What is Sokol St. Louis?

Sokol is an organization dedicated to the physical, mental and cultural advancement of its members, and the children who attend its gymnasiums. Sokol St. Louis is one unit in the National and International network of Sokol organizations.

Sokol was founded in Prague, Bohemia (Czech Republic) in 1862. The first unit in America was formed in St. Louis, MO in 1865. Shortly thereafter, units were established in various other cities in the U.S. “American Sokol” units in the U.S. are divided into six Districts, all of which are members of the ASO (American Sokol Organization) headquartered in the Chicago area. Units in the Czech Republic are affiliated with COS (Czech Organization Sokol). Sokol organizations are also active in other countries, and together with ASO and COS are members of the World Federation of Sokols.

Slets (gatherings of Sokols) are held each year in Districts and every four years on a National level. Events at Slets include gymnastic & sport competitions, mass calisthenic drills, award presentations, and the opportunity to mingle with Sokols from other units. Activities in the local gymnasiums include warm up exercises, marching, mass calisthenics, training on gymnastic apparatus, volleyball, aerobics, rhythmics, basketball, folk dancing, and other sports. Classes are held for tots, boys & girls, teens, and adults. Additional activities include senior citizen clubs, drama clubs, membership meetings, and numerous social gatherings.

In St. Louis, members meet at the American Czech Educational Center and are also privileged to participate in activities at Sokol Camp situated in Imperial, MO. The camp grounds of 30 acres include a swimming pool, large lodge, refreshment area, ballfields, children’s playground, and caretaker’s cottage. Each year children spend two weeks at camp under the supervision of counselors.

Sokol is based upon the theory that physically fit, mentally alert and culturally well-developed citizens can form a healthy, strong nation.

Click here for pictures from the American Sokol Organization (ASO) National Camp in 2006 at our Sokol St. Louis Camp located in Imperial Missouri.

For information on how to become a member of Sokol St. Louis send a note to: