National Stage Moments & Big Team Wins
This past week at LaceyStrong Coaching was nothing short of unforgettable. As a coach who’s deeply invested in each athlete’s journey, being able to stand beside my clients on a national stage was a reminder of why we do what we do. From Junior USA’s in Charleston to the NPC Peach Classic in Atlanta, Team LaceyStrong showed up strong, polished, and competitive.
🏆 Coaching at Junior USA’s — A True Milestone
This weekend, I had the privilege of traveling with Victor Cooks and Erika Mitchell as they stepped on stage at Junior USA’s in Charleston, South Carolina — one of the most competitive national shows in the country. Both athletes brought their best physiques to date, and seeing them make a serious run for their IFBB Pro Cards was a career highlight as a coach.
It wasn’t just about the look — it was about the energy. Their confidence, poise, and presence made a statement. And as a coach, being able to stand there with them, knowing the hard work that went into every cardio session, every macro count, and every posing round — it meant everything.
🌟 Client Shoutouts: National & Regional Excellence
I want to give a major shoutout to:
Erika Mitchell – Nailed her stage presence and conditioning at Junior USA’s. Her presentation was on point and her growth as an athlete showed in every pose.
Victor Cooks – Peak conditioning and poise on stage. His national debut was a proud moment for the entire LaceyStrong team.
Shontell Edwards – Competed at the NPC Peach Classic in Atlanta and brought her best look yet. Her structure and overall stage polish lit up the stage.
💡 Coaching Insight of the Week: Bodybuilding Is a Privilege
This week, I reminded my athletes (and myself) of something important: Bodybuilding is a privilege, not a burden. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of prep, but every step of this process — from cardio to check-ins — is something we choose to do. Slow down. Soak it in. These moments don’t last forever.
When we stop chasing perfection and start appreciating the journey, everything shifts. You grow not just as a competitor, but as a person.
🔋 Personal Coaching Reflection: Be Fully Present
As a coach, one lesson hit home for me this week — and it’s simple: Put the phone down. Be present.
During these big moments — from pump-up room prep to post-stage hugs — my job isn’t just to coach macros and posing. It’s to be there for my clients. This week reminded me to take it all in, enjoy the moment, and give each athlete my full attention. Because the memories we create together matter just as much as the medals.
📅 Coming Up: Next LaceyStrong Team Workout — June 7
We’re keeping the momentum rolling with our next LaceyStrong Team Workout and Meetup on June 7. These events are more than a training session — they build culture, connection, and community within the team. If you’ve never been to one, now’s your chance. You’ll leave better — guaranteed.
Ready to Compete or Transform? Join LaceyStrong Coaching
Whether you're working toward your first show, building your lifestyle transformation, or going all-in on your IFBB Pro Card dreams, LaceyStrong Coaching has the tools, structure, and experience to get you there.
With a nationally recognized program and a 5x coaching award winner at the helm — including 4x Louisiana Coach of the Year and 1x Mississippi Coach of the Year — this is where champions are built.
👉 Apply now to join LaceyStrong Coaching and start your journey today.
