Beacon the Therapy Dog: Team USA Gymnastics’ Unlikely MVP
As the Paris Olympics 2024 draws near, Team USA Gymnastics has found an unlikely source of support and comfort: Beacon, a 4-year-old golden retriever therapy dog. Beacon has become an integral part of the team’s emotional support system, providing solace and boosting morale in ways no one expected.
Beacon’s journey with Team USA began in May 2023, when he and his handler, Tracey Callahan Molnar, joined the team at various competitions and training camps. Molnar, a Pasadena resident with 40 years of experience in USA Rhythmic Gymnastics, recognized the potential for pet therapy to benefit the athletes.
Prior to joining Team USA, Beacon worked as a therapy dog at a hospital, where he helped reduce stress in outpatient rehab, the emergency department, and the pediatric department. His calming presence and soft fur have proven invaluable to the gymnasts, who often face intense pressure and emotional challenges.
Beacon’s most recent assignment was comforting athletes in the lead-up to the 2024 Olympic Trials. The night before the trials, two of the country’s top prospects, Shilese Jones and Kayla DiCello, suffered injuries, leaving the team heartbroken. Beacon and Molnar spent 40 minutes comforting the gymnasts and coaches, providing much-needed solace and helping them cope with the challenging night.
“He will turn on a dime without seeing who it is. He picks up on the stress and will pull to that person immediately,” Molnar told ESPN.
Beacon’s role extends beyond just comforting athletes. He has become a crucial part of Team USA’s emotional support system, offering a sense of calm and stability in a high-pressure environment. His presence has helped the gymnasts manage stress, improve focus, and build resilience.
Beacon’s impact on Team USA is a testament to the power of pet therapy in sports. His calming presence and unconditional love have created a positive and supportive environment for the athletes, helping them navigate the challenges of elite competition and prepare for the biggest stage of all: the Olympic Games.