Fisk to End First Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Gymnastics Program by 2026
In 2023, Fisk University made headlines as the first Historical Black College or University (HBCU) to sponsor women's gymnastics. However, this groundbreaking program will come to an end in the 2025-2026 season, leaving fans, alumni, and athletes shook.
Recent university emails revealed that scheduling issues and recruitment disadvantages were primary factors behind the discontinuation of the gymnastics program. The sport isn't sanctioned within the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), which causes difficulties for HBCUs seeking to field competitive teams.
This decision follows significant personnel changes. In May, star gymnast Morgan Price, who led Fisk gymnastics since its inception, announced her intent to transfer for her final season of eligibility. Price claimed back-to-back national championships and delivered the historic first perfect ten in HBCU gymnastics history. Fellow teammate and Head Coach Corrinnne Tarver, who had been at the helm since the program's founding in 2022, also resigned one month into the season.
Although the university's reasoning for cutting the program may seem straightforward, recent Fisk graduate Naimah Muhammad takes issue with it. While she understands the financial aspect, the sanctioning issue hits a nerve. Muhammad points out that "HBCU Gymnastics started because of Fisk," and there's no reason it shouldn't be sanctioned at HBCUs now that the program exists.
Despite the latest developments, Muhammad insists that the enthusiasm for HBCU gymnastics remains high. Many interested parties continue to reach out, asking how to bring their daughters to the Fisk gymnastics program.
In 2024, Talladega College followed Fisk with its own gymnastics team. However, due to budget issues, the program was cut after only one season. Wilberforce University joined Fisk in the NCAA this past season as the only other active program. Unfortunately, it seems that Wilberforce may be the last program standing when the 2026 season ends.
Regardless of the uncertainties, Fisk University's risk in launching the first HBCU gymnastics program in 2022 gave a powerful boost to collegiate gymnastics and representation within the sport. However, without increased funding, institutional support, and conference sanctioning, it'll be challenging for HBCUs to maintain competitive gymnastics programs.
- The decision to discontinue Fisk University's gymnastics program in the 2025-2026 season, initiated by scheduling issues and recruitment disadvantages, has sparked a debate within the HBCU community, particularly among those concerned about the sport's future in these institutions.
- Despite the discontinuation of Fisk University's program and the subsequent closing of Talladega College's gymnastics team, interest in HBCU gymnastics remains high, with many individuals continuing to inquire about the possibility of enrolling their daughters in such programs, indicating a passion for diversity and growth in the sport.
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