Doug Byrnes -Owner

Doug Byrnes, owner of Spirit Gymnastics, began his career with Hamline in 1989. A lifetime of coaching that has included a dozen years in the college ranks, 20+ years of USAG gymnastics and three years of high school. He has had the opportunity to work with many USAG regional and national qualifiers, high school state meet participants, and collegiate gymnasts and champions around the country. In 1996 he began coaching as an assistant coach for the Hamline collegiate team and took over as head coach at the start of the 1999-2000 season, coaching over 20 years with the Piper gymnastics team. As a veteran mentor Doug was named WIAC x2 and NCGA Coach of the Year -- just the second Piper mentor ever to win the national honor. Placing priority on proper progressions and teaching new skills for improving the gymnastics of his athletes he has lead numerous gymnasts to the state, regional and national level. This leadership is crucial to achieving a successful season for both the USAG Club teams and the Hamline Pipers. Doug holds a degree in civil engineering from the University of Minnesota and practiced structural engineering for eight years prior to taking over as head coach. Outside the gym, Byrnes is an avid outdoor enthusiast and continues his passion to find the next best band.