Interview with former UCLA head coach Valorie Kondos-Fields

I recently watched Valerie's Kondos-Fields TED talk called Success does not always equal winning

1. What made you want to coach gymnastics?

I originally came to UCLA as a ballet dancer to choreograph floor routines. Coaching gymnastics was not something I planned, but I fell in love with developing young women and building something meaningful through sport.

2. Were you a gymnast yourself growing up?

No, I was not a gymnast. I was a ballet dancer and had no gymnastics background when I first began coaching.

3. How did you coach a sport without a gymnastics background?

When I first arrived at UCLA, I did not know how to build a gymnastics team culture. I studied successful coaches from other sports and focused on leadership, culture, and athlete development. I relied on experts around me and was committed to learning every day.

4. What did you accomplish during your time as head coach at UCLA?

• 7 NCAA National Championships

• Induction into the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame

• Named Pac-12 Coach of the Century

  
  

5. How did you motivate your athletes?

I focused on coaching the whole person rather than just coaching to win. Building trust was the foundation of everything. When athletes feel safe, supported, and valued beyond their performance, they are able to compete with confidence and freedom.

6. Who was a mentor or coach you looked up to?

John Wooden was a major influence on my coaching philosophy. His leadership principles and emphasis on character development shaped the way I built my program.

7. How did you help athletes overcome mental blocks?

By creating a culture of trust and emphasizing identity beyond gymnastics. When athletes understand their worth is not tied to scores, they can perform with more joy and less fear.

8. What advice would you give to coaches and gymnasts?

Focus on people first. Results will follow. Build relationships, lead with integrity, and never lose sight of why you love the sport.

9. What recommendations do you have for someone who wants to coach NCAA gymnastics one day?

Develop your leadership skills, continue learning, and surround yourself with mentors. Be willing to start wherever you can and focus on building strong relationships within the gymnastics community.