Get to Know Coach B

Hi, I’m Belinda Livers, better known as Coach B, and I’m your gymnastics coach! My journey began as a true fighter—I was born weighing just 1 pound, 10 ounces and even made the front page of the Louisville Kentucky newspaper as a miracle baby. On my second day of life, I underwent open-heart surgery, and doctors warned my family that I might struggle with walking and talking. But with months of speech and physical therapy, I not only learned to walk and talk—I haven’t stopped talking since!

As I grew up, my teachers noticed my energy and labeled me with behavioral issues, specifically Attention Deficit Disorder. The school recommended further testing, suggesting I be placed in a special education program with modified testing. However, the results showed I didn’t qualify for special education services, leaving my family confused and searching for answers.

Eventually, I was referred to a mental health facility, but after spending several weeks there, I knew I didn’t belong. I told my parents, “The people here have challenges I don’t relate to.” Trusting my instincts, my dad made the decision to take me out. What I truly needed was understanding—I was smart, outgoing, and full of energy, just different in my own unique way.

Recognizing my love for running and flipping, my mother enrolled me in gymnastics at Karolyi. That decision changed my life. Gymnastics became my saving grace. My coach recognized my learning style—visual and hands-on—and worked with me patiently, helping me overcome my struggles with comprehension. While the school system failed to provide the support I needed, the structure and discipline I found in gymnastics gave me the tools to succeed in school and in life.

This experience shaped who I am as a coach today. I understand that every child learns differently, and I refuse to group my students together. Instead, I focus on their individual needs, providing the patience, guidance, and structure that can be life-changing.

Gymnastics isn’t just a sport—it’s a powerful tool for education, personal growth, and therapy. And that belief led to the creation of UniqueTwist Gymnastics in October 2015.