Phil and Chris Summers

Greetings from Phil and Chris Summers, co-owners of Spearfish Sports Academy! Our journey began in Michigan, where we both grew up and discovered our passion for gymnastics.
While I gained experience through high school, Phil immersed himself in the competitive program at Central Michigan
University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. My educational path led me to Ferris State University, where I graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene.

Our coaching adventure started in Michigan, but it soon took us to Washington D.C., where we spent five years coaching and managing gyms in a more advanced environment. Eager to continue our gymnastics mission, we returned to Michigan, purchasing and operating our own gym for a successful nine-year stretch. Then fate intervened: a family vacation brought us to Spearfish one summer, and upon our return, we decided to make this vibrant community our new home. Thus, Spearfish Gymnastics Academy was born three decades ago, and today, Spearfish Sports Academy offers a unique experience to the children of Spearfish and its neighboring areas.

Phil and I share over 40 years of coaching experience. Together, we’ve guided gymnasts at every level—from preschool classes to high school gymnastics, all the way up to the pinnacle of the Jr. Olympic Program. Our track record includes state, regional, and national champions, as well as students who’ve earned full ride scholarships at Division I Universities.

But beyond the trophies and accolades, our true passion lies in nurturing a love for physical fitness in all children. Witnessing their growth in strength, confidence, and character—long after they’ve finished their flips in the gym—is incredibly rewarding.

We absolutely adore the Spearfish Community!

Lexie

Hello! My name is Lexie Cathcart, and I’m the program director at Spearfish Sports Academy. As part of my role, I also coach our competitive team.

My husband, John, and I are proud parents to three wonderful children: Zoë, Dakota, and Katana. When I’m not in the gym, you’ll find me enjoying bike rides, tending to my garden, capturing moments through photography, and cherishing quality time with my family. Spearfish truly feels like home to us!

My journey in gymnastics began at my parents’ gym in Holland, Michigan, when I was very young. By the time I turned six, I was already a competitive gymnast. Over the next 15 years, I competed both in Holland and later in Spearfish, South Dakota.

After graduating from Spearfish High School, I pursued higher education at Central Michigan University on a gymnastics scholarship. During my college years, I discovered my passion for coaching and started working with gymnasts at a local club. Coaching became more than just a job—it became my calling. I honed my skills at two successful clubs in Michigan before returning to Spearfish a decade ago to join our family business.

With over two decades of coaching experience, I’ve worked with gymnasts at all levels. Beyond gymnastics, I also have a rich background in dance and choreography.

I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to share the world of gymnastics with your children!

Amber

My name is Amber Lewis. I have been coaching at Spearfish Sports Academy for 10 years! I coach our Xcel Team, Pre-Team, as well as K-2nd Grade Learning Tree class.

My gymnastics career started in Massachusetts when I was 3 years old. I started gymnastics at Tops USA Gymnastics and finished my 15 years of gymnastics at All Star Gymnastics. I also worked for 3 years at All Star Gymnastics coaching preschool, recreational, and competitive team through level 8.

I moved from Massachusetts 10 years ago to attend Black Hills State University and pursue a degree in Elementary Education.

I am now settled here in Spearfish and enjoying life here with my husband, Bryce, and our two kids, Pam and Jaxx.

I can’t wait to share another great year gymnastics and fun!

Meagan

Hi! My name is Meagan Jeffery. I live here in Spearfish with my husband. We have three kids two of which are graduated and the third is a Senior this year. We love Spearfish and all the awesome things to do in our community!

I am a special education teacher at Mt. View Elementary school. I love working with kids and providing a space for them to learn while feeling safe and cared for!

In my free time I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with my family!

I have been also teaching gymnastics for 8 years now as well as teaching Summer Day Camps here at Spearfish Sports Academy. I love working with kids and seeing their fun little personalities shine while they have fun learning
gymnastics.

Ciara

Hello! My name is Ciara Hough. I am originally from Chamberlain, SD. I moved to Spearfish three years ago.

Growing up I spent a lot of time doing gymnastics and competed on middle school and high school gymnastics teams for Chamberlain Schools.

In my free time I enjoy hiking, biking, painting, and hanging out with my cat! I love working with kids and seeing them smile!

This will be my 5th year coaching  at Spearfish Sports Academy. I love gymnastics and all the challenges it provides. I am exited to share another great year of gymnastics with all of my awesome students!

Yasmeena

My name Yasmeena, I am a junior at BHSU majoring in Exercise Science. I am also on the Cheer Team at BHSU. I come from a military family so I moved around a lot as a kid, but we are originally from Rapid City, SD.

Before college I was a competitive cheerleader for 6 years at KC Cheer and VIP Allstars. I cheered for 5 years prior to competitive cheer. When I’m not doing homework or studying, I love to workout and tumble. I’m a big music fan of all genres, but I mostly listen to 2000s pop and country.

I’m looking forward to a great year of coaching gymnastics and I’m so excited to get to work with your child.

Lindsey

Hello! My name is Lindsey and I am a busy mom of 4. I have lived in and loved the Black Hills my entire life. I hold a M.S. degree in Genomics and love to learn.

Before college and parenthood I did both gymnastics and dance for many years and have enjoyed the opportunity to pass on my love of the sport and of learning to the young gymnasts here at Spearfish Sports Academy.

In my free time I enjoy sewing for my small handmade business, reading, writing,
music, and taking care of the myriad animals on our small farmstead outside Belle Fourche.

I’m looking forward to a great year of coaching gymnastics and I’m so excited to get to work with your child.

Taylor

Hi, my name is Taylor Klein, I’m from Scottsbluff Nebraska. I am an Elementary Education major at BHSU, and I am currently student teaching here in Spearfish.

I just finished up my softball career at BH as well. When I’m not at school or working I enjoy spending time outside and playing with my dog Ike! 

This will be my second year at Spearfish Sports Academy. This summer I enjoyed working with the Summer Day Camp program and teaching gymnastics.

I am excited for another great year of helping kids have fun and learn!

Elly

Hi! I am Elly Storm and I am a senior at Black Hills State University. I am majoring in Psychology and minoring in Health.

In my free time I enjoy camping, playing pickleball, spending time with friends and family, and playing on a rec volleyball team.

I started at Spearfish Sports Academy this summer working with Summer Day Camp and teaching Tumble Bears.

I am so excited to continue this school year at Spearfish Sports Academy and to get to know all of you!

Ally

Hello! I am Ally, I am a student attending BHSU as a sophomore. I will be double majoring in psychology and sociology to make a positive change towards common knowledge on mental health and how the brain works. Hopefully making a leap towards a brighter more compassionate
future.

A few interests of mine are being active, embracing the outdoors, and listening to music. However, a good rainy day to stay in and watch movies will always have a place in my heart.

I cannot wait to help your child grow and flourish here at Spearfish Sports Academy!

Lyric

Hi, my name is Lyric Williams. I am from Spearfish and am a former competitive gymnast for Spearfish Gymnastics for 11 years. I was also a member of the Kids and Co Dance Team.

I recently graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in
Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts. I will be attending grad school to pursue a
Master’s degree in Communications.

While at CSU I taught dance lessons for the University’s Hip Hop Club. I have also had the pleasure of teaching dance for the last two years here during the Spearfish Gymnastics summer team camp.

I am looking forward to meeting everyone and sharing a great year of gymnastics.

Jessica