We were lucky to catch up with Daria Novoselia recently and have shared our conversation below.
Daria, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
As a rhythmic gymnastics coach, my life is a colorful dance of artistry and passion. Achieving the title of Master of Sports at just 17 was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Now, in a sports club in the United States, I have the joy of sharing my experience with young athletes.
There are moments when I ponder the idea of a “regular job,” especially during long training days. I vividly recall a day when one of my young gymnasts struggled with a routine, and I briefly wondered if my path was too demanding.
But as I watched her overcome challenges, I felt renewed clarity. The joy of seeing my students grow and succeed reminded me why I love coaching. Each class is a vibrant exchange of inspiration and determination, reaffirming that this is where I belong.
Though the journey can be tough, the connection I have with these children and the impact I make is worth it. Rhythmic gymnastics is not just my career; it’s my passion and life’s art form.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I began my rhythmic gymnastics journey at the age of 7, which is considered late for sports. However, my passion for gymnastics flourished, and I trained with joy and determination. Along the way, I faced many challenges, including injuries, but I overcame them all through resilience and hard work.
Achieving the title of Master of Sports was no easy feat. In my field, the last athlete to earn this title had done so 12 years prior, so I felt a great sense of responsibility. This accomplishment not only validated my efforts but also motivated me to strive for excellence in my craft.
After my athletic career, I enrolled in the Kyiv University, where I studied sports management. The program also trained us as coaches, allowing me to deepen my understanding of the sport and my role within it. I organized master classes, sharing my knowledge and experience with aspiring Ukrainian athletes, and witnessed firsthand the impact I could have on their development.
Seeking further growth, I moved to the United States, where I could expand my horizons and pass on my skills in a new environment. My mission is to inspire young gymnasts, instill confidence, and help them navigate their own paths in this beautiful sport.
What sets me apart is my firsthand experience as both an athlete and a coach. I provide personalized training, focusing on technique and artistry, and I truly believe in nurturing each child’s unique potential.
I take immense pride in the progress of my students and their achievements, whether they are mastering a challenging routine or gaining self-confidence. I want potential clients and followers to know that my approach is rooted in passion, dedication, and a genuine love for rhythmic gymnastics. Together, we can create a nurturing environment where young athletes can shine.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My mission is to empower young athletes in rhythmic gymnastics by fostering their physical and artistic skills. I aim to create a supportive environment where they can build confidence, discipline, and creativity. By sharing my international experiences, I hope to connect diverse talent and inspire the next generation to thrive both in sport and life.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that perfection is the ultimate goal in gymnastics. Early in my training, I was taught that mistakes were unacceptable and that only flawless performances would lead to success. This pressure to be perfect often led to anxiety and diminished my joy in the sport.
As I progressed, I realized that mistakes are an essential part of growth. In coaching, I began to see how mistakes could serve as valuable learning opportunities for my students. I learned to embrace imperfection, understanding that each stumble could lead to greater resilience and improvement.
This shift in mindset allowed me to cultivate a more supportive atmosphere where my athletes could experiment, take risks, and ultimately thrive without the fear of failure. Understanding that gymnastics is not just about achieving perfection, but about the journey and passion for the sport has been a transformative lesson for me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: daria.novoselia
- Facebook: Daria Novoselia
Image Credits
Daria Novoselia