Named to Navy's coaching staff in September of 2016, Tamayo comes to Annapolis following a storied career on the international competition scene, as well as over 10 years as a youth coach.
“I am thrilled to have Charlie on board as a member of the Navy gymnastics family in support of our physical mission,” said head coach Kip Simons. “Charlie was tremendously successful on the world stage overcoming many obstacles with his relentless perseverance. He brings that same tenacity to his coaching style which aligns perfectly with our philosophy of developing leaders of character. In short order, Charlie’s enthusiasm and passion have raised the bar to a new level in the gym and the guys have responded.”
“I am honored by the opportunity given to me by Kip Simons,” remarked Tamayo. “To be a part of the Navy family and this amazing organization is a dream come true. I look forward to bringing all of my experiences from the competitive floor to our gym. I will do everything possible to bring this gymnastics team to another level.”
An elite competitor on the international circuit, Tamayo was a world champion at the 2002 World Cup competition and a bronze medalist at the 2001 World Championships, as well as a three-time champion at the Pan American Games as a member of the Cuban National Team. An all-around competitor, Tamayo thrived in vault and ring competitions as both of his medals from world events came on the vault.
After defecting from Cuba in 2003, Tamayo began his coaching career in the United States. From 2004 through 2016, he served as the head coach of elite youth programs in California and Colorado, as well as the VIP and director of the Woodward West Gymnastics Camp from 2006 to 2007. Most recently, Tamayo was the head coach of the West Coast Elite Gymnastics women’s team in Arcadia, California. As the head coach he organized the rotations, lesson plans and conditioning programs for his athletes.
Tamayo is a 2002 graduate from the Higher Institute of Physical Culture Manuel Fajardo in Havana, Cuba.
