They flipped, soared, and stuck the landing. Now, the Bishop Dwenger girls gymnastics team has something else to celebrate — their very own day, declared by Fort Wayne’s mayor.
Mayor Sharon Tucker officially named April 22 “Bishop Dwenger Girls Gymnastics Team Day,” honoring the Saints after their dominant win at the IHSAA Gymnastics State Finals last month.
A Victory That Sparked a Citywide Salute
When the Bishop Dwenger girls clinched the state title back on March 15 in Muncie, the celebration was already huge. But Tuesday’s recognition took things to a whole other level — a formal proclamation, cameras flashing, proud families, and a big grin from Mayor Tucker herself.
She didn’t just read a few lines and leave. She spoke about teamwork, pride, and the deeper value of sports.
“It’s important to take time to recognize outstanding accomplishments,” she said, “and the young ladies from Bishop Dwenger have represented Fort Wayne very well.”
A Day That Belongs to the Girls
Sophomore Kobe Johnson, who snagged an individual state title in the floor exercise, was caught completely off guard.
“I knew we were coming to the mayor’s office,” she said, “but I didn’t think we’d get a day named after us.”
And the look on her face? Priceless.
One of her teammates shouted, “We’re on the calendar now!” Everyone laughed. It was real. It was loud. It was proud.
They didn’t expect all this. That’s what made it even sweeter.
A Dynasty Built on Sweat and Grit
This wasn’t a one-hit wonder. Bishop Dwenger’s win marked the sixth state title in program history. That’s right — six. And all of them came under head coach Rose Nix.
She’s been at the helm for every one of those championship seasons.
Her reaction? Pure class.
“I think this shows what the city is all about and what hard work is all about,” she said. “You get to experience things that you probably would not have.”
And that’s the thing. It’s not just about trophies or banners. It’s about what comes after — the doors that open, the confidence that builds, the moments like Tuesday that catch you by surprise and stick in your memory forever.
Why This Win Felt Different
There was something about this season — the energy, the vibe, the way the team supported each other.
Even in tense moments, they kept their cool. Even when routines got messy, they rallied back. They didn’t just win; they earned respect.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what went down at the IHSAA finals:
| Event | Top Performer | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Floor Exercise | Kobe Johnson | State Champion – 1st Place |
| Balance Beam | Team Effort | Top 3 Overall |
| All-Around | Multiple Gymnasts | Consistent Scores Across Board |
| Team Total Score | Bishop Dwenger | 1st Place – State Champions |
Six titles in, and they’re not slowing down.
More Than a Team — A Statement
It wasn’t just about winning for these girls. It was about showing who they are — disciplined, united, and full of heart.
Mayor Tucker touched on that, too.
“I’m encouraged to see how sports can bring out the best in people and build one another up in a positive manner that will have a lasting impact,” she said during the proclamation.
One sentence break here: That impact is already showing.
Parents were emotional. Coaches beamed. Some of the younger siblings at the ceremony started practicing cartwheels on the office carpet.
These moments stick.
What Comes Next?
For now, the team is soaking in the recognition. And honestly? They’ve earned every bit of it.
But don’t think they’re done. Coach Nix is already talking about offseason plans. Conditioning. Goal-setting. And yes, maybe title number seven.
Kobe Johnson said the extra attention has her fired up.
“I want to do even better next year. This just makes me want to push harder.”
Fort Wayne, it seems, agrees. Tuesday showed that this city doesn’t just show up for the wins. It shows up for the work behind them too.
