About the Owner
Coach Michelle has been coaching for over twenty-five years; Originally from New Hampshire and a gymnast from New Hampshire, she moved to Illinois in 1996. Her dream has always been to open her own Tumbling Gym, and wanted a gym where there was no pressure of competitions; however, she wanted a gym that she could still coach advanced Tumbling levels, or for some kids who just want to learn how do a handstand or cartwheel and take the time to break down each skill. Coaching Tumbling has always been her passion. Because of Coach Michelle’s experience working at the competitive levels for years prior to opening her own gym, when she does see talent, she lets the parents know, and it is up to the parents to decide if they want to take the competitive approach. Coach Michelle reiterates,” It’s always about the child at the end of the day and what is best for them.”
Anyone who knows Coach Michelle or has seen her in action can surely see her enthusiasm, passion and her bubbly personality that gets the kids motivated and eager to learn. A lot of Coach Michelle’s success has come from being able to look at each child as an individual and seeing his or her strengths and weakness and coach from there. Coach Michelle wanted a gym that felt like a family, where when you walk in the doors you can feel that positive energy and positive approach in the coaching styles and the positive inspirational sayings you will find all over her gym. “Not every child will be a gymnast or have advanced Tumbling skills, but every child can enjoy the sport and gain not only physical strength but also build confidence and self-esteem which are essential for any child.
“Tumbling and Gymnastics call for mental as well as physical discipline; self-confidence and self-esteem which all play a large role and not every child learns the same way. As their coach it’s my job to know when I can push them mentally and when I need to try a different approach. Coaches from the beginning shape a child’s way of learning and thinking and building self-esteem. One of the best aspects of coaching and greatest joys is to help a child achieve his or her goal and help a child build confidence and self esteem- along the way. When one of my students achieve a tumbling skill they didn’t think they could do, and I witness that smile of accomplishment, it makes everything I do mean that much more."