OUR STORY
CAPTivate Gymnastics is an innovative program founded by adult gymnastics enthusiast, Hayley Silberg, in 2018. Like many former gymnasts, Hayley had struggled to find engaging, team-based gymnastics opportunities for adults beyond traditional "drop-ins". Her solution was CAPTivate, a supportive community where adults -regardless of their age, gender or ability level - could train, perform, and fall in love with the sport.
Mary-Anne (Mez) Monckton was born and raised in Newcastle, and began gymnastics at the age of 5 at Lake Macquarie PCYC, before being selected to train in elite gymnastics at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) at just 7 years of age. Highlights of Mez's 15 year competitive career include: participating in ten national championships, being an Olympic Team member in 2012 in London, representing Australia at three World Championships, and winning two silver medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Afterwards, Mez transitioned into coaching and mentoring the next generation of gymnasts as well as adults in Australia, and has always been passionate about giving back to the sport.
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Mez's journey led her to Canada in 2022, where Mez not only participated in CAPTivate Gymnastics as an athlete, but also coached adults alongside Hayley. Mez experienced firsthand how CAPTivate made the sport accessible and enjoyable for adults of all levels. Now, as a team, Mez and Hayley have brought CAPTivate Gymnastics to Australia to normalise adult gymnastics and create a space where adults of all ages and abilities can train, progress, and enjoy the sport in a fun, structured, and inclusive community. ​​
DOCUMENTARY
To better understand the history and culture of CAPTivate Gymnastics, please enjoy this 2024 documentary featuring Mary-Anne (Mez) Monckton and Hayley Silberg, directed by CAPTivate alumna Lindsay Walker and her team from the film program at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary, Canada.
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PODCAST
To hear the full story of how CAPTivate was created and it's first 3 years of existence, listen to Hayley's 2021 guest appearance on Better Late, a podcast about adult gymnastics.
"What an amazing experience! I am such a shy person and it was an instant family feel! Everyone was so supportive and friendly. The coaching was thorough and amazingly adaptive for each athlete and their abilities! Thanks, CAPTivate, for letting me join the family."
​CAPTivate Athlete