Coaches

Karen began rhythmic gymnastics at age 6 in Manitoba and has done it all—recreational, competitive, group, and solo routines. She started coaching as an assistant before moving to BC, and in 1996 began coaching in Chilliwack. In 2003, she founded Illusions, where her passion has led to 20+ years of growth and adventure. Karen has taken her teams to World Gymnaestradas (Sweden & Portugal), Canadian Gymnaestradas, and other major events. She’s the heart of Illusions, known for creating lasting memories, strong friendships, and a love of performance.

Favourite Apparatus: Club

Classes: Display Technique Class

Jocalyn has been with Illusions since its start in 2003 both as a gymnast and coach. She brings 20 + years of coaching experience, teaching all levels of classes and attending countless events. She holds a social work degree and experience supporting families of children with neurodiversities, which enriches her coaching with empathy and insight. Jocalyn values Illusions’ supportive community and loves seeing gymnasts grow in confidence, form friendships, and encourage one another. Some of her favourite memories are from team trips, where she enjoys seeing athletes connect, grow, and perform in exciting new places.

Favourite Apparatus: Hoop

Classes: Intermediate Advanced, Novice Display, Provincial Display, Team BCRG

Amberlea began dancing at age 10 and moved into competitive dance at 13, performing in events like local competitions, parades, car shows and the 2010 Olympic Opening Ceremonies. She joined Illusions in 2010 to teach acro once a week and quickly fell in love with the sport, eventually taking on multiple classes. Amberlea holds her Acrobatic Arts Module 1 Certification and leads our Acro Technique program. Known for her creativity and supportive style, she loves helping gymnasts grow in both skill and confidence. One of her favourite memories is performing in Austria at the World Gymnaestrada.

Currently on Leave

Analeissa began competitive dancing at the age of 10, which sparked a deep passion for rhythmic gymnastics. A significant milestone in her journey was performing at the 2019 World Gymnaestrada, an experience that continues to inspire her dedication to the sport. In 2010, she joined Illusions, where she's been teaching acro alongside her sister Amberlea. Analeissa has a profound love for rhythmic gymnastics, particularly the inclusive and supportive environment of Gymnastics For All. She is also certified in Acrobatics Arts Module 1 and serve as a Board Member for the BCRSGF, contributing to the growth of the sport and its community. 

Favourite Apparatus: Hoop & Club

Classes: Novice Display, Provincial Display, Team BCRG

Shaelyn joined Illusions at age 8 and quickly progressed thanks to her fast learning and strong technique. She began coaching in 2017 and has since grown into a lead role, now coordinating many of our younger-level classes. After high school, Shaelyn pursued a degree in Child and Youth Care, which has made her even more supportive, skilled, and understanding when working with gymnasts. She loves watching friendships form within her classes, just as she experienced when she was their age. Some of her favourite moments include being part of Team Canada and traveling with Illusions to perform internationally.

Favourite Apparatus: Hoop & Club

Classes: Jellybeans, Tuesday Little Gymnasts, Intermediate 9+, Thursday Little Gymnasts, Thursday Intermediates

Mylee joined Illusions in 2013 at age 7 and quickly stood out as an eager learner with strong technique. She began coaching in 2021 and has taken on the role with enthusiasm and dedication. As a former member of our Provincial Display team, she performed at numerous events, with highlights including the World Gymnaestrada in Austria and the Disney World stage in Florida. Mylee is a strong role model for our younger gymnasts, consistently demonstrating hard work, motivation, and integrity. She embraces challenges with confidence, especially when it involves mastering a new apparatus skill!

Favourite Apparatus: Club

Classes: Monday Little Gymnasts, Monday Intermediates, Intermediate Advanced & Display Team Acro Technique.  

Kearra began her journey with Illusions at age 10, starting as an Intermediate gymnast and advancing to the Provincial Display team. Throughout her time as a gymnast, she competed in numerous local competitions and performed at events including Provincial Gymnaestradas, Canadian Gymnaestradas, community celebrations and the 16th World Gymnaestrada in Austria. After taking some time off, Kearra has returned to Illusions as a Coach and we are thrilled to have her back. Kearra has a passion for acrobatics that she loves to share with the gymnasts. Her favourite thing about Illusions is the supportive, family-like atmosphere that welcomes everyone, whether they’ve been part of the club for years or just a short time.

Favourite Apparatus: Clubs

Classes: Monday Little Gymnast, Monday Intermediate, Intermediate Advanced

  Adrianna joined Illusions in 2014 new to the sport and eager to learn. Known for her big personality and bright spirit, she’s someone the team can always count on. Adrianna has performed at numerous competitions and events including the World Gymnaestrada in Austria, and most recently at Disney World in Florida. One of her favourite memories as a gymnast is traveling to see different teams perform and meeting new people. In 2023, Adrianna joined our coaching staff as an Assistant Coach, helping out across various classes. What she loves most about Illusions is the uplifting atmosphere and watching the kids grow—not only in their rhythmic skills but also in their confidence. 

Favourite Apparatus: Clubs

Classes: Jellybeans, Tuesday Little Gymnasts, Intermediate 9+

Jaylene began gymnastics in 2012 as part of the Performance Display team. Although new to the sport, she quickly caught on and developed a deep love for it. One of her favourite memories is representing Team Canada at the World Gymnaestrada in Austria, where she experienced the joy of watching athletes from around the world perform. Jaylene has since become an assistant coach and discovered a passion for working with children. Jaylene shares that she values being part of the Illusions community, as it fosters a supportive, enthusiastic, family-like atmosphere.

Favourite apparatus: Ribbon & Hoop

Currently on maternity leave