Girls,
Although there are many days when I am watching the clock intently as you fuss over beams and who was first in line, there are never days I say I don't love what I do.
To say the least, you're the craziest group of children I've ever met. From karaoke at warm-up to the "dancing" when Rihanna's "Work" comes on, there is never a dull moment. You all know exactly how far to push me before running up and fighting over who will give me a hug first. And God forbid I leave practice early or call out sick. "Ms. Ashley you can't leave us!" with an added tackle from what you'd think were grown men in child form.
I'm beyond lucky to say I have the hardest working group of five to eight-year-olds. You each come to practice every Monday and Wednesday with the intent to do your best and for that, I will always be thankful. I know I can be "mean" and pushy, but please understand I know exactly how far to push each of you. You all are capable of so much, in and outside of gymnastics.
I watch as you practice and perform — each time better than before. There are days you succeed and days you may think you failed, but no matter what I will always be proud of you. You come off the mat crying and throw you arms around me asking, "What did I do wrong?" through sniffles, and all I can say is, "You did great!" You have to realize, I do not expect you to win every meet. I do not care what that score shows because that doesn't tell me anything about you. Those judges do not label you a winner or loser. The fact that you went out there and did your best shows me all I need to know. As long as you do the best you can do every single time I will always be proud of you.
You will never know how much I truly care for each of you. I honestly look forward to every practice, no matter what they entail. Whether we get to every event or play games the whole practice, you guys make my day.
I do hope I can coach each of you for years and beyond, all the way through to your last days of being a gymnast. But even if I don't get that privilege, I hope you always remember everything I've taught you in the gym and out in the world. Be kind. Be respectful. Love your teammates and your opponents. Tell your families thank you. Always be a good sport, and most of all, stay in contact with your favorite childhood coach.
Thank you all for changing my life and making me the best coach I can be. Without you, I wouldn't be doing what I love.
Forever your coach,
Ms. Ashley
