new Utes Head Coach – Carly Dockendorf

Congratulations.

A former Canadian elite gymnast and pole vaulter, Carly has been with the program since 2018.

“We will continue building upon the foundation of excellence, and developing not only world-class gymnasts but women who will leave this program believing in themselves and ready to impact the world around them. This team is full of courage, tenacity and strength, and I am truly excited to have this opportunity to work alongside them and celebrate their brilliant talent with the No. 1 fans in the country.”

Carly Dockendorf Named Head Coach of Utah Gymnastics

Save Lindenwood Gymnastics

Starting in 2013, Lindenwood University launched the first new college gymnastics program in nearly two decades.  …  

In 11 seasons, the Lions gymnastics teams have won 4 national titles, numerous conference titles and qualified for NCAA Regionals in 2019.  

On December 1, 2023, Lindenwood University announced sweeping cuts to their athletic programs which included cutting this amazing program.  …  

We are seeking to raise over $2MM to sustain a five year operating budget for this team with a splash goal of $500,000 by December 31, 2023.  Please contact Patrick at 602-989-6030 to learn more on how you can support this effort or donate.

Our Mission: Support our Team, Raise the Money and Tell the World

NCAA proposes paying athletes

Recall those who worried that NIL was the start of a slippery slope?

They were right. 😀

BEST in my opinion would be for College Football to be affiliated with the NFL. Not any educational institution.

The proposal — outlined in a letter to Division I colleges today — would allow schools to enter into name, image and likeness (NIL) deals directly with their students.

The NCAA lifted its ban on athletes profiting off NIL deals in 2021, allowing them to earn money from outside parties — but not with colleges. …

Axios – NCAA floats proposal to pay athletes in college sports stunner

mic’d up Brett Nelligan

Jay Clark interview

Good depth at LSU this season, even on Bars.

I quite enjoyed listening to Jay on this one. He is very well spoken.

College Gym News Preseason Poll

As we wait for the official preseason coaches poll for 2024 on Road to Nationals and all the controversy it will surely bring, we once again conducted our own to determine team rankings for the upcoming season …

College Gym News 2024 Preseason Poll
  1. Oklahoma
  2. LSU
  3. Florida
  4. Utah
  5. UCLA
  6. Cal
  7. Alabama
  8. Michigan
  9. Michigan State
  10. Kentucky

There are 26 more on the list.

Elizabeth Reid appreciation

Excellent and unique choreography.

WaPo investigation into NCAA abuse

For many, many gymnasts the opportunity for a College scholarship to gain their education is a fantastic experience. Indeed, the vast majority of gymnasts I’ve spoken with are happy with their decision to compete after Club.

BUT it doesn’t work for all. I’m particularly concerned about risk of serious injury competing so many times each season in NCAA.

Recently, Molly Hensley-Clancy and Emily Giambalvo did a deep dive into female college gymnasts complaints for the Washington Post:

Beneath NCAA gymnastics’ glow, a familiar ‘toxic’ culture

Female gymnasts say college was supposed to offer a reprieve from intense club programs. Then they arrived on campus and found more of the same.

I believe that story is not behind the paywall.

Schools identified in the article:

  • University of North Carolina
  • LSU
  • Utah
  • Penn State
  • Clemson
  • Utah State

Eating disorders are common for many young women, especially college athletes. But studies consistently find female gymnasts are at a staggeringly high risk, with a 2004 study finding 42 percent of gymnasts and other elite “aesthetic sport” athletes, such as figure skaters, had disordered eating habits, compared with 16 percent in sports like soccer or basketball.

Certainly I believe the complainants.

I also believe that many of their teammates had positive experiences with the same coaches. Both can be simultaneously true.

Are things getting better in the NCAA?

Larissa (Lowing) Libby – FX 1989