Nadia Approached About Chalet Post

John Rohde 08/15/1990

NORMAN Talks are very informal at this point but Bart Conner and Paul Ziert, co-owners of The Gymnastics Chalet, are hoping Nadia Comaneci might decide to spend more time in Oklahoma and direct the women's program at their gym in north Norman.

"First, we have to see if we can afford her," said Ziert, who coached Conner, a three-time All-American at Oklahoma. "It's not a matter of what she would ask. It's what we'd feel comfortable giving her. I think this could be a nice rest haven for her. Things are quiet and slow here."

Comaneci, who defected from Romania last November, currently is involved in several projects, including charity appearances, modeling, an upcoming exhibition tour and a movie on her life.

Conner said no timetable has been set for Comaneci to accept or decline an offer. Comaneci has been extended similar offers throughout the nation. Las Vegas is said to be a strong candidate.

"I think it'll be at least six months before she decides what she's going to do and where she's going to be," Conner said. "At best she'd be here about one week a month, which is about how often I'm here."

Comaneci, who was visiting Norman for the first time, shrugged her shoulders when asked what she intends to do. "Who knows what will come in time?" she said.

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