Blaine Wilson

Wilson returns to Ohio State as assistant coach

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Miles Avery, Ohio State men’s gymnastics head coach, announced the hiring of Blaine Wilson as an assistant coach.

Wilson, a three-time Olympian, had previously worked with the Buckeyes as a volunteer assistant coach for a combined five seasons, in two different stints, most recently during the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons.

“You can never have too much love for the Buckeyes on your staff,” Avery said about his former athlete. “But put that into the form of a homegrown, three-time USA/Buckeye Olympian and we could not be happier or more proud with the choice of our new assistant than we are with Blaine.

“He brings a lifetime of gymnastics knowledge and instantly raises the level of respect for the Buckeyes.The entire gymnastics community is excited for this hire and are looking for many more great things from the Buckeyes.”

A Columbus native, Wilson helped establish Ohio State as one of the premiere collegiate programs in both the Big Ten and the NCAA, competing from 1994-97. (read more)

ThisWeek Staff Writer

The new owners of Integrity Gymnastics and Cheerleading hope their enthusiasm is contagious.

Three-time U.S. Olympian and Columbus native Blaine Wilson and his wife, Aliane Baquerot-Wilson, took over the Plain City gym in April. Boasting extensive pasts in athletics, the couple want to pass along the skills they’ve learned and their love for gymnastics.

“Essentially gymnastics for me was fun, and the more fun you have, the better gymnast you become,” Wilson said.

The couple would like the gym to draw both serious gymnasts and those looking for fun.

“(Gymnastics) just aren’t for recreation, but balance,” Wilson said. “For kids in here who want to be an Olympian, we can get them there.”

Wilson, who retired from competition in 2008, did some looking around before purchasing Integrity earlier this year. His hometown had a big pull on him. (read more)