Louie Sison
In the world of elite sports, athletes often take center stage, their triumphs celebrated and their faces plastered across headlines. However, behind every successful athlete lies a dedicated team of professionals working tirelessly to optimize their performance.
One such unsung hero is Lyn Hazel Calawod, the brilliant mind behind the success of Filipino gymnastics sensation Carlos Yulo.
From Commercial Modeling to Sports Therapy
Before delving into Hazel’s pivotal role in Yulo’s journey, let’s take a closer look at her background. Born on March 1, 1989, in South Cotabato, Philippines, Hazel displayed academic excellence from a young age.
She graduated as salutatorian from Notre Dame-Sienna School of Marbel in 2005 and went on to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy at the University of the Philippines Manila, where she graduated in 2010.
Interestingly, Hazel’s career began in a different field altogether. She started as a commercial model, representing major brands such as Chippy, Sprite, Coca-Cola, Block & White, Nescafe, and Bon Chon. However, her true passion lay in the realm of occupational therapy and sports performance.
The NeuroBalance Therapy Founder
Hazel’s expertise in neurorehabilitation and sports performance led her to establish NeuroBalance Therapy, a holistic rehabilitation center catering to a diverse clientele, including children with disabilities, elderly individuals, and elite athletes. Her unique approach integrates multiple research-based methodologies to ensure optimal health and performance for her clients.
As the founder and general manager of NeuroBalance Therapy, Hazel leads a team of rehabilitation specialists dedicated to providing top-notch care. Her clinical expertise spans neurorehabilitation, occupational therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), elite athletic performance optimization, and the aging brain.
Elite Sports Performance Coach
Hazel’s reputation as an elite sports performance coach has attracted an impressive roster of clients, from UFC fighters and Under Armour athletes to world champions in Esports. In 2021, she served as the Sports Mind Coach for Bren Esports’ Valorant Team, guiding them to victory as Southeast Asian Champions and securing their spot at Valorant Masters Berlin.
Her innovative approach to neurorehabilitation has garnered international recognition. In 2021, Hazel won first place in BR41N.IO’s global competition for artificial intelligence in neurorehabilitation data analysis. She was also a finalist in the Australian Embassy in the Philippines’ 2018 Australia Alumni Excellence Awards, further cementing her status as a leader in her field.
The Carlos Yulo Connection
Hazel’s most notable contribution to Philippine sports lies in her work with Carlos Yulo, the country’s gymnastics prodigy. Since 2021, she has been an integral part of the Philippines’ National Team for Men’s Artistic Gymnastics, playing a crucial role in supporting the team during the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam and working closely with Yulo to optimize his performance.
As Yulo’s sports occupational therapist, Hazel manages his biomechanics, collecting scientific data to enhance his performance and support him through intense training and high-stakes competitions. Her work encompasses everything from conditioning and therapy to recovery and beyond.
In an interview with One Sports a month before the Paris Olympics 2024, Hazel shared insights into Yulo’s physical and mental preparation:
“Yung body niya, yung physical condition niya, as per his performance in different apparatus po, is much stronger. Kung ano yung nagawa namin on week one, which was quite heavy, nakatulong na sa pag make sure na yung muscles niya are able to get the right contractions at this certain period of time.“
She emphasized the importance of mental resilience in elite sports:
“Despite the physical aspect of being an athlete, a big battle within them really is, how are they going to bring that momentum mentally. So, now that you’re getting a lot of technical information for the game plan, how is he managing it from a Carlos Yulo perspective. This week yun naman po yung tinatrabaho namin sa kanya.“
Hazel’s dedication and expertise paid off in spectacular fashion at the Paris Olympics 2024, where Yulo made history by winning two gold medals in the floor exercise and vault competitions. His triumph sent shockwaves through the Philippines, with thousands taking to the streets of Manila to celebrate their hero.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wasted no time in recognizing Yulo’s achievement, awarding him a presidential citation and a sum of $350,000, in addition to the 10 million pesos granted by law to Olympic gold medalists. Yulo was also showered with gifts, ranging from a luxurious condo to a lifetime supply of chicken barbecue and Japanese noodles.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Hazel’s journey from the dusty streets of South Cotabato to becoming a driving force behind Olympic glory is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and dedication. Her multifaceted talents, spanning occupational therapy, sports performance, and even the arts, paint a picture of a well-rounded individual constantly seeking growth and excellence.
As an active member of Australia Global Alumni, Hazel remains connected to a global network of professionals, contributing to her field and beyond. Her story serves as a beacon of inspiration, not just for aspiring occupational therapists and sports coaches, but for anyone with a dream and the determination to pursue it.
In the end, while Carlos Yulo’s name may be etched in the annals of Olympic history, it is the tireless work of individuals like Lyn Hazel Calawod that makes such triumphs possible. As the Philippines continues to celebrate its golden moment, let us also shine a light on the unsung heroes who toil behind the scenes, crafting success one step at a time.
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