ABOUT PREMIER
At Premier Gymnastics Academy we will channel each child’s natural energy and enthusiasm for movement into a fun and exciting athletic experience. We have classes for everyone, from the true beginner to the most demanding elite gymnast. We are committed to providing quality gymnastics instruction while giving every child a feeling of continued success.
Our gymnastics programs are year round and we are always taking registration.
OUR COACHES & STAFF
Coaches at Premier Gymnastics Academy have been recruited for their knowledge of gymnastics, years of experience and most importantly their rapport with children. Many of our coaches are nationally known; former collegiate gymnasts who have achieved the highest level safety certification and professional accreditation.
Mark
Owner/Director
Coach Mark has more than 40 years of experience in gymnastics as both a competitor and coach. He competed
…
collegiately at Iowa State University, where he became a two-time NCAA Champion on rings. His accomplishments as a gymnast led to his induction into the Iowa State Hall of Fame.
Before opening Premier Gymnastics Academy in 1995, Mark coached at the University of Wisconsin. Since founding Premier, he has dedicated his career to helping gymnasts of all ages reach their potential. Throughout his coaching career, Mark has coached numerous State and National Champions, as well as many gymnasts who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level.
Mark’s experience extends beyond coaching and competition. He served as a USAG judge for many years, giving him a well-rounded understanding of gymnastics from an athlete, coach, and judging perspective.
Mark is CPR Certified and SafeSport Certified and remains passionate about developing athletes, building confidence, and helping gymnasts achieve their goals both inside and outside the gym.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
• Men’s Meet Director
Esther
General Manager
Coach Esther began her gymnastics coaching career in 1989 and has dedicated more than three decades to the sport she loves. …From 1993–2007, she managed a gymnastics school while coaching competitive compulsory and optional girls’ programs.
Throughout her coaching career, Esther has had the privilege of coaching numerous champions and helping countless gymnasts develop their skills, confidence, and passion for gymnastics. Her extensive experience has given her a deep understanding of both athlete development and the importance of creating a positive, encouraging environment for young athletes.
In 2013, Esther joined Premier Gymnastics Academy, bringing with her years of experience in coaching, program management, and athlete development. She continues to play an integral role in the Premier Gymnastics Academy team and is passionate about helping gymnasts learn, grow, build confidence, and reach their individual goals both in and out of the gym.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
• Women’s and Men’s Meet Director
Gabi
Girls Competitive Team Coach
Coach Gabi has been a part of Premier Gymnastics Academy for more than 15 years. He was a collegiate gymnast at the University of Illinois …
Chicago (UIC), bringing valuable firsthand experience as a competitive athlete to his coaching.
Gabi has been coaching competitive girls gymnastics for over 15 years, with much of his coaching career at Premier. His experience as both a collegiate gymnast and longtime coach gives him a strong understanding of the dedication, discipline, and commitment required to succeed in competitive gymnastics.
Gabi is passionate about helping gymnasts develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset while supporting each athlete throughout their gymnastics journey. He takes pride in helping gymnasts reach their individual goals and potential.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
Denise
Preschool Recreational Coach
Coach Denise brings more than 30 years of gymnastics coaching experience to Premier Gymnastics Academy. She began coaching…
gymnastics in 1993 and has dedicated her career to helping athletes develop their skills, confidence, and love for the sport.
Denise was a collegiate gymnast and later became an All-American powerlifter at Western Illinois University (WIU). Her diverse athletic background gives her a unique understanding of strength, conditioning, discipline, and athletic development.
Denise holds a degree in Recreation Program Administration with an emphasis in coaching gymnastics. She has also shared her passion for gymnastics through her work with the Glen Ellyn Park District.
With decades of experience both as an athlete and coach, Denise enjoys creating a positive and encouraging environment where recreational gymnasts can learn, grow, and have fun.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
Edgar
Recreational, Developmental Coach & Management
Edgar has been a valued member of the Premier Gymnastics Academy team since 1996. Throughout his many …
he has played an important role in supporting the gym, its staff, and its families.
Edgar is a former girls competitive team coach, working with Levels 3–10. Throughout his coaching career, he has coached numerous award-winning gymnasts and helped athletes develop the skills, confidence, and dedication needed to succeed in competitive gymnastics.
