates. The gym, which primarily operates under Jones' guidance, has been running in Metro Atlanta since 2019.
The current space, a former office within a shopping plaza, has a ceiling height of 13 feet, which is now too low for the growing boys. This issue, however, is not about finances but about zoning restrictions.
The county classified Jones' request as industrial use, which conflicts with the actual function of a gymnastics academy, leading to the denial. Warehouses, the preferable locations for the gym due to space and size, are largely in areas zoned for heavy industrial use, such as manufacturing or disposing of junk, not sports activity.
This restrictive zoning environment prevents Jones from relocating his gym anywhere else in the county, jeopardizing the academy’s continuation after its current lease expires this week.
Despite the challenges, the outpouring of support for the gymnastics academy has been encouraging. The County recently honoured Jones and his team with a proclamation during its July meeting. Celebrities like Viola Davis and Jordan Chiles have also shown their support, with donations starting to pour in for the academy.
Jones hopes the support will encourage more parents to give their sons a chance to develop an interest in gymnastics. He is feeling hopeful and is determined to find a new property that meets the zoning requirements and can accommodate the growing needs of his academy. The search for a new property continues.
In the face of zoning hurdles, James Jones of the James Jones Gymnastics Academy expresses determination to secure a location that aligns with county policies, not only for the academy's continuation but also to foster learning in education-and-self-development through sports like gymnastics, specifically football, as he envisages inspiring participants by showcasing success stories, irrespective of race or gender.
