Objects of Substance - Eliza Gower leotard

Detail of the 2002 leotard

When reading magazine reports from the seasons through the years, the Grammar cheer squad, team spirit, and the dedication of the athletes are referenced consistently. The appeal of Rhythmic Gymnastics is described as “lying in elegant combining of apparatus handling, dance and flexibility” (BGGS magazine, 1993). However, the need for team cohesion and the support from the School community has long been an element the teams have appreciated and from which they drew confidence. This support Eliza found even extended to her international competitions, particularly at the Goodwill Games in 2001. Eliza recalls: They were held in Brisbane. It was a highly televised and celebrated event, it was so rare for me to compete in such a high-profile competition in my hometown (I was usually the unknown Australian in a far off European country) I finished my last routine to roaring applause, and as I awaited my score I heard something familiar over the din, it was the Grammar war cry. I looked up and there were so many girls in the stands. It still makes me cry to think of it! (Gower 2024)