A Reflection on the Heart of Coaching

By Coach Israel from SGA Ballard

There are moments when the essence of gymnastics coaching becomes invisible to those who only look at results. Moments when it may seem like the coach is focused solely on correction, on demands, on performance. But those of us who live this vocation from the inside know that what we truly seek is not always reflected in the final score or the podium. What we seek is cultivated in silence, deep within the soul, in every daily gesture that shapes character.

Because beyond perfect technique, the true coach aims to shape people. People who fight for their dreams, who learn to master both body and mind, who celebrate effort more than outcomes, and who grow each day as committed, self-aware human beings.

This piece was born in a deeply emotional moment, after returning from winning Platinum Team Regionals in San Jose, California. It was a pause, a moment of emotional stillness, where after watching so many athletes compete, all I could do was look inward and ask myself what truly moves me as a coach. These words came as an honest, almost instinctive response, amid that emotional tide.

I hope that as you read this reflection, every coach can picture the faces of the children who have impacted their life with effort, determination, and that unique light only true dreamers carry.

What the True Coach Seeks

If only they knew we’re not looking for the perfect gymnast,
we seek a joyful heart
that finds satisfaction in effort,
in self-discipline and inner control.

If only they knew that more than a gymnast,
we see a being who makes us proud
by fighting for their goals.

We don’t see medals,
we don’t see how perfect they can become.
More than that, we envision the victory that comes through hard work,
because we believe in them,
sometimes more than they believe in themselves.

If only they knew that, for us, it’s a relief
when they understand our passion,
when they can read what our eyes are saying,
and at the same time, as teachers,
we connect through their movements and subtle gestures.

Sometimes we are left breathless from the effort,
it’s because we give it all.
So much, it might even seem as if we’ve lost our spark.

Our minds get tired
from trying to give them peace and certainty,
but our hearts fill with calm and satisfaction
knowing that for them, and because of them,
we do aim to be the PERFECT teacher.

Today I’m not just writing to celebrate the technical coach, but to honor the human one. The one who, beyond planning and methodology, lovingly supports the process of those who are just beginning to believe in themselves.

If you’ve ever felt tired, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, remember that every child you guide carries a piece of you in their story. That is your true medal.

May this Teacher Appreciation Month be a reminder that our mission is to shape human beings, not just champions, and that every word, gesture, and correction leaves a mark that can last a lifetime.

• Can you remember a time when a student made you feel that all your effort was worth it?
  • What kind of human legacy do you hope to leave in your gymnasts, beyond the sport?

With admiration and deep respect,

Coach Israel Aguilar

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