Tomislav (Tom) Zivic, a former York University gymnastics coach and Hall of Famer, passed away April 14 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Zivic, whose influence on the sport of gymnastics spans decades, was a cornerstone of York University Athletics & Recreation, etching an indelible mark on the institution and Canadian sports.
Tom Zivic
Born on Sept. 12, 1937, in Niš, Serbia, Zivic came to Toronto in 1968 with his wife, Nada, and soon after began his career at York. He served as the head coach of the men's gymnastics program from 1968-93, during which time he led the team to extraordinary success.
Under Zivic's leadership and that of his longtime assistant, the late Masaaki Naosaki, York gymnasts captured 21 Ontario University Athletics championships and 18 national U SPORTS titles, solidifying York's reputation as a preeminent gymnastics program in Canada. The legacy of his coaching includes the development of more than 15 individual national champions and numerous provincial titleholders - making York's program the best in the nation during his tenure.
Zivic was also a devoted educator in the School of Kinesiology & Health Science, Faculty of Health, teaching courses in gymnastics, strength and conditioning, soccer and European handball. His roles at the University culminated in his retirement in 2003, but his commitment to gymnastics extended far beyond York.
In the community, he held leadership positions, including chairing both the Ontario and Canadian Gymnastics Federations, and was honoured with a Life Membership Award from the Ontario Gymnastics Federation in 1998.
His impressive coaching credentials included coaching Canadian Olympians from 1976-84 and serving as head coach of the Canadian national gymnastics team at the World Championships in 1979, 1981, 1983 and 1985, as well as leading the team at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Zivic's talent for coaching was also evident at the grassroots level, where he founded the gymnastics program at the Canadian Adventure Camp in Temagami, Ont., providing countless opportunities for young gymnasts to grow in a unique and supportive environment.
An alum of the University of Belgrade and the State University of New York, Zivic combined his athletic prowess and teaching acumen throughout a career that shaped many lives. His coaching approach prioritized positive reinforcement and hard work, establishing a culture of encouragement that resonated with students and athletes alike.
Beyond gymnastics, Zivic's passions included spending time with family, especially as a beloved grandfather "Deka" to his three grandchildren: Hudson, Bennett and Scarlett. His shared experiences at the family cottage in Temagami were filled with laughter, summer sports and cherished family moments.
Zivic leaves a legacy of excellence, a testament to the lives he touched through his coaching and teaching. His final resting place will honor his love for the natural beauty of Temagami, a setting that brought him joy throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Professor Tom Zivic Bursary at York University to support the next generation of athletes who embody the spirit and resilience Zivic championed.
Zivic is survived by his wife, Nada - to whom he was married for 60 years - their two sons, Sasha and George, three grandchildren and a large community of friends and family. Visit the official obituary for more on his life and legacy.
This story was originally featured in YFile, York University's community newsletter.
