Meet the Staff

Tarra Dziadkowiec

Cosmic Café Manager, Administrative Professional: November 2009

Every since I was old enough to start babysitting other kids, I did. I loved it! From family, to family friends, they always knew who to call if they even needed a babysitter. I put my babysitting experience to good use by working at a daycare center instructing 4 year olds. I’m fortunate enough now to have two wonderful sons that I get to spend time with. We play outside and I teach them the sports I enjoy playing, like volleyball. I play about two to three times a week. A fun fact about me is that my husband and I met when I was 12 years old! Eleven years later we were married, and we’re still going strong!

I would like children here to learn self-respect, build confidence, and use teamwork all while doing the sport they enjoy.

Vinson Villena

Director of Stellar Martial Arts: 2009

I am a certified International Master in Kukkiwon Tae Kwon Do. As a former member of the Phillipine National Team, I competed in various national and world class level tournaments. I’ve been practicing Tae Kwon Do for more than twenty years, with fifteen years experience in teaching the art. I’m really interested in computer graphics, and I used to make TV commercials and do 3D animation video editing. One commercial I did included my own pictures, but you couldn’t notice it unless you really looked closely.

I want my students to develop respect, discipline, focus, confidence, and self-esteem. Once they’ve learned these concepts, I hope they carry over into the home and school as well.

Annie Viatle

Director of Special Events: June 2009

I love working with and around children. During high school and college I spent a lot of time working with children of all ages. I volunteered with schools, day cares, camps, and after school programs. I also owned my own private swimming lesson business where I taught 3-6 yr olds.

Some of the things I enjoy outside of Flying High are: Family, Iowa Hawkeyes, Bruce Springsteen, sports, fitness, our family farm in Galena, water-skiing, grilling, and crafts. Also, my mom has a few recipes I could eat every day for the rest of my life and they are: cheesecake, chicken divon, shrimp dip, corned beef and cabbage, slush drink, and Sicilian pizza!

What I want our children to learn here:
I want all children to learn their manners and how to respect others as they want to be respected. I want every child to know they are a star and they can do anything they set their mind to

Some interesting things about me:
I am addicted to sushi. If I could go to the Sushi House every day of my life, I WOULD and kind of already do.
I am Bruce Springsteen’s #1 fan.
I am in an adult kickball league in Oak Park during the summer and fall and it’s awesome!
I also, live with my sister, work with my sister, and hang out with my sister regularly and we usually only fight when we get irritated that we haven’t spent enough time together!

Jackie Udstuen

Office Manager: April 2007

Throughout my life I have taken dance classes from age 5-18 in tap, ballet, jazz, modern, and pom. I have been a nanny and have babysat since the age of 14. I have coached cheerleading and dance squads.

I enjoy all outdoor activities, dancing, and spending time with my family and friends.

My goal is to have every child that walks through Flying High’s doors to attain a high level of self confidence and determination, and leave with a smile on their faces everyday.

I am a licensed Esthetician (skin care specialist) and love to country line dance ☺.

Kacey Childs

November 2007

I was a Level 10/Elite gymnast, until I moved on to Track when I was 15, have been coaching ever since! Prior to moving to Chicago in 2007, was coaching Levels 4-10 at Style Gymnastics in MD. Have enjoyed coaching kids of all ranges from pre-school, cheerleaders, Rec and Girls competitive Team. Gymnastics has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember and I can’t imagine doing anything else.

I love to snowboard, attend sporting events (favorite is baseball), travel…I’m a bit of an adventure-seeker and love trying anything new! A few of my adventures include bungee jumping, cliff diving in Mexico and sky diving!

I strive for my gymnasts to learn self confidence, self motivation, inner strength and most importantly how good it feels to overcome struggles (inside AND outside of the gym) which ultimately help them arrive at the goals they have set for themselves.

I’m an expert baton twirler!

