“Coach Paul went far beyond our expectations!” Kind, caring, welcoming, enthusiastic, generous and warm, these are just a few of the superlative descriptions ascribed to Paul Amundson, owner and director of The Maine Academy of Gymnastics in Westbrook, Maine. The students from the Extended School Year Program (ESY) were treated to a morning of imaginative play and exercise earlier this summer at the facility. “Coach Paul not only readily agreed to host our field trip, but also accommodated our every need, including the day and time” said Courtney Kennedy, Westbrook teacher and friend of Amundson. “I was thrilled that every child was fully engaged the entire time” continued Guin Gridley, the summer program director. The laughter and active play were especially significant for many of these children whose ability to participate in most activities is extremely limited. Amundson had a variety of activities to meet the different needs of the students, including trampolines, rope swings and the ever popular foam pit. “Coach Paul’s goal was to give every child an experience that stimulated their every sense” recalled Marita Scarlett, ESY teacher. “Many of the children demonstrated communication skills that are difficult to elicit” noted the program speech therapist, “and every child benefited tremendously from the unique stimulation that the gym offered.” The students were thrilled when at the end they all received winners’ medallions from Coach Paul. Amundson, an accomplished gymnast himself, is one of a number of professional athletes and trainers at the Academy where instruction is offered for clients of all ages, abilities and aspirations.
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