News

Introducing the new RG Technical Advisory Council

Published Sun 10 Mar 2024

Every two years Singapore Gymnastics calls for nominations for the RG Technical Advisory Council. This year we are very pleased to announce 6 highly skilled and passionate women who have volunteered their time to support the continued growth of rhythmic gymnastics throughout Singapore.


Technical Director Cherrie Kwek		Judging Coordinator Phaan Yi Lin
Life Motto: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.		Life Motto: Work Hard, Play Hard.
Cherrie was a former national team gymnast from 2002 to 2008, subsequently attaining FIG Brevet 3 Judge (RGI) status. Since 2010, she has judged at numerous international events, including the Youth Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Championships, World Cups, and Asian Games. Additionally, she holds accreditation as a FIG Level 3 Coach. Cherrie's commitment to the sport stems from her early days when the rhythmic gymnastics scene lacked formal judging structures in Singapore. As a pioneering judge, she remains actively engaged to contribute to the sport's development, providing invaluable mentorship to aspiring athletes eyeing international success.		Yi Lin, a former Rhythmic Gymnast with an impressive 11-year tenure, proudly represented Singapore in various major games, including the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, 2011 SEA Games, and 2014 Commonwealth Games. Rhythmic Gymnastics has played a pivotal role in shaping Yi Lin into the person she is today, and her passion for the sport remains unwavering. Currently holding the title of FIG Brevet III Judge, she also dedicates her time to coaching, balancing her role with her day job. Her role as a Brevet III judge has opened doors to numerous international opportunities, including participation in Junior World Championships, World Cups, and the Asian Games. Yi Lin ensures to bring back her learnings to benefit the Singapore RG community. In her capacity as a TAC member and Judge coordinator, Yi Lin aspires to elevate overall RG standards to greater heights. She is committed to fostering a community that is fair, positive, and inclusive.

Coaching Coordinator Ying Zhou (Annie)		General Member Cecilia Chia (CC)
Life Motto: Don't be afraid of failure, because it is through adversity you will realise your mistakes that will allow you to become outstanding.		Life Motto: Don’t be the same. Be better.
Zhou Ying, a renowned national rhythmic gymnastics coach and FIG judge in Singapore, began her journey in the sport at age 4. With over 18 years of experience, she's a distinguished representative of the Shanghai Rhythmic Gymnastics Team. Zhou Ying, armed with a bachelor's degree in sports coaching, brings determination, broad perspective, and innovative thinking to her role. She prepares the Singaporean gymnastics team for prestigious events like the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and SEA Games. Her unwavering commitment and expertise have been vital in shaping the team's success, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to rhythmic gymnastics.		Cecilia's journey in Rhythmic Gymnastics officially began at the age of 13, with her most significant achievement as an athlete being the representation of Singapore at the Youth Olympic Games 2010. Since her time in JC, Cecilia has delved extensively into coaching and judging. Additionally, she has made substantial contributions to Singapore Gymnastics, serving as a Board Member and a member of the Technical Advisory Council. Cecilia expresses her commitment to continue contributing to the growth of the sport in Singapore to the best of her ability for as long as she can. Her dedication stems from a desire to give back to this beautiful sport and acknowledge what it has done for her.

General Member Bianka Panova		General Member Victoria Karpenko
Life Motto: I have many and use them for different occasions.		Life Motto: Every day is a chance to be better.
Born in Bulgaria, Absolute World and European Champion, Guinness Record Holder for RG. Honored Master of Sports. I have worked in several European countries, at the club and federal/national level, as a coach, judge and sport manager. I have been responsible for both recreational gymnastics development and HP gymnasts, representing national interests on Worlds RG Events. For 8 years I have been the Head Coach and Art Director of the "Bianka Panova Sports and Art Academy" in Singapore – a legitimate member of the National Gymnastics Association. With all these years of international experience, I am convinced that there is no other sport with so many and so unique benefits for the young athletes like RG. That is why I have dedicated myself to its promotion at all levels.		Victoria spends her days overseeing the rhythmic gymnastics programs at KGA, managing the team of coaches, and ensuring everything runs smoothly in the gym. Prior to this role, she served as the junior national team coach in Singapore and worked in Spain, the USA, and Russia. In these capacities, Victoria coached national team athletes for participation in European Championships, Olympics, World Cups, and various other international tournaments. Her journey in gymnastics began at the age of 4, and every aspect of her life since then has revolved around the sport. Having trained in Russia in the 90s, Victoria experienced a training environment significantly different from modern methods. She firmly believes that creating an environment and experience that fosters a love for the sport is fundamental to developing a successful athlete. Victoria asserts that the most successful gymnasts are driven by their passion, and her job is to build conditions that allow this passion to flourish.