Shelly Denise Allen's dream was to become a Class I gymnast. In 1981, her dream came true when she became the youngest member of the Memphis Gymstar Class I Team. In Shreveport, LA at the Arkansas, Louisana, Texas Invitational, Shelly placed 6th All-Around, 5th on Floor, 3rd on Beam, & helped her team experience their greatest victory. While in route home with her teammates, Shelly was stricken with a sudden illness, and on January 28th 1982, she passed away. The Memphis Gymstars suffered the ultimate loss, the loss of one of their own.

Shelly Allen was special to everyone she came in contact with. She was treated with gentleness and kindness, because she was so gentle and kind. Tiny, determined, expressive, and sensitive, her big incredulous eyes mirrored the whole gamut of human emotion. In Shelly, all the best emotions a very young determined gymnast might feel were magnified. Shelly was open, readable, and for real. Most important, she loved her teammates and coaches, so in turn, was greatly loved.

In life, Shelly scored a perfect 10.0, because she lived life to the fullest, tried her hardest, and loved everyone. Watching her taught us that satisfaction in life comes not from winning or losing, but from how we live our lives. Her personal example inspires today's Gymstars as well as all future Gymstars. We will win and occasionally lose, but we will follow Shelly's example. We will live life to the fullest.

For these reasons, we host an annual gymnastics competition in her honor. This high quality competition promotes friendship and provides a chance for spectators to see some young and determinied athletes reach their goals. Of this we are extremely proud.

Because of Shelly's legacy, SHE WILL ALWAYS BE THE BRIGHTEST STAR in the hearts of the Gymstars!






Gymstars Athletes
On These Rosters

Click on school