Shante' Roberts

Galaxy's Recreational and Competitive Cheer and Dance Director: May 2008

I started dancing and cheering when I was in the third grade. Even though my father wanted me to play basketball and tennis… Mom won and I become a studio trained dancer. I graduated from the University of Arkansas where I was a member of the Pom/Dance Team. I moved to Chicago in 2006 to become a Marketing Coordinator fir EBONY Magazine. That's when I attended a tryout for the Chicago Luvabulls. I made the team and danced for 3 seasons loving every minute of it!

I am currently the Varsity Poms coach at Lyons Township High School in Lagrange and I dance every summer for Endure Productions, Co.

I want my children to learn that behind every great dancer, gymnast, cheerleader, etc., there is a very humble, hardworking and passionate person. Also, I want them to love what they do and NEVER give up because it gets too hard.

If my mother wasn't nicknamed "boss lady", I would have trained to be a Nascar driver! (Shh... don't tell her!)

Shannon Sullivan

June 2008

I am an English major with teacher certification at Eastern Illinois University. I am in my last semester, and am really looking forward to student teaching in the spring. Also, I spent some time in a 6th grade classroom last spring, and absolutely loved it!

Going along with the English major, I really like to read in my free time. I also like to watch movies, camp, and have intense board game competitions with my friends. I am a big karaoke enthusiast, and my song of choice is “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr. I, along with Kat, am also a member of an elite cycling group called the 42’s.

I want my children to learn to take ownership in their learning. I would like to encourage my children to willingly challenge themselves and strive to do their best. Most importantly, I want my children to be excited to learn and try new things, and to understand that making mistakes is a really important part of the learning process. Anyone who is wiling to work hard and try his or her best is a winner in my book.

I have an excellent memory. I have also have GREAT dance moves. I have been told that I do a really mean Ellen DeGeneres table dance.

Gina Rizzo

September 2008

Gymnast for 7 years[level 8], Cheerleader for 7 years. Coached tots and beginner gymnastics at my old gym, also coached a junior high level all-star cheerleading team.

I enjoy reading, going out with friends, playing with my dog, and good food.

I would like the children I coach to learn determination and a good work ethic. These things will help them ucceed in both gymnastics as well as in life.

I attended the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, and was an active member of Delta Zeta Sorority.

Arline Kossman

Cosmic Café Staff: February 2010

I enjoy serving the public! It makes my day to see the children’s smiling faces, and I always want to keep them happy and safe. When I’m out and about I like to bowl or see a movie. You can also find me dancing or playing bingo!

I want the kids to learn honesty and responsibility. I love it when I see them listening to their parents and enjoying life in a fun and safe way.

Bojana Terzic

Competitive and Recreational Gymnastics Coach, Gymnastics Floor Routine Choreographer: April 2002

I have ten years of experience in coaching all levels of gymnastics. For the last eight years, I’ve been working as a choreographer as well. I’ve even brought gymnasts to Nationals in Serbia and America! My passion for gymnastics goes back as far as I can remember. I was on the Serbian National team, and I was a national champion in 1992, 1993, and 1996! From gymnastics to dancing to swimming to basketball, I love all sports.

I love to spend time with my family in Serbia. I am married and I have a gorgeous son named Milos. There was a time when I used to work on television as a reporter!

I want my gymnasts to learn that it is not important how many times you fall, but how many times you stand up.

Danielle Wink

Martial Arts Instructor: June 2009

My experience with children comes from all the babysitting I’ve done. I’ve been happy to spend time with the children I watch, and now with the students here at Flying High! In my free time, I love to get in a good run or see a great concert. Those who know me would tell you that I love to cook (and eat of course!).

I want the Flying High students to know that becoming a black belt takes effort in and out of the classroom. If something is not possible today, try again tomorrow!

Emanuel Moguel

Gymnastics Coach: January 2010

I have 32 years experience in coaching all levels of gymnastics. I am a former gymnast myself, and I like to stay active. I run outdoors, I swim, and I bike. In my spare time, I like to make songs or catch a concert. I pray for my beloved ones, friends, and people that have problems. I’m a volunteer at my church as a reader on Sundays and also for the SWOP organization. You could say that I just enjoy socializing with others in any setting.

