Aleksandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva is a name synonymous with excellence, resilience and leadership in rhythmic gymnastics.

Aleksandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva is a name synonymous with excellence, resilience and leadership in rhythmic gymnastics. An Olympian, Commonwealth Games gold medallist, law student and safeguarding advocate, she has now embarked on a new chapter as the Founder and Director of Kiroi Academy in Victoria.

In this interview, Aleksandra speaks about the inspiration behind creating the Academy, her transition from elite sport to coaching and law, the values she is building within Kiroi Academy, and her vision for the future of rhythmic gymnastics.

- You are the founder and director of Kiroi Academy. Tell us, how did the idea of creating it come about?- Kiroi Academy was born from pure passion. After more than 17 years in rhythmic gymnastics, from competing internationally, to learning from world-class coaches, and experiencing every side of the sport. I felt ready to create something meaningful here in Victoria. I wanted to build a space where athletes feel supported, inspired and safe, and where parents feel confident that their children are growing in a positive, well-structured environment.

- Are you satisfied with how the Academy operates and with the team’s results this year?- Yes, very much so. 2025 was our first official year, and it concluded on a strong and positive note. Our athletes demonstrated growth within few months of training, our coaching team worked with dedication, and we achieved excellent competitive results across state and national events. Most importantly, the culture within the Academy is developing exactly as I envisioned; supportive, disciplined and athlete-centred.- What inspires you in your work?- Being a law student, Olympian and safeguarding committees member I am able to provide all necessary aspects to the foundation of the Academy. I am inspired by the progress of our gymnasts, the passion they bring into the gym, and the trust families place in our program. Watching an athlete overcome challenges, gain confidence, or achieve a personal milestone is incredibly rewarding. Building a community that values excellence, respect and wellbeing continues to motivate me every day.

- You had a sports career full of significant events. What do you remember the most?- Across my career I have earned over 300 medals, each representing a step in my journey toward the Paris Olympic Games. My meaningful moment include;- winning the gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. It was a powerful comeback after the challenges of 2021.- Winning the bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games where I was only first year senior, and the youngest athlete on the gymnastics team. I went in to my first competition of over 8,000 spectators, and was the only Australian to handle the pressure and win an individual medal.- Tell us about a typical day in the life of Aleksandra Kiroi-Bogatyrieva.

- No two days look the same. I am currently studying law, working in a sports-law firm, coaching at Kiroi Academy, and contributing to several committees, including the FIG Safeguarding Working Group. My schedule is full, but every commitment aligns with my long-term goals and my passion for both sport and athlete welfare.

- How do you see yourself now, considering your work as the Academy’s director, your coaching role, and your law studies?

- This stage of my life represents transition and growth. I have retired from high-performance competition and am now focused on building new professional pathways. Coaching has come naturally to me, and I deeply enjoy guiding athletes. My legal studies complement this work by broadening my understanding of governance, integrity and athlete protection, areas I am committed to strengthening within our sport.

- What does your diet look like? Do you enjoy cooking, for example?

- My schedule does not allow much time for elaborate meals, so I prefer simple, balanced foods that support my workload. When time permits, I enjoy treating myself to an oyster platter or a good steak.

- What goals do you set for yourself and for the Academy moving forward?

- Kiroi Academy has many goals, and we are only at the beginning. Our highest priority is always our gymnasts. Ensuring their safety, wellbeing and development as athletes and individuals. I hope to see more young children fall in love with rhythmic gymnastics and for the sport to continue growing in Victoria. In the long term, I aim to expand our programs, strengthen pathways and establish Kiroi Academy as a leading centre for excellence in rhythmic gymnastics.

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