Darion took over as the new owner of Prairie Gymnastics Club in January of 2018. Prior to that, he owned and operated Leaps & Bounds Mobile Gymnastics and Tumbling, LLC. Darion began participating in gymnastics at the age of three. During his gymnastics career, Darion won state and regional championships and was the IHSA floor champion in 1993. Darion was also a member of the regional team and the Junior National Developmental Team which allowed him to train at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Unfortunately, a serious injury to his shoulder ended his competitive gymnastics career. For over 25 years, he has coached all levels of gymnastics and has coached several gymnasts to state and national level competitions. Darion is a professional member of USA Gymnastics, the national governing body of gymnastics in the United States. He is also a certified USA Gymnastics National Judge as well as USAG safety certified. Darion is a member of the Illinois state coaching staff and is also a published author. CLICK HERE to order Coach D’s book today! 

“Did I Make You Proud” by Darion Knight offers readers a candid and captivating look into his life journey. As a black gymnast raised in the streets of Chicago, Knight’s memoir unfolds with raw honesty and authenticity. Through the release of his first book, readers are invited to delve into his narrative, tracing his evolution from inner-city struggles to entrepreneurial triumphs. Knight’s inspiring memoir serves as a testament to resilience and self-determination, showcasing how he forged his own path to success against all odds. As you stay tuned for this compelling and empowering memoir, know that this read will encourage us all to cultivate a sense of inner pride and self-worth!

Jillian took over as the new owner of Prairie Gymnastics Club in January of 2018. Prior to that, she owned and operated Leaps & Bounds Mobile Gymnastics and Tumbling, LLC. In 2009, Jillian received her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. While obtaining her degree, Jillian counseled at risk children with the goal of teaching them important life skills and helping them develop positive self-esteem. She is also the director of operations for her non-profit organization, Flippin’ for Fitness. Outside of the gym, Jillian enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, Olivia.

Genevieve started doing gymnastics when she was just three years old and competed up to JO Level 8 & Xcel Platinum. She was a varsity gymnast all 4 years of high school and she began coaching gymnastics at age 15. Genevieve has coached preschool classes, boys/girls recreational classes, and team gymnastics. At Prairie, Genevieve coaches preschool and recreational classes and is also the coach for the girls pre-team, Level 3/4 team, and Xcel Silver team.

Coach Lily started cheer when she was just 5 years old and cheered for 12 years. One of her greatest accomplishments was making a worlds team! Lily has worked at Prairie since April 2022 and despite not having a gymnastics background, she has learned the sport quickly. Lily currently coaches the Xcel Bronze team, our Gym Kids 3 girls, and preschool/recreational classes at Prairie. Lily love working with children and seeing them master new skills!

Coach Mia started gymnastics when she was only 5 years old and did gymnastics for 10 years. She was a 2x 2nd place All Around AAU National Champion. As a gymnast, her favorite events were bars and floor. Mia currently coaches preschool and recreational classes at Prairie and her favorite event to coach is floor. She loves seeing the kids grow and progress through their skills each week, and seeing the kids always brightens her day. During her free time, Mia loves to go shopping, babysit, and take naps.