About Us

MARIEL

Business Manager

I began my journey in gymnastics at just 2 years old, starting with a Mommy-and-Me class at Tucker Tucks Recreation Center. My passion for the sport was immediate, leading me to start competing at the age of 5, a path I followed until I was 18. During high school, I transitioned into coaching, a role I continued throughout college at Georgia Elite Gymnastics, as well as into my young adult life at The Atlanta School of Gymnastics. Over the years, I have coached Compulsory, Xcel, and Optional levels across all gymnastics associations.

My love for mentoring young gymnasts and teaching them the skills necessary for success—both in gymnastics and in life—has been a driving force in my career. I played a key role in founding the Club Gymnastics team at The University of Georgia, where I also earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish, further broadening my educational and professional horizons.

At 19, I began judging gymnastics and has since become a respected member of the National Association of Women’s Gymnastics Judges. I currently hold a Level 10 rating and judge gymnastics competitions for the USA, AAU, NGA, NAIGC, and NCAA organizations both nationally and internationally. In addition to my judging roles, I serve as the AAU and USA State Judging Representative, further demonstrating my leadership within the gymnastics community.

In February of 2024, I joined Top Notch Training Gym, where I embraced the role as a Business Manager. Being back in a gymnastics setting feels like a homecoming, and I thrive in the fast-paced and active environment. I love working with a such a positive and motivated team, and find fulfillment in the daily energy and collaboration at Top Notch. 

Gymnastics has profoundly shaped me, teaching me essential life skills such as self-discipline, mental toughness, resilience, interpersonal skills, body awareness, and confidence. These lessons have been instrumental in my personal and professional development, contributing significantly to the woman I am today.

Beyond my gymnastics career, I have a deep passion for traveling, a love fostered by the opportunities gymnastics has provided. I have explored many parts of the world, and I am grateful for those experiences. In my free time, I enjoy attending sporting events, traveling the world, trying new restaurants, and spending quality time with family and friends.

JAYDEN

Developmental Instructor

Hi I’m Jayden! I am a current level 10 gymnast at Top Notch Training Center, and I'm fully immersed in the world of competitive gymnastics. The journey to level 10 has been a testament to my dedication, discipline, and love for the sport. Now, as I navigate the recruiting process with sights set on collegiate competition in 2026, every training session feels like a steppingstone toward my ultimate goal.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of being here is the opportunity to coach and mentor young gymnasts. Helping these girls achieve their dreams and watching them grow both as athletes and individuals is incredibly rewarding. Whether it's refining their technique, boosting their confidence, or simply being there to celebrate their successes, being a coach at Top Notch allows me to give back to the sport that has given me so much.

Seeing the determination in their eyes and the joy on their faces when they accomplish a new skill or master a routine is priceless. 

It's about more than just winning competitions; it's about instilling a love for gymnastics and a belief in their own potential. As I continue my journey towards collegiate competition, I'm grateful for the experiences and the opportunities to inspire and be inspired by the next generation of gymnasts at Top Notch Training Center. This gym isn't just where I train—it's where I find purpose and passion in helping others achieve their dreams in gymnastics.

CLARA

Developmental Instructor

Hi, I'm Clara, a dedicated USAG Level 8 gymnast who has been immersed in the world of gymnastics since I was just 3 years old. My journey began with simple tumbles and cartwheels, but by the age of 6, I had already stepped into the competitive arena. Over the years, gymnastics has become more than just a sport to me—it's been a powerful teacher. At Top Notch Training Gym, I’ve learned invaluable life lessons like discipline and perseverance, which have shaped me into who I am today. The challenges I’ve faced in gymnastics have instilled in me the virtues of patience, a strong work ethic, and effective time management. These qualities not only help me in the gym but also in every aspect of my life.

As I work towards my goal of becoming a collegiate gymnast, I’ve discovered a deep passion for coaching. I strive to pass on the same love and dedication for gymnastics to my students. 

When I’m coaching, my aim is to encourage each of them to always give their best effort and to pursue their dreams, just as I do. I believe that with determination and hard work, they too can succeed in this sport. Seeing my students progress and overcome their own obstacles brings me immense joy and a sense of fulfillment.

I’m excited to welcome you to my class, where I hope to inspire you to reach your full potential. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, I’m here to support and guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll work towards your goals, and I can’t wait to see you thrive and grow as a gymnast!

