Xcel Coach of the Year Page

Nico Torres Labarcs (Berkeley Youth Gymnastics)

I am honored to nominate Nico Torres Labarca for Xcel Coach of the Year for his exceptional contributions to the NCWGA community through sustained excellence in coaching, leadership, and professionalism.

Nico has been a dedicated member of the UC Berkeley Youth Gymnastics coaching staff since 2017, serving as Competitive Program Lead and working with athletes of all ages and levels. His leadership has played a key role in the program’s success, including multiple consecutive team titles as Northern California Gymnastics Perpetual Trophy winners — solidifying Berkeley as the top program in NorCal.

Nico brings a uniquely diverse background to his coaching, with over 10 years of intensive training in contortion, hand balancing, and dance, along with a B.F.A. in Dance from San Francisco State University. This foundation allows him to coach with a rare blend of technical precision and artistry, helping athletes not only improve their skills, but also their confidence and performance quality.

He is deeply committed to athlete development and consistently maintains a high standard of excellence across all levels of the Xcel program. His athletes demonstrate strong fundamentals, competitive success, and a clear sense of pride in their work — a direct reflection of his coaching approach.

Equally important, Nico exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and positive sportsmanship. He is respected by athletes, families, and fellow coaches alike, and represents the values of Northern California gymnastics at the highest level.

Through his consistency, leadership, and impact over many years, Nico is truly deserving of recognition as Xcel Coach of the Year.

Abby Clark (Byers Roseville)

Abby was previously a Compulsory Coach until two years ago.  When the Roseville Gym switched to Xcel, Abby had to learn an entirely new program and adapt to the changes.  Her first year out, her Xcel Gold Team won State.  Now in her second year, she has grown the program and her Xcel Platinum Team took third at State. I can only imagine what she will be able to do in the next five.

Chevy Baker and Gracie Simon (Ultimate Sports Connection)

I am thrilled to nominate Chevy Baker and Gracie Simon for the Xcel Coaches of the Year award. Chevy has been a crucial part of coaching the Xcel athletes at USC for the past three years. Prior to that, she was one of the founding Xcel Coaches at Golden Bear Gymnastics in Berkeley. This year, Gracie joined her as we transitioned from NGA to USAG Development. Together, these outstanding coaches led our Bronze athletes to an impressive 4th place team finish at the state competition, with all athletes demonstrating significant improvement and success throughout the season.

Under the leadership of Chevy and Gracie, who guide over 40 Xcel girls, they have fostered an environment where athletes are not only motivated to excel but also genuinely happy. The camaraderie among the girls is truly remarkable and stands as a testament to the dedication and positive influence of both coaches.

Jessica Friedman (Gymtowne Gymnastics SSF)

This season Jessica guided the Xcel program at Gymtowne Gymnastics SSF from no Team Placing at a State Championship to finishing ties for second overall.  The Xcel Bronze Team placed Fourth at State, the Xcel Silver Team placed Second at State, and the Xcel Gold Team placed First at State.

Since Jessica took over as head Xcel Coach at Gymtowne Gymnastics SSF, the energy and enthusiasm in the Xcel Program has gone through the roof!  All the coaches and athletes come in every day excited to train.  The level of discipline is at a perfect level balancing fun with productivity. 

Jessica has done an amazing job in her first year at Gymtowne Gymnastics SSF taking the Xcel program to another level!