Petra Richard
HEAD SPRINTS COACH
Petra gave everything she had in becoming the best coach and a competitive track and field athlete she could be. She has been coaching in Canada including the United states for over 12 years while attending full time school, completing her Bachelor in Kinesiology and completing her Masters of Science in Sport Psychology and Coaching student athlete development in California. She has worked with over 20 sport organizations, involved in sport research and most importantly building interpersonal relationships with athletes is her utmost passion. She has worked alongside Olympic and Varsity head coaches in developing sprint programs for athletes including CFL + NFL, track, basketball and soccer. She was an assistant track and field coach with Fellowship Christian Athletes (FCA) Sports organization in Los Angeles, California at UCLA. In addition to her MSc, she has a handful of coaching certifications for ethical decisions, planning a practice, designing a sports program, nutrition, and sports psychology.
She began her local business in 2020, where she believed athletes were struggling to be consistent in their sport. Despite her background, she has a clear vision for athletes through faith in sports, positive leadership, integrity, & collaboration. She holds a strong belief that athletes are the first and foremost the ones to advocate for. She believes a healthy relationship with a coach is essential to an athlete’s well being and self development. The purpose is to hold a passion to teach athletes sporting disciplines and life skills.
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
Growing in the pursuit of having professional and positive experiences with athletes and clients.
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PROFESSIONAL
TESTIMONIALS
JACK BOYLE,
MSc. Kines
HEAD SPORT & CONDITIONING COACH
Mount Royal University
Became the first Head Strength and Conditioning coach at Mount Royal University for 8 Varsity Teams, & over 200 student-athletes.
Petra blossomed in her ability to communicate and connect with athletes. Her genuine care and dedication are noticed by our student-athletes and staff. Throughout her time with Mount Royal Athletics, Petra continuously improved in her ability to instruct and lead both individuals and groups. Petra also impressed me with her persistent pursuit to further her knowledge, and her eagerness to continually contribute above and beyond her typical commitments. Petra’s passion for helping others is undoubtedly her best attribute. Her ability to carry out a meaningful conversation or convey a message to our student-athletes has been a real asset for our program. Above all, what separates Petra from other applicants is her ability to be professional, consistent, and detail-oriented while having a great attitude towards each task. Petra’s ability to connect with everyone around her is an undervalued skillset when working in team settings. She is a true energy giver.
ASTRID HEIDENREICH,
M.Ed.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION INSTRUCTOR
Mount Royal University
Astrid taught Physical Education & Health in Universities and private schools for over 30 years. Her pedagogical approach to instruction is grounded in her past experiences and ongoing commitment to professional development.
Petra is driven, engaging, and cheerful. When it comes to feedback, Petra is always open and receptive. She has a great sense of humor which enhances the positive environment. She is keen to learn and this is an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well. Petra’s curiosity, knowledge, cheerful nature, and willingness to take risks, lead me to believe there is no limit to her growth, achievements and career.
CHRIS BAPTISTA
B.A., HPED
Associate Head Track & Field Coach
Cal Poly, California
"Baptista graduated from University of Alabama in 1997 with a degree in Health and Physical Education/Fitness after competing for the Blazer track & field team. Prior to coaching with the Bulldogs, he also served on the staffs of Tulsa (2002-05), South Alabama (2000) and Troy (1997-2000), in addition to being the Head Coach at Shasta College from 2000-02. Among Baptista’s certifications are Level V Elite Coach from the IAAF, Level 3 from USATF and Strength & Conditioning by the USTFCCCA. He also has served as Master Clinician for the USATF." - Cal Poly
I worked alongside Petra at the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Camp in Westwood, CA in the summer of 2019. During that time I observed Petra's abilities most definitely struck me with her experience, knowledge and skills as an Athletics coach. She is genuinely passionate for people and it embarks who she truly is. I have been grateful to continually offer her my guidance towards her education and career.