I want the gymnasts here to build a good self-esteem. They need to have determination and think that everything they are doing is for a reason. I hope they realize that a good attitude will make them a better human being and a bad attitude will only cause damage.

Joseph Rodey

Events, Party Planet and Cosmic Café Staff: September 2009

I have been an uncle since I was three years old, so I’ve had a huge role in raising my nephews and nieces. Before coming to Flying High, I worked at a Montessori preschool for a year, and I always enjoyed interacting with the children. I have been known as a “musical theatre guy”, who also plays guitar, bass, and all sorts of percussion. I sing a lot. My band actually has a CD on Itunes. We’re called Universal Drift, if anyone is interested.

You’d be pretty surprised to know that I’ve had brain surgery before. I have a ventricular shunt, which is a tube that regulates the fluid in the right ventricle in my head. I had something called hydrocephalus, which was the cause of the fluid build up. I’m doing much better now!

I want the children to learn respect and perseverance, as well as the fact that hard work can be fun. I try to exemplify this to the kids who come to our open gym and birthday parties.

Kalen Iffert

Gymnastics Instructor: November 2008

My background with children comes from babysitting lots of family friends’ kids. I’m currently a gymnast here, but outside of Flying High I am a part of LT Cheerleading and Track. I also like reading and hanging out with my best friends in downtown LaGrange.

Some things that I will teach my children are the importance of life skills, like determination, perseverance, and confidence.

Katie Carling

Competitive Gymnastics Team Coach: August 2009

I’m currently a gymnast here at Flying High, and I coach Level 4 and 5. When I’m not at the gym, I’m playing my guitar. I’ve been playing for five years now! I work hard to keep up with my academics and athletics too. At my old school, I was president of National Junior Honor Society and a two-time P.E. record holder.

I want the gymnasts here to learn team work, respect (with each other and themselves), and discipline. These qualities will take them far!

Patty Luevano

Gymnastics Coach, Party Planet and Events Staff: October 2008

I’ve been teaching at Flying High for the past two years! It’s great that I get to teach so many kids here, from babies to team. I’ve got two awesome nephews, one who is mildly autistic, and I enjoy spending time with them. My free time is spent running, reading, and hanging out with my friends to catch a movie. I’m currently studying to become a nurse, and I volunteer at a hospital. I really love animals too!

I want my students to always remember that no matter what, every child is a star (our FH motto)! A great attitude means everything and I really believe that as long as you keep trying, you will succeed.

Sean Newman

Cosmic Café Staff: January 2010

I’ve been around Flying High for a while, taking classes here when I was younger. I’m around kids a lot too because I’m a babysitter, and I have a large family full of young cousins! When I’m not hanging with all the kids, I’m out with my friends or I’m running. I really like running long distances, so I’m on the cross country team.

I work in the café here at FH, so I try to teach the children the importance of saying please and thank you. When kids come up with lots of money and have no idea what to give me, I help them count out the right amount.

Sonja Davy

Cosmic Café Staff: August 2009

I started taking gymnastics at Flying High when I was 4 and I’ve been coming here ever since! Outside of the gym, I like hanging out with friends and spending time with my family. In the summer, I love to lounge around the pool at my house. I really love animals, especially dogs, and I am considering being a veterinarian.

I want the kids who come to Flying High to have fun and feel comfortable here. It’s important to me that everyone feels welcome.

Julie O’Brien

Events and Party Planet Staff: March 2010

I played sports all my life; softball, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and cheerleading. I was in the athletic training program while attending NIU. I coached both of my daughters when they played t-ball. I often help out with the Girl Scout Troops that my daughters are in.

