Our Mission Statment

Larissa was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She has participated in gymnastics for over 25 years on a recreational and competitive level as well as for over 17 years as a gymnastics coach. After seeing the need for a gym that is inclusive and safe for all types of students and their families, as well as creating an environment where the coaches feel valued and free to express themselves, Larissa decided it was time for her to open a gym.

 

Larissa’s coaching style has been described by a former student as “firm but fun”, which she believes is spot on. She loves showing her students they can achieve difficult things while having fun but also providing the much needed structure most kids crave.

Emily is from Virginia. She has 14 years of gymnastics experience during which she competed up to level 8 in USA Gym's JO system. She earned a degree in Elementary Education from Salisbury University. Her 16 years of professional childcare and teaching experience include 8 years in gymnastics settings. She is also a self-taught visual artist who enjoys working in various mediums such as drawing, painting and digital art. 

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Emily aims to foster an atmosphere where students can feel comfortable making mistakes, making decisions, collaborating, and communicating their needs. She believes learning should be fun and adapted according to students' individual needs & learning styles.

Casey grew up in Philadelphia, PA and has just moved to NYC after earning her B.S. in Industrial & Labor Relations from Cornell University this past May.  Before coming to Joy, Casey spent a combined 5 years training in JOGA and USAG’s competitive programs and 6 years coaching gymnastics both part-time and full-time.  While her competitive experience wasn’t ideal, coaching has been an amazing way to reconcile her own experiences through empowering athletes at all levels of their gymnastics journey. 

 

In Casey's coaching practice she aims to center equity, accessibility, and community, making space for all students to thrive.  During class, she works to foster compassion, nourish curiosity, and build trust with athletes, creating a mutually supportive environment.  While she will always be there to support athletes, she hopes to teach students to uplift themselves and others through the joyful movement of gymnastics! 

Alyssa is from Long Beach, CA. She has 9 years of gymnastics experience competing through level 9 in USA Gym's JO system. Alyssa has 13 years of coaching experience including recreational, special needs, xcel, pre-team. and compulsory team coaching. 

 

Alyssa believes in a fun and safe gymnastics environment where children will gain confidence in themselves by understanding how their body moves and how to overcome obstacles.