“See Them Fly”: Olympian brings energy and inspiration to young gymnasts

THUNDER BAY – Three-time Olympian Shallon Olsen has brought her elite experience and energy to local kids at a gymnastics centre in the city

Olsen is leading a two-day gymnastics skills camp at Ultimate Gymnastics.

The event drew 23 young gymnasts looking to learn and improve.

“Women can do anything they put their minds to,” said Olsen, an artistic gymnast from Vancouver who has represented Canada on the world stage. “These girls have dreams, and I want to help them get there. I can’t wait to see them fly.”

Over the two days, participants received intensive skills training across all four women’s events,vault, bars, beam, and floor, as well as fitness sessions and a motivational talk from Olsen, who shared her personal journey to the Olympics.

“I’m here to help coach, answer questions, and bring some energy to the gym,” Olsen said. “A lot of the kids are shy, but I’m hoping they’ll open up. I want them to have fun and enjoy gymnastics.”

Greg Balec, owner of Ultimate Gymnastics, emphasized the impact of having an Olympian on the floor.

“She’s running the kids through drills, giving them technical tips, and helping them understand what it takes to achieve their dreams,” Balec said. “Having an Olympian in the gym is incredibly motivating, it shows them what’s possible.”

Olsen also shared words of wisdom with the athletes: “Have fun with the sport. It’s not as stressful as it might seem. Come in with a growth mindset, embrace the process, and enjoy every moment. That’s what it’s really about.”

The young gymnasts took those words to heart.

“I’m looking forward to seeing new things I could do and believing in myself,” said Ainsley.

“I learned some new skills,” added another participant. “Now I want to work on straightening my legs and pointing my toes.”

Ava, another camper, shared a piece of advice she picked up from Olsen: “She said that if she ever gets mental blocks, she just goes back to the basics and builds herself back up.”

Balec summed up the camp’s goal: “It’s about showing kids that if they want to be Olympians, it’s possible. Seeing someone who’s been there makes that dream real.”