Fisk University Gymnastics has an upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Invitational Gymnastics Meet, set to take place on January 13, at The Fairgrounds Nashville. The event will bring together gymnasts from Fisk, Rutgers University, Wilberforce University, and William & Mary University for a day of intense competition, sportsmanship, and celebration of Dr. King’s legacy.
The MLK Invitational is the first annual event. Last season, it was canceled due to inclement weather. In addition to the athletic competition, this meet serves as an opportunity for Fisk Gymnastics to honor Dr. King’s contributions to social justice and the importance of community, as all four schools have African American women as head coaches.
“We are excited to host this special event, which not only showcases the incredible talent of our gymnasts but also reminds us of the importance of unity, perseverance, and equality,” said Corrinne Tarver, Fisk Gymnastics head coach. “This meet aligns perfectly with the values Dr. King championed and is a way for us to inspire the next generation of athletes.”
The meet will include competitions in all four major disciplines: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercises. Morgan Price, Fisk two-time All American in the all-around, is the feature gymnast for the invitational. Last season, Price became the first HBCU Sports Women of the Year after becoming the first HBCU gymnast to win a National Championship.
Fisk University’s gymnastics program started in 2022, becoming the first Historically Black College and University to field a team. In 1988, head coach Corrinne Tarver became the first African American gymnast to win the NCAA All Around Championship. Last season, Morgan Price made history, becoming the first HBCU gymnast to win a national championship also in the All Around.
The program is dedicated to developing athletes in a supportive and inclusive environment. The program emphasizes technical excellence, character development, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Fisk Gymnastics strives to foster leadership both on and off the mat while honoring the history and traditions of the Fisk University community.
Admission is $15. Families, friends, and supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes as they strive for personal bests.
