Success Stories
Swan Gymnastics is home to many Olympic, European, international, and national-level gymnasts.
Svetlana (Director of Swan Academy) is not only one of the best coaches in the world, but she is also very well known for her gymnastics success and the gymnasts she has taught over the years. To celebrate this success, we created a page dedicated to all the amazing gymnasts she has trained, showing that anything is possible with hard work and the right coach. There are countless incredible gymnasts to mention, but here are just a few who truly made their mark.
Tatiana Gorbunova
Tatiana Gorbunova is a Russian gymnast who was trained by Svetlana, her first coach. Tatiana trained and performed in multiple gymnastics shows in Stevenage. She achieved the titles of European Champion, World Champion, and Olympic Champion in 2008. We are so proud of you, Tatiana — not only are you a spectacular rhythmic gymnast, but also such a kind and caring person.
Mollie Smith
Mollie Smith, a Stevenage-based gymnast, was trained by Svetlana and later became one of the first coaches at Swan when we opened in 2013. Mollie was an exceptional gymnast, contributing significantly to Stevenage’s success. A well-known photo of Mollie can be seen on the bridge connecting to Stevenage train station. She won numerous national competitions for Stevenage and also competed internationally. Not only was she an outstanding gymnast, but she also excelled as a coach. As a 2007 Scottish National Team Member and 2009 Scottish Champion Gold Medalist, Molly demonstrated a strong work ethic and made a tremendous impact on Stevenage. Several times she competed in English and British Championships
Ivan Bulyha
Ivan Bulyha is Svetlana’s first son. Born in Belarus, Ivan was a remarkable gymnast who initially trained with his father as a junior. At age 11, he moved to the UK with his mother, Svetlana who helped shape him into an incredible gymnast. At 13, Ivan joined Hinckley Gymnastics Club to train with national coach Alex Shyraryev and Trevor Low, where he developed into a top British gymnast. Over eight years, Ivan competed nationally and represented Great Britain in both junior and senior squads, training alongside Max Whitlock, Daniel Keatings, Louis Smith, and other renowned gymnasts. Ivan was the London Open 2009 Champion also selected for the 2012 Olympic squad. Not only is he an outstanding gymnast, but he is also a fantastic coach, father, and son to Svetlana.
Svetlana says, 'Ivan, stay positive and keep working hard, whatever you do in life. You are already a successful son to me, and I’m incredibly proud of you.'
