Our Team

OWNER

Violet is a bold entrepreneur and the founder of a thriving Santa Monica–based gymnastics center New Vibe Gymnastics, specializing in private and pod-style training. What began in her backyard has grown into a successful, in-demand business built on resilience, creativity, and community. After losing her original location in the Palisades fires, Violet rebuilt and expanded into a larger space in under a year—turning a major setback into a powerful comeback.

A former competitive gymnast raised in Staten Island, New York, Violet went on to attend the Professional Performing Arts High School earning a scholarship to study dance at The Ailey School. Her professional career includes choreography for national commercials, appearances in music videos, and performances across the country. Coming from a lineage of performers—including family members who danced for Bob Fosse and a grandmother who was a vaudeville acrobat—movement and expression are in her DNA.

Today, Violet combines her artistic background with entrepreneurial drive to create a safe, empowering environment where young athletes build confidence, discipline, and community. Known for her daring, high-energy approach and her ability to connect with anyone, she is passionate about helping the next generation of entrepreneurs turn vision into reality.

TEAM COACH

Hi, I’m Coach Heather!

I’m originally from Beverly, Massachusetts and have been living here for just over a year. During that time, I’ve had the privilege of coaching at New Vibe and have loved becoming part of such an incredible and supportive community.

Gymnastics has been a major part of my life for 18 years. I started in the sport at age three, began competing at five, and continued through college before beginning my coaching career. For the past seven years, I’ve coached both JO and Xcel athletes, focusing on building strong fundamentals, confidence, and a genuine love for the sport while helping gymnasts reach their full potential.

My coaching philosophy centers on creating a positive and encouraging environment where athletes can grow not only as gymnasts, but also as individuals. Gymnastics teaches powerful life lessons like resilience, discipline, and teamwork that extend far beyond the gym, and I strive to help athletes carry those values with them in everything they do.

Outside of the gym, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my dogs, bowling, hosting game nights with friends (because who doesn’t love a little friendly competition?), and traveling whenever I can. I’ve truly loved becoming part of this community and am excited to see what the future holds for this team.

TEAM COACH

Hi there!

I’m Coach Janelle ! I have been coaching gymnastics for over half of my life. I teach recreational, boys, ninja, and Xcel team gymnastics. I believe that gymnastics is for everyone who wants to try and there is beauty in being a beginner. I seek to empower my students and often encourage students to try and to struggle, rather than to immediately asked for help. I praise effort, hard work, and getting over big fears while keeping kids moving safely through their gymnastics skills. 

My background is in tumbling, figure skating, and cheerleading. There are components of the each of those sports in gymnastics which have led me to this career. New Vibe gymnastics is a perfect environment that is nurturing, encouraging, and compassionate for children who train here. 

When I’m not coaching, I spend my time surfing, thrifting, bowling, playing pool, or hanging out with my 2 kittens, Boots and Buttercup. I am lucky to have my family and friends nearby and I am proud to look around and see that I have a village of people that support and care about me. One day I hope to have my own family and have kids who also love gymnastics as much as I do.

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER

Friendly, attentive, and always ready to help, our customer service manager ensures every interaction is a positive one. They keep communication clear, timely, and human.

RECREATIONAL COACH

Sariena Val-lin, originally from the small town of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, grew up a competitive cheerleader and quickly transferred over to gymnastics and competition dance to broaden her skill set. Sariena received her Bachelor of Fine Arts after attending both the NY and LA campuses of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) for dance theatre. She has been a part of several short films in the Pittsburgh and Los Angeles area as both an actress and assistant director. She has also danced in several productions and showcases during her time at AMDA. Most recently she was a member of Lume Dance Collective, a contemporary dance company, and performed in several dance films in Los Angeles.

OFFICE MANAGER

I began my movement background in dance, where I developed strong body awareness, coordination, and discipline. Over time, I expanded into strength training and weightlifting, which shaped my understanding of mechanics, power, and proper technique - all of which influence how I coach today.

I originally started coaching adults in CrossFit and weightlifting, helping athletes refine technique and build strength safely. I have experience working with athletes of different ages and levels, focusing on solid fundamentals and safe progressions. I value structure, consistency, and clear communication so athletes feel supported while still being challenged.

My coaching style is clear, technical, and encouraging. I prioritize proper mechanics and accountability while keeping training positive and productive. I strive to help athletes feel capable, strong, and proud of their progress.

I’m originally from the East Coast and am most proud of the resilience I’ve built over the years - learning to adapt, stay disciplined, and keep moving forward.

One of my ongoing goals is to continue refining my coaching skills and deepening my technical knowledge so I can provide the highest standard of instruction and safety for the athletes I work with.

What I love most about New Vibe is the community. There’s an energy here that balances hard work with positivity. It’s a place where athletes are pushed to grow while still feeling like they belong.

RECREATIONAL COACH

Hi I’m Kisha! 

I began my gymnastics journey at the age of 8, where my coaches helped me build strong fundamentals. From the start, I fell in love with the feeling of flying and the excitement of learning new skills. I excelled on vault and floor and completed at Level 8 State Championships. 

As a teenager, I took a break from gymnastics to explore other sports including basketball and track & field. My passion for the sport eventually brought me back and I joined the UCLA Gymnastics Team. One of the highlights of my athletic career was our team winning the 2004 NCAA Gymnastics National Championship. 

Over the years, I have enjoyed coaching children of all ages and helping them discover their own love for gymnastics. Training at UCLA with olympians, elite athletes and incredible coaches has greatly shaped my approach to coaching. My style focuses on developing strong basic skills, confidence, while keeping the atmosphere relaxed and fun. Every child is motivated differently, so I work to understand what inspires each gymnast. I emphasize positive, constructive corrections so athletes feel encouraged and empowered by their progress.

I am from Southern California and love being part of New Vibe because it’s truly an amazing place where kids can learn, grow and experience the joy of gymnastics in a supportive environment. The gym is also equipped with new equipment that helps create a safe, modern space for athletes to develop their skills. Outside of the gym, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, discovering beautiful beaches, watching or playing a variety of sports and  community volunteer work. I look forward to coaching for years to come. 

Our most important furry mascot is a vital part of our New Vibe Team! Cha Cha is here to bring cheer and help bring a smile to everyones face!