FOUNDED 2011 - CONNECTICUT BASED - 15 YEARS STRONG
Movement is more than exercise. It's how kids learn to believe in themselves
BringtheHoopla is an educational fitness company that transforms the hula hoop into a powerful tool for learning, confidence-building, and joyful self-expression — built for schools, camps, libraries, and families.
By The Numbers
15
Years serving communities
1,000+
Schools & Organizations
150,000+
Kids reached
4
SEL Pillars
3
Standards & Frameworks
“Creativity is about taking risks, ignoring doubt, and diving into what feels right.”
Nicole Heriot-Mikula, Founder
Our Story
A hoop. A big idea. Fifteen years in the making
In 2011, three friends in Shelton, Connecticut, asked a simple question: What if the hula hoop could be more than a toy? Drawing on their backgrounds in education, movement, and the arts, they created a program that uses hooping as a vehicle for fitness, creativity, and confidence. They started with handcrafted hoops and small classes. Word spread quickly.
Today, BringtheHoopla is a trusted partner for school districts, after-school programs, libraries, camps, and community organizations across the region — with a curriculum built by experienced educators, aligned to state and national standards, and designed to make every child feel seen, capable, and celebrated.
2011
A hoop & a big idea
2014?
Handcrafted hoops, small classes
2019?
Schools, camps & libraries
Today
Trusted regional partner
Team Bios
Nicole Heriot-Mikula
Founder & Owner
Nicole was born and raised in Shelton, Connecticut. A graduate of The Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford (BFA), she spent a decade pursuing her passion for musical theatre in New York City before returning home in 2011 to begin a new chapter — one rooted in creativity, community, and entrepreneurship.
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That same year, Nicole founded BringtheHoopla. In 2014, she co-founded Celebrate Shelton, a community arts engagement organization that produces high-quality events accessible to all through a suggested-donation model.
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Nicole lives in Seymour, CT, with her husband Ben Mikula, an incredible musician, and their three daughters: Magnolia, Delilah, and Ruby.
Sarah Murphy
Program Director
Sarah believes in the power of self-expression, artistry, hard work, and a positive attitude. She has been with BringtheHoopla since 2013 and specializes in implementing programs for all ages — from early childhood through adults — training and guiding staff, and building a strong team culture.
Sarah is also a professional Hoop Dancer and Fire Dancer performer under the name Sarotonin Flow Performance Art. Her expertise in performance is a living demonstration of what dedication to hoop dance can achieve, and she finds deep joy in sharing that journey with others.
She has been featured on local and national television to educate audiences about the fitness and wellness benefits of hula hooping. When she’s not enriching students in the classroom or helping manage staff, Sarah can be found dancing with fire, singing in her band, relaxing with her chihuahua, or enjoying a fine chocolate dessert.
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Sarah lives in Southern Connecticut and is currently pursuing higher education in Child Studies.