Meet Our Directors

James & Cinthia Prietto  Owners

James bio/description

• Programs Taught
• Competitive Boys
• etc. etc.

Steven S. -

Men's Optional Team Coach

My name is Steven Schmerber, and I’m the Men’s Optional Coach at Black Hills Gymnastics. I joined the team in June 2024, but I’ve been coaching gymnastics since 2010.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, I trained as a gymnast there before beginning my coaching career.

I love coaching because it challenges athletes to excel both physically and mentally. In my free time, you can find me out on the water or golfing on the weekends.

Santiago S.

Boy's Compulsory Team Director

My passion for gymnastics began in childhood as a team member, leading me to coach and give back the joy I experienced.

I cherish the high fives! Kids find so much joy in celebrating successes, and sharing those moments is deeply rewarding.

Watching the young men I’ve coached grow into confident athletes fills me with pride. Knowing I’ve positively impacted their lives is a major achievement.

Outside coaching, I’m a big nerd! I love fantasy, sci-fi, hiking, and skiing.

Surprisingly, I was quite good at Irish line dancing as a teen, where I met my wife, and we danced together!



Crystina S.

Instrucational Coach & Birthday Party Director

Hi, I’m Coach Crystina! My kids and I have been part of the Black Hills Gymnastics (BHG) family since 2017. I began coaching in 2018 while completing my Bachelor’s in Social Work and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling. As a 16-year Air Force veteran, I’ve lived in places like Guam and Italy, but returned to Portland in 2012.

At home, I have two kids, Andrew and Alyssa, and our energetic Pitbull, Kobalt. My children inspire my growth as a coach, and I love empowering kids to be their best selves, witnessing their breakthroughs in overcoming fear and mastering skills.

In my free time, I build strength through stand-up paddle boarding and enjoy watching my son in robotics and my daughter in aerial arts. I’m also a foodie who loves culinary adventures with friends. Please share how I can best support your child in their gymnastics journey!

Clay C.

Ninja Director

Gymnastics and teaching are my lifelong passions. After competing, I embraced coaching. As a level seven all-around gymnast, I earned medals in Highbar and Rings and ranked 5th in Texas. I also competed in High Jump, Long Jump, Triple Jump, Pole Vault, and 1m diving. My experience with kids includes three years of umpiring youth sports, eight years directing rock climbing at Camp Parsons, two years driving a school bus, and six years instructing youth self-defense. 

I love seeing students realize their potential, whether it’s overcoming obstacles or mastering challenging skills.

Every achievement has shaped who I am today. Originally from Federal Way, Washington, I grew up in Plano, Texas, then returned to Olympia at 16. Outside work, I enjoy playing guitar and piano, chess, DnD, writing, digital art, and learning languages. Fun fact: I once performed with a traveling circus in Galway, Ireland! 

My favorite gymnastics skill is the back

Lisa K.

Tumbling Tots Preschool Director

I am Lisa K, the Tumbling Tots Preschool Director at Black Hills Gymnastics, with over 30 years of experience with children. For the past eight years, I've been a teacher and coach at BHG. I was a competitive gymnast for 10 years, turning down a scholarship at 17, but later accepted a track scholarship to Spokane Community College at 23. My experience includes five years as an intervention teacher for high-risk students at Washington State University and over 30 years as a certified instructor through the Athletics and Fitness Association of America, including seven years as a personal trainer. Outside of work, I enjoy time with my two children, three stepchildren, and nine grandchildren, as well as lifting weights, eating sushi, attending concerts, and traveling.

Maddy C.

Office Manager

I'm Maddy Calderon, the office manager at BHG for three years, initially inspired by my son’s interest in competitive gymnastics. Now, both my sons thrive on their gymnastics team, and it's a joy to see them build confidence.

I began at BHG with summer camps and later moved to the office, where I enjoy getting to know families and watching the kids grow. Each child’s unique personality makes connecting with them rewarding.

I’m a proud mom of two boys: Johnathan, 13, and Thomas, 10. We have a calico cat named Astrid and an Alaskan Malamute, Tikaani. My husband and I are from East Texas but settled in Washington due to his military career.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, playing video games, and snacking. My ideal day is relaxing at home with my family. My favorite color is purple!