Douglas Rowe
Douglas Rowe founded Michigan Academy of Gymnastics more than 40 years ago. As a high school teacher, Doug started coaching girls gymnastics after Title IX and founded Rebel Gymnastics. From there he grew a competitive multi-facility program encompassing recreational girls and boys gymnastics as well as a high-level competitive team.
He loved the sport, but even more, he loved the gymnasts he taught to grow. Today, there are thousands of living memories of the impact he had on so many. Summed up completely by MAG alum and coach Carrie Thompson:
“He only wanted the best for you and he believed in you when you didn’t. He was a one of a kind. God broke the mold the day he made Doug. He gave Doug the ability to care about so many young people. It always amazed me how he could remember everyone, he never forgot a face. Doug has been my coach, my boss, my 2nd Dad, my mentor, my teacher, my worst and best critic, the man who may knock me down or pick me up, whatever was needed at the the time. He will always be in the center of the gym and as long as girls and boys are flying in that gym he will fly with them. Thank you Doug, for all the good days and bad, the lessons that I have learned and the skills that you have taught me. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for you.”
