Bluffton Coaches

Been at Coastal for 8 years

Originally from Rochester, NY, I made Bluffton my home eight years ago. With a strong foundation in competitive dance and cheerleading, my passion for coaching and choreography has been a constant throughout my career. In Rochester, I had the privilege of working with local dance teams, where I honed my skills in choreography and team development.

Over the years, I’ve coached athletes at all levels, from beginner (Level 1) to elite (Level 5), in both New York and South Carolina. My experience also includes high school tumbling programs and all-star cheerleading, where I helped athletes develop not only their skills but also their confidence and teamwork.

Since Coastal Gymnastics Center opened its doors, I’ve been fortunate to be a part of this incredible journey, working with nearly every child who has come through the program. It has been a joy to watch these athletes grow and achieve their goals.

Outside of coaching, I’m a proud wife to my husband, Lance Colman, and a mom to our two beautiful daughters, Noxlie and Mira.

3.5 Season at Coastal gymnastics Center

With over 40 years of experience in gymnastics, my journey in the sport began at the age of five. I competed from the time I was eight until graduating high school, and by the age of 16, I began coaching recreational classes. A few years later, I transitioned into coaching competitive teams—a path I've followed for more than three decades.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of coaching every level of the sport—from Mommy & Me classes and advanced recreational groups to all levels of competitive team gymnastics. I’ve also taught and judged high school gymnastics, led kinesiology and gymnastics classes at Cal State Long Beach, and spent over 25 years as Head Team Gymnastics Coach at the Lakewood YMCA in California. My teaching experience also includes summer programs at Long Beach City College and work with numerous other gymnastics centers across Southern California.

Originally from Southern California, I relocated to Bluffton in 2021 and have spent the past 3½ years coaching at Coastal Gymnastics Center. Gymnastics has always been a true passion of mine, and I find deep joy in sharing it with athletes of all ages. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a gymnast master a skill they’ve worked so hard to achieve.

I believe gymnastics instills lifelong values—discipline, confidence, resilience—that go far beyond the gym. It’s my mission to create a fun, supportive, and safe environment where every child can grow, succeed, and develop a love for the sport. I’m proud that both of my daughters (Shelby and Sadie) have followed a similar path, having been involved in gymnastics from a young age.

Second Season at Coastal gymnastics Center

I am a former Level 10 gymnast and competed as an NCAA Division I athlete at Illinois State University. My years as a competitive gymnast have shaped not only my understanding of the sport but also my deep appreciation for the dedication, discipline, and resilience it instills.

Following my athletic career, I pursued a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, allowing me to combine my passion for movement and performance with a strong foundation in science and rehabilitation. This background gives me a unique perspective when it comes to athlete development, injury prevention, and overall wellness.

In addition to my clinical expertise, I am a certified judge with USA Gymnastics, rated to judge Compulsory Levels 1–9 as well as Xcel Bronze, Silver, and Gold divisions. I’m committed to upholding the integrity of the sport while supporting athletes on their competitive journeys.

My experiences as a gymnast, clinician, and judge continue to shape my approach to the sport—blending technical precision with a deep respect for each athlete’s individual path.

Third Season at Coastal gymnastics Center

Amari moved to Beaufort from Atlanta in 2022, bringing with her a strong background in competitive gymnastics and a deep passion for coaching. A former competitive gymnast herself, she transitioned into coaching and spent six years at Cobb Challengers Gymnastics in Georgia, where she worked with both Compulsory Levels 1–5 and Xcel athletes.

Currently, Amari coaches USAG Level 3 and is known for creating a positive, encouraging environment where gymnasts can grow in both skill and confidence. She has been USAG certified for eight years and maintains current SafeSport and background check credentials, reflecting her commitment to athlete safety and professionalism.

With a strong foundation in the sport and a dedication to helping young athletes reach their potential, Amari continues to be a valued member of the gymnastics community.

1.5 season with Coastal Gymnastics Center

Gymnastics has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I began the sport at just three years old, growing up in Pennsylvania where my mom owned a gymnastics facility. Surrounded by the sport from such a young age, I developed a deep love for gymnastics and eventually competed up to Level 9.

After 15 years in gymnastics, I transitioned my skills into a new arena—springboard diving. I attended Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY, where I earned my Bachelor of Science degree and competed on the varsity swimming and diving team all four years. During my collegiate career, I was honored to earn three All-American titles and finished my senior year placing second in the nation at the NCAA Championships.

I am CPR certified, SafeSport trained, and certified through USA Gymnastics. My background as both a gymnast and collegiate athlete has given me a strong foundation in discipline, focus, and body awareness—qualities I aim to pass on to the next generation of athletes.

Whether in the gym or on the pool deck, I’m passionate about helping young athletes build confidence, master new skills, and develop a lifelong love of movement.

1.5 season with Coastal Gymnastics Center

Liz has been part of the Coastal Gymnastics family for the past three years, starting as a recreational coach and now contributing as a team coach as well. During her time at Coastal, she’s had the opportunity to work alongside and learn from exceptional coaches who have helped deepen her knowledge and love for the sport.

Originally from England, Liz moved to the United States during her high school years and has been surrounded by sports for much of her life. Her passion lies in using gymnastics as a tool to help children build strength, confidence, and resilience—both inside and outside the gym.

Liz is also a proud gymnastics mom to her two daughters, Lila and Aliyah, who are both members of the competitive team. Her perspective as both a coach and parent brings a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to her work with young athletes.

