KALEV

Ashley J. Hassard, Former Kalev Gymnast and AGG Champion

"It's a little ridiculous to think of the incredible impact that Kalev, and specifically Evelyn Koop, has had on my life. Being able to be a part of a team of strong, independent, and dedicated young women from such a young age definitely elevated my sense of self and overall life potential. The drive and passion I was exposed to through being a member of Kalev at the World Championships inspired me in countless ways and the focus and relentless work ethic they instilled in me absolutely played a huge role in making me who I am today." 

Irina S., former Kalev champion
"Kalev has opened up a world of opportunities for me , from gymnastics to personal development to my modelling career. Over the year Kalev and Mrs Koop in particular has become like a family to me." 

Christina K, former Kalev Gymnast and AGG Champion
"Our team at Kalev was like a family. There would be change year after year but no matter what we gymnasts, the coaches, and Mrs. Koop would always be a tight-knit group. Kalev brought everyone together and gave me experiences that can never be matched. I still smile when I think about the times we all laughed through tough trainings, the amazing trips we got to take, and the opportunity to represent Canada at the World Championships. I'll always be thankful for the incredible and irreplaceable memories and lifelong friendships Kalev brought to my life."

Rosie C., former Kalev Campion and Olympian
"It was always so inspiring to see that one woman was able to inflict such power and direction for the Rhythmic Gymnastics movement in Canada. Evelyn Koop is an incredibly passionate and driven individual and her work is the very essence of the development of RG and AGG in Canada. Furthermore, miss Koop holds a special place in my heart for always supporting me and for believing I could make it to the very highest level of competition, since the very beginning of my career."

Carolyn H., former Kalev Champion
"When I think of what Mrs Koop has accomplished and what she brought to my life, 2 characteristics come to mind: her passion and tenacity that influences a breadth of opportunities. Thanks to her, I've gotten to see more of the world, perform on international stages, and meet some amazing coaches, choreographers and talented gymnasts. I'm proud to say that my first career in RG, AGG and coaching wouldn't have been possible without Mrs Koop." 

Victoria Reznik
"Mrs. Koop is the sweetest and most unique person I know. She makes me smile and she make me laugh. She always took me in with open arms and I could not be any more thankful."

Stephanie K., Former AGG Champion

"Mrs. Koop has changed my life by inspiring me to always work hard towards the things I desire. Her hard work is what drove Kalev to become the largest rhythmic gymnastics club in North America. Her dedication is forever inspiring, as well as her never ending love and support is what has helped me succeed. Thank you Vana for always showing me that there is a light at the end of the tunnel."

Anjelika Reznik

"I saw her [Mrs. Koop] many times! She was actually such a sweet and kind woman. She was also kind of funny and adorable. She helped bring rhythmic gymnastics to Canada. I joined Kalev when I transitioned to national level and it was the coach she hired that discovered me and turned me into an Olympian. Without Mrs. Koop I would of probably never went to the Olympics! She also promoted Canadian rhythmic gymnastics on the international stage. She would spend a lot of money on the Koop Cup competition trying to bring in international gymnasts to compete and would also organize amazing year end shows that the whole club would get to perform at! She hired a woman to create a whole Cats musical with everyone to perform for our parents and put a lot of effort into all of these events. She would even have little events at her house. She loved socializing and she made our club feel like one big family."

Aleksandra Jurevich, former Kalev Gymnast and RG Champion

"My move to Canada as a young girl was exciting. It gave me a chance to be introduced and to be a part of the most beautiful sport - rhythmic gymnastics. When I began to take it seriously, displaying my devotion and love for RG, my family couldn’t have had better support. Evelyn Koop was always there for us, we became closer over the years, and to me she is family. Words cannot describe my gratitude for everything Mrs. Koop has done, not just for me, but for the entire community of rhythmic gymnastics. We have all created friendships that will last a lifetime, memories that we still reminisce, our experiences with our coaches, our travels around the world, achievements we can fall back on, and the dedication and discipline that was instilled into us, which will never compare to an average person."

Nataliya Murzenko
Mrs. Koop’s dedication to her athletes and to the sport of Rhythmic Gymnastics have no doubt impacted thousands of lives worldwide. Personally, I have and always will be impressed by her energy, generosity, and passion. She inspired me to always work hard and live the best possible version of my life, and for that, I must thank you dearly, Mrs. Koop.