ANA-SOFIA

Developmental Instructor

Hi, I’m Ana Sofia! I’m a current NGA Level 7 gymnast and have been training at Top Notch since I was 5 years old. Gymnastics has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember. My time at Top Notch has not only shaped me as an athlete but has also nurtured my love for gymnastics. The coaches, the community, and the experiences here have all played a significant role in my growth. I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on and the progress I’ve made, and I love sharing what I’ve learned with others.

When it comes to coaching, my enthusiasm for the sport and my desire to see others succeed motivate me. I’ve spent countless hours in the gym, understanding the dedication required to excel. I know firsthand the challenges that gymnasts face, and I’m committed to helping them overcome those obstacles. Coaching allows me to channel my experiences into guiding others, and I’m passionate about making a positive impact on every gymnast I work with.

At Top Notch, I believe coaching is more than just teaching skills; it’s about fostering a love for the sport and inspiring confidence in every gymnast. My approach is centered on creating an environment where gymnasts feel supported, encouraged, and motivated to reach their full potential. I strive to build a positive, empowering atmosphere where every athlete can thrive, knowing they have the tools and support they need to succeed. Whether they’re learning a new skill or preparing for competition, my goal is to ensure that each gymnast feels confident, capable, and inspired to achieve their best.

MIA

Developmental Instructor

Hi! I’m Mia, a Level 9 gymnast at Top Notch, competing in both NGA and USAG. I’ve been a part of the Top Notch family for many years, participating in their camps and classes, which has only deepened my passion for gymnastics. Top Notch has played a significant role in my development, not only as an athlete but also in helping me pursue my dream of becoming a collegiate gymnast. The support and guidance I’ve received here have inspired me to give back by helping young gymnasts achieve their own goals.

Although I’m new to coaching, my skills have been honed through years of dedicated gymnastics training. I’m eager to share my passion and expertise with aspiring young gymnasts, guiding them as they embark on their own journeys. Being given the opportunity to coach is something I value deeply, and I’m committed to creating an encouraging and positive environment where each gymnast feels supported and motivated.

Watching young gymnasts learn and grow is incredibly rewarding. Teaching the fundamental skills they need to advance and reach their full potential is something I’m passionate about. It’s a privilege to pass on what I’ve learned, helping these young athletes develop the confidence and skills they need to pursue their dreams.

JESSICA

Developmental Instructor

Hi, my name is Jessica, and I am a USAG Level 9 gymnast. I've been training at Top Notch for the past three years, and it has quickly become a place where I feel supported and inspired. My goal is to become a collegiate gymnast, and I truly believe that Top Notch is the perfect environment to help me achieve that dream. Even though I haven't been at Top Notch for my entire gymnastics journey, the impact it has had on my development is immense. The coaches and staff have been instrumental in pushing me to new heights, and motivating me.

My passion for gymnastics has been a constant in my life, and now, as a newer coach, I have the opportunity to share that passion with others. It's incredibly rewarding to see others grow and progress, knowing that I played a small part in their success. My inspiration as a coach comes from the joy of helping younger athletes build a strong foundation in gymnastics, setting them up for success.

As I continue to coach, my hope is to instill a love for gymnastics in each young athlete I work with. I want them to experience the same joy and fulfillment that I have found in the sport. Whether it's mastering a new skill or simply enjoying their time in the gym, my goal is for every gymnast I coach to leave with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to the sport. Coaching allows me to give back to the gymnastics community, and I'm excited to help the next generation of athletes discover their potential and passion.

ABIGAIL

Developmental Instructor

Hi! I’m Abigail, a Level 8 gymnast at Top Notch, where I’ve been since the very beginning. From participating in camps to taking part in various class programs, Top Notch has been a significant part of my gymnastics journey. Over the years, the coaches and environment at Top Notch have played a crucial role in my development, not only improving my gymnastics skills but also encouraging me to have fun and build lasting friendships. Gymnastics has always been a passion of mine, and being at Top Notch has only deepened my love for the sport.

I’ve always been committed to helping others grow in their beliefs and passions. My years of dedication to gymnastics have taught me the importance of mastering the fundamentals and understanding the hard work required to succeed. Top Notch, I see coaching as more than just teaching skills; it’s about inspiring confidence, fostering a genuine love for gymnastics, and helping young athletes believe in themselves.

