When he's not catching a movie or on a hike with his daughter, Jada, 14, and son, Ezekiel, 8, Gabriel is (very) busy giving back to the community. He's a recess leader and reading tutor at Leschi Elementary, the girls soccer coach at The Bush School, an after-school enrichment instructor at Washington Middle School & The Bertschi School, and head men's soccer coach at the newly reopened Lincoln High School. He also runs sports camps and private trainings independently via Coach G's Athletics. I first met Gabriel on the futsal court back in 2016. Read on for what Coach G's been up to in 2019!
Where might parents find you and your family around town?
Ark Lodge Cinema (we've seen EVERY family film there for the past decade) … On a nature hike (we love a good long walk/hike in Washington park) … Geraldine's or The Raconteur in Columbia City for brunch … the Garfield community center to exercise, play futsal or do yoga … the International District library to check out books, read a magazine or use the computer.
What do you enjoy most about coaching kids?
I most enjoy seeing kids committing themselves to process of becoming better at whichever skill I'm instructing them upon. Rarely is a novice good at anything they first try, it's the individuals who dare to fail and keep trying that are the true victors, and I relish those coaching moments when the light bulbs turn on and the kid comprehends and correctly applies the technique/concepts being taught.
How has parenthood changed you? How have you stayed the same?
Parenthood has altered how I spend my time. As a parent your time is no longer yours and it's a great thing once you commit yourself to giving all that you've learned and experienced in your life to a growing child. I truly believe that kids are merely 'adults in training' and it's my conscious duty to provide the best training and resources available to aid in my children's upbringing. … I've stayed the same in that I still maintain the same lifestyle and love the same activities, I now just share them with my kids.
What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I was a librarian for 15 years at the Seattle Public library and I am enamored with graphic novels (I read at least 3 a week and have read thousands of graphic novels to date, which I keep on file for posterity).
Favorite kids movie?
"The Dark Crystal" (the film and new Netflix series).
Is there anything you're working on that the Seattle's Child community can help you with?
We could use resources to restore The MLK FAME center to its rightful glory. I've run all my sports camps MLK FAME for the past six years and the building is in need in dire need of physical restorations and facilities upgrades. Any assistance in these areas would greatly aid my ability to continue to serve the central area community via my sports camps.
Want to support Gabriel's good work at the MLK FAME center? Call 206-257-5572 to make a donation. Want to do more or share something with Coach G? Email us and we'll pass along your message.
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