About Us
Established on April 15, 1995, Sports Academy Gymnastics is a veteran owned, family operated small business dedicated to enhancing the physical skills of children while contributing to their social, emotional, and cognitive development. Our gymnastics and related fitness activities are offered in our 16,000 square foot facility, a one-of-a-kind facility uniquely prepared to meet the needs of the community. A major goal is to develop each individual's potential in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. Using specific progressions, and a highly trained staff, each student will learn the correct fundamentals and basic skills which will equip them with the knowledge and ability to progress to any level. As instructors we use the sport of gymnastics to help each child gain great self-confidence and a more positive self-image. We offer a wide range of classes for every member of the family.
We are conveniently located between Laurel Bay and MCAS Beaufort, off of Hwy 116!
About our Owner
Coach K aka David Kirkwood
Gym Owner, Sparklers Team Head Coach, Retired LtCol, USMC, US Army Special Forces & Vietnam Veteran.
My Name is Coach K aka David Kirkwood
I am the owner, and Head Coach of our competitive girls' gymnastics team, The Sparklers. I am a former US Army Special Forces Staff Sergeant and a Vietnam Veteran. Moreover, I am a retired United States Marine Corps Reserve, LtCol, with over 20 years of active duty, retired 1 December 1994.
A graduate of Ball State University, BA Physical Education and Health, May 74', with additional educational opportunities at: University of South Carolina Beaufort, Anderson College, Pepperdine University and George Washington University. I am married to Victoria Closs Kirkwood for the past 36 years whose unyielding support has made my dream a continued reality.
I began my gymnastics coaching adventure in 1978, as I supported my former wife, Sherrel Craft, (known at the gym as Coach Grandma, our camp and preschool director) in establishing Gymnastics Unlimited, Beaufort, SC. Since then, I have coached the 1981 Level 3 SC State Champions, Gymnastics Unlimited Sea Island Somies, Served as the Assistant Women's Gymnastics and Volleyball coach at George Washington University, 83-85 and established Sports Academy Gymnastics on April 15, 1995.
Our facility progression has seen us go from 1600 sq. ft. in 95-96, to 6000 sq. ft., 96-2004 and to 10,500 sq. ft. 2004-2024 (current location), and finally with our current expansion to 16,100 sq. ft.
My hobby is Golf.
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OUR MISSION
Inspiring the Next Generation of Gymnasts
Sports Academy Gymnastics is dedicated to providing all youth with the highest quality age -appropriate sport education, instruction, and competitive gymnastics experience. As well as enhancing the physical skills of children while contributing to their emotional, social, and cognitive development. Participants are treated with respect through the opportunity to experience growth in the areas of interacting with others, teamwork, sportsmanship, fair play, and skill development. The goal is to create a positive environment that fosters improved self-confidence, self-esteem and leadership development through experiences in sports activities.
Our Former Sparklers
Retired Sparklers Making a Difference
Kim (left) and Courtney (right) are the co-founders of Sunnies, a small-business that produces affordable smaller sized sunglasses for kids!
Courtney and her brothers attended the Sports Academy as a Sparkler. Courtney's brother married a Sports Academy Sparkler.