Talladega College Receives First Commits to its New Gymnastics Team

Just months after Talladega College announced its plans to launch a new women’s gymnastics program, it has received its first two commits.

On Friday, incoming student Kyrstin Johnson became the first gymnast to commit to the gymnastics team at Talladega College. Yesterday, Kingston, Jamaica native Jamilia Duffus joined her as the second recruit.

Following Fisk University’s footsteps, Talladega will be the second HBCU with a gymnastics team.

Both gymnasts will be attending Talladega College on a full scholarship.

Duffus expressed her excitement and gratitude in a recent Instagram post. She captioned the post, “I am contented to announce that I have committed to the Talladega college @talladegagymnastics on a full athletic scholarship. My heart is filled with joy to know that I will be representing their inaugural class of 2023 as well as the 2nd HBCU to have gymnastics.”

The Talladega gymnastics team will be led by former SEC champion Aja Sims-Fletcher . Talladega College Vice President and Athletic Director Michael Grant spoke highly of Sims-Fletcher saying, “Her experience and passion for the sport will be invaluable as we launch our gymnastics program and compete in the 2024 NCAA season.”

In terms of recruitment, Coach Sims-Fletcher is looking for Level 9-10 athletes.

Grant said that the university is excited about the growth the new gymnastics program will bring to Talladega College.

“Acrobatics and tumbling are an emerging sport that will expand opportunities for female athletes to compete. The program will help increase enrollment and retention while also creating more sponsorship options,” said Grant in a press release.