He was the inspirational coach who helped thousands of Southampton gymnasts on their way to regional, national and international glory.
Bill Cosgrave, also the highly regarded founder and creator of the Tumble Tots programme for tiny budding gymnasts, has died, aged 82.
He was the founder of Southampton Amateur Gymnastics Club and was responsible for bringing gymnastics to schools across the city, as well as introducing an awards scheme for schools.
READ MORE: Southampton primary school celebrates latest Ofsted report
After a difficult childhood, Bill took to army life, enjoying the close knit family feel within the PT Corps and spreading the word about the sport of gymnastics after being part of the team to win the Adams Shield team championships in 1965.
In 1968, he left the army and took up a position in Southampton with the remit to develop gymnastics within the city.
Here he produced many fine young gymnasts and inspired lots of coaches, including Jennie, who became his wife.
Teachers across Southampton produced gymnastics teams, culminating in finals night, held at Redbridge School each year.
Redbridge and later the Deanery Gymnastics Centre became the main hubs for Bill’s outstanding gymnasts and he inspired both young athletes and his team of volunteer coaches to give their very best, resulting in the most able youngsters competing at county, national and international levels.
Bill and Jennie lived in Nottingham and Oxford after setting up Tumble Tots and becoming a force to be reckoned with in pre-school gymnastics.
They were heavily involved in the celebration of 100 years of British Gymnastics, which took place in 1998.
In 2018, Bill and Jennie organised a reunion for former members and coaches of Southampton Amateur Gymnastics Club at Redbridge School, bringing them back to where it all began to enjoy a get together and reason to reminisce.
Bill passed away on Boxing Day at home near Oxford with Jennie and family by his side.
The service of celebration of Bill's life will take place on Wednesday January 31 in St Augustine's Church, Church St, East Hendred, Wantage.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel