Meet Our Staff
owner and USAG team coach
Coach Debbie
Debby Bessette, owner and coach at The Gymnastics Zone, was born in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and began gymnastics at age 8. At age 12, she moved to live with foster parents and joined the Dutch National Team, competing in the World Championships in Fort Worth, Texas (1979), and Moscow, Russia (1981). She earned a full-ride scholarship to Indiana State University, where she competed on the gymnastics team.
She met and married her husband George Bessette (from Antioch), who was also a scholarship athlete for the Indiana State University wrestling team. Their three children competed for ACHS, and are state medalists in their respective sports.
Coach Debbie loves coaching and teaching gymnastics. Her goal is for the gymnasts to believe in themselves and master skills they never thought they could accomplish and of course to also have fun!
The Gymnastics Zone just celebrated their 25th anniversary.
Office Manager and Coach
Katelyn
Welcome! My name is Katelyn, and I am a junior at University of Wisconsin-Parkside majoring in Applied Health Science with a minor in Kinesiology. My interests are in Mental Health and Sports Medicine with a focus in Pediatrics. I was a high school competitive dancer for four years and college dancer at UW Parkside for a season. I coached high school dance before joining The Gymnastics Zone staff and love to coach. I am the office manager, coach on the competitive team, and help to teach our preschool aged classes at The Gymnastics Zone!
Preschool
Annabelle
I’m Annabelle, I started gymnastics at age 4 with recreational classes right here at The Gymnastics Zone. I eventually grew to competition level at age 8, I kept competing until I was 14. Throughout the years I did a couple of gymnastics camps at UW Whitewater. As a high school student, I now look forward to teaching the fundamentals of gymnastics to the younger generation.
COACH
Kendra
I started at The Gymnastics Zone when I was two years old. I have come a long way since then and now I’m a coach. I am very proud of all progress gymnasts make and seeing gymnasts each week. Some facts about me: I have a twin, my favorite flavor of ice cream is mint chocolate chip, and I also enjoy weight lifting.
Front desk
Sydney
Hello! My name is Sydney, and I’m a senior at Lakes Community High School. I competed as a gymnast on the Gymnastics Zone team from 2013-2021. I have one younger sister who plays volleyball and two goldendoodle dogs. I love to read in my free time, especially when it’s warm and I can sit outside! My goal is to go to college to be a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner.
COAcH
Laila
My name is Laila Salata and I am currently a senior at Antioch Community High School. I have been going to The Gymnastics Zone for well over 10 years and it is where I have learned all of my skills to lead me into being a varsity cheerleader. I am attending Marquette University in the fall and I am also planning to continue cheerleading there too! Some other things I enjoy are photography, being outside, and being with family.
Our Mission
The Gymnastics Zone offers gymnastics classes for all ages, with emphasis on skill development and enjoyment. Our instructors have been selected for their expertise and desire to work with children in a positive atmosphere.
-Owner, Debbie Bessette
Why Choose Us
Fitness
Build strength, flexibility, and coordination through dynamic routines.
Confidence
Gain self-esteem through achievements and positive reinforcement.
Social Skills
Foster teamwork and friendships in a supportive group environment.
Discipline
Cultivate perseverance and resilience to achieve personal goals.