Parent You Should Know … Guang “Jax” Chuang

With his son serving as an interpreter, Guang “Jax” Chuang uses sign language to coach the RISE Frederick County Flag Football League’s fifth and sixth grade division. Chuang is deaf, and the rest of the athletes on the team have little to no understanding of sign language, but he has successfully coached the team for the past three years.

This was not his first experience as a youth sports coach, either. Before his son was born, Chuang also spent seven years coaching middle school basketball. Outside of his work as a coach, he works in procurement.

Chuang and his wife, Kristi Ann Nolan, live in New Market with their children, Jack (10) and Rose (7).

What made you want to volunteer as a coach?
Sports are a big passion of mine, and I am a dedicated University of Alabama football fan. I majored in Recreation and Leisure at Gallaudet University and played basketball all the way from elementary school through high school. My coaching journey began as a middle school basketball coach in Washington, D.C., before I moved to Frederick. When my son showed an interest in sports, I decided to keep following my passion for coaching.

What do you enjoy about coaching youth sports? Is there anything you hope your team learns from you?
I love coaching youth sports because the most rewarding part is watching players grow in both skill and confidence. Seeing them work together as a team during practices and games helps them build teamwork abilities that will benefit them long after they leave the field. Another fulfilling aspect is the support and encouragement I receive from families, which makes a huge impact. I am incredibly proud of each player I have coached for their dedication, progress and hard work.

Additionally, my deafness shows them that obstacles should never prevent you from pursuing your passions. Not only did my players learn this, but they also adapted by using gestures and finding new ways to communicate with me. The ability to adapt is a skill they will carry with them in all areas of life.

How does being deaf affect the experience of parenting for you?
I don’t view my deafness as a barrier in my everyday life. Through coaching and being involved in my children’s school events, I show them that I am just like any other parent. I don’t want them to see my deafness as an obstacle, but rather as something special. To me, it is a gift—one that brings with it a beautiful language, sign language, and a culture I am deeply proud of. My positive outlook has inspired my children, and they love to sign and proudly share it with their friends.

You often discuss your Taiwanese heritage while volunteering at your children’s school. Why do you feel that it’s important to educate not only your own children about your culture and heritage, but their classmates as well?
I believe everyone has a unique story, which is what makes each person special. Sharing my heritage at my children’s school’s multicultural event is a wonderful way to introduce others to different cultures. I was thrilled to see how much the attendees enjoyed boba drinks, as Taiwan was the birthplace of this popular treat. It was also heartwarming to watch my daughter proudly show how to make paper lanterns at our booth. The support and positive energy we have received from our children’s school have played a huge role in our family’s active involvement. My wife, who is also deaf, now serves as treasurer on the school’s PTA board.

What’s one thing you hope your children learn from you?
Parenting is a wonderful journey, full of both challenges and rewards. One lesson I aim to teach my children is the importance of constantly striving to improve themselves. I always remind them that mistakes are part of life, and the key is to acknowledge them and apologize. Taking responsibility in this way is a powerful step in building strong, everyday relationships.

Family Favorites
Food: My homemade version of Chick-fil-A’s fried chicken sandwiches. My kids call them “Daddy’s Filas.”
Dessert: Bubble tea from Kung Fu Tea
Vacation Spot: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Local Spot: KPOT Korean BBQ and Hot Pot
Activity: Swimming, sports and board games

Author: Jillian Diamond