HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson YMCA’s expanding gymnastics program continues to gain momentum just as construction on the new YMCA facility moves into a key phase.
Branch Manager David Foster and Gymnastics Director EJ Bennett joined the KWBW Radio Morning Show on Tuesday to give an update on the program’s rapid growth and the progress of the new building. Bennett, who joined the YMCA staff in July, said participation has surged in recent months.
“It’s going really good,” Bennett said. “We’re just working on building a lot more connections with different athletes and really pushing their limits. So far, we have almost 100 rec kids in our program now. Our academy program is almost at about 50 kids, and we’re building our team right now. We had our first meet in McPherson last weekend and took a lot of first places.”
Bennett, a Wichita native and former cheer and gymnastics performer who has worked halftime shows for the Denver Nuggets and Denver Broncos, said the early-age programs are especially valuable. “Younger the better,” he said, noting that even recreational classes help kids develop mobility, confidence and coordination. He added that his own two-year-old daughter is already getting started.
Foster said Bennett’s background was evident from the start. “He’s just a great personality, and all of his experience has transitioned well,” Foster said. “He’s been a great leader for our program and has fit right in with the Y and our values, especially when it comes to pouring into those kids.”
The upcoming move into a purpose-built facility will further support the program’s growth. The new YMCA on North Lorraine is nearing full enclosure, which Foster said will allow inside work to accelerate as winter approaches. “We’re hoping to have that done by the middle of December,” he said. “It’s like a beehive over there. They told me at least 130 people were just doing the roof. They’re really knocking it out.”
The project includes a standalone 5,300-square-foot gymnastics center that will remain permanently set up for classes, training and team practices. Foster said the dedicated space will elevate opportunities for local youth.
“Gymnastics is an awesome sport even if you’re not going to be a competitive gymnast,” he said. “The skills transfer to every other sport. It builds balance, confidence and so much more.”
He added that renderings and floor plans of the new YMCA are available in the current facility lobby for anyone interested in learning more.
The YMCA continues to see strong membership numbers as well, especially among families and active older adults. Foster noted that many retirees qualify for free memberships through Silver Sneakers or Silver and Fit.
“A lot of people don’t realize their insurance may already cover it,” he said. “If they do, we get reimbursed every time they check in. It’s a great benefit.”
The winter season has also brought schedule changes as the Hutchinson High School boys’ swim team begins its practices at the Y, along with ongoing Silver Sneakers classes and youth activities.
Anyone interested in enrolling in the gymnastics program or learning more about YMCA offerings can call 620-662-1203.
“EJ is doing a fantastic job,” Foster said. “We’re excited to see where the program goes, and the new facility is only going to help it grow even more.”