CSG appoints new Gymnastics Head Coach.

PRESS RELEASE, 31st May, 2006

A prominent Romanian Coach, with international reputation and results has been lured to the Christchurch School of Gymnastics as Head Coach of their young successful men’s programme.

Jozsef Ferencz, has confirmed a minimum two year contract with NZ’s largest club. The club, founded in 1968, concentrated on girls until 2002 when a boy’s programme was started.

At the National championships last year the CSG boys brought home 7 medals, including 4 gold and more is expected of them this year under Ferencz’ tutelage.

Ferencz hails from Gheorgheni in Romania and as the Men’s National Coach in the 90’s took the team to the podium for the very first time at the World Championships in 1995 and 2 apparatus medals at the ’96 Olympics. He has the best international results and experience of any other gymnastics coach in New Zealand.

Ferencz has been coaching for over 30 years, the last few in England. He had intended to retire home but was tempted by the chance of working in New Zealand. The club has an international reputation with many of the current and previous staff sourced from overseas.

“I am excited about this club and their facilities especially after the extensions are completed, they will be amongst the best in the world. Gymnastically I know what needs to be done and I can make a difference here.” said Ferencz.

Avril Enslow, Executive Officer at CSG, said “Ferencz’ role was to continue the culture of hard work and enjoyment established throughout the various levels at the club, and to continue to build the quality of the men’s programme, the groundwork has been done, our gymnasts are ready for this High Performance coach”

Ferencz has received the support from the National Body who are ecstatic about his arrival in New Zealand. Jack Ralston CEO of NZ Gymnastics said that Ferencz’s expertise will be invaluable to the National High Performance programme, athletes and coaches in the region and commended the club, one of the leading centres of excellence in the country on its initiative in bringing to NZ a coach of Ferencz’ calibre.

Photo opportunity – Every weekday from 3.30pm to 8.30pm & Sat 8.30pm to 4.30pm

For further information, contact:

Avril Enslow, Christchurch School of Gymnastics, (03) 388 6616; 021 250 5099