Olympic Gold Medalist Brings Gymnastics Academy to Houston

An Olympic legend is bringing a new kind of gymnastics program to Houston, one built on kindness instead of competition alone.

Dominique Dawes, who won gold with Team USA's "Magnificent Seven" at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, will open two Dominique Dawes Academy locations in Houston's suburbs this year. The Jersey Village location opens May 30, followed by a Spring location in August.

Dawes isn't just opening another gym. She's on a mission to completely reshape how kids experience gymnastics.

"We understand the importance of gymnastics as a sport, but we also recognize the toxic culture that has plagued the sport in the past," the academy's website states. "Our goal is to change this paradigm and create a healthy and nurturing environment for all children."

The three-time Olympian started her first academy in Maryland in July 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. Since then, she's opened six locations across the East Coast, each focused on building confidence and joy alongside physical skills.

Her Houston expansion brings gymnastics and ninja fitness programs to kids as young as 18 months. The Spring location will sit just six miles from where Simone Biles trains at the World Champions Centre.

"Houston is a vibrant, engaged community with so many kids eager to learn and move," Dawes said in February. "I couldn't be more excited to provide a compassionate space where children can build confidence, strength and joy."

The Ripple Effect

Dawes has spent decades advocating for healthier youth sports. She served as president of the Women's Sports Foundation, co-chaired President Obama's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, and owns part of the Washington Spirit women's soccer team.

Now she's taking those values directly to kids. Her academies offer recreational programs alongside competitive training, plus seasonal camps and birthday parties.

Classes start at $115 for toddlers and $140 for beginner students ages 6-10. Early enrollment is available now for the Jersey Village location, with special perks including a VIP pass to meet Dawes at the grand opening.

One champion is proving that excellence and compassion can go hand in hand.