First-year Kentucky assistant coach Chuck Dickerson is settling into his new role with the Cats’ gymnastics program after spending nearly 25 years as a gymnastics coach in the state of Texas. He recently sat down with UKAthletics.com for a quick Q&A session about his adjustment and his goals for the program.
Q:What attracted you to Kentucky after a distinguished coaching career in the state of Texas?
A:The timing was just right for a move. I had accomplished most of my personal goals as a club coach and I got a call from [Kentucky head coach] Mo [Mitchell] and I felt like I needed a new challenge.
Q:What do you feel is the most exciting thing about working in University of Kentucky Athletics?
A:The quality of the overall program and the group of kids we have in our gymnastics program.
Q:What got you started in the sport of gymnastics and what has kept you working with the sport so long?
A:I have in gymnastics since a young age and loved the challenges the sport offered. I have been coaching now for 25 years and my passion is still as strong today as it was when I first started. That?s what keeps me going.
Q:What was the experience like working with famed coach Bela Karolyi?
A:I learned a lot from him. His work ethic and desire are unmatchable. He is still a great friend today.
Q:Do you have a role model or someone you try to emulate in your gymnastics coaching career?
A:No, I really don’t. I just try to utilize my strengths and improve on my weaknesses.
Q:What are your expectations for this program both for this year and for the future?
A:The sky is the limit. Our goals are high and they should be. We have a group that can compete with anybody.
Q:One of your main responsibilities will be working with the team?s strength and conditioning program. How important is strength and conditioning to the success of a gymnastics program?
A:It is crucial to the success of our team. Staying healthy in our sport is key and, although some injuries are unavoidable, we believe with our conditioning program we can do a better job of competing healthy.
Q:You worked with many athletes who went on to the college level, now you are coaching collegiate gymnasts. How is that different and what do you like so far about coaching college gymnasts?
A:I love the group we have. They are really special. They understand why they are here and understand their strengths and weaknesses.
Q:What kinds of things do you like to do in your free time away from gymnastics?
A:Watch sports, read the Bible and give motivational speeches to young people.
