Viktar Haurylik’s story is one of inspiration in the world of gymnastics. From his early days in Belarus to his current role in the US, his journey is nothing short of exceptional.
Early in his career, Viktar earned an associate’s degree in physical education from the Republican School of Olympic Reserve Grodno. This degree gave him the basic information needed to propel him toward a professional career in the field of gymnastics.
Early in his career, Viktar earned impressive achievements. He earned the title of master of sports in the USSR and became a Belarus champion in 1986 and 1989. These early victories later earned him a spot as a member of the national team of Belarus from 1994 to 1996, further proving his skill and dedication.
In 1991, Viktar began taking classes at the Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno. Though he did not earn his degree for personal reasons, he took classes until 1996 and used this education to further develop his field knowledge. He also began his coaching career at this point, working as an assistant head coach at ADUSHOR 3 in Belarus from 1993 to 1996.
In 1999, Viktar took a short break from coaching to join the circus as a high bar gymnast. During this unique experience, he developed a high-bar act called “The Crows,” which displayed his creativity and leadership skills. This impressive performance took him across the globe to circuses in South Africa, Ireland, Taiwan, Germany, Austria, France, and Holland, making him a household name worldwide.
After this short stint at the circus, Viktar returned to his beloved world of coaching, which took an international turn in 2001. He decided to participate in the international gymnastics exchange program between Belarus and Germany, further cementing his global reputation as a coach capable of nurturing gymnast talent on a global scale. His most impressive coaching accomplishment to date occurred at the Ocelot Foundation in Poland, where he managed and developed a gymnastics and acrobatics program from 2015 to 2017.
In 2020, Viktar’s journey took him international once again. He joined the Houston Gymnastics Academy in the US as a men’s team coach. Here, he uses his extensive knowledge to prepare young gymnasts for competitive success in their regions.
Gymnastics for Viktar isn’t just about physical activity. He also believes it’s important to foster mental development and discipline in young athletes. As part of his passion project, he’s looking to open his own gym in the US to develop young talent who will be able to represent the US in international arenas. His gym would also open more jobs in the area, contributing to the US economy.
Viktar’s commitment to reducing childhood obesity in the US through healthy lifestyles is an admirable one. He hopes to contribute to the US not only economically but also for health purposes in children. His unwavering commitment to the sport has taken him far, all the way from Belarus to the US. Going forward, he hopes to continue learning, adapting, and excelling in his field and to inspire every young student he encounters. With his plans to enrich the US gymnastics landscape, there’s no doubt that Viktar has become an invaluable asset to the sporting community.
About the author
Jamie Ocean is a freelancer based out of Dallas, TX. She’s a regular at local sports events and has a cat named Timothy.
