Hi, and thanks for checking out PGA! I’m Steph, former national gymnast and nationally certified gymnastics coach, with a passion for teaching kids the values of physical literacy and sportsmanship. We are learning more and more about the significance of practicing movement throughout childhood, and all the many ways kids benefit from practicing sport. Helping kids develop a foundation of movement and physical literacy is what I’m all about. My goal is to provide a safe, fun, and inclusive platform for kids to grow their confidence, and of course, learn some awesome gymnastics skills along the way!
QUALIFICATIONS
I attended my first gymnastics class at age 3 and joined the competitive team at age 6. I lived and breathed gymnastics until the age of 14, when I entered into my first year as a national gymnast but an injury ended my career. I then went on to acquire my NCCP coaching certification and over the next several years, coached athletes from the ages of 3-14.
My other coaching experience ranges from head coaching the West Coast Wildcats All-Star junior cheerleading team and tumbling programs, and after my move to the Okanagan, volunteering as a coach at PSS.
CERTIFICATIONS
NCCP Level 1 Artistic Gymnastics
Respect In Sport
Making Ethical Decisions
OFA Level 1
Licensed Practical Nursing
PGA Practice Guidelines
PGA kids are asked to remember 3 simple guidelines
Practice Safe.
Practice Hard.
Practice Kind.
Practice Safe
Gymnastics, like many other sports, involves risk management, which is a crucial skill for healthy development, and acrobatic sports develop this skill further than many other forms of recreation. Practicing safely includes: ‘Look Before You Leap!’, only performing skills in a progressive manner (mastering a somersault prior to a handstand), checking equipment prior to using, staying home when sick, and more.
Practice Hard
Gymnastics classes are the perfect platform for teaching kids the value of hard work and perseverance. Knowing you gave something your all, didn’t give up, and ultimately mastered a skill, is not only a confidence boost, but an experience that helps kids succeed in all other areas of life. PGA is always focused on doing your best, not being the best.
Practice Kind
At PGA, kindness is mandatory.
This includes looking for opportunities to encourage other participants. See someone trying really hard? Say “Great try! You almost had it!” See someone looking left out? Ask them to be your partner!
*There is zero tolerance for anything less than respectful interactions among participants. PGA believes the removal of bullying, harassment and discrimination in sport culture is an utmost priority. We ask our parents/caregivers and participants to partner with us in setting a new standard of respect for all in sport.