From student to mentor: Discover how one BAM! leader is giving back to the community that shaped her
A former student of the Twin Rivers Unified School District, Regina brings her educational journey full circle, returning to her learning community as a leader, role model, and mentor with BAM! With a degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from UC Davis, and a background in sports medicine and youth leadership, Regina blends science, athleticism, and heart into everything she does. Today, she oversees multiple BAM! sites as a Program Coordinator, helping students—and the coaches who guide them—grow through movement.
We sat down with Regina to learn more about her experience, philosophy, and hopes for the future.
Regina, what are your areas of teaching/coaching expertise?
"In June 2024, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior at UC Davis. During my time in undergrad, I gained experience in sports medicine-related experiences as well as working with youth through coordinating conferences for high school students. I have extensive experience in playing and coaching the following sports: cross country, track and field, tennis, and basketball."
How long have you been teaching/coaching in these areas?
"I started my career with BAM! as an Athletics Coordinator at Allison TK–6 from August 2024 to December 2024. Coming back as a Program Coordinator in April 2025, I have coached the following sports for Twin Rivers Unified School District sites: soccer, cheer, tennis, basketball, track, flag football, and golf."
Which BAM! location(s) do you teach at?
"I am currently a BAM! Program Coordinator contracted under the Twin Rivers Unified School District in Sacramento, CA. The sites that I assist with overseeing include Allison TK–6, Fairbanks TK–6, Hillsdale TK–6, Westside Preparatory Charter School Eastside Campus 7–8, Madison TK–6, Pioneer TK–8, Smythe TK–6, Woodlake TK–6, Woodridge TK–6, and Village TK–8."
What inspired you to work at Brains & Motion, and what does the opportunity mean to you?
"As a recent Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior graduate from UC Davis, I was first interested in working under Brains & Motion’s STEM programs. Being a former student of the Twin Rivers Unified School District, I knew it would be a 'full circle' experience to serve my community as an Athletics Coordinator, specifically at the elementary school that I attended which did not have an athletics program at that time.
I am grateful and fortunate to have the opportunity to give back to my community by providing Athletics Coaches and Coordinators with the support that they need to contribute to student success in TRUSD Athletics. Being able to serve as a role model for students similar to my younger self is a rewarding experience."
How do you incorporate creativity into your lessons?
"As a Program Coordinator, I encourage Athletics Coordinators and Supporting Coaches to draw from their own experiences as athletes as they create their lesson plans. I believe that everyone has their own creative process that speaks to them, so I support our staff by empowering them to see themselves in their programming and creating lessons that are intentional and meaningful."
Why is it important for kids to spark a love of movement early on?
"Instilling a love for movement is so critical for youth development and success. Athletics in particular are a great opportunity for students to learn healthy habits while also building meaningful relationships within their community."
What advice would you give to kids trying a new sport for the first time?
"I would encourage students to chase opportunities that feel difficult. When we experience challenges, that is, in my opinion, where we learn the most from. Trying a new sport could teach you so much about yourself, others, and the world around you. If you end up not liking a sport, there are countless other ones that you can potentially learn to enjoy!"
What do you hope kids will take away from their experience at BAM!?
"I hope that students will ultimately have fun in our athletics program and as they get older, they will realize the importance of the lessons and values that sports are able to teach. Being able to choose to participate in 7 different sports year-round from TK to 8th grade is an amazing opportunity in our program that I hope all students can take advantage of."
What are your future educational goals or career aspirations in addition to teaching/coaching at Brains & Motion?
"In the future, I hope to continue coordinating programs for youth development and empowerment. Using my experience at Brains & Motion, I foresee a future where I get to combine my passion for athletics and STEM in the physical therapy and sports medicine field."
At BAM!, we’re proud to work alongside leaders like Regina, who show kids that sports are about so much more than just winning games. They're about discovering your strengths, lifting each other up, and finding joy in movement. Regina’s story reminds us that when students see someone who grew up where they did—and who now leads with passion and purpose—it sparks something powerful. She’s not just building stronger athletes; she’s helping shape confident, connected kids who feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep moving forward.