Edgar has also served as Camp Director at Lake Owen Gymnastics Camp, bringing extensive experience in gymnastics programming, leadership, and athlete safety. He is Safety and Risk Management Certified, SafeSport Certified, and CPR Certified.
Outside of the gym, Edgar is a proud father of three and grandfather of two. He enjoys running marathons and brings the same dedication and commitment to his work at Premier that he brings to his athletic pursuits.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
Jaimee
Administrative Coordinator
Jaimee has been a part of the Premier Gymnastics Academy family for many years, beginning as a competitive gymnast at …
Premier. After growing up in the program, she began coaching at Premier in 2015, giving back to the gym that played such an important role in her own gymnastics journey.
Today, Jaimee enjoys bringing her experience and knowledge of Premier to the front desk, where she helps families, answers questions, and assists customers with their needs. Her firsthand experience as a Premier gymnast and coach gives her a unique understanding of our programs and the families we serve.
Jaimee loves being part of the Premier team and enjoys helping make every family’s experience at the gym a positive one.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
Bardha
Girls Recreational Coach
Coach Bardha brings a wealth of international gymnastics experience to Premier Gymnastics Academy. She was a member of the…
National Gymnastics Team of Albania, giving her firsthand experience at a high level of competitive gymnastics.
Bardha has seven years of coaching experience in the United States and is also a USAG Professional Judge for Levels 4, 5, 7, and 8. Her experience as both an athlete, coach, and judge gives her a well-rounded understanding of gymnastics and athlete development.
Bardha is passionate about helping young gymnasts learn new skills, build confidence, and develop a love for the sport in a positive and encouraging environment.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
Maria
Office & Former Competitive Team Coach
Maria has been a part of the Premier Gymnastics Academy family for many years, beginning as a competitive gymnast at …
Premier. Her experience as an athlete has given her a strong understanding of the sport and the dedication it takes to succeed.
Maria coached Premier’s Xcel team for six seasons before expanding her coaching experience in 2020 to work with the compulsory and optional girls teams. In addition to coaching, Maria also has experience with floor choreography, helping gymnasts develop creative and engaging routines that showcase their individual strengths.
Today, Maria is a valued member of the Premier office team, where she enjoys helping our gymnasts and families while continuing to be involved in the sport she loves.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Kylie B
Girls High School Coach
Coach Kylie brings a diverse background in athletics, education, and coaching to Premier Gymnastics Academy. She has 10 years …
of experience coaching gymnastics and currently serves as an Assistant Coach for the Downers Grove High Schools Co-op Girls Gymnastics Team.
Kylie was a member of the Bowling Green State University Dive Team and holds a bachelor’s degree in biology as well as a master’s degree in biomedical sciences. Her background as a collegiate athlete and educator gives her a unique perspective on athletic development, discipline, and goal setting.
Kylie is an IHSA Certified Gymnastics Judge and has experience cutting floor music and creating choreography for gymnastics routines. She is also a Certified EMT, bringing valuable knowledge of safety and athlete well-being to her coaching.
Outside of gymnastics, Kylie competes in Olympic weightlifting, continuing her passion for athletics and strength training.
Kylie enjoys helping gymnasts develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset while encouraging them to reach their full potential.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Eliza
Eliza Girls Competitive Team
Coach Eliza brings decades of gymnastics experience as both a competitive athlete and coach. Born in Romania, Eliza began gymnastics …
at the age of four and went on to become a National and International Champion.
Eliza began her coaching career in Romania in 1995, working with competitive girls gymnastics. In 1998, she moved to the United States and continued coaching both compulsory and optional levels.
Eliza joined Premier Gymnastics Academy in 2021 and has continued to share her extensive knowledge and experience with our competitive girls team. Her background as a champion and longtime coach gives her a unique understanding of the dedication, discipline, and commitment required to succeed in gymnastics.
Eliza is passionate about helping gymnasts reach their potential while developing strong skills, confidence, and a lasting love for the sport.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Beth
Recreational Coach
Beth was a competitive gymnast for the Palisades-Malibu YMCA.
Graduated from UCLA with a BA in Sociology. Beth has been coaching…
gymnastics for over 40 years.
CPR certified.
Safe Sport certified.

