About Me (Big Red)

My Elementary School Principal (Ken "The Loop Dude" Miller) got me into yo-yos in the mid-early 90's. He was an influence on me, and helped shape who I am today. I was fortunate enough for him to introduce me to a handful of "the greats" - all 4 Grand Masters, and a few Masters from the early yo-yo "boom" era. I competed in the National Yo-Yo Contest (held in Chico in the early days) from 1995-1997 - facing off against the likes of the original yo-yo powerhouse Team High Performance. I remember their choreographed moves and the sheer numbers they had on their team - it was something that I wanted so badly. I was able to work for the great Bob Malowney & Thad Winzenz at Bird In Hand when I was younger, and got all kinds of advice and mentorship. I currently teach in public education, and use yo-yos in various forms throughout education - I am trying to pay back a fraction of what was put into me when I was young, and would love to collaborate with you in any way that can further this amazing pastime/sport/hobby.

As a side hobby, I have started making strings with the intent of being able to be creative, make things that fit my slower (I am nearing the "Masters Division" in competition), more "flowy" style - I use both yo-yoing and string making as therapeutic practices for myself, and have found profound clarity in each from time to time.

If you'd like to try some, I'd be more than happy to send them your way - please shoot me an email (BigRedString@Gmail.com) so I can get some in your hands!

I have been a math teacher (as well as some computer/tech classes, and some exploratory elective classes) for over a decade. I have brought my love and passion for yo-yos into the classroom, and have been surprised to find the level at which students connect with this - I would not have believed that "hardened" (sometimes with ankle monitors) kids from places like Stockton , all-around athletes, foster/homeless/halfway students, rural "country" kids, and students from TK-12th grade all have some level of interest in what I was offering. I have a handful of companies that I follow pretty faithfully (I have a Patreon subscription or two also), but I'm always looking to find the obscure/neat/next thing to push the boundaries of yo-yo.

I'm passionate about a handful of things in life: family, friends, food, coffee, and yo-yos.

I'm excited to see what more I can do to help support this awesome community.