Imagine you’re a high school athlete and you’re in competition.  You turn to your coach and it’s either your mom or dad.  A little too close for comfort right? 

That’s the case for Kellam gymnast, Kirsten Strausbaugh.  She has a true sense of home because her mom, Debi, has been the coach for the Knights the past 26 years. 

Kellam is amongst the favorites to win the Beach district this season. 

“We just have an agreement”, says the junior.  “She doesn’t bring up stuff at home.  I have my aunt there and I can go to her.” 

You heard right, Debi’s sister, Sharon is an assistant.

Strausbaugh finished third in the state last year and has her eye on a title this season.  With this much family behind you, how can go wrong, right?  Debi knows nothing is perfect when it comes to coaching your own child. 

“We have our good times and bad times.  Kellam is really special place to be.  We treat all the girls like they’re our daughters.” 

Nothing like a little motherly advice.