Sandy Springs Rolls Out Training Program For Aspiring Gymnastics Coaches

SANDY SPRINGS, GA -- Much like counselor-in-training programs that bridge camper to a full-fledged counselor, the city of Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks Department wants to implement a similar program for high school-aged gymnastics enthusiasts.

Drawing on the popularity of the sport, the Sandy Springs Gymnastics Center is expanding its programming to offer a Coach-in-Training (CIT) program for aspiring gymnastics coaches ages 15 years and older.

The six-month program will involve attendance in training sessions and well as time spent weekly shadowing gymnastics coaches and their classes.

CIT’s will participate in training sessions on First Aid and CPR, leadership, child development, conflict resolution, teaching and coaching children with special needs, health and safety, event specific gymnastics progressions and spotting techniques, gym policies and staff responsibilities.

“The goal of the CIT program is to provide high school students, who have an interest in coaching or gymnastics, with a pathway to gain the experience and training needed to move into an instructor role within Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks programming,” said Johanna Godleski, the gymnastics coordinator for the city who will also oversee the CIT program.

Godleski caught the gymnastics bug at an early age and has competed in both rhythmic and artistic gymnastics. She is the recipient of more than 30 Georgia state championship medals in rhythmic gymnastics and was a member of the USA National Team.

She also has more than 15 years of experience in coaching all ages and types of gymnastics.

The CIT program is a non-paid internship, but volunteer hours CITs spend in the program are eligible to meet community service hours requirements and could make for a great college application essay.

Interested candidates should contact the gymnastics coordinator at (770) 206-2037 or jgodleski@sandyspringsga.gov.

---

Image via Shutterstock