Gymnastics training center opens in S. Barrington

Trampolines and balance beams replace flat screen TVs and computers at a store at the Arboretum of South Barrington.

The owners of Midwest Elite Gymnastics recently renovated the former Circuit City store at the upscale outdoor South Barrington shopping center.

The 21,000-square-foot space is now a gymnastics training facility for children and young adults. The two-year-old business also houses competitive teams.

The business previously operated in an air dome in Gilberts. About four months ago, the dome collapsed and the competitive team trained at a neighboring facility, said co-owner Dave Trupp. The competitive girls team recently took first place in the Illinois Level 4 North State Meet at Northern Illinois University.

Trupp owns the business with Bill Williamson and Steve Merena. The business owners, who reside in Elgin, recently held a grand opening at the end of March and are now holding open enrollment. Classes of 10 weekly sessions begin at $125, with annual membership beginning at $30 per person or $45 for families. Birthday parties are also held at the site.

Trupp said the new location is about 10 minutes away from the former Gilberts location.

Merena is coaching force behind the business. The head coach is responsible for the overall operation, setup and development of the gymnastics program. Merena started competing while attending Schaumburg High School where he was the High School State Champion on rings in 1980 and 1981. Merena was a member of The Ohio State University team where he received an athletic scholarship. He competed on three Big Ten Championship teams and Ohio State's first Men's Gymnastics NCAA Championship team in 1985.

Williamson serves as general manager running the day to day operations. He has managed other gymnastics facilities in the past has also owned his own insurance agency.

Trupp, a retired police officer, handles the administration and development of the business. With a master's degree in business, he became interested in gymnastics through his daughters.

For more information, check out megaofelgin.com or call (847) 428-3200.

• Kim Mikus covers small business and retail. She welcomes comments at kmikus@dailyherald.com.