I love spending time with my children. We love outdoor activities as well as games at the kitchen table. We also play group Wii games. We enjoy bike riding and hiking through the woods. I enjoy taking pictures and I am on the yearbook staff at our school. I want my children to learn teamwork. We run our home like being on a team. We work together for common goals. I want them to learn about teamwork outside of the home as well. Compassion for others – being supportive of each other – helping others achieve their goals and always reinforcing “The Golden Rule”

I love animals!! I had my own pet sitting business for 10 years and still enjoying taking care of pets for people while they are away. Sometimes we foster pets at our house while they are waiting to be adopted.

Jim Provan

Stellar Martial Arts Instructor: November 2007

I have been in Martial Arts since I was 12 and at 13 I began to help my father teach classes. I started with helping younger belts learn their kicks and have since advanced to teaching higher belt classes. Other than Martial Art skills I want all my students to be able to defend themselves under any circumstances and along the way I enforce the proper characteristics of how to be a good person.

Other than Martial Arts I am in a band and like playing shows with my band. I play the guitar but can also play many other instruments. Aside just playing music I also enjoy being able to record my own songs.

Kaitlin Nutley

Events Staff: November 2008

When I was a level 5 gymnast I helped coached pre-team which gave me teaching/coaching experience. When working with children I try to teach anything that will help them grow up to be good people. One thing I am a stickler about is using manners, when asking or requesting to do anything. I am still an active gymnast and really enjoy spending time in the gym, beside that I like to hang out with my friends. I started gymnastics at Flying High when I was 4 years old and have watched the gym progress into the amazing gym it is today.

Jacqui Corres

Gymnastics Instructor; Dance Instructor: August 2009

I received my degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Illinois. I taught 5th grade for 2 years. Not only have I have been teaching dance for 4 years but have 12+ years in ballet, jazz, pom, lyrical, pointe, and hip hop.

Outside of Flying High I enjoy scrap booking, going to concerts & shopping. Also cheering for the Chicago White Sox & the Chicago Bears!

I would like my students to learn what it is to have great self-confidence and to have and show passion in things they do, like I passion I have for dance. I also want them to develop great friendships with others as well as learning how to work together with others to achieve positive things.

An interesting fact about me is I went to High School in the Philippine Islands and traveled to other south East Asian countries to dance. I also lived in Las Vegas for 2 years Teaching elementary school.

Kathryn Preedin

Infinity & Beyond: December 2008

I have been working with kids for about 6-7 years. I started as a teacher’s aide and currently am in college working towards a degree in Early Childhood Education. I hope one day to be an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher.

Outside Flying High I like hanging out with friends, watching movies & reading books, Action, Romance, Comedy, Suspense, pretty much all types. My best friend & I have been friends for 20 years are 16 days apart & like 12 blocks from each other.

One thing I think is important for kids to learn is to be kind and considerate of others.

Mary Lou Evans

Infinity & Beyond: January 2009

I have been around dance and gymnastics for quite a few years. My daughter my daughter did gymnastics from age 5 up through college. My son did 2 years of boy’s gymnastics in high school. I have had a retail back round from working in the girls department at Nordstrom.

I enjoy trying new recipes, baking, antiques, my family car rides and gardening. I love scrap booking and hand quilting. I enjoy crafting things that can be enjoyed by or past on to others.

I have a 1971 corvette. Currently it is not working but someday day, it will be running again. I have had it since 1982.

David Marshall

Maintenance Staff: April 2009

Before coming to Flying High I worked at Downers Grove South High School. I worked in maintenance and helped with recycling. I’m a part of the “Going Green” project.

Outside of Flying High I enjoy watching baseball on TV. I also like basketball, swimming golf and doing puzzles.

I have a good sense of humor and I like to have fun. I especially like taking care of my 2 dogs, Wrigley and Stella.

Jody Liebler

Boys Gymnastic Coach/Instructor: January 2009

My parents owned a gym in Florida which I spent A LOT of time at. I was a scholarship student at U.I.C from 1996-2000 along with Justin Joyce. I have been an assistant coach at U.I.C, coaching the Men’s Gymnastics Team, 3 time NCAA National Qualifiers.

