Phil and Chris Summers

Greetings from Phil and Chris Summers, co-owners of Spearfish Sports Academy! Our journey began in Michigan, where we both grew up and discovered our passion for gymnastics.
While I gained experience through high school, Phil immersed himself in the competitive program at Central Michigan
University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. My educational path led me to Ferris State University, where I graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene.

Our coaching adventure started in Michigan, but it soon took us to Washington D.C., where we spent five years coaching and managing gyms in a more advanced environment. Eager to continue our gymnastics mission, we returned to Michigan, purchasing and operating our own gym for a successful nine-year stretch. Then fate intervened: a family vacation brought us to Spearfish one summer, and upon our return, we decided to make this vibrant community our new home. Thus, Spearfish Gymnastics Academy was born three decades ago, and today, Spearfish Sports Academy offers a unique experience to the children of Spearfish and its neighboring areas.

Phil and I share over 40 years of coaching experience. Together, we’ve guided gymnasts at every level—from preschool classes to high school gymnastics, all the way up to the pinnacle of the Jr. Olympic Program. Our track record includes state, regional, and national champions, as well as students who’ve earned full ride scholarships at Division I Universities.

But beyond the trophies and accolades, our true passion lies in nurturing a love for physical fitness in all children. Witnessing their growth in strength, confidence, and character—long after they’ve finished their flips in the gym—is incredibly rewarding.

We absolutely adore the Spearfish Community!

Lexie

Hello! My name is Lexie Cathcart, and I’m the program director at Spearfish Sports Academy. As part of my role, I also coach our competitive team.

My husband, John, and I are proud parents to three wonderful children: Zoë, Dakota, and Katana. When I’m not in the gym, you’ll find me enjoying bike rides, tending to my garden, capturing moments through photography, and cherishing quality time with my family. Spearfish truly feels like home to us!

My journey in gymnastics began at my parents’ gym in Holland, Michigan, when I was very young. By the time I turned six, I was already a competitive gymnast. Over the next 15 years, I competed both in Holland and later in Spearfish, South Dakota.

After graduating from Spearfish High School, I pursued higher education at Central Michigan University on a gymnastics scholarship. During my college years, I discovered my passion for coaching and started working with gymnasts at a local club. Coaching became more than just a job—it became my calling. I honed my skills at two successful clubs in Michigan before returning to Spearfish a decade ago to join our family business.

With over two decades of coaching experience, I’ve worked with gymnasts at all levels. Beyond gymnastics, I also have a rich background in dance and choreography.

I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to share the world of gymnastics with your children!

Amber

My name is Amber Lewis. I have been coaching at Spearfish Sports Academy for 11 years! I coach our Xcel Team, Pre-Team, as well as K-2nd Grade Learning Tree class.

My gymnastics career started in Massachusetts when I was 3 years old. I started gymnastics at Tops USA Gymnastics and finished my 15 years of gymnastics at All Star Gymnastics. I also worked for 3 years at All Star Gymnastics coaching preschool, recreational, and competitive team through level 8.

I moved from Massachusetts 11 years ago to attend Black Hills State University and pursue a degree in Elementary Education.

I am now settled here in Spearfish and enjoying life here with my husband, Bryce, and our two kids, Pam and Jaxx.

I can’t wait to share another great year gymnastics and fun!

Kirk

Hi, I’m Kirk Summers, son of Phil and Chris Summers, the owners of Spearfish Sports Academy. I grew up here in Spearfish and love our great community! I am the program director for the SGA Ninjas Program.

I have been teaching ninja for 6 years now and I love it! Ninja is a great way to always keep yourself challenged and pushing towards a goal no matter now big or small. I look forward to every year of Ninja. Be prepared for challenges and push yourself to new heights! Let’s all fly together this year and reach new goals!

When I am not in the gym teaching Ninja, I enjoy spending time with my wife and dogs, playing tennis, having friends over at my house, and watching movies.

I love working with kids and helping them to become strong and confident Ninjas! It is such a fun way to keep kids active and get them hooked on fitness.

You may not see me in the gym as much this year, as we’ve opened a second Ninja gym in Rapid City. But don’t worry, I’m still planning and make sure our Spearfish Ninjas have the best year ever! You will see me around at competitions for sure!

Be brave and challenge yourself! If it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you!

I am looking forward to a great year of Ninja fun!

Meagan

Hi! My name is Meagan Jeffery. I live here in Spearfish with my husband. We have three kids two of which are graduated and the third is a Senior this year. We love Spearfish and all the awesome things to do in our community!

I am a special education teacher at Mt. View Elementary school. I love working with kids and providing a space for them to learn while feeling safe and cared for!

In my free time I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with my family!

I have been also teaching gymnastics for 8 years now as well as teaching Summer Day Camps here at Spearfish Sports Academy. I love working with kids and seeing their fun little personalities shine while they have fun learning
gymnastics.

Charrissa

Hello! My name is Charrissa McNaught, I am the Learning Tree Preschool teacher. I am from Australia and moved to Spearfish to be with my husband and his two children (Sophie and Thomas). Since moving here and gaining residency, we have had another child together (Ollie). We also have an awesome golden doodle, Pickles who goes everywhere with us.

I attended university in Australia – Griffith University in Mt Gravatt, Queensland, studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary). Since studying in Australia, I entered the world of international teaching. I have almost 20 years teaching experience with children from preschool to Grade 2. I have taught in Japan, Honduras, Indonesia, Thailand, Norway and most recently in the Dominican Republic.

I enjoy traveling and have visited many countries around the world. These days, my travel is mostly around the Black Hills and every 2 years, we try to visit Australia.

I love working with children and am excited for another great year at Learning Tree!

Elly

Hi! I am Elly Storm and I am a senior at Black Hills State University. I am majoring in Psychology and minoring in Health.

In my free time I enjoy camping, playing pickleball, spending time with friends and family, and playing on a rec volleyball team.

I started at Spearfish Sports Academy this summer working with Summer Day Camp and teaching Tumble Bears.

I am so excited to continue this school year at Spearfish Sports Academy and to get to know all of you!

Ally

Hello! I am Ally, I am a student attending BHSU as a sophomore. I will be double majoring in psychology and sociology to make a positive change towards common knowledge on mental health and how the brain works. Hopefully making a leap towards a brighter more compassionate
future.

A few interests of mine are being active, embracing the outdoors, and listening to music. However, a good rainy day to stay in and watch movies will always have a place in my heart.

I cannot wait to help your child grow and flourish here at Spearfish Sports Academy!

Malachi

Hello! My name is Malachi Funk, I am a Ninja coach here at Spearfish Sports Academy.

I am a high school student at Belle Fourche High School, and a member of the wrestling team.

In my free time, I enjoy lifting and training for ninja and other sports.

I was a Ninja here at Spearfish Academy for two years, and now I am enjoying coaching the next generation of Ninjas!

Sean

Hello! My name is Sean Goodyear, I am the assistant Ninja coach here at Spearfish Sports Academy.

I am a senior at BHSU, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Education as well as a minor in Psychology.

In my free time, I enjoy working out, going on hikes, and off-roading in four-by-fours on trails throughout the Black Hills. I also enjoy working with kids. I’ve worked as a recreation assistant for the Summer Rec program hosted by the Spearfish Rec
Center, as well as a teacher for the Summer Day Camp program here.

I am looking forward to meeting all of you and helping you reach your full potential as Ninjas!