At a very young age, Nicki’s involvement in the sport of gymnastics started at the YMCA. With the help of the Y Program Director, Nicki saw a need for an enhancement to the basic program that was being offered and she was given additional space and time for the 7 kids that were part of that inaugural program.
Her coaching career saw her have a significant impact on a multitude of athletes and the success that they attained is exemplified by the accomplishments of two of her prize athletes; Robyn and Erin Grigg who attained success from the local level through to the international level.
Her coaching career commenced in 1975 as a youth leader with the YMCA, which lead to her having an integral role in the founding of the Apollo Gymnastics Club. Branching out, she formed North Bay Gymtrix. Along with her club duties, she also served as Team Ontario Coach for the 2003 Las Vegas tour and the 2008 National Championships.
As an official, from 1977 -1992, she was a national level artistic judge, a NCCP Learner Facilitator for 32 years and a competition convenor for 31 years.
At the executive level, Nicki has served her sport in a variety of roles including numerous positions on the Gymnastics Ontario Board of Directors for 32 years and the Northern Region Executive of Gymnastics Ontario for 29 years. In addition to her provincial involvement, Nicki was a member of the Gymnastics Canada working group for Long Term Athlete Development and the Business of Gymnastics subcommittee.
She has been given numerous prestigious Gymnastics and Awards for her contribution to the growth and development of the sport as well as her leadership, mentoring and dedication to the sport.
In 2026, she received the Gymnastics Ontario “Gold Sapphire Crystal” pin recognizing 50 years of involvement in the sport.