On Feb. 8, Iowa State announced the cancellation of the remainder of its gymnastics season, citing athlete safety concerns. Today, just under a month later, Cyclone athletic director Jamie Pollard announced the discontinuation of the program, citing irreconcilable conflict between the gymnasts, coaches, and parents.
Iowa State leaves behind over 50 years of gymnastics history, having sponsored gymnastics since the 1974 season. The program was home to decorated Oklahoma head coach KJ Kindler, who competed for the Cyclones before beginning her coaching career at her alma mater. Before leaving the university for Oklahoma following the 2006 season, Kindler led the Cyclones to three national championship appearances and one appearance in the team final.
The Cyclones were led by Head Coach Ashley Miles Greig, a former standout at Alabama and the 2006 Honda Award winner who was in her third season at the helm of the team after taking over for Jay Ronayne. Her contract was set to expire at the end of the 2026 season, and all coaching contracts have now been terminated.
Iowa State will honor the scholarships of any gymnasts who choose to remain at the university, and they will retain access to student-athlete benefits. The athletic department will support any gymnasts who elect to enter the transfer portal and is working on helping them obtain waivers for an additional year of eligibility.
READ THIS NEXT: Iowa State Cancels Remainder of Season
Article by Tara Graeve
Send Iowa State University’s athletic director JAMIE POLLARD a message about how shameful his decisions have been.
Title: Endowed Cyclone Director of Athletics
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 515-294-0123
(Athletic Director since 2005 -WAY TOO LONG)