Max
Boys Team Coach & Management
Coach Max has been part of the Premier Gymnastics Academy family since the age of two, beginning his gymnastics …
journey at Premier. His years as a competitive gymnast led to an impressive collegiate career and a deep understanding of the sport.
Max was a Junior National Champion on still rings and went on to compete for the University of Illinois Men’s Gymnastics Team from 2017–2021. During his collegiate career, he won several vault titles and was a member of the 2018 Big Ten Championship-winning team.
After graduating from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in Business Entrepreneurship, Max continued his passion for gymnastics through coaching. He coached at CGA from 2021–2022 and now enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with Premier’s boys team and recreational gymnasts.
Max is also a certified men’s gymnastics judge, giving him valuable insight into both the technical and competitive aspects of the sport. He is passionate about helping gymnasts develop their skills, confidence, and love for gymnastics.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Devin
Boys Team Coach
Coach Devin has been coaching boys competitive gymnastics since 2002 and brings more than two decades of experience to …Premier Gymnastics Academy. Throughout his coaching career, Devin has coached numerous State, Regional, and National Champions, as well as many gymnasts who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level.
Devin is also a member of the Region 5 coaching staff and has accompanied Region 5 gymnasts to various training camps, national competitions, and international events. His extensive experience at both the club and regional levels gives him a strong understanding of the dedication and commitment required to succeed in competitive gymnastics.
Outside of gymnastics, Devin graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Chemical Engineering and works for a local energy research company.
Devin is passionate about helping young athletes reach their potential both in and out of the gym, while preparing them for success at every stage of their gymnastics journey.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Kristyn
Girls High School Coach
Began gymnastics at 7 years old.
Coach Kristyn began her gymnastics journey at the age of seven and went on to compete
…
both USAG and high school gymnastics at Willowbrook High School. Her experience as a competitive gymnast sparked a lifelong passion for the sport and coaching.
In 2007, Kristyn became the Head Coach of the Downers Grove South Girls Gymnastics Team, where she continues to lead and develop high school athletes. She also teaches Social Studies at Downers Grove South, combining her passion for education with her commitment to athletics.
Kristyn is actively involved in the Illinois high school gymnastics community and currently serves as President of the Illinois High School Girls Gymnastics Coaches Association. She is also an IHSA official.
Her coaching accomplishments have been recognized at both the state and national levels. Kristyn was named the 2021 IHSA Coach of the Year, NFHS Coach of the Year, and 2022 IHSGGCA Coach of the Year.
Kristyn is passionate about helping student-athletes grow both as gymnasts and as individuals, while encouraging them to achieve their goals through hard work, dedication, and teamwork.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education