I want my kids to learn independence and self reliance. Confidence is important in every aspect of life, in and out of sports.

I enjoy spending time with my family in Florida, where my parents live. Other than gymnastics I like water skiing and snow boarding. I’m a sox fan and try to make it to any game I can. Most of all I love to travel. My oldest sister live in South Africa, I have traveled there 6 times. One particular trip lasted 3 months long. I have been to 8 countries in Africa……more to come!!!!!

Jason Kallal

Boys Gymnastics; Shooting Stars Gymnastic Coach: September 2008

I am a former gymnast myself which gives me the knowledge to teach the skill. I also have a son along with 6 nieces and nephews so I have much experience when it comes to guiding, teaching and coaching children of all ages.

Hard work and practice always pays off, this is one thing I hope all my students get out of my lessons and classes. Another thing which is very important to me is to make sure they believe in themselves and respect all around them.

Outside coaching I am also a Stickney Fireman. When I do get down time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. Outdoor activities are my favorite, especially anything that has to do with a pool or the beach.

Although I love my career as well as my live I’ve always wanted to be a rodeo clown. Unfortunately my fear of clowns has kept me from doing so

Catherine Cozza

2006

I have been a gymnast at Flying High for almost 8 years. Although I do not coach at Flying High (I work birthday parties and at the front desk instead), I have coached gymnastics at Lyons Township High School for the past two years.

Besides gymnastics, I love to play tennis. I also like to spend my free time making mixes and movies on the computer.

I think it is important for all children at Flying High to learn to believe in themselves. Self-confidence is not only an important quality to have in the gym, but also in life outside of the gym. You can achieve anything you put your mind to!!

Something interesting that not too many people know about me is that I cannot say –ing words such as ring, king, and singer correctly… I try to avoid saying these words as much as possible!! :)

Dana Balek

Twinkling Tots and Rising Star Instructor and Shooting Stars Competitive Team Coach: March 2007

I have been doing gymnastics at Flying High for almost 11 years.

Outside of gymnastics, I enjoy hanging out with friends, watching movies, and going out to eat.

I want my children to learn that when they work hard and have fun they can achieve anything they want to.

I laugh during scary movies to make them not so scary for me.

Harper Meyer

Flying High Mascot

Harper has very little experience with coaching children because, well, she’s a dog. If she was a coach though, she would probably want her children to learn that you don’t always have to take life so seriously. Have fun with whatever you do.

Harper’s favorite activities outside of the gym include: chasing rabbits, playing catch, and going on walks. She also enjoys spending time with her Aunt Chris and her Grandma!

Kevin Jeziorny

February 2007

Background: I worked at FH from 02’-04’. I started teaching beginning levels and worked my way up to being a coach of all levels (including competitive). I also do a lot of the maintenance around the building.

Activities I enjoy outside of Flying High: I like to stay busy playing all kinds of sports. I play softball (12” & 16”), baseball, basketball and volleyball.

What I want my students to learn: Teamwork! Responsibility! How to get along with others. Setting goals and having dreams and NEVER giving up on those is also pretty important. Set the bar high and see what you’re made of!

Something interesting about me: I have worked in many trades: Electricians Union, Carpenter, Concrete Work, Roofing and plumbing.

I love investing in real estate. By the time I was 22 I already owned two properties.

I also have a Saint Bernard who is 175 lbs. He’s huge!

Melissa Darlin

High School Program Coach: August 2004

I started doing gymnastics when I was 3 years old. I am a former level 10 gymnast. I have been coaching for almost 14 years. In May 2007, I graduated from UIC with a BA in Elementary Education.

I enjoy spending time with my family and visiting with friends. I'm also a very "passionate" scrap-booker. I have been scrap-booking for 9 years. I've completed over 24 albums~!

I encourage my gymnasts to learn how to "believe" in themselves and how to persevere even when times are difficult. I hope to not only challenge my gymnasts in the gym, but also to help them develop into successful young women.

Something interesting about me --I am a huge Harry Potter fan and enjoy science fiction movies!!!