 My goal as a coach is to create a positive and encouraging environment where every gymnast feels supported and empowered to reach their potential. I want each athlete to leave the gym feeling stronger and more confident, both in their abilities and in themselves. Coaching at Top Notch is my way of giving back to the sport that has given me so much, and I’m excited to help others on their gymnastics journey.

SHAKAOLA

Compulsory Instructor

I’m Shakaola, originally from Louisville, KY, where my journey in athletics and performance began. My passion for sports led me to become a Collegiate Rower for the University of Louisville and later a WNBA Dancer for the Atlanta Dream. My background in cheerleading also provided me with national experience, and through these varied athletic pursuits, I learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. These experiences shaped my athletic abilities and fueled my desire to support others in their own journeys.

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and the Owner of NuRise Wellness & Mental Health, I’ve come to firmly believe that an athlete’s success is deeply connected to their overall mental well-being and mindset. My experiences as Miss Black Kentucky USA and 4th runner-up in Miss Black USA provided me with training in poise and stage presence, which I now incorporate into my work as a Personal Trainer and Mindset Coach.

Outside of my professional life, I find joy in spending time with my family, staying active, and connecting with nature through activities like meditation and traveling. My love for exploration has taken me to live in beautiful places like France, Turkey, Spain, and Italy, each of which has enriched my perspective and deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures. Whether through travel, fitness, or mental wellness, I am committed to helping others achieve balance and success in both body and mind.

EVELYN

Developmental Instructor

Hi I’m Evelyn, and I’m absolutely passionate about being a preschool instructor at TNT! Every day, I’m excited to work with our youngest gymnasts, guiding them as they take their first steps into the world of gymnastics. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy and confidence that light up their faces as they learn new skills and discover what they’re capable of. I’m dedicated to creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment where these little ones can grow, explore, and fall in love with gymnastics.

In my role, I focus on building a strong foundation for our preschoolers, not just in gymnastics but in developing important life skills like coordination, balance, and teamwork. I take pride in designing engaging and creative lesson plans that keep our classes exciting and dynamic, ensuring that every child is both challenged and supported at their own pace. I love watching their progress, whether it’s mastering a forward roll or simply gaining the confidence to try something new. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it motivates me to bring my best to every class.

What I enjoy most about being a preschool instructor is the opportunity to make a lasting impact on these young gymnasts’ lives. I strive to be a positive role model, instilling a love for movement and a sense of accomplishment in every child. It’s a privilege to be part of their early gymnastics journey, and I’m committed to helping them develop the skills and confidence that will benefit them far beyond the gym. Being part of their growth and seeing their smiles at the end of each class is what makes my job truly special.

VERONICA

Dance Instructor

I am Veronica Newton, Ph.D., a classically trained ballet dancer and instructor with over 20 years of dance experience. My training spans the Vaganova, Cecchetti, and Balanchine methods of ballet. I began ballet, tap, and jazz classes at the age of 3 at Wren Academy of Dance, an all-Black dance studio in St. Louis, MO. At twelve, I started pointe training and joined the pre-professional ballet company Ballet Midwest.

About a year after becoming an apprentice, I was promoted to principal dancer. During my time at Ballet Midwest, I performed in many classical and contemporary ballets, with my most noted roles being Clara in the Nutcracker, Rose in Waltz of the Flowers, Arabian lead in the Nutcracker, and one of the four swans in The Dance of the Four Swans from Swan Lake.

At 16, I was accepted into both the North Carolina School of the Arts Summer Intensive and the American Ballet Theatre's Summer Intensive Program.

I chose to attend ABT's program, where I trained under some of the most prominent dancers and learned numerous classical variations, pas de deux, and additional ballet conditioning. During my first year in college at Webster University, I was invited to join their dance company. This marked the beginning of my journey in teaching and choreographing ballet and jazz routines for aspiring dancers.

In 2023, I joined Top Notch Training Gym as a ballet instructor. I offer unique and exciting ballet technique conditioning classes that focus on lengthening and strengthening the feet, ankles, metatarsals, legs, quads, and core. My passion for ballet and dedication to my students drive me to create a nurturing and inspiring environment for all dancers.