Holly Hamblen

Owner and Team Director

Being the daughter of a Methodist minister, Holly moved all around the state of West Virginia as a child. Competitive gymnastics and school cheerleading remained a constant amidst all the moving. After graduating from Buchanan Upshur High School, Holly enrolled at Slippery Rock University where she walked onto their gymnastics team. Her success and positive energy allowed her to be named team captain during her Junior and Senior Seasons. Her passion for children led her to earn a B.S. in Special/Elementary Education. She completed her student teaching in Munich, Germany. Upon returning to the states, she became a special education teacher in Rockbridge and Chesterfield County until she decided to become a domestic engineer (stay-at-home-mom). Her passion for education and children collided once again in the fall of 2003. She and Fletcher dreamed of opening a family business. After sifting through potential ideas (namely a moving company or restaurant), they decided to open the doors here at River City in 2004. Holly has found great success in many facets here at River City. The “Parent and Pups” program began as her personal project. Her goal aimed to give parents the tools that she used when raising her four children. The classes are riddled with personal anecdotes of the triumphs and tribulations of parenthood. While her parent and pup classes became an integral part to River City, she built a competitive program from the ground up. She coached levels 8, 9, and 10 for numerous years. Multiple River City athletes have competed at J.O. Nationals against the best gymnasts in the country. Holly truly loves what has become of River City.

Perspective at RCYF:

"I love coaching the little ones. For most of our parent and pups, our program may be the first introduction to a classroom structure. Teaching children that there is structure with a person in charge sets a child up for success in any area of their life. My goal is to better prepare these kids for the riggers of preschool and beyond. Plus, I love to play with them and then send them home. It’s the best part of my job!”

Personal Info:

Holly and Fletcher have been married for over 30 years. Their four children: Tyler (32), Travis (31), Madison (28), and Tucker (26) all work at River City. Outside the gym, Holly loves crafting and going to the movies. She makes necklaces that she sells at the front desk! The inspiration for the highlighter wall colors lies within Holly. You should see her house! Holly really enjoys traveling and camping. She is always trying to squeeze in an overnight trip to the mountains, beach, or with family.