1 post tagged “the end of dutch gymnastics”

According to Dutchfan on The All-Around Forum, the Dutch federation is forcing the closure of all but two gyms in the Netherlands, and these two particular gyms are known for having weaker gymnasts. This forces gymnasts two choices, go to these substandard gyms or retire. If I read things correctly, the members of the 2008 European Junior bronze-winning team will likely retire. Sanne Weavers is coached by her parents and will no longer be allowed to do so (gymnasts can't bring their personal coaches). Yuri van Gelder, known for his brilliant rings work, is no longer being allowed to concentrate mostly on rings.

The main reason behind this seems to be that the Dutch Olympic Committee has decided, for some reason, to stop funding and that's where the gyms get their money from. Athletes and coaches are searching for new sponsors to keep the gyms open.

What I don't understand is why the two weaker gyms are being allowed to stay open and everybody else is being shut down? A little counter-productive, if you ask me.