Title: Assistant Soigneur

Born: 11/10/1975, Grand Rapids, MI

Current Residence: Columbia, SC

Education: B.A. in Psychology with certificate in Business - Indiana University (1994-1999); Nationally Certified Massage Therapist - Boulder College of Massage Therapy (2000-2001)

Family Status: Single

In her own words

For the 2008 season, you'll be an assistant soigneur. Can you give an idea of what your schedule will be like, and what you'll be doing when not working races?

This season, I'll be spending a lot less time on the road than last year. I am scheduled to work with the team at Tour de Georgia, U.S. Pro Road Nationals in Greenville, S.C., and a few other races on the NRC schedule.

When I'm not on the road, I'll be busy with my full-time Massage Therapy practice here in Columbia, and focusing on my own personal training for upcoming competitions.

Can you describe what your role is for the team, especially before, during and after races?

My role as Assistant Soigneur will be "Joby's little Gopher." I'll be massaging the riders and picking up the slack where Joby falls behind, which basically means I'll be doing EVERYTHING! (Only kidding, Jobes :-))

From your perspective, what makes a soigneur good at what they do?

I believe that someone in a soigneur's position should be able to manage their time effectively, be organized and willing to work hard, have decent navigational skills (which could mean an occasional trip to the Mexican border and back), and give a good Sports Massage.

What about from the rider's perspective?

I can't really speak for the riders...(and by that I mean Hesjedal)...but I think as long as their basic needs are taken care of concerning food, rest, transportation, food, massage, clean laundry, food, food, and of course food, the soigneur is doing a pretty good job. That's just what I think, though. You'll probably get a different opinion if you ask any one of the riders on the team.

What other cycling teams have you worked with in the past?

I worked with the U.S. National Track Cycling team in 2002, the Ralph Lauren Polo RLX Pro Mountain Bike team in 2004, and the Health Net p/b Maxxis Pro Cycling Team since 2005.

How/why did you end up working with a professional cycling team?

I have always enjoyed traveling and working with athletes, and cycling is one of the few sports that hires massage therapists as part of their staff. When I received a call back in 2005 from my friend Nick Legan asking if I was interested in working with THE #1 road cycling team in the nation, I of course said "YES." (You guys still Rock!)

Are you a cyclist yourself?

Yes, on a recreational basis, though.

What are your interests outside of cycling?

I enjoy any water sport, running, hiking, going out dancing, eating sushi, drinking wine, seeing live music and of course... singing in the shower (great preparation for my American Idol debut).

I am currently training for my second year of Figure Competitions, (similar to Bodybuilding, but for smaller-figured women), and exploring the world of Fitness Modeling.