Natalie Rose Rodriguez

Twinkling Tot and Rising Star Recreational instructor. UNIVERSEity of Dance and Cheer Galaxy Instructor: September 2006

I have a BA in Musical Theatre from Columbia College Chicago where I performed in various dance and theatre productions. I was a cheer coach at St. Ferdinand School in Chicago for 3 years and a cheer instructor at the Park District of Oak Park. I am currently the Head Coach of the Varsity Dance Team at Lane Tech High School in Chicago.

I also enjoy bike riding, reading books, swimming, watching a good movie, traveling to new places, and just relaxing and enjoying the day with my family and friends.

Respect for self and others, the idea that hard work and dedication are important to the success of their chosen discipline, the importance of teamwork, and the ability to feel proud of all the things they have accomplished, no matter how small.

I love animals, especially dogs and horses. Because of this love I will be going back to school in the Fall of 2008 to study Veterinary Technology. I hope to work in an animal shelter one day.

Randy Darlin

October 2006

1989-1997 Bedford Park District, 1989- current Gymnastics camps throughout the state, 1993-current University of Illinois at Chicago Women’s Gymnastics Team.

Activities I enjoy outside of Flying High are baseball, scuba diving, running, camping, boating, skiing, water sports.

I want my children to learn to respect all people, to show compassion for those in need, responsibility and accountability for ones actions. that nothing in life is given to you; you must earn everything, happiness is something you must work towards. you can do anything you set your mind to. Reaching for your Dreams is the key to a success throughout your life.

I love to dance, I can’t spell

Sam Manso

Twinkling Tots, Rising Star Recreational, and Special Stars Instructor: Sept 2006

I have 9 siblings.

I enjoy playing volleyball and softball.

I would like the kids I teach to learn how to have fun while challenging themselves. I really enjoy learning Human Anatomy and dissecting things (as gross as that is!)

Scott Dolgner

Maintenance Manager: September 2007

Background: Even though I have only been working here since 07’ I have been a part of the Flying High family for over ten years. My daughter, Danielle, (also an employee of Flying High during school breaks), was a gymnast here back when the gym was in Brookfield!

I am married with two children, so I know a thing or two about kids!

Activities I enjoy outside of Flying High: I love playing softball, fishing, boating and hunting!

What I love about Flying High: When I am working I love to hear the bell ringing. It means that a child is working hard and enjoying their time here at Flying High.

Teresa Sampier

March 2007

Background: Front Office, Party Planet/Birthday parties. Special Events/PFN, Lock-ins, I also have two children. I am very active in all of their sports! Both of my children take classes here (and my daughter is on the competitive team!).

I enjoy sewing, crafting and playing volleyball. I really enjoy being with my family.

I would like the children that walk through our doors to leave having learned not only a new skill but more about themselves. Children don’t always know what they are capable of accomplishing. We must help bring it out in them. Hard work pays off. Sometimes it takes longer than others. As long as they keep trying and do their best they will NEVER fail.

How’s this for trivia – I am the youngest of 52 grandchildren. AND I spoke Spanish before I could speak a word of English yet I am Italian/American Indian/Czech.

Sue Szymczak

Office Staff, Events Staff: August 2010

I've been working with kids my whole life. When I was younger, I worked at Valley Forge supervising girls at day camp. I have been a babysitter, most notable for my two wonderful nieces. Now, I have a 5 year old daughter who loves coming to work with me! Most of my free time is filled up by spending time with her and with my husband. A perfect day for me would consist of a great concert, a good book, and swimming. People would be interested to know that before I had my daughter, I used to do outdoor electrical work!

It is important to me that every child feels at home here at Flying High. I hope they leave with a feeling of accomplishment after every class!

Elly Harrell

Gymnastics Instructor

I have been doing gymnastics for 13 years! I started out at 3 years old, and now I get the chance to teach 3 year olds! I love getting the opportunity to work with little kids, and I can use my personal gymnastics experience towards teaching! I love dance, and I actually coached dance before. I used to play soccer and lacrosse too. Aside from sports, I enjoy doing service projects and playing the piano. People would be surprised to know that I was born in England, and I lived there for a year and a half!

