Photo by Shawn Arrajj

Photo by Shawn Arrajj

Photo by Shawn Arrajj

Photo by Shawn Arrajj

The founding of K2 Academy of Kids Sports in Cypress is a classic tale of choosing passion over predictability.

Lifelong gymnast Kay Rodgers was working at the Houston Gymnastics Academy when she graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in medical technology. Rodgers found herself with a decision to make—she could pursue a career in the medical field or continue doing what she loved in the gym.

Today, as the owner and founder of K2, Rodgers jokes that the only thing she uses from her time in college are the management skills. After founding the children's gym in 2006, she has guided it through tremendous growth. The gym recently hit peak capacity at around 400 students, resulting in the construction of a new 23,000-square-foot building.

"We were starting to develop a waiting list of kids, so we're very excited to be up and running at our new location," Rodgers said. "It more than doubles the number of students we can take in."

The academy specializes in gymnastics, cheerleading and tumbling. Rodgers once competed with the Junior National gymnastics team at the elite level.

K2 started as a recreational center that was open two days a week for preschoolers. Over time, it developed into a full-time licensed children's center with recreational and competitive programs as well as preschool and after-school programs.

K2's preschool is distinct for its focus on fitness and nutrition, Rodgers said.

"Nutrition lessons are done at age-appropriate levels," she said. "We try to teach kids about the importance of fruit and vegetables and drinking water."

Adaptive gymnastic programs also cater to children with physical or mental disabilities ranging from autism to cerebral palsy. Rodgers said she plans to start an occupational therapy program in March with a licensed professional.

"We will use the gym for large motor development activities and have a dedicated room for fine motor development," Rodgers said. "Each student will have a coach to work with them 1-on-1."

K2's growth has also come with an increased presence in the community. Team leaders participate in school events, health fairs and donate to sport teams.

"We want people to know we're more than just a gym; we're part of a community," Rodgers said.

Summary of services

K2 Academy

Gymnastics—recreational and competitive

Cheerleading—recreational & competitive

Tumbling—beginner and advanced

K2 Campus

Preschool—18 months to 5 years old

After School—Caters to nearby schools

Camps—Includes day and summer camps

Sideline Bling

K2's new location features an on-site gift shop called Sideling Bling. Run by Carrie Payton, the shop offers leotards, gym apparel and a full line of athletic clothing for both children and adult women. Services also include customizing shirts with rhinestone inscriptions, including adding names to jerseys.

K2 Academy of Kids Sports

15255 N. Eldridge Parkway

Cypress 281-655-7272

www.k2academy.com

Hours: Mon.–Thu. 8 a.m.–7:45 p.m., Fri. 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m.