Clemson Gymnastics

Clemson’s April firing of head gymnastics coach Amy Smith was due to alleged abusive behavior.  Smith, who completed two seasons as Clemson’s head gymnastics coach, violated three separate clauses in her contract, which led to her termination, including “responsible treatment of athletes,” “demonstrating concern for their welfare,” and not engaging in “physical or emotional abuse.”  In a meeting on April 18, Clemson athletic director Graham Neff told parents of Clemson’s gymnasts that Smith would be fired. Several parents reportedly thanked Neff for listening to the experiences of the gymnasts.  Smith was fired with cause, so the University will not have to pay her buyout. Clemson has since hired Justin Howell and Elisabeth Crandall-Howell to replace Smith.