Kent State Gymnastics Patriarch Bachna Honored with Service Excellence Award from Ohio USA Gymnastics
7/30/2012 12:00:00 AM | Gymnastics
The foundation to Kent State gymnastics since its inception in 1959, Bachna recognized for his passion and dedication to the sport in Ohio
KENT, Ohio – Former Kent State gymnastics coach Rudy Bachna was honored recently by Ohio USA Gymnastics, as Bachna received the organization's 2012 Service Excellence Award at its annual banquet held in Columbus, Ohio.
The award is presented annually to show appreciation to those who have helped shape the sport of gymnastics in Ohio.
Bachna, who mentored both the men's and women's gymnastics programs at Kent State, began both programs in 1959. He served as the head coach for both teams until 1978 and leading the women's program until retiring in 1991. During his coaching tenure, Bachna guided the women's program to four Mid-American Conference championships and four consecutive state championships from 1975-78.
Along the way, Bachna mentored two Olympic athletes and was a coach or judge at four Olympics, three Pan American Games and two World Championships.
Bachna and his wife, co-head coach Janet Bachna, were selected for the Kent State Varsity "K" Hall of Fame in 1993.
"The impact that Rudy Bachna has had on the gymnastics community is beyond measure," Kent State gymnastics coach Brice Biggin said. "For over seven decades, Rudy has been dedicated to the growth of our sport, and the entire Ohio gymnastics community is grateful for his passion and service."
Biggin competed for Bachna and Kent State in gymnastics from 1980-83 and served as an assistant coach for the Golden Flashes prior to taking the reins to the program in 1992.
For photos of the event, click here.
