Indianapolis, Ind. – USA Gymnastics is pleased to announce Sports Acrobatics as its newest discipline, joining the four existing disciplines in the USA Gymnastics family: men’s and women’s artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling.

“USA Gymnastics is very excited about partnering with Sports Acrobatics to expand the sport and continue the quest for medals,” said Bob Colarossi, President of USA Gymnastics. “Together we will take this sport to the next level.”
Sports Acrobatics, a sport involving a combination of dance, tumbling, and acrobatic skills, emerged in the U.S. in 1976. The organization was formerly governed by the International Federation of Sports Acrobatics (IFSA), which merged with the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) in 1999. This, along with the goal of sports acrobatics someday becoming an Olympic sport, sparked the merger with USA Gymnastics.
The United States recently demonstrated success in the international arena of sports acrobatics with a bronze medal at the 2000 Sports Acrobatics World Games, followed by two silvers and one bronze at the Sports Acrobatics World Age Group Games in November of 2001.

About Sports Acrobatics

There are five disciplines within the sports acrobatics programs: women’s pairs, men’s pairs, mixed pairs, women’s trios, and men’s fours. Each pair/group performs routines featuring gymnastics tumbling skills, partner balance and tempo skills. Balance skills highlight the athletes’ strength and flexibility through pyramids and positions. Tempo skills involve somersaulting and twisting with landings on the floor or catches by a bottom partner.
Athletes of varying heights, weights, and body types participate. Smaller, more flexible athletes are needed for the top or “flyer” positions, while taller and stronger athletes are ideal for base positions. In addition, acrobats can range in age anywhere from 5 to 55 years old. There are currently an estimated 1,200 athletes participating in sports acrobatics in the United States

Upcoming Sports Acrobatics Events

National Championships – July 12-18, 2002 in New Orleans, La.
World Championships – September 27-29, 2002 in Riesa, Germany
World Age Group Games – September 2002 TBD

Athletes to Watch

  • Women’s trio of Holly Morris, Rose Lachman, and Samantha Schabow, who captured the bronze in balance and silver in the all-around at the 2001 World Age Group Games.
  • Women’s pair Olivia Solo and Clare Brunson, who won the all-around silver at the 2001 World Age Group Games.