Movement. Grace. Balance. Passion.

Welcome to my Jaya Gymnastics blog!

Hello, my name is Jesse Ray Jakins and gymnastics is my passion. My love for movement began at the age of three and artistic gymnastics was the perfect fit for me. In 2006, by the age of fifteen, I had qualified for Team British Columbia (B.C.) in the National Open Category. I had the honour of competing at the Canadian National Championships in Quebec City, Quebec. Shortly after my accomplishments as an athlete, I began my journey as a gymnastics coach. I was keen to take on responsibilities as a young coach and ready to learn. I wanted to give back to the gymnastics community. I quickly fell in love with the challenges of coaching and the changing environment. I felt that there was opportunity in coaching and I was ready to be a part of it. I was always interested in coaching and leading, so when it came down to selecting a career, it was only natural to follow my dreams.

Currently, I coach high performance gymnastics at the Okanagan Gymnastics Centre (O.G.C.) in Kelowna, British Columbia. At O.G.C. I am responsible for the Competitive, Developmental Competitive and Cross-Training Programs. I have completed the following NCCP certifications: Artistic Gymnastics level 3, Trampoline Gymnastics level 3, and Air 2 Trampoline for Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding. I am also a certified Vinyasa Flow Yoga Instructor. Using my experiences and certifications, I strive to provide quality gymnastics coaching to athletes of all ages, abilities and sport backgrounds. 

As coach of the Senior Women’s Artistic Competitive Team at O.G.C., I have had athletes qualify to Team British Columbia since 2014. This past season, two of my athletes helped the Junior Olympic level 9 Team receive a team Gold Medal at the Western Canadian Gymnastics Championships.

In my role as the cross-training coordinator, I work with multisport athletes of all ages and levels. I also work with Pacific Sport Okanagan as their gymnastics coach. I specialize in trampoline/dry land training for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. I use gymnastics foundations to create multi-dimensional athletes.

When I am not at the gym, you can find me on the top of a mountain exploring the four seasons playground I call home. I am a dedicated snowboarder and yogi. Yoga helps me to maintain emotional balance as an individual and coach. In my free time, I like to find inspiration in nature and people I love. I am always looking for innovative ways to teach movement and develop athletes.

My intention for this blog will be to openly reflect on my core competencies and values as a coach. I will be receptive to all feedback and disconnect from my ego. Becoming aware of the  learning experiences that present themselves, will be my focus.

Namaste.