I hope my gymnasts learn how to work well with others and to be happy for other people. I want them to have a good work ethic and be determined to learn new skills

Rachel Palomino

Gymnastics Instructor: January 2011

I started working at Flying High when I was 16 years old. I worked here from 2001 to 2005, teaching tots and beginner classes. When I left in 2005, it was to pursue my passion for interior design. I decided to come back to Flying High after all these years because it is a great place to be. I truly enjoy teaching the kids here and though I only did gymnastics recreationally, I am amazed by the tricks the girls and boys can do! If I ever went back to school, I might decide to be an art teacher. Then I would combine my passion for art with my love for teaching! I enjoy spending time with my family and friends here in Chicago and all throughout the US. I am the second oldest of 20 grand kids, so I have been around kids my whole life! I have a BFA in interior design from Harrington College of Design. I work full time designing high end millwork (kitchen and bath cabinetry, built-in furniture, free standing furniture, and basically anything out of wood for your home). I also enjoy helping friends remodel and give my professional input on their properties!

I want my children here to learn how to enjoy what they are doing, take pride in their work, and learn the strong values of team work! I think enjoying what you do makes life more fun!

Sheri Chrzanowski

September 2010

I have a degree in Early Childhood Education. I have worked as a preschool teacher and a Kindergarten teacher as well as have been a nanny for two families.

Outside of gymnastics, I enjoy time with my family and watching my children learn new things every day. Hanging out with friends is also very enjoyable.

I want the children I work with to learn to be the best at what you can. New experiences will be at your hands always but doing what you believe is the best for you is what matters most.

An interesting fact about myself is that I have two sets of twins!!! Jenna and Brianne are 8 years old and Jacob and Danielle are almost 3 years old.

Hannah Pigman

October 2009

I've coached girls lacrosse for the past couple of years. I also used to babysit for different families around my community.

Outside of gymnastics, I love to play lacrosse. It's a great sport that many people don't understand or haven't heard of. I enjoy taking my dog Rilee on runs throughout La Grange. I love shopping, although I mainly just browse and save my money. My friends mean the world to me so any chance to hang out with them is taken.

I would like the children I work with at Flying High to learn how to treat others with respect. Another thing would be to be a team player and learn to cooperate with everyone they encounter.

Something interesting about me is that I love to dance. I dance in the shower, the car, the middle of stores, you name it. Whenever I hear music I can't help but start to bob my head or sway from side to side. I know I look crazy, but I love it.

Daron Teske

December 2010

I've been babysitting since I was 10 years old, currently with the Deck family since Tyler and Emerlyn came home and my minor is Child Advocacy.

Outside of gymnastics I enjoy doing anything outside such as going to concerts/festivals and meeting new people.

The main thing I want the children I coach to learn is to get better and have fun. I also want them to learn basic social skills. For example, waiting your turn, saying please and thank you, etc.

Something interesting about myself is I can play the viola and the guitar. Also, I was born in Idaho, grew up in Buffalo Grove, Il, and now live in Chicago in the Logan Square neighborhood. I graduated from NEIU in 2011 with a degree in Psychology.

Natalie Allen

I was a competetive gymnast until level 7 when I then switched to HS gymnastics (I was a late starter) AFter HS, I first worked as a rec coach for a couple years in Columbus Ohio, then became team coach at Cincinnati Gymnastics Academy (level 4 and 5). In addition to coaching, I currently work at Elim Christian Services, working with kids with autism and have always loved working with kids one way or another! I graduated from Ohio State in 2005 with a degree in Speech Therapy. I have a five year old daughter, and one on the way!! I have always had a passion for the sport of gymnastics and made it part of my life one way or another.

