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Building Skills & Community: Why Vernon Families Love RISE Gymnastics

Aug 13, 2025 | 10:10 AM

As school routines return, many families are looking for ways to keep kids active and engaged. At Vernon’s new RISE Gymnastics Academy, that growth goes far beyond the mat. It’s about building skills for life, from confidence and discipline to coordination and strength.

RISE, which stands for Respect, Integrity, Strength, and Excellence, opened its doors in April. Founder Alice Docksteader says the vision took shape quickly: “We wanted something different and something positive, welcoming, and a really great space where kids can feel at home,” she shared. “And where parents can feel like it’s more of a community.”

That sense of community is a cornerstone of RISE. “Our focus is a customer service-based approach where you greet everybody who walks in the door, and every coach shakes the parents’ hands. It just feels more like you’re valued as a member.”

Training tailored to each individual is also a focus. “We want people to feel like their child is getting training designed for their goals, with a structured development plan for progressions and to meet milestones.”

While RISE welcomes athletes of all ages and abilities, the program is flexible enough to suit different goals. Docksteader pointed out that not all students have the same objectives. Some are interested in the competitive route that can lead to scholarships or other opportunities, while others aren’t looking to be highly competitive but do want to advance in their own gymnastics journey.

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“We’re not pressuring kids to train 12 hours a week,” she stated, but they can accommodate what works with a family’s schedule and the child’s goals. “If they want to do competitive, and they only have eight hours a week to train, we can set that up accordingly.”

The school’s offerings are extensive including recreational and competitive gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, parkour and ninja-style obstacle training, and the only cheerleading program in Vernon.

The facility is also open for birthday parties, and offers adult wellness classes and senior movement programs. There are classes for children as young as 12 months, and about 30% of RISE students are boys.

RISE’s coaching team is equally impressive, with an Olympian, national athletes, highly certified instructors, and specialists in cheer, gymnastics, and rhythmic training. The result is expert guidance in a warm, supportive environment.

Alice hopes more families will discover the benefits this fall. “Gymnastics here offers that level of discipline and also movement and health, as well as the community aspect and customer service that I think is really important too.”

Fall registration is open now. Discover programs, meet the coaches, and see how your child can rise to new heights at RISE.

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RISE is the new Salt Centre building across from the Prestige Inn.

250-241-7473

risegymacademy.com