Photo via “Reinstate the gymnastics program at Iowa State University” Change.org petition.
A group of Iowa State gymnastics supporters, led by program alumni, has launched a petition and fundraiser in the aftermath of the team being cut.
The petition was formally launched by Cyclone gymnastics alum Melanie Tham. It urges the Iowa Board of Regents to reconsider and reinstate the team.
“It is paramount that the university administration reconsiders this decision and allocates the necessary resources to support these athletes, as their dedication and hard work contribute significantly to the university’s reputation and vibrancy,” the petition reads in part.
Separately, but in conjunction with the petition, Save State Gymnastics shirts are now on sale as part of a fundraiser. The shirts aim to raise awareness of the issue. A portion of the proceeds will also be donated to help keep women’s sports growing.
“Together we can raise awareness and advocate for the future of Iowa State Gymnastics and opportunities for women in collegiate athletics,” the Save State Gymnastics website reads.
Iowa State has had a women’s gymnastics team for more than 50 years. Oklahomas head coach K.J. Kindler is an alum and former head coach. After her successor, Jay Ronayne, departed the program in 2023, former Alabama gymnast and world medalist Ashley Miles Greig was hired to replace Ronayne despite having no prior coaching experience.
Sources close to the situation told Gymnastics Now that Miles Greig’s tenure was problematic from the start, and the Iowa State athletic department allegedly failed to heed gymnasts’ complaints about the situation from the time Miles Greig was hired until the cutting of the program almost three years later.
Multiple sources also told Gymnastics Now that there were at least a few candidates with coaching experience who applied for the job, yet Iowa State athletic director Jamie Pollard still chose to hire someone with no experience to run a Division I sports team.
Ways to support Iowa State gymnastics
Here are ways you can support the Iowa State gymnastics team:
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