Kate Montagano

Owner, Recreational Program Director, Coach

“Our family just returned home from watching a very talented group of young athletes in the Superstars II class! Wow, Kate, you have taught them so much! As a parent watching Brigid and her peers go through their routine, I'm so proud, and so impressed.

The time spent with Coach Kate each week is true quality time! Thank you!”

— Sandra

About Kate

My name is Kate Montagano and I am the owner of Shining Star Athletics. I started gymnastics when I was 4 years old, and went on to reach a competitive level, competing for 8 years. I proceeded to compete as a competitive cheerleader for another 8 years (competing in the international and national levels for both sports). I attended University in hopes of becoming an elementary school teacher, but my love for gymnastics lead me down a different road. I have been coaching for 16 years (Kw Gymnastics, Cheer Sport Sharks, Dimensions in Dance, SSA). I have had the fortunate opportunity to travel, and have won many awards along the way.

After 7 years of coaching, I thought I would venture out on my own and create a fun program with easy registration and friendly bonds between clients, students, and staff. I started SSA at Rim Park part-time from September 2009 - September 2010, and then moved to Belmont Village in January 2011.

Shining Star Athletics is a non competitive gymnastics/dance acro club that focuses on learning and having fun. SSA accepts students between the ages of 17 months -15 years old. The basic fundamentals of gymnastics are taught during each lesson, like kicks, handstands, rolls, jumps, safe landings, tecnique, conditioning and flexibility. SSA offers drop-in rates, birthday parties, camps, and private/semi private lessons for competitive and non-competitive athletes. Many athletes in dance/cheerleading/gymnastics can learn to perfect basics like body line and proper technique, as well as advance their standing and running tumbling, flexibility and jump work.

There are so many people who have influenced me as an athlete and coach such as Dan Glendon (Head Coach at Glendon Gymnastics), Coach Ali and Lan from the Cheer Sport Sharks (All Star Cheerleading gym in Cambridge) and Miss Kim (Owner of Dimensions in Dance in Kitchener). I couldn’t have created Shining Star without the support and love from my family and friends; they continuously believe in me and inspire me to follow my dreams. Shining Star has been quite the undertaking, but doing the thing I love most makes my career the best career, and I wouldn’t change it for the world! Whats next? Nothing is impossible when you reach for the stars...

Coach Taylor

Competitive Program Director

Coach Taylor is new to SSA but has been coaching gymnastics for over 13 years. She has experience coaching competitive athletes, and especially loves working with pre-competitive little ones. At home, Taylor loves spending time with her cats!

Coach Shania

Competitive and Advanced Coach

Coach Shania is a new addition to our SSA team. She brings years of knowledge and experience from an athlete and coaching perspective. Shania's philosophy aligns with our "person first, athlete second" mentality. Outside of the gym, Shania loves spending time with her family and cats!

Coach Niki

Competitive and Advanced Coach

Coach Niki is new to SSA and brings along a great passion for the sport and for working with kids. Niki has experience working with all levels of gymnasts, from beginner to advanced.

Coach Bethany

Coach

As a former competitive gymnast in the city and a few years as a coach, Coach Bethany she has a lot to offer when it comes to gymnastics. She works with all levels and has a very positive outlook on learning and teaching. She's currently in her second year at Conestoga for nursing, and enjoys playing rugby and hanging out with her friends in her spare time. We are happy to have Bethany at SSA for her third year.

Coach Nairn