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Olympians & Coaching Legends Inspire GALS LA Students

Girls Athletic Leadership School Los Angeles (GALS LA) deeply understands the impact of physical activity on academics. Movement brings our students joy, energy and confidence and prepares our students to live long and fulfilling lives. Research shows that daily exercise improves students’ memory, attention, and cognition. 

GALS LA has had the privilege to host several VIP athletes over the years. Learn more about these stars and their visits below! 

Lindsey Vonn poses for a photo with Vanessa Garza.

LINDSEY VONN — May 2023

After GALS LA students completed projects on the Winter 2022 Olympic Games, students were surprised with a campus visit from 4-time World Cup alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn. Vonn, widely considered one of the greatest Olympic ski racers of all time, spoke to GALS LA students about pursuing their dreams, how to grow confidence and discovering the grit within. 

Valerie Brisco-Hooks speaks to a class at GALS LA.

VALERIE BRISCO-HOOKS — December 2021

Valerie Brisco-Hooks, owner of three Olympic gold medals, a five-time Olympics finalist, world-championship finalist and NACAC-record holder, visited GALS LA to share her story of passion and determination with students. After Valerie’s brother was shot on a Los Angeles running track, Valerie took up running in his honor and put herself through grueling training sessions. She was the first woman to win the 200m and 400m in the same Olympic Games.

 

COACH VAL KONDOS FIELDS — February 2020

7-time NCAA champion, PAC12 Coach of the Century and UCLA Athletic Hall of Famer Coach Val Kondos Fields visited GALS LA to speak about her legendary coaching career, the importance of determination and valuable life lessons through student athletic programs. 

Victoria Anthony does a wrestling demonstration at GALS LA.

VICTORIA ANTHONY — October 2018

Freestyle wrestler Victoria Anthony surprised GALS LA students with a live, on-campus wrestling demonstration and a conversation about daily movement and her journey as an athlete. Anthony holds ample titles: Two-time U.S. Olympic Alternate, three-time Pan American Champion, 3x U.S. World Team Member, two-time U.S. Open Champion, 4-time Women’s Collegiate Wrestling Association Champion and ten years on the U.S National Team. 

 
Amy Fuller Kearney visits GALS LA classroom.

AMY FULLER KEARNEY — May 2017

Three-time Olympian, world-record holder and 1993 U.S. Rowing Female Athlete of the Year, Amy Fuller Kearney was a founding GALS LA parent and the Head Rowing Coach at UCLA. While speaking to GALS LA students about passion, empathy and strength, students passed around Kearney’s Olympic medal in awe. Kearney passed in March 2023 and is dearly remembered.