Begun as a club sport in the1920s, men’s gymnastics moved to varsity status in 1926. Coach Charlie Vavra headed the program from its inception through 1961. The team presented demonstrations at basketball games during halftime to build support in the 1930s. Jack Ryan, NCAA sidehorse champion in 1967, and Olympian Debbie Wilcox brought recognition to the team. Gymnastics lost its varsity status in 1980 and is once again a club sport for both men and women.