• Texas State University is making NCAA history by launching the first Division I gymnastics program in Texas as the Bobcats transition into the Pac-12 Conference.
• Former Penn State head coach Sarah Brown has been named Texas State’s inaugural gymnastics head coach, bringing extensive coaching experience and a focus on building a championship-caliber program from the ground up.
• With Texas State currently recruiting its inaugural roster, the Bobcats are preparing for their first Pac-12 gymnastics competition in spring 2028 as the program expands opportunities for women in collegiate sports.

Division 1 collegiate gymnastics has tumbled into Texas. Texas State University (TXST) makes history as the first college within the lone star state to have a Division 1 gymnastics program as the mid-major program opens its doors to the division 1 following a transition into the Pac-12 conference. Texas is heavily known for producing many talented gymnasts, Olympic medalists Simon Biles and