I been passionate about gymnastics and cheerleading since I was 7, and I’m excited to be working at the gym where I can help inspire others to love the sports as much as I do.

In addition to my coaching role, I’ve cheered for May River High School’s JV and Varsity teams, and I’m proud to say we placed 8th in the state in 2024! One of the moments I cherish most was being honored with the “Most Positive” award from my coaches and teammates, which speaks to my focus on keeping things fun, encouraging, and uplifting.

When I’m not at the gym, I’m usually hanging out with friends, trying new places to eat, or making sure to stay active—whether it's hitting the gym or just getting moving every day! I believe in the power of positivity, teamwork, and always pushing yourself to be your best.

I was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and began my gymnastics journey in a Mommy & Me class before moving into recreational classes. In 2017, my family relocated to Bluffton, and I joined Coastal Gymnastics when it first opened. I’ve been part of the Coastal family ever since—nearly eight years now.

I spent five years on Coastal’s competitive Xcel team, working my way up to the Gold level. Throughout those years, gymnastics became more than just a sport—it gave me lifelong friendships and some of my favorite memories.

Now, I’m excited to give back as a recreational coach. My favorite part of coaching is seeing the moment a skill "clicks" for a gymnast—it’s incredibly rewarding to watch their confidence grow.

I’m currently a freshman at JPII and love being able to stay connected to the sport that has shaped so much of who I am.

I’ve been coaching gymnastics for the past four years and am currently pursuing a degree in psychology at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, with the goal of becoming a marriage and family counselor. My background in gymnastics spans from age 3 through 18, and I was fortunate to continue my athletic career at the collegiate level as a member of the Acrobatics and Tumbling team at Coker University during my freshman year.

Coaching has allowed me to stay connected to the sport I’ve loved my entire life while helping young athletes build confidence, strength, and resilience. In addition to coaching, I also have a passion for personal training and enjoy supporting others in reaching their fitness goals.

Outside the gym, I love playing the piano, hitting the pickleball court, and spending quality time with friends. Whether through athletics, coaching, or future counseling work, I’m committed to helping others grow, thrive, and feel empowered in every area of life.

I moved to Bluffton two years ago in my Sophomore year of high school after growing up in western Maryland my whole life. I am now a senior at Bluffton High! From age 4 through high school I grew up skiing and doing gymnastics. I competed in both the Junior Olympic and Xcel program in gymnastics for many years, with my favorite event being beam! I plan to study physical therapy in college so that I can continue to help and coach people to do the things that they love. Gymnastics was a very important part of my life, and I have gained so many memories and lifelong friends from this sport. I am so grateful to have the ability to coach and help young gymnasts love this sport like I did!

I was a gymnast for 13 years and previously coached for 11 years. I’m a nurse practitioner. My daughter, Amelia, is on Coastal’s team.

Lucy is a Recreation Team Lead at Marriott with a strong background in hospitality management and a lifelong passion for athletics. As a former competitive gymnast, she advanced to Level 9 Regionals—a journey that instilled in her the discipline, focus, and work ethic that continue to shape her today.

Her professional experience in hospitality has honed her ability to create positive, memorable experiences, while her athletic background gives her a deep understanding of what it takes to support and motivate young athletes.

Now part of the Coastal Gymnastics Center team, Lucy brings a unique blend of leadership, energy, and compassion to her coaching. She is dedicated to helping athletes grow both in and out of the gym, and she takes great pride in being part of their journey toward confidence and success.

Tori is a dedicated coach who finds joy in working with kids and helping them grow in something they’re passionate about. Her own athletic journey began in gymnastics, where she trained for eight years and reached Level 8 at Buckeye Gymnastics in Columbus, Ohio. Transitioning into cheer, she’s earned recognition as an All- American cheerleader, won multiple competitions, and contributed to May River’s top- 10 national ranking last year. 

Outside of coaching, she enjoys cheering, spending time with friends and family, and relaxing at the beach. Whether in the gym or on the sidelines, she brings enthusiasm, discipline, and a love for inspiring others to do their best.

Michelle is a Bluffton native who grew up deeply rooted in the local community. Her gymnastics journey began at what was Island Gymnastics in Bluffton, SC at the age of 5 ,where her love for the sport quickly took hold. By 14, she was invited to join the coaching staff starting with summer camps and tumbling classes. Transitioning to homeschooling allowed her to fully immerse herself in coaching six days a week- and experience that sparked a lifelong passion for teaching and mentoring young athletes. 

Over the years, Michelle has coaches a wide range of ages and skill levels gaining over seven years of experience. After a five- year break that took her from South Carolina to Florida, then Wisconsin, and back again, she’s excited to return home and reignite her passion. With a heart for helping gymnasts grow in both confidence and ability, Michelle is thrilled to guide a new generation as they discover what they’re capable of- one skill at a time.

Madison has a strong foundation in gymnastics having competed for several years at Coastal Gymnastics Center on the Xcel team. Her athletic background extends into high school where she’s been a dedicated member of the Varsity cheer team all three years. Alongside her commitment to sports she maintains solid academics as an A/B student.

Outside of school and work, she enjoys spending quality time with her friends and being out in the water- whether it’s at the beach, on a boat, or just soaking up the sun. Her energy, team spirit, and love for gymnastics make her a positive influence both in and out of the gym.