Let me start by saying, I've never left a review in my life. I'm a person who would never leave a bad review for anyone as I always apply grace, however, this incident that took place at Infinity Gymnastics Academy (Brighton location) is so devastating that it needs to be shared with other parents.
I recently took my two year old son to his first ever gymnastics class. I told him his goal was to have fun and to do whatever he felt comfortable with. About five minutes into the class, the kids were instructed to do a somersault. My son watched the other kids and hesitated but then bent down to start his. He quickly changed his mind and said he just wants to watch. I assured him it was fine.
Out of no where the instructor, Coach Vicky (Victoria Spencer) didn't say a word, came behind him, grabbed him and pushed his back down. My son was completely caught off guard, terrified, and instantly started crying. As he tried to escape her grasp, he lifted his head and she took her hand, placed it on his head and shoved it back down. He was then screaming repeatedly, "stop, I'm scared, I'm scared, let go". At the same time, I am begging this woman to take her hands off my child.
This continued for thirty long seconds of the coach assaulting my child without saying a word the entire time as my little son continued screaming, and me screaming at her to let him go, as well as my infant son who I am holding is also screaming at the incident. I was literally playing tug of war with my little two year old with Coach Vicky. I'm just sick, terrified and distraught that this occurred at a parent-tot gymnastics class, while standing right next to my son, and I was not able to protect him. He was traumatized.
I am outraged that this behavior is permitted. As an elementary educator for the past ten years, I've had extensive training on this very matter. Later that day, I went to the police station and filed a report. The officer told me because of the law, if she denies any malicious intent to the child, no criminal action can be taken. Of course, she denied.
I was told that the owner of Infinity Gymnastics would call me. They called once and left a message letting me know they will follow up in an email. The owner asked when I was available and then said she couldn't make that time. I have since reached out three more times to no avail, no response. I only received a check in the mail refunding me as I requested.
Patricia Gunnis, the owner, was unable to address me or the incident in a manner worthy of good leadership. I would love to know the qualifications of Coach Vicky as she should not be around children.
My hope for this review is to educate and bring awareness to the abuse that is permitted at this facility. To alert parents to watch your children carefully and to check qualifications of those you entrust your children with. read more