Watertown Family YMCA, New York
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Photo of Coach Jessica Photo of Coach Jessica
Supervisor, Recreation Gymnastics
Fairgrounds YMCA

I have been passionate about the sport of gymnastics for as long as I can remember.  I always wanted to be part of a team and have the chance to compete, but growing up, there wasn’t a competitive gym close to home. Instead, I took classes at our local recreation center and held onto the hope that I’d one day be able to compete. When I was 11 years old, my parents were finally able to connect me with a gym about 45 minutes from our house, giving me my first real opportunity to pursue competition. I a competitive gymnast from 1986-1992, I was able to make it to Level 8 after 3 years and finished my career as a Level 8, making Regionals my senior year.   

I have over 35 years of coaching experience where I’ve coached athletes from preschool through Level 7. I have had the opportunity to coach in Georgia, North Carolina, Montana and New York. I have had the opportunity to be Gymnastics Director of 2 YMCAs, Head Girls Team Coach and Program Coordinator, Preschool Coordinator, and Level 3 & 4 Team  

My coaching philosophy centers on positive feedback and a “challenge by choice” approach. As a coach, I’m here to support and push each athlete to be their best in a constructive, encouraging way. I believe that values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility should always come before winning. Building confidence and helping athletes develop a strong sense of self-worth is at the heart of everything I do. 

I’ve also had the opportunity to work with young children and individuals with special needs, which has strengthened my ability to connect with athletes of all ages and abilities and create an inclusive, supportive environment. 
 

Certifications & Education

  • USA Gymnastics Professional Member
  • SafeSport Training
  • Safety & Risk Management Certification
  • U100 Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
  • Emotional Abuse or Tough Coaching Training
  • Skill Evaluator Certification
  • Kinder Accreditation (Preschool Certification)
  • NGA Coach Certification
  • Abuse Prevention Certification
  • CDC Heads Up (Concussion Training)
  • NCSI Background Check Approved
  • NETA Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR Certified – American Heart Association
  • B.S. in Christian Counseling (Psychology & Counseling Skills)

 

Fun Facts
Outside of the gym, I enjoy hiking, reading, music (singing and piano), and running.