Life & Work with DESHAUN HOLDEN of Peachtree Corners

Today we’d like to introduce you to DESHAUN HOLDEN.

Hi DESHAUN, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
DeShaun Holden is a former competitive gymnast, gymnastics coach, gym owner, and youth sports advocate based in the Peachtree Corners, Georgia area. He began his gymnastics career as a competitive athlete at the Gemini School of Gymnastics under coach Skip Zimmerman, later training at the Apollo School of Gymnastics and Orlando Metro, where he competed at the Class I level (equivalent to Level 10). At just 16, he earned his judge’s certification and went on to officiate competitions across Florida and Georgia.
He has coached all levels and judged both nationally and internationally, holding a Level 10 rating with multiple associations. DeShaun attended Florida A&M University (FAMU), a prestigious HBCU, and earned a B.A. in Business. In 2010, he shifted his focus fully to coaching and founded Top Notch Training Gym in Peachtree Corners, GA — one of the most esteemed gymnastics facilities in Georgia, known for its diversity, inclusivity, and strong sense of community.
Beyond his professional achievements, DeShaun’s character is defined by his deep commitment to family. At just 26 years old, he gained custody of his three siblings — his brother Christopher (17), and sisters Ashley (14) and Destinee (6) — stepping into a parental role at a young age. Later that same year, his grandmother was released from the hospital, and DeShaun took on the responsibility of caring for her until her passing in July 2015.
Holden also serves as a Volunteer Assistant Coach for Fisk University’s women’s gymnastics team, the first-ever gymnastics program at a historically Black college or university (HBCU). He is the president of the Holden Foundation for Kids Sports, a nonprofit aimed at helping underserved children access sports opportunities. He also studied at the California School of Law.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Far from it. I was thrust into adulthood practically overnight. One day, I was a young man living on my own in Alpharetta, Georgia, and the next, I had three kids to raise. The financial burden was immense — to make ends meet, he worked three jobs simultaneously, bartending, working at Kroger, and coaching gymnastics. Every dollar went toward providing for his siblings and keeping the household afloat. Despite the exhaustion and sacrifice, I never wavered in my commitment to my family. As the children grew older and became more independent, I was finally able to complete my college degree and turn my attention to my lifelong dream — opening my own gymnastics gym. That dream became a reality with the founding of Top Notch Training Center/Gym, a testament to my resilience, determination, and refusal to give up no matter the obstacles.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an Elite-level gymnastics coach — a distinction held by just 1% of coaches nationwide. I specialize in uneven bars and vault, though I am experienced in coaching all events. My athletes are widely recognized for their excellence on bars, and I have had the privilege of coaching gymnasts who have competed internationally and brought home victories on the event.
What drives my coaching philosophy is a deep belief that gymnastics is for everyone. Too often, athletes are overlooked because they don’t fit the mold of a “natural talent.” I take a different approach. With the right coaching, dedication, and belief, any athlete can achieve more than they thought possible. Building that confidence and unlocking that potential is what I do best.
Whether I’m developing an athlete’s first kip or refining skills at the elite level, I bring the same commitment, attention to detail, and passion to every gymnast I work with.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tntgym.org
• Instagram: tntgymnasticsatl