The Asbury University Tumbling Team will celebrate its 60th anniversary by hosting the annual “Jym Jam” on April 25 at 6 p.m. and April 26 at 1 p.m. This free event will be held at the Luce Center Gymnasium.
The Tumbling Team is a children’s ministry outreach group that uses a combination of gymnastics, acrobatic stunts and cheer skills to fulfill its mission of witnessing Christ through service.
“Every five years we celebrate the milestone and praise God for how He has continued to provide provision for this team,” said Tumbling Coach Lindsey Lee ’22. “However, this year is particularly special; because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been 10 years since our last reunion show.”
The Asbury University Tumbling Team was officially established in 1965; however, its roots go back to the 1930s, making it one of Asbury’s oldest traditions. Tumblers have toured throughout the United States, performing for schools, churches, community groups, prisons, and even at the Pentagon and an NBA basketball game.
The Tumbling Team practices year-round to share the love of Christ with children. Each show integrates themes of forgiveness, kindness, working together and much more.
Through its ministry and entertainment, the team remembers and honors its legacy.
“We are truly honored to be a part of such a wonderful tradition and grateful that we get to celebrate with many generations of tumblers,” said Lee. “During our reunion shows, we like to especially thank Stan Wiggam ’69, who was the founder of the Tumbling Team in 1965.”
“Over the 60 years, it is so special that even with all that has evolved, the mission and heart of the team has not changed: to glorify the Lord and serve His children,” said sophomore tumbler Reese Nickles. “Tumbling is the vessel to be a witness of the love Christ has for all of us, and I am so grateful that I get to be a part of the Lord’s mission for this team.”
Wiggam served the Tumbling Team as a coach for 18 years and was inducted into the Asbury University Hall of Fame in 2005 for also starting Asbury’s cross-country program in 1971, serving as coach until 1983. Wiggam was named NAIA District 32 Coach of the Year numerous times.
“Jym Jam” provides opportunities for Asbury students to build relationships and grow in their faith, as well as athletic opportunities. The team completed a 2025 tour at various schools around Kentucky over spring break.
“This year is very special. Sixty years of finding a selection of students at Asbury to come together and share the Lord amongst the next generations,” said Israel Carr ’26. “That’s something that deserves celebration. Not to the tumblers, but more so back to Him. For allowing us to share His word in such a unique way through tumbling, friendship and interaction. All in a 40-minute show.”
Learn more about Asbury’s Tumbling Team: https://www.asbury.edu/life/opportunities/tumbling-team/