January 10, 2007 - The Londoner publishes an article by Katie Misener about London RGC:

By KATIE MISENER, Special To The Londoner

Is your child struggling to choose between a creative outlet and an activity for physical fitness?

Why not try something that combines the art and beauty of dance with the athleticism of gymnastics?

Rhythmic gymnastics is an Olympic sport that combines elements of ballet, gymnastics, theatrical dance, acrobatics and apparatus manipulation. Excellent coaching is crucial in this multi-dimensional sport, and the London Rhythmic Gymnastics Club is fortunate to have Inna Paliy as head coach.

Laura Bartha, former Ontario competitor and certified recreational coach, introduces the world of rhythmic gymnastics to the recreational sports participants and young beginners. The club is currently enrolled in a pilot national coach-in-training program, mentoring a group of experienced senior gymnasts, who upon the completion of the program will be ready to step in.

Over past two competitive seasons London RGC showed excellent results at provincial competitive venues: in thirteen invitational meets, qualifiers and championships the club's athletes won 26 gold, 28 silver and 21 bronze medals as well as countless ribbons, several trophies and special awards. London RGC is a proud home of two eastern Canada regional champions 2006 Sarah Molnar and Anna Paliy.

Most importantly, the athletes, ages four and up, are passionate about their sport. "Rhythmic gymnastics teaches me control, discipline, endurance, coordination," says one young athlete. "I like the safe and comfortable environment and the excellent coaching. I like the challenge and being with my good friends."

The father of first-year competitor Stephanie says: "My daughter's school grades greatly improved since her enrolment in rhythmic gymnastics with London RGC".

Inna Paliy adds: "This demanding sport requires great concentration, perseverance, self-discipline and striving for perfection, so the girls acquire these qualities in the gym and often extend them in their daily lives".

The London Rhythmic Gymnastics Club is the only non-profit community youth-oriented athletic organization in London specializing in this sport.

The club is a parent-run organization depending on volunteers, fundraising and sponsor grants to meet the commitment to provide highest quality rhythmic gymnastic training to children at reasonable cost.

The club is a recipient of an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant and a registered member of Gymnastics Ontario and the London Sports Council.

WANT MORE INFO?

* For more information on London Rhythmic Gymnastics Club contact Inna Paliy (519) 471-3920 or Kathryn Molnar (519)438-8615; online www.londonrgc.ca.