Coach Courtney Gibbons, affectionately nicknamed “Gibbs” by her students, is currently one of three Physical Education teachers at Meridian and coaches the girls varsity lacrosse team.

Gibbons grew up in Rochester, New York, where she played lacrosse, ski race, and soccer throughout high school. From there, she played collegiate lacrosse at St. Bonaventure University. She currently coaches lacrosse, but before that she enjoyed her time being a player for St. Bonaventure during her college days. “I loved playing in games, but I also loved being around my teammates all the time. Our road trips were always fun.”

Gibbons taught in Maryland for seven years and has taught at Meridian for eight. Even though it’s been less than a decade that Gibbons has worked in Falls Church City, it feels like a lot longer due to her connection to the community. 

“I love PE,” Gibbons said. “You get to play games with the kids, It’s a more relaxed class for everyone. You get to have fun. You can play badminton, pickleball, pin dodge, and flag football, I get to teach the weight lifting class and wear comfy clothes, which is a bonus.”

Not only does Gibbons teach PE and champ training, but she has also coached girls lacrosse at Meridian for 15 years. Gibbons has led her teams to regionals and states while she has been coaching here at Meridian. She really misses her former players from each team she’s coached. The team that she misses the most is the 2017 state championship team.

She also gave out advice for any girls who want to play lacrosse in the spring. “Make sure that you’re working on your stick work, make sure that you’re working on your speed and conditioning, shooting, playing in off season leagues. Then make sure you come in shape ready to roll.”

On top of teaching and coaching, Gibbons cheers for the New York Giants. Her football team has faltered in the past couple of years with good players either being traded or injured and the team missing the playoffs. Although she dislikes the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Football Team, she hates the Philadelphia Eagles with a passion.

Coach Gibbons is an easy to talk to teacher who is always open to conversation. If you’re ever in the mood to talk to her, stop by either at the main gym or in the weight room, where Gibbs feels most at home.