The world of college gymnastics never truly stops, even in the offseason. One week can bring a whirlwind of news, from seismic shifts in coaching lineups to athletes unveiling jaw-dropping new skills in training. It’s easy to miss a beat, but don’t worry—we have you covered. This is your weekly dose of everything you need to know from the gymternet, delivering the biggest headlines, crucial updates, and stories you might have missed. Let’s dive into the week’s action!
Top Storylines
Plocki Retires from Michigan; Kanewa-Hermelyn Promoted to Helm Wolverines
Michigan head coach Bev Plocki announced her retirement from Michigan after 36 years as the program’s head coach. Hours after Plocki’s announcement, the program shared that assistant coach Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn would be elevated to replace Plocki.
Bryant Joins LSU Staff After Gnat’s Departure
LSU assistant coach and former standout Ashleigh Gnat is leaving the coaching staff to relocate to Tampa, Florida. Gnat, who designed LSU’s leos, will now be working for designer GK Elite. Taking her place on the coaching staff will be Haleigh Bryant, who finished her athletic career with the Tigers just three months ago.
Future and Current NCAA Stars Impress at US Classic
NCAA talent was on full display at the US Classic. Arkansas sophomore Joscelyn Roberson finished third in the all-around and showed a confident beam routine to finish fourth on the event.
UCLA’s incoming freshman class made a strong impression with three Bruins finishing in the top 15 of the senior all-around rankings. Ashlee Sullivan led the group with a 52.2 for sixth place, followed closely by Jordis Eichman in tenth (51.90) and Nola Matthews in 12th (51.5).
Georgia will also hope for an immediate impact as Brooke Pierson, fourth place in the all-around with a 52.60, and Avery Moll are set to join the team this upcoming season.
For more on the performance of ‘26 and ‘27 recruits headlined by all-around champion and five-star recruit Claire Pease, check out our US Classic recap.
Other Coaching & Staff News
Mack Named Fisk Head Coach
Fisk interim head coach Nuriya Mack was elevated to head coach of the program for its final season. Mack, a former Kent State gymnast, has been part of the Fisk program since 2023.
Kenlin Named Illinois State Assistant Coach
Former Iowa gymnastics standout Adeline Kenlin was named as an assistant coach at Illinois State.
Brooks Named Utah State Assistant Coach
Recent Utah State graduate Brianna Brooks was named as an assistant coach at her alma mater.
Wong to Serve As Florida’s Student Assistant Coach
Leanne Wong will return to Florida as a student assistant coach for the 2026 season.
Transfer News
- Former Arkansas gymnast Chandler Buntin, previously in the transfer portal, was added back to the team’s roster as a manager.
- Former Iowa gymnast Katelyn Wiederspahn is in the transfer portal. A redshirt freshman in 2025, she has three years of eligibility remaining.
Training Updates
New Skills Spotted
- Florida sophomore Skye Blakely is training a handspring to front double tuck on floor. Blakely successfully petitioned to compete at next month’s US Championships.
Rehab and Recovery
- LSU sophomore Kaliya Lincoln is tumbling. She was limited to vault and a handful of floor routines in her freshman campaign.
- Auburn freshman Charlotte Booth is training bars dismounts after rupturing her Achilles in February.
Recruiting Buzz
College gymnastics recruiting news moves fast! For in-depth coverage of commitments, signings, and all the latest recruiting developments, be sure to check out our weekly Recruiting Roundup.
Other Newsworthy Items
- In support of Whitewater’s Kara Welsh Legacy Scholarship, a golf tournament will be held at Twin Lakes Country Club in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin on August 23, 2025. Those interested in participating or donating can sign up to do so here.
- Former LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne was interviewed with her boyfriend, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, on the red carpet for the MLB All-Star Game.
- Former Auburn gymnast Sunisa Lee won the Best Comeback Athlete award at the ESPY Awards.
READ THIS NEXT: Multiple Top Recruits Qualify to Nationals From US Classic
News curated by Katherine Weaver with assistance from the editors of College Gym News