Outside of gymnastics, I am an avid runner and have completed three full marathons (so far). I spend my free time playing with my daughter, traveling (not always very far), cooking and dancing...yes, my daughter and I love dancing!

I really want the children I coach to learn discipline in addition to teamwork, hard work and confidence.

Something interesting about me....I am fluent in sign language and I am a certified scuba diver and sky diver....im craaaazzyyy!! :)

Stephanie Richert

April 2007

I have taught gymnastics at Flying High all throughout high school. I am in the Early Childhood Education Program at Colorado State University and have worked at the early childhood center there in the 4-5 year old classroom.

Outside of gymnastics, I love to go hiking or do anything outdoors really. I love taking my dog for walks or runs and currently I am training for the Chicago Half Marathon. I am also a huge animal lover!

In Summer Camp, I want my children to learn how to engage in group activities and really have fun. I hope that they learn how to get along with one another and try to solve problems peacefully on their own.

Something interesting about myself is that I go to Colorado State University in Fort Collins. I love to go hiking and snowboarding. I also just adopted a dog named Dukas

Sammie Miller

May, 2011

I umpired for LaGrange Little League-softball games with girls ages from 8-12. I babysit kids of all ages and am the oldest sister of three so I work well with kids.

Outside of gymnastics I enjoy activities such as cross country, softball, hanging out with my boyfriend and family, camping, and organizing my room!

I want my children to learn that with fun comes manners, sharing, and many other important qualities a young child should acquire. They need to learn respect for people and equipment, as well as good listening skills.

Something interesting about me is that I play travel softball for the Oak Park Windmills and on Halloween weekend to went to St. Louis for a tournament.

Erin M. Tully

June, 2011

I have a degree in Elementary Education, with 2 middle school endorsements (Language Arts and Social Studies). I taught Pre-K for 2 years while I was in college, and I taught Junior High for 4 years after I received my degree in 2000. I left to be a stay at home mom once my first daughter, Dana, was born in November, 2005.

Outside of gymnastics I enjoy reading, shopping, hanging out with my daughters, going to the movies, and organizing things.

I would like the children I work with at events/birthday parties to enjoy all that Flying High has to offer! I would like for the positive mission of FH to come across to the children attending events, hopefully enough that they can't wait to return!

Some interesting facts about include that I took a certification course in Grant Writing. I worked in a Greek Restaurant for 13 years. When my girls are in Junior High, I would love to get my endorsement in Instructional Media and become a school librarian!

Shamisa Ingram

July, 6 2011

I recently moved here from Utah to pursue graduate studies in technical communications at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

I have nearly two decades of gymnastics experience. I have had extensive experience in all aspects of the sport as a gymnast, coach, and judge. I achieved a ranking of level 10 in Northern California and competed as a Level 9 and 10, was USAG J.O Regional Qualifier and a YMCA National floor finalist. I retired as an athlete and began coaching competitive gymnastics for team levels 4-9 and have a wide range of experience in choreographing optional level floor routines. I have also instructed preschool and recreational gymnastics.

As a member of the National Association of Women's Gymnastics Judges, I have judeges levels 5/6 and 7/8 for about 4 years. I also hold a Master of Arts Degree in Sports Management from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Spelman.

Outside of gymnastics I enjoy reading, writing, and dancing. I also enjoy going to different museums and ballets (and other performances).

My coaching philosophy focuses on facilitating positive environments where students can increase their self confidence, self discipline, mental training, and develop/perfect specialized gymnastics skills.

Something interesting about me is that I was an athlete in other sports including competitive horse vaulting, cheerleading, and basketball.

Corie Gallagher

July, 2011

I have been a competitive cheerleader for 7 years now, but I've been tumbling for 10 years. I coached a youth competitive cheerleading team, grades 3-8, for 3 years. I went to The Cheerleading Worlds this past year and I absolutely loved it!

Outside of gymnastics I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.

I would like my children to learn to challenge themselves while still having fun doing something that they enjoy doing.

Something interesting about me is that I have broken my arm 11 times in the past 9 years.