Duckworth Steps Down As Alabama Gymnastics Coach After Eight Seasons

TUSCALOOSA, AL — University of Alabama gymnastics coach Dana Duckworth has resigned after eight seasons, the university athletic department confirmed in an announcement on Thursday.

After being named successor to coaching legend Sarah Patterson, Duckworth is one of only two Alabama gymnastics head coaches since 1979.

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"It has been an absolute honor to compete for, recruit and coach so many amazing women who have been a part of the Alabama gymnastics family," Duckworth said in a statement. "I cherish the relationships made by being a part of this program and our alumni sisterhood. The experiences we shared will stay with me for the rest of my life."

Duckworth mentioned that the decision was not an easy one, but said after 27 years she is opting to focus on her family for now.

"I have all the confidence in the world in this team and wish nothing but great things for their future," she said.

During her more than 20 years on the Crimson Tide coaching staff, serving as head coach, assistant coach and volunteer assistant coach under Patterson, she was part of three NCAA team championships, six Southeastern Conference championships and 17 NCAA regional team championships.

Duckworth was also a student-athlete for the Crimson Tide, going on to become part of NCAA and SEC team championships, in addition to being a two-time NCAA champion on balance beam.

"We appreciate Coach Duckworth's contributions to Alabama gymnastics, both as a coach and a student-athlete," Alabama Director of Athletics Greg Byrne said in a statement on Thursday. "She has had a lot of success over the years as a coach and as a leader in the community, and we wish Dana and her family all the best going forward."

UA said Gina Quinlan will serve as interim head coach until a replacement has been named following a national search that is set to begin immediately.

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