India Marshall has spent over a decade representing Wales on the international trampoline stage, and now she’s bringing that wealth of experience into coaching, shaping the next generation of gymnasts.
As an athlete, India competed at the Junior Commonwealth Games in Namibia in 2016, where she achieved both individual and team gold, a highlight that remains a standout memory. “It was absolutely incredible,” she recalls. “It was really exiting to compete in a junior version of the commonwealth, even if Trampoline hasn’t made it to the full games yet”. Over the years, she’s competed in a range of international competitions, most recently reaching her first Senior semi-final at the Loule Cup 2025, finishing 9th in a highly competitive field.
Representing Wales has shaped India both as a gymnast and as a person. “It’s developed my sense of community and belonging to our Home Nation,” she says. “Being able to train and compete with the Welsh squad, support my teammates, and grow as a person has been incredibly special.” She recalls the challenges of balancing back-to-back events and navigating unexpected hurdles, like lost luggage during competitions, as lessons that helped her grow, manage nerves, and perform under pressure.
India’s coaching journey began naturally within the club environment she grew up in. “I sort of fell into coaching,” she explains. “Our club fostered such a ‘family’ feel, and I loved having fun with my group, teaching them skills, and helping them develop.” Since completing her Level 1 and 2 qualifications, and most recently her 3.1 and 3.2, India’s passion for coaching has only grown. She focuses not just on trampoline skills, but on shaping her gymnasts into well-rounded individuals with lifelong skills.
Transitioning from athlete to coach required a significant mindset shift. “I’ve had to learn to separate my own experiences from those of my gymnasts,” she says. “Sometimes I need to switch off my ‘athlete brain’ and adapt my coaching to each gymnast’s learning style. That skill grows stronger the more time you spend getting to know your athletes.”
Passing down knowledge, culture, and values is a responsibility India takes seriously. She emphasises open conversations around topics like female health, creating inclusivity, and maintaining a love for the sport. Her ultimate goal is that athletes remember their time with her as fun, safe, and challenging, a place where they could push boundaries, express themselves, and develop life skills alongside gymnastics technique.
For athletes considering coaching, India offers this advice: “Give it a try! Start small, get involved in a club you feel safe and supported in. Coaching is a chance to give back to a sport that’s given you so much, to implement your experience, and to shape the positive culture of gymnastics.”
India also highlights the versatility and adaptability required in coaching. “What works for one gymnast may not work for another,” she says. “You need to be able to adjust quickly to support each individual, while always maintaining a growth mindset. There’s always more to learn, no matter your level of qualification or experience.”
With over 20 years of involvement in gymnastics, India Marshall exemplifies the values, knowledge, and passion that define Welsh gymnastics coaching today. Her journey from athlete to mentor shows that the impact of coaching extends far beyond skills, it’s about building relationships, fostering growth, and inspiring the next generation to love the sport as much as she does.