Oct. 25, 2005

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - University of Maryland women's gymnastics coach Bob Nelligan announced today that Vicki Chliszczyk has been hired as assistant coach.

A native of Canada, Chliszczyk brings valuable international experience to the Maryland squad this season.

Chliszczyk studied with the Ontario Gymnastics Federation and completed levels one and two of the National Coaching Certificate Program and has completed courses in the level three theory and technical components. The in-depth training system teaches coaches how to develop athlete's skills and adequately spot them.

Coach Nelligan believes Chliszczyk's experience with the Canadian system will be an asset to the Maryland team. "The Canadian system of coaching certification is much more intensive than in the United States. You do not coach elite athletes without acquiring the proper training both practical and theoretical."

Chliszczyk was the Gymnastics Program Director at the prestigious Woodward Gymnastics camp for two years and has been part of the staff since 2001. She managed a gymnastics coaching staff of 30 coaches and over 200 gymnasts, including many on the elite level. Her spotting abilities will be a tremendous asset to coach Nelligan and his staff.

A 12-year member of the Milton Springers gymnastics club in Milton, Ontario, Chliszczyk, competed in the Provinical Championships for 10 consecutive years (1989-2000). The Milton Springers Club dedicated an award in her name, "The Vicki Chliszczyk Award for Dedication", given at the end of the year to the most dedicated athlete.

A native of Ontario, Canada, Chliszczyk earned a bachelor's degree in Philosophy at York University in 2001. Her parents and brother (Chris) reside in Ontario, Canada.