SUNY Brockport athletics is proud to announce that former head gymnastics coach John Feeney and former standout student-athlete Lauren (Gildemeyer) LaVine have been inducted into the National Collegiate Gymnastics Association (NCGA) Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony and dinner took place on Thursday, March 19, hosted by SUNY Cortland at the HomeTowne Studios & Conference Center in Cortland, prior to the 2026 NCGA National Championships.
A Legacy of Excellence: John Feeney
Widely regarded as the "Father of Brockport Gymnastics," Feeney built one of the premier Division III programs in the nation during his 22-year tenure as head coach from 1999 to 2021.
Under his leadership, the Golden Eagles reached unprecedented heights, including:
- Two NCGA National Championships
- Nine regional championships
- Six ECAC team titles
- Over 130 All-American selections
- 212 career dual meet victories
Feeney's impact extended far beyond competition. A dedicated educator in Brockport's Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies, and Physical Education (KSSPE), he mentored generations of students while helping elevate the program to national prominence.
His career also included multiple individual national champions and numerous conference and national award winners, while earning NCGA Coach of the Year honors three times. Feeney's legacy is defined not only by championships, but by the culture, mentorship, and lifelong relationships he built within the Brockport community.
One of the Best to Ever Compete: Lauren (Gildemeyer) LaVine
Lauren (Gildemeyer) LaVine stands as one of the most decorated gymnasts in Brockport history during her four-year career from 2006–2010.
Among her many accomplishments:
- Individual National Champion (Floor)
- Nine-time All-American
- ECAC Gymnast of the Year
- Six-time ECAC Champion
- Academic All-American
LaVine also made history as one of the few Brockport gymnasts to qualify for the NCAA Division I Regional Championships, where she competed against the nation's top athletes. Her dominance helped continue Brockport's tradition of national success and cemented her place among the program's all-time greats. She was previously inducted into the Brockport Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015.
A Lasting Impact on Brockport Gymnastics
The Hall of Fame inductions of Feeney and LaVine highlight the sustained excellence and national reputation of Brockport gymnastics. From championship teams to individual accolades, both honorees played pivotal roles in shaping one of Division III's most successful programs.
Their recognition by the NCGA further reinforces the legacy of Brockport gymnastics on the national stage and celebrates the lasting impact both individuals have had on the sport.
