Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaia Brooks.
Hi Kaia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My Journey with GDAT
My journey began after I graduated from college in December 2022 (I walked the stage in May!). I had been playing volleyball year-round since high school, always working hard, but I never won a championship or tournament. After graduation, I took a month to rest and figure out my next steps. During that time, I had the opportunity to step in as a temporary coach for my former club coach’s team when she was unable to continue coaching.
That experience reconnected me with another coach I had worked with in the summer of 2022, where we led a volleyball camp focused on developing beginner players. It was during this time that I truly discovered my love for teaching the sport I had dedicated so much of my life to.
The Birth of GDAT
Over the years, I had been part of teams that used acronyms for their names. Inspired by that, I began jotting down words that resonated with me throughout my playing and coaching journey. One day, as I looked at my list, three words stood out: Growth, Development, Athletic Training—which became GDAT.
I’ve learned that success isn’t about completely changing things, but rather about understanding what went wrong, learning from it, and growing each day. Development is closely tied to growth, as every experience teaches us something new. Athletic training, in my definition, isn’t just about physical conditioning—it’s about understanding body movements, why they matter, and how to improve them. (Fun fact: I earned a degree in Kinesiology!)
My Purpose in Coaching
While filling in as a coach, I realized I didn’t necessarily want to run a team or coach competitively. Reflecting on my experiences, I also noticed that competitive volleyball in my area had declined since my playing days. I saw an opportunity to use my patience and love for youth to introduce the sport to beginners—helping them develop the foundation I wished I had earlier in my career.
That’s why I started GDAT—to work with 4th-8th graders and help prepare them for the next level of play. Through my business, I host beginner clinics and private lessons (both group and individual) for male and female athletes of all ages.
As a high school senior, I once believed it was too late for me to earn a degree while playing volleyball—the sport that shaped me into the disciplined, driven, and motivated woman I am today. My ultimate goal for GDAT is to one day have a gym where athletes can develop their skills, gain exposure, and pursue opportunities to play in college. Many young athletes don’t realize how many schools are searching for players. I want #CoachKJsKids to dream big, work hard, and make those dreams a reality.
What Sets GDAT Apart?
One of the things that makes GDAT unique is the GDAT Journal—something my parents and I developed. My athletes don’t just learn during clinics and private sessions; they also reflect on their progress at home. The journal includes:
• Session notes: What they learned, where they struggled, and how to improve.
• Volleyball vocabulary & IQ: Key terms and fill-in-the-blank exercises to build their understanding of the game.
• A motivational Bible verse: A reminder that with God, all things are possible.
Currently, each athlete receives a GDAT Journal sheet at the end of their session, but I’m working on designing and producing a full journal!
The Future of GDAT
GDAT is based in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and welcomes male and female athletes. It’s not just a training program—it’s a player development organization.
What truly sets GDAT apart is not just my energy and passion, but also my commitment to mental toughness and personal growth. My athletes don’t just develop skills—they develop confidence, discipline, and belief in themselves. Everything I learned in my collegiate career, I’m now teaching at a younger level so that my athletes can understand the “why” behind their training and learn how to overcome fears, push past limits, and build self-trust.
I take the most pride in seeing my athletes fall in love with volleyball after their first session—and their eagerness to come back for more.
To every young athlete reading this:
Don’t be afraid to start where you are. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, there’s always room for growth. If you take on the challenge with GDAT, be ready to put in the work!
“Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” — Tim Notke
What’s Next?
I provide a list of recommended volleyball gear via Amazon and sell GDAT T-shirts, with plans to launch winter hoodies at the start of the next school year. Both are available on my digital business card (QR code available upon request!).
https://blinq.me/t2EIon1Wx7RQZvbNQQmM
Final Thoughts
From the outside looking in, it may seem like I graduated, started a business, and it’s been smooth sailing. While that’s true to some extent, the reality is—I don’t have everything figured out! Obstacles will always come, but I trust that with God, everything meant for me will come to pass, and anything rejected is His protection.
I keep an idea journal where I write down every vision or thought—whether it’s about business growth, gear designs, pricing, practice plans, or even ways to help my community. My dreams are big, and though they may seem impossible at times, I know that by taking it one day at a time, with God, all things are possible.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Challenges Along the Way
One of the biggest struggles has been securing court space for my clinics. A volleyball business requires a court and net, and while I don’t have my own gym yet, I’m grateful that the club I work for offers me discounted court rentals for private sessions. Additionally, through my dad’s elementary school, I’ve been able to start my beginner clinics by the grace of his principal.
Pricing has also been a challenge. Although I’ve been peer coaching for over 10 years, I’m still seen as a “new” coach. I strive to keep my rates affordable while also valuing my experience and expertise.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At GDAT Fitness, I specialize in helping individuals master their mind, body, and life through fitness, mindset coaching, and personal development. I’m known for creating a faith-driven, empowering space where people not only transform physically but also build the confidence, discipline, and resilience needed to thrive in every area of their lives.
I have a deep passion for working with youth, supporting their athletic development, and helping them build strong physical foundations that will serve them in sports and in life. I also love working with beginner fitness enthusiasts — those just starting their journey — providing guidance, encouragement, and structured programs that help them move with confidence, build healthy habits, and realize their full potential.
What sets GDAT Fitness apart is the intentional blend of fitness training, mental coaching, and spiritual encouragement. I don’t just focus on workouts — I focus on the whole person. My programs are designed to build strength from the inside out, combining physical development with mindset training, leadership growth, and faith-based principles.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the community and culture I’ve built. GDAT Fitness isn’t just a brand — it’s a movement. It’s a place where people — especially youth and beginners — are pushed to believe bigger, move stronger, and live on purpose. Watching my clients transform — not just physically, but mentally and spiritually — is the greatest reward.
I want readers to know that when you work with GDAT Fitness, you’re not just signing up for a workout plan. You’re stepping into a journey of personal mastery and life transformation. Whether you’re a beginner starting your fitness journey, a youth athlete developing your potential, or someone ready to level up mentally, physically, and spiritually, GDAT Fitness offers personalized coaching, structured programs, faith and fitness challenges, and a supportive community ready to meet you where you are — and help you rise to where you’re meant to be.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Starting my business was one of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken — but it was a risk I knew I had to embrace. I stepped out of the comfort and security of what was familiar, choosing to bet on my vision, my passion, and my ability to build something from the ground up. I invested my time, energy, and resources into an idea that was only real because I believed in it.
There were no guarantees. No safety nets. Just a dream, faith, and the willingness to work harder than ever before. Being a risk taker isn’t about acting recklessly — it’s about believing that the possibility of success is greater than the fear of failure. Every challenge I faced became a chance to learn, adapt, and grow. Every obstacle was a reminder that taking bold steps is the only way to create something truly meaningful.
Starting my business taught me that real growth lives outside of the comfort zone — and I’m proud to be someone who had the courage to take that leap.
Pricing:
- Private Volleyball Lessons – $75/hour
- 1-on-1 Personal training – $39/hour
- Group fitness session – $20/person
- Customized fitness program – $149
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachkj_gdat?igsh=MWl5bGpqaGZmdmlpOQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/193xHS3PsF/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thekaiajanae?si=0q7mH9zrISizCY2H
- Other: https://blinq.me/t2EIon1Wx7RQZvbNQQmM
