Andover gymnast scoops top awards at British Gymnastics ceremony

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AN Andover-based athlete and his coach have landed a top prize at the British Gymnastics Performance Partnership Awards.

Fred Teague, who is a member of Andover Gymnastics Club, has collected the Tumbling Athlete of the Year award, while his coach, Kristoff Willerton, landed the Tumbling Coach of the Year prize.

The Performance Partnership awards champion the stories of gymnasts and coaches who have showcased inspiring teamwork and partnerships, whilst making outstanding contributions to their discipline, impacting their team and leaving a lasting impression on our sport.

Talking about the 2026 awards Dave Hart, Performance Director at British Gymnastics said: “We have so many wonderful examples of high-performance gymnasts, coaches and clubs working together to help us achieve incredible results and inspiring moments. We have an international presence as GBR because of our high-performance community, and I feel privileged to be part of seeing the hard work come together on a world-stage.

“The 2026 award winners are truly deserving of the accolade, and it is brilliant to see them achieve further success through this recognition. Whilst acknowledging this, I want to extend the celebration to those who have been part of the journey for these teams and individuals who don't necessarily have a light shone on all their hard work and dedication but should feel just as much a part of the success. It takes our community of people to produce our performances - thank you all for what you do.”

Kristoff Willerton at the European Championships (Image: Simone Ferraro)

As one of the newer members of the senior Great Britain tumbling team, Fred has gone from strength to strength. After contributing to a team medal at the 2023 World Championships, he has continued to build confidence and consistency at the highest level of international competition.

In 2025, Fred achieved major individual milestones, reaching the final at the World Championships and securing a well-earned bronze medal at the World Games. These results confirmed his progression into a reliable senior performer and a genuine medal contender on the global stage.
Beyond competition results, Fred has embraced his role as a positive role model within the tumbling community, inspiring younger gymnasts through his attitude, professionalism, and commitment.
Congratulations also go to Kristof Willerton, whose extensive experience and personal success have been invaluable in guiding Fred’s development. Kristof’s knowledge, leadership and understanding of high-performance competition have been incredible.

“Last year at the World Games, Freddie achieved one of his biggest goals, which he set as an aspiring kid who dreamt big, achieving his first senior world individual medal and taking his place in British tumbling history,” said Kristof.

“Freddie has always been an extremely passionate gymnast, and his dedication to the sport has been inspiring for so many at the club, so it is amazing to see his impact extend to others across the country.

“It has been a privilege to be a part of his journey, and to see him overcome many challenges along the road and grasp these opportunities is something that he can be immensely proud of to take into his future, both in and out of the sport. We are all very proud of the role model he continues to be.”

The 2026 British Gymnastics Awards recognise exceptional people and organisations that help keep gymnastics enjoyable, safe, and open to everyone, making a positive contribution to individuals, local communities, and wider society. Visit British Gymnastics Awards for more information.

By Jack Parsons

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