Jordan
Girls Competitive Team Coach
Coach Jordan is originally from Chickasha, Oklahoma, and brings an impressive background as a high-level competitive gymnast …
to Premier Gymnastics Academy.
Jordan was a member of the 2016–2017 USA Junior National Team and went on to compete as a varsity athlete for the University of Illinois Men’s Gymnastics Team from 2018–2022. During his collegiate career, he was a member of the 2018 Big Ten Championship-winning team and earned individual event titles in the all-around, rings, and high bar while competing for the Illini.
Jordan graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management. He now brings his extensive experience as a competitive gymnast to coaching, helping athletes develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset.
Jordan is passionate about sharing his knowledge of gymnastics and helping each athlete reach their individual potential.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified
.

Tyler
Boys Team Coach
Coach Tyler began gymnastics at the age of 4 at Premier Gymnastics Academy and has been a member of Premier’s competitive boys …team since the age of 8. His many years of training and competition at Premier have given him extensive firsthand experience in the sport.
Tyler is a 5-time National Qualifier and continues to train as part of Premier’s Elite training program. His dedication to gymnastics and continued commitment to his own development make him a great role model for younger athletes.
Tyler began coaching at Premier at the age of 16 and now works with the boys competitive team. As both a longtime Premier athlete and coach, Tyler brings a strong understanding of the dedication, discipline, and hard work required to succeed in competitive gymnastics.
Tyler enjoys sharing his experience with the next generation of gymnasts and helping athletes develop their skills, confidence, and competitive mindset.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Todd
Recreational coach
Coach Todd began his gymnastics coaching career in 1987 and brings nearly four decades of experience to Premier Gymnastics Academy. … Throughout his career, he has coached a wide variety of programs, including preschool, boys and girls recreational gymnastics, tumbling, and competitive gymnastics.
Todd has coached Men’s and Women’s competitive gymnastics, as well as competitive trampoline programs including Double Mini and Power Tumbling. He has also coached competitive dance acro and cheerleading tumbling, giving him a diverse background across many areas of gymnastics and movement.
Throughout his career, Todd has worked with numerous league and competitive programs through organizations including the YMCA, Park Districts, and Turners. His extensive experience has allowed him to work with athletes of all ages and skill levels.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Ariana
Preschool Coach
Ariana is a dedicated student and athlete who brings passion, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to excellence to … everything she does. She is hardworking, dependable, and committed to giving her best both in the classroom and in all areas of her life.
Outside of academics and athletics, Ariana is actively involved in her community through volunteering. In her free time, she enjoys playing guitar, reading, and learning new things. Ariana is excited to share her positive attitude, dedication, and love of learning with the Premier Gymnastics Academy community.

Nathanial
Boys & Girls Recreational Coach
Coach Nathaniel began his gymnastics career as a freshman at Downers Grove North High School.… Through hard work and dedication, he progressed to the Varsity level and competed at the state meet, placing on both high bar and parallel bars during his senior year.
After graduating high school, Nathaniel joined the coaching staff at Premier Gymnastics Academy and has found a passion for working with our recreational gymnasts. He enjoys creating a fun and positive environment where kids can learn new skills, build confidence, and look forward to coming to gymnastics each week.
Nathaniel takes pride in being a positive influence both in and out of the gym and loves nothing more than making our gymnasts and their families smile!
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education

Matt
Boys Team Coach, Recreational Coach & Management
Coach Matt grew up at Premier Gymnastics Academy, beginning gymnastics at the age of 3 and training at Premier through… the age of 18. His years as a Premier athlete gave him a strong foundation in the sport and a firsthand understanding of the dedication and commitment required to succeed in gymnastics.
Matt continued his competitive gymnastics career at the collegiate level as a member of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Men’s Gymnastics Team from 2014–2018. He has also developed extensive experience as a nationally ranked men’s gymnastics judge.
After college, Matt continued sharing his passion for gymnastics while working at the U.S. Gymnastics Development Center in New Jersey. His experience as a competitive gymnast, coach, and judge gives him a well-rounded perspective on the sport.
Matt enjoys helping young athletes grow both as gymnasts and as individuals. He is passionate about being a positive influence in their lives while helping them develop their skills, confidence, and love for gymnastics.

