On January 15th, 2024, Fisk University, the first HBCU with a gymnastics team, will host a historic meet in Nashville, Tennessee. The Black women gymnasts will face off against five other teams led by all Black women coaches.

“This will be the first event of this kind in the history of our sport,” said Corrine Tarver, FU’s Head Gymnasts Coach.

“There are some more exciting things that will be happening around it. Vanderbilt has been a great partner. We are glad that the Nashville MLK Day Committee is also a partner. We want the whole city to come out to watch.”

FU gymnasts will be led by Coach Corinne Tarver, the first Black gymnast to win the 1989 NCAA all-around title. Tarver was also named a U.S. National Team member during the 1985-1986 season. 

Participating schools include: Brown University, Iowa State University, Rutgers University, Talladega University, and William & Mary University. The event will be held at the Vanderbilt University’s Memorial Gymnasium.

The historic meet is now officially adopted as a annual event to celebrate African American inclusion in sports during Nashville’s MLK celebration week.

Last year, Fisk University forged a new path in gymnastics, becoming the first HBCU with a team in the field. Now the Tennessee HBCU will make history again with a first-of-its- kind competition.

For more information on the 2023-24 FU Gymnasts schedule or to purchase tickets, please visit Fisk University Athletics.