Hucknall Wildkatz celebrate new home with grand opening and fundraiser

The opening of its new home is a huge milestone for the club and everyone involved wanted it to be more than just opening the doors to our new facility, so they rganised an afternoon of activities, fundraising and entertainment.

These included hair braiding by Hair by Zoellise, a tombola, a raffle with prizes generously donated by local businesses in Hucknall and across Nottinghamshire, a merchandise stand, a guess the number of sweets game, face painting a bake sale, drinks station and music and entertainment run by Anthony Gough from Disco Entertainment and a hula-hoop competition.

The crowning moment came when club member Harper Stevenson was chosen to officially cut the ribbon and open their new home.

The day raised £851.65 which will go towards supporting the club and its continued development.

Katrina Bramley, managing director and director of coaching, said: “We welcomed lots of our current members, as well as new families whose children had already attended taster sessions and were looking forward to becoming part of Wildkatz.

"It was so lovely seeing familiar faces alongside new ones, with children walking around with their faces painted, hair braided and temporary tattoos, enjoying the music and activities.

“One of the most special parts of the day for me was our ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Rather than asking a local celebrity or somebody well-known to officially open our gym, I really wanted to give that opportunity to one of our own gymnasts.

“The children are the reason Wildkatz exists and I thought it would be lovely to give one of them a moment they’d hopefully remember forever.

"I started Wildkatz almost five years ago with a very clear vision of the environment I wanted to create for children.

“I wanted to create a club where children could enjoy gymnastics without unnecessary pressure, where their individual achievements were celebrated and where building confidence, friendships and having fun were just as important as learning new skills.

“That has been our ethos since the very beginning and it’s something I’ve always been incredibly passionate about.

“We’ve grown so much, but our ethos has remained exactly the same.

“Wildkatz has never been about being the biggest club, appearances or recognition. It’s always been about making a genuine difference to the children who come through our doors and creating an environment where they feel happy, confident and included.

“I think that’s why our grand opening meant so much to me.

"It wasn’t just about celebrating a new building – it was about celebrating everything we’ve worked towards and the amazing community that’s grown alongside us.

“I honestly cannot thank everybody enough for their generosity and support.

"Every single person who volunteered, donated, baked, organised activities or simply came along to celebrate contributed towards making the day what it was.

"I’m incredibly grateful to have so many wonderful people around Wildkatz who genuinely care about the club and the children.”