People Person
Chelsea Dionisio prides herself on being a people person. In her second season as the Midland University Women’s Wrestling Coach, Dionisio relishes the time she gets to spend with her team, fellow coaches, and Midland faculty and staff.
“I enjoy laughing with everyone I’m around. Even more so, I enjoy seeing my people win, whether that be on the mat, in the classroom, or within the community. There’s nothing better than seeing the people you care for grow and achieve.”
Her road to becoming a wrestling coach was forged at Jamestown University in North Dakota, where she wrestled for four years before serving as an assistant coach for two more seasons. During that time, she encountered many people who helped mold her into the coach, and person, she is today.
“My senior year, we hired a strength and conditioning coach who told me that coaching is a people business and it’s the lives you touch, the relationships you build, and the way others pour into you that will help you grow. It made me reflect on all of the coaches that I’ve had in my life who helped mold me into the woman I am today. I want nothing more than to be that person for others and guide them, give them someone to confide in, and be someone who can make them feel like they can take on the world. I thank all of the wonderful people who guided me, and continue to inspire me to this day.”
A coach can play many roles in the life of an athlete, and Chelsea is driven to see her athletes succeed both on and off the mat. “My favorite moment is when an athlete starts to believe in themselves and can see what I’ve seen along, which is how capable, strong, and worthy they are of the blessings that are to come.”
When she finds time for herself, Chelsea enjoys the great outdoors. Whether that means hiking, camping, fishing, or kayaking, she believes that life is better when it’s spent in the sun.
As she guides and mentors students through her coaching, Chelsea hopes they embrace all that life has to offer. “I tell them to be present and live with intention. Let people know you love them. This life is short, crazy, and can be difficult, but it’s beautiful and it’s all yours! Take the time to paint it into your own masterpiece.”
Get to know Chelsea Dionisio
Something people might not know about you: I have 11 tattoos.
If I weren’t coaching, I would be . . . I think I would like to own a donut shop. I love donuts!
Snack that you can’t resist: Yogurt covered pretzels and Takis.
When flipping channels, I’ll always stop to watch this: I actually don’t watch TV, but if I’m on the radio, I’ll always stop on the country station.
What artist dominates your playlist? I’m ashamed to admit that Taylor Swift tops my Spotify Wrapped every year, and has since 2015. But Blink 182 is a close second.
What is your ideal vacation? Hiking through the country of the Philippines, which is my parents’ home country. I’ve done it once, and would love to explore it some more.
What is your most used emoji? It’s a tie between the laughing face and the soldier’s salute.
