Leah Sowers
My name is Leah Sowers and I am the owner/head coach of Sowers Gymnastics. I participated in gymnastics from the ages of 4-14, with 6 of those years being on a competitive team. I coached the competitive XCEL Team at the gym I grew up attending from 2019-2024. I was both the team and gym manager within that timeframe.
I moved to Pleasantville in 2021 with my now husband, Nathan Sowers, who grew up here.
I have always had a passion for teaching gymnastics and noticed a lack of gym options for the small towns around Des Moines. I wanted to share my knowledge and background with kids of all ages and abilities in order to expand the love for this sport. I am a Safesport trained coach.
The goal is to build a full gymnastics gym in the area in the near future!
Kendall Krichau
My name is Kendall Krichau and joined the Sowers Gymnastics coaching staff in 2026. I coach preschool – gymnastics 2 classes as well as assist on some other ones. I have ten years of tumbling experience and am currently a junior at Iowa state studying accounting while also working as a receptionist at Inside Out Chiropractic in Altoona! I was born and raised in Pleasantville and I also love to coach volleyball!
Stephanie Stuart
My name is Stephanie Stuart, and I currently live in Knoxville with my husband, Zach, and our four kids—Peighton, Talen, Blakely, and Tinley.
I spent most of my childhood in the gym, and I absolutely loved every minute of it! After 10+ years as a competitive tumbler, I’m so excited to begin this next chapter as a coach. Throughout my time as an athlete, I also had the opportunity to assist with coaching and work with younger athletes, which is something I’ve always enjoyed.
I can’t wait to get started, share my love and knowledge of this sport, and help athletes grow their skills and confidence along the way!