Gymnastics isn’t exactly considered a traditional sport. It takes a lot of hard work to succeed and dedication to teach.

NIU gymnastics head coach Mark Sontag has a long history with gymnastics. Sontag sat down with the Northern Star to discuss getting his start in the sport and where he thinks NIU’s program is heading.

Northern Star: How did you get into gymnastics? What drew you to the sport?

Mark Sontag: Growing up I was the kid always jumping off of furniture and doing flips. My mom thought I needed some supervision so I wouldn’t get hurt, so she put me into gymnastics. I was drawn to it because I was always intrigued by everything that you could do with your body.

NS: What do you like most about the sport?

MS: I worked so hard to master my skills, and it was always so satisfying when I was able to get my routine down. I loved the competition and I loved being able to do things with my body in the air that other people could not do.

NS: What do you like most about coaching?

MS: I enjoy working with the student-athletes. I get to watch them improve and every day is different. It is really a great environment to be a part of.

NS: What are your other hobbies when you are not coaching?

MS: I have a lot of other hobbies. I have always liked photography, and I am a yoga teacher. When I was growing up I was an Eagle Scout, so I was into camping and the outdoors. I also really enjoy biking.

NS: Do you like the direction that your gymnastics program is heading?

MS: The gymnastics program the last couple of years has gone from a team that has struggled and has become a team that pushes teams to compete. Lately, we have been knocking on the door of the MAC Championship. Our program has been moving in the right direction.