Reflection: My role as a student supervisor at the Georgian College Fitness Centre differed from my other supervisory positions, as it was my first supervisory role outside of Compass Group Canada. This was the fitness centre’s first reopening since the COVID-19 pandemic, so there were many safety precautions that had to be put in place. Students had to sign up for their own designated gym times, as only 20 people were allowed in the gym during each one-hour booking period. Masks were mandatory, and everyone who used equipment had to sanitize it immediately afterwards. Every hour, we completed a checklist in which we re-sanitized all high-touch surfaces, made sure bathrooms were checked, and wet wipes were replaced. Eventually, drop-in sports started up again, and we had to set up and take down the equipment needed for each sport. As COVID-19 restrictions eased, more people attended the gym, so we transitioned to an updated online system, which required staff to complete additional computer training.

These experiences as a student supervisor helped me develop key transferable skills such as a growth mindset, confidence, and time management. These skills transfer directly to my placement experience, where I am constantly learning new coaching cues and putting them into practice while balancing responsibilities such as supporting athletes, cleaning the gym, and maintaining client relationships. It is important to demonstrate confidence as a coach and teacher, as your students often become a reflection of the actions and attitudes they observe. Modelling confidence can help students and athletes believe in themselves and continue striving for success. As an educator and coach, you should always aim for growth. There is no single measure of being the “best,” as coaching and teaching are constantly evolving, requiring continued growth in new areas.