Olympian Richard Ikeda is the new Provincial Coach for gymnastics B.C.
Ikeda brings strong experience to the position from both an athlete and coach perspective. He has been a member of Team Canada and B.C. for over 20 years, first as an athlete and now as a coach with Twisters Gymnastics in Abbotsford.
In this role, Ikeda will assist in the technical preparation for the men’s artistic gymnastics program, while working with all three disciplines (men’s artistic, women’s artistic and trampoline gymnastics) in coordinating the support to our athletes during Team B.C. events. Ikeda will also work closely with Canadian Sport Centre Pacific and other stakeholders to ensure support for B.C.’s top Provincial and National level gymnasts.
"We've hired a great individual for this position," said Moira Gookstetter, Gymnastics BC CEO. "He has extensive experience as both an athlete and coach and truly understands what it takes to succeed in gymnastics. He has a great ability to communicate. He's a perfect fit for ensuring that Gymnastics B.C.’s athletes are among the best in Canada."
Ikeda was one of Canada’s most decorated gymnasts. He competed in 20 Canadian Championships - winning three senior men’s titles (1996, 2002, 2003). He represented Canada at the Olympics (1996), the 1994, 1998 and 2002 Commonwealth Games (1994, 1998, 2002) and helped Canada to a unprecedented ninth place finish at the World Championships (2003). Throughout his career, he was known not just for outstanding gymnastics but also as an excellent team member.
"Richard can help all of our athletes and coaches get to the next level. Because he's been there, he knows what is needed and how to achieve it. We're fortunate to hire a coach that brings such a unique combination of skills and experience" said Andrée Montreuil, Gymnastics B.C. Technical and High Performance Director.
For more information about Gymnastics B.C. programs, visit online at www.gymnastics.bc.ca