For anyone who has met Elinor Smoljan, her passion for life and rhythmic gymnastics is infectious. In a sport that requires athleticism, flexibility and showmanship, Smoljan portrays all that in her life.

As a youngster in Romania she had the drive and determination to become a member of the Romanian Olympic Rhythmic Gymnastics team in 1984-85 and to win a national championship by the age of 13. However, her father felt she was spending too much time on the sport and asked her to give it up. She followed his wishes and left the national team, but secretly she started a club in high school which led her to teach those just learning the sport. She had given up her Olympic dream but found a new passion in coaching.

While training to coach in Romania, her sister Diana entered both their names in a lottery to win a visa to the United States. Eli's name was selected. "People come to the United States because they want a better life," she said. "People come here because there is better opportunity."

Smoljan arrived in Walnut Creek not knowing the language or having a job. Showing the flexibility of a gymnast, she quickly learned English, started coaching at a private gym and eventually found her way to Community Youth Center, where she has now developed a program that is nationally recognized. Since 2001, she has led several CYC athletes to prestigious achievement in the Junior Olympics and State and National Championships. The philosophy of the program is to teach young gymnasts to excel, regardless of what level they reach.

"Everywhere in the world, the United States is considered a dream," she added. "I know now why."