An elite gymnastics facility in the Houston area is set to close its doors, leaving many families in a state of confusion and concern just ahead of the competition season.
Stars Gymnastics Training Center, a well-established venue located along Lumpkin Road near the Katy Freeway, announced its abrupt closure effective September 30. Parents are expressing frustration as the announcement came just days after they had invested thousands of dollars in competition fees, travel expenses, and monthly dues.
On Sunday evening, an email from the owners notified parents of the closure. The following day, numerous parents gathered at the gym seeking clarification on the situation and the status of their already paid fees.
For over 25 years, Stars Gymnastics has served as a home for young athletes, offering both recreational and competitive gymnastics programs. Many children, including 11-year-old Nathalie Bonnete’s daughter, have spent countless hours training at the facility. Bonnete shared that her daughter, who has been training there since the age of three, dedicates around 16 hours a week to gymnastics.
“It’s her life,” Bonnete said, reflecting on her daughter’s emotional reaction to the news. “When she heard about the gym closing, it was heartbreaking. She was crying in the car. What’s going to happen? It was her happy place.” Bonnete also expressed concern about the $3,000 in competition fees she recently paid, uncertain whether she would see that money again.
The timing of the closure poses a significant challenge for families as they scramble to find alternative gyms with competition season just months away.
In response to the situation, one of the co-owners of Stars Gymnastics, who is also a coach at the facility, explained that the landlord had notified them last week about the need to vacate their lease due to overdue rent payments. He described the closure as a sad and unfortunate situation.
Regarding the refunds for the payments made by families, the owner assured that parents should expect to receive their money back within approximately a week. However, some parents remain skeptical about the likelihood of recovering their funds.
Legal experts suggest that families may have options available if refunds are not issued. Senior Legal Analyst Chris Tritico stated that the owner could be in breach of contract for taking payments while being aware of the impending closure. Tritico mentioned that while parents could potentially pursue legal action, securing a judgment does not guarantee actual recovery of funds if the business lacks the means to repay them.
