Tampa Republic

A new mural has been unveiled at the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center in Tampa, Florida, honoring the young gymnasts who attend the center and the vibrant community it serves. The mural, titled "If I Could Fly," was created by nationally-recognized artist Naomi Haverland and commissioned by the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.

Haverland worked closely with two female gymnasts from the center who served as her inspiration for the artwork. The mural, located in the heart of Seminole Heights, captures the spirit of the center's renowned gymnastics program and the joy of the young athletes who participate in it.

"The Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center is a pillar in Seminole Heights, providing not just quality gymnastics training to local children, but also opportunities for personal growth and lasting friendships," said Mayor Jane Castor. "This mural is a reflection of its more than four decades of dedicated service to our youth and the impact it will continue to have for generations to come."

The City of Tampa takes great pride in its public art collection, which is the second largest in Florida, boasting nearly 800 items spread throughout the city. The new mural at the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center adds to this impressive collection and serves as a testament to the community's commitment to celebrating its accomplishments through art.

"Public art is one of the best ways for us to honor and celebrate our community," Mayor Castor added. "The mural at the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center not only beautifies the space but also serves as a source of inspiration and pride for the young gymnasts who train here."

The Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center has been operating for over 40 years and holds the distinction of being the city's first true gymnastics training center. It has become a beloved institution in Seminole Heights, providing children with quality gymnastics training and fostering personal growth.

The completion of the mural marks a significant milestone for the center and the broader community. It serves as a visual reminder of the center's long-standing commitment to the youth and its dedication to providing a positive and inclusive environment for young gymnasts to thrive.

The new mural at the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center is a testament to the power of art and its ability to capture the spirit and essence of a community. It not only honors the local young gymnasts who train at the center but also celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the Seminole Heights community as a whole.

As the mural stands as a lasting tribute to the center's legacy, it will continue to inspire and uplift future generations of young gymnasts who pass through its doors. The Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center remains a symbol of excellence in gymnastics training and a beacon of hope for the Tampa community.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2024-01/new-mural-honors-local-young-gymnasts-134666