Marina
After more than five decades of competition and camaraderie, Kansas high school gymnastics is officially coming to an end.
The final Sunflower League meet this weekend marks the closing chapter for a sport that has shaped generations of student-athletes since its inception in the early 1970s.
For coaches, gymnasts, and families, the end of this program brings both sadness and reflection, as one of the state’s longest-running girls’ athletic programs takes its final bow.
Why Kansas Is Ending High School Gymnastics
The decision to discontinue gymnastics in Kansas was not sudden—it has been building for years. The Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) and district athletic directors cited low participation numbers, coaching shortages, and budgetary pressures as primary reasons.
Only a handful of schools across the state still offered gymnastics as a sanctioned sport, with just 62 athletes competing in 2025. In some districts, only one head coach oversaw gymnasts from multiple schools due to staffing shortages.
Meanwhile, the rise of newer athletic opportunities such as girls’ wrestling, dance, and competitive cheerleading further divided interest and funding.
Parents and athletes expressed disappointment but acknowledged the growing difficulty of sustaining the program when participation kept shrinking each year.
Key Details of the Final Season
Below is a summary of the final year for Kansas high school gymnastics:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Years Active | 52 years (1973–2025) |
| Final Event | Sunflower League Championship Meet |
| Participating Districts | 5 active school districts in final year |
| Total Gymnasts in 2025 | 62 athletes statewide |
| Local School Participants | Around 18 girls in one major district |
| Primary Reasons for Ending | Low participation, lack of coaches, budget constraints |
| Future Path for Athletes | Transition to private club gymnastics programs |
Reactions from Coaches and Athletes
For those directly involved, the program’s closure feels like losing part of their identity. Coaches who have dedicated decades to building the sport say the announcement has been emotionally difficult.
One long-time coach said she felt “heartbroken for my girls,” adding that gymnastics has been a way to teach discipline, confidence, and teamwork beyond just physical skills.
Students who spent years training in high school gyms are also struggling to accept the news. Many of them grew up watching older siblings compete, dreaming of representing their school on the mat.
Now, for seniors, the final meet carries a deeper meaning — it’s their last chance to perform for their school colors.
Impact on Schools and Communities
The closure not only affects athletes but also reshapes how schools approach extracurricular programs. Districts will likely redirect resources toward other girls’ sports that have higher participation rates.
Communities that supported gymnastics through booster clubs and fundraising events will lose one of their long-standing traditions.
Gymnastics meets often drew families together to celebrate athletic achievements that showcased strength, balance, and artistry — a combination few other sports provide.
At the same time, some believe the decision could open doors for new athletic programs that reflect today’s student interests. Activities like competitive dance and cheer are growing rapidly and may absorb some of the former gymnasts.
What’s Next for Kansas Gymnasts
Many gymnasts plan to continue their passion at private clubs, where they can train and compete at regional or national levels.
While the sense of representing a school team will be missed, club gymnastics offers opportunities for advanced training and college scholarships.
Others may transition to sports with similar physical demands, such as diving, cheerleading, or track and field.
Athletic departments are also exploring ways to honor former gymnasts by preserving trophies, banners, and championship records as part of Kansas sports history.
The end of Kansas high school gymnastics closes a historic 52-year legacy that inspired strength, grace, and perseverance. Generations of athletes learned not just how to tumble or balance, but how to lead, compete, and grow with pride.
While the mats will soon be rolled up for the last time, the memories, friendships, and lessons will live on. The final Sunflower League meet isn’t just a competition — it’s a farewell celebration for a sport that left an unforgettable mark on Kansas athletics.