OUR BEGINNING
Sisters, Jowana Harris, Leah Davis, and Freda Davis and Victor Morris had a mission in mind when they formed the Valley Park Double Dutch Team. That mission was to make jumping rope fun and showcase thier skills. Because Victor had previously jumped competitvely in New York, he was instrumental in getting this task started. Thus in February of 1985 the dynasty was born. These young people had no idea the impact that they would make on the world. Because of their dedication and spirit of determination, The "Forces" have travelled hundreds of miles thoughout the United States and Abroad and have formed many lasting friendships. The state of South Carolina and the City of Columbia have a Gold star on the Double Dutch map by the legacy and winning tradition of this team.
The team solicited the help of Joy Holman, a local parks and rec. coach who was known as a "superwoman" of sports. She had coached everything from volleyball, to basketball, track and field, and softball. So who better to approach with this idea? Joy, however did not know much about the sport of Double Dutch, and was reluctant about accepting the task of coaching them. But this group of young people were bound and determined to make this dream a reality and talked Joy into coaching them.
The team began a daily regiment of working out to get into shape and perfecting their routine to compete in their first World Competition. Two of the sisters paid the $1.00 registration. The team practiced many long hours leading up to the World Competition. The Valley Park Forces placed 5th the first time they competed, but to them it was as if they had won 1st place. To say that they were excited would not begin to describe what they felt. That small flame lit the fire for the exsplosion that would take the Double Dutch world by storm. Eleven months later, the team won 1st place and the winning continues today. Since that time, many teams have been added and are now known as The Double Dutch Forces of Martin Luther King Park.
The Forces are coached by Joy Holman - Head Coach, Michael Peterson, and Parent Volunteers.
May The "Forces" Be With You!