Karen joined Brite Coaching a year ago although we wished it was much early. Her value to Brite is unprecedented in that she brings not only a wealth of knowledge as an ex-professional triathlete and elite level swimmer and runner, she also brings an expertise as a nurse in the mental health, addictions and obesity space. Karen has a unique ability to relate to athletes at any level and offer grace and patience or tough love and pushing boundaries when required.
More pivotal than her athletic prowess and coaching acumen is Karen’s new role a mom of baby boy, Felix, and navigating her changed world and athletic self while caring for a little one and the demands of sleep disruptions, freedom of time, responsibility and relationship negotiations.
Women's sport in general is a hot topic these days and much of the conversation surrounds equality in representation and compensation. It also surrounds the impact that child-bearing has on a women's career in sport or any profession and how our society recognizes, honours and holds space for women. Many of our top women athletes (Chelsea Sodaro, Sarah True, Miranda Carfrae to name a few) are new mothers showcasing world class performances with careful attention to their needs after giving birth. This is an important time for women in sport and we are honoured to have Karen on our team as top shelf coach and mother to share in the experience with many of our athletes also wearing a parental athletic hat. To connect with Karen for coaching or for sharing parenting experiences, please contact karen at karenthibodeau@hotmail.com