Behind the Scenes
Meet Our Coaches
At Potchefstroom Gymnastics Academy, our passionate coaching team is dedicated to helping every gymnast reach their full potential.
Head Coaches:
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Jan-Paul Thiart – Co-founder and president, driven to create a thriving environment where young athletes build discipline, confidence, and resilience.
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Dr. Ninette Thiart – Co-founder, internationally recognised judge & coach, and lecturer with 22+ years’ experience, combining science and movement to inspire excellence.
Assistant Coaches:
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Marna van der Schyff
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Marizette Aucamp
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Casey Wolter
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Nicole van Niekerk
Together, they share a vision of inspiring, guiding, and empowering gymnasts to soar to new heights.
See full details below
Team Members
Jan-Paul Thiart
Co - Owner & Co-Founder
Director
Manager
Artistic Head Coach
Jan-Paul Thiart has a deep love for athletics, sports, and mentoring others. Inspired by his wife, Dr. Ninette Thiart, Jan-Paul discovered his love for gymnastics, leading them to co-found Potchefstroom Gymnastics Academy. As president, he is dedicated to creating a dynamic environment where athletes can thrive, with the vision of making the academy a leading institution in gymnastics. Jan-Paul believes in the transformative power of sports and education, aiming to instill discipline, resilience, and confidence in young gymnasts.
Dr Ninette Thiart
Co - Owner & Co-Founder
Director
RG Head Coach
Dr. Ninette Thiart is an experienced coach and judge with over 25+ years in the field. Her love for dance and movement inspired her to pursue a PhD in Sport Science and earn her Royal Academy of Dance Ballet teaching diploma. As an internationally recognized rhythmic gymnastics judge, coach, and lecturer, she is passionate about the science of movement and helping young athletes overcome their biggest challenges, both physically and mentally.
Marna Van Der Schyff
Rhythmic Coach
Marna is a passionate young coach, who did rhythmic gymnastics for 13 years. Her love for dance, gymnastics and helping people made her decide to become a rhythmic gymnastics coach. With her diploma in Visual Communication, she combines her talent with gymnastics not just to create visual designs but also artistic dances. Helping gymnasts grow into their full potential, both mentally and physically.