Ethan
Boys & Girls Recreational Coach, Boys Team Coach
Coach Ethan began gymnastics at the age of 6 and continued training and competing for …nearly two decades, through the age of 24. His extensive experience as both a gymnast and coach gives him a unique perspective and a strong understanding of the sport.
Ethan competed in USAG Men’s Gymnastics through Level 9 and qualified for the 2010 Junior Olympic National Qualifier. He went on to compete at the high school level with the Wheaton Co-Op Boys Gymnastics Team, where his team earned three state championships. Ethan was also the 2014 Illinois State Champion on pommel horse.
After high school, Ethan continued his gymnastics career at the collegiate level, competing for the University of Illinois Chicago (NCAA Division I) and later with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Flippin’ Illini.
Ethan has coached both recreational and competitive boys gymnastics, as well as boys and girls at the high school level. He also has one year of experience as a gymnastics judge.
With years of experience as a competitor, coach, and judge, Ethan brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping gymnasts develop their skills, confidence, and love for the sport.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Safety & Risk Management
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education

Rebecca
Front Desk
Rebecca began her gymnastics coaching career in 1996, working with preschool and school-age recreational…gymnasts, as well as competitive girls at both the compulsory and optional levels.
She joined Premier Gymnastics Academy in 2021 as a Recreational Coach and member of the office staff. Rebecca also holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy and brings a unique combination of gymnastics coaching experience and professional knowledge of child development to her work with students.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Grace
Front Desk
Grace is a proud mother of four, all of whom have been part of the Premier Gymnastics Academy family. Two of her daughters … competed through Level 9, giving her a deep appreciation for the sport and the Premier experience. With many wonderful memories of Premier and a lifelong love of gymnastics, Grace returned to join the front desk team, where she enjoys supporting gymnasts and their families.

Kellen
Boys & Girls Recreational Coach
Coach Kellen has been a part of Premier Gymnastics Academy for 16 years, beginning his gymnastics journey at just … two years old in the Parent-Tot program. After growing up training and competing at Premier, Kellen is now proud to give back to the gym that has been such an important part of his life by sharing his passion for gymnastics with the next generation.
Kellen has been coaching at Premier for the past three years while continuing his own career as a competitive gymnast and preparing for college gymnastics. As a three-time national qualifier, he brings firsthand experience and a strong understanding of the dedication, discipline, and perseverance required to succeed in the sport.
Having experienced nearly every stage of the Premier journey himself, Kellen understands the excitement and challenges that come with learning gymnastics. He is passionate about helping young gymnasts develop their skills, build confidence, and most importantly, discover a lasting love for the sport.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education

Alyssa
Developmental & Recreational Coach
Coach Alyssa believes gymnastics should be taught in a safe, fun, and welcoming … environment where athletes can grow through hard work, teamwork, and compassion.
Alyssa began dancing at the age of two and started gymnastics at four. She competed in artistic gymnastics from ages 7–13 before transitioning to competitive power tumbling (T&T) from ages 14–19. Her extensive experience as an athlete has given her a strong understanding of the dedication, discipline, and perseverance that gymnastics requires.
Alyssa began coaching recreational gymnastics in 2022 and expanded her coaching experience in 2024 to include Developmental, Xcel, and competitive power tumbling. She currently coaches both Premier Gymnastics Academy’s Developmental and Recreational programs.
Alyssa is USTA Certified and SafeSport Certified. She is passionate about helping each gymnast build their skills and confidence while creating a positive environment where they can learn, work hard, and enjoy the sport.
USA Gymnastics Credentials
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified

Kylie S
Girls Recreational Coach
Coach Kylie is a former competitive gymnast who spent seven years training and competing on the competitive girls team at … Premier Gymnastics Academy. Having grown up at Premier, she is excited to now give back to the gym by sharing her experience and passion for gymnastics with the next generation.
Kylie is currently studying Nursing at College of DuPage and brings her caring and encouraging personality into her coaching. She is passionate about helping children learn new skills, grow in confidence, and develop a love for gymnastics in a positive and supportive environment.
• USA Gymnastics Background Check
• USA Gymnastics SafeSport Training
• Tough Coaching / Emotional Abuse Training
• Fundamentals of Gymnastics Instruction
• Concussion Education
• CPR Certified