© USA Gymnastics

Rhythmic gymnastics was twice honored at this year’s Hall of Fame luncheon. 1984 Olympian Valerie Zimmring-Schneiderman and 1988/1992 Olympic coach Irina Vdovets were inducted into the Hall of Fame during the 2007 Visa Championships. On hand to honor them with their own families were other rhythmic HOF inductees rhythmic Vice-Chair Andrea Schmid-Shapiro, Alla Svirksy (84), and Diane Simpson-Bundy (88) in addition to many more rhythmic gymnasts, coaches, and judges.

Valerie thanked her coach, Alla Svirsky, and reflected on how much her participation in rhythmic gymnastics resonated throughout her life; Irina thanked those coaches who guided her and her many successful athletes. Congratulations, Valerie and Irina!