ASHWAUBENON (NBC26) — Even from thousands of miles away, the Tokyo Olympics is benefiting a local gymnastics facility.
On Thursday, girls of all ages could be found at the Tri-County Gymnastics & Cheer practicing their bar, beam and floor routines.
The Olympics creates an even more energetic and competitive atmosphere.
"It's been the hot topic here at the gym for sure," said Chandra Reivitis, director of Tri-County Gymnastics & Cheer.
Many of the gymnasts have a favorite this season: Jordan Chiles.
“I just like to watch her on floor and stuff, because floor is one of the events that I improve the least on I think. But I think I’m improving more," said Kourtnie Dressel, 11.
“I like her on floor, like how she tumbles to the music," said Savannah Skenandore, 15.
Reivitis said the gym typically experiences a substantial boost in enrollment every Olympic season. This year, she said they've had a 25 percent increase.
“We’re having a fantastic year already," Reivitis said. "Twenty-five percent on top of what we usually do is typically what we see, but this year’s been spectacular.”
Reivitis said the current situation with Simone Biles has also opened the door for more discussion on mental health. She said coaches have talked to the athletes about the need to be in the right head space to compete.
“They’ve really set a great example for our children to be able to look up to. Reivitis said. "I’s been a way to create great conversation inside of the gym, so they can really learn from what’s happening on the big stage and bring it back into life here at the gym."
And maybe, the young gymnasts can take what they see to Team USA someday.
