Our Mission
We strive to professionally teach at ConXion in a fun yet safe environment. Our goal is to provide the athletes with a pace setting edge on the competition through our positive training- Emotionally, Mentally, and Physically.
OurPhilosophy
ConXion is where hard work beats talent, when talent doesn't work hard. Athletes who have fun will train harder and enjoy the activities longer. We teach using Visual, Verbal, and Physical Spotting techniques respectively for the most effectiveness.
As part of our professionalism, we pledge to stay ethical, educated, and punctual while preparing for, and teaching your child using our properly maintained equipment. We will stay strong leaders using effective communication with the customers and athletes to better know each individual and family.
Meet Our
Owner/Competitive Team Coordinator
Emily Lay
Background: Emily Lay holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Memphis, where she was also a proud member of the U of M track team, specializing in pole vaulting. Her athletic journey extends beyond track and field—she was also a competitive dancer and gymnast, giving her a well-rounded understanding of movement, coordination, and athletic development.
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Experience, Recognition, and Expertise: With over 25 years of experience in the gymnastics world, Emily has built a renowned reputation as a coach, judge, and team leader. She has been coaching competitive gymnastics since 1998, and since 2013, she has served as a nationally rated gymnastics judge. Emily became the owner and Team Director of ConXion Olive Branch in 2018, where she continues to lead with passion and expertise.
Her impressive background also includes six years as a Team Director and Coach (Levels 6-10) at Gymstars Gymnastics and seven years as the Manager and Program Director at Starkville Gymnastics. Emily was also part of the committee responsible for developing the original Xcel rules for Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. These rules were later adopted by Region 8 and served as the model for the current National Xcel program.
Over the years, Emily has coached numerous regional and national qualifiers, medalists, and champions, and has played a pivotal role in producing over 20 NCAA athletes, who have gone on to compete at schools across the nation. Her extensive coaching experience is complemented by her certifications in Safety, Safe Sport, and continual professional development through Regional Congress for gymnastics.
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Personal: When she’s not coaching, Emily enjoys spending time with her two children, Landon and Julian. She brings the same dedication and energy to her family life as she does to her professional pursuits, ensuring her children grow up in a supportive and athletic environment.
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Certifications:
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Safety Certified
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Safe Sport Certified
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Regional Congress for Continued Professional Accreditation (Yearly)
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Current background check
Emily Lay’s leadership, combined with her deep knowledge and experience, makes her a driving force in the gymnastics community, inspiring athletes to reach their full potential both in and out of the gym.