The purpose of a coach

***This was taken from my instagram post a couple of days ago***

Some have wondered why I own a business, it’s for moments like this! This is what sports should be about - building up a child’s self esteem.

I love gymnastics, always have and always will. As I look back in my career as a gymnast, it’s the life lessons that have stuck with me.

My body can’t do any of the skills I once learned. I don’t remember the scores I once had.

But I do remember being taught!

I remember my coach telling me how if she ever could have had children she would have wanted them to be like me.

I remember her pushing me to my limits to get me to realize that I could do more then I believed in myself.

I remember sacrificing some of the normal activities of other kids my age to be at practices or competitions.

I remember learning the culture of other countries as I traveled around the world to compete.

This is what this athlete will remember for years to come - that her coach cared enough about helping her in a moment when she felt unsure and insecure, and not about the score.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m competitive and I think the athletes can still win.

But it is our job to make sure it isn’t at the detriment of the athlete. Because that medal won’t mean anything later in life if the child doesn’t feel valued as an athlete.

This picture grounds me. It reminds me of what my purpose and the purpose of my gym is all about.

We can help these young kids learn confidence in themselves! We can help prepare them for their future! We can help them become the leaders of tomorrow.

***This was taken from my instagram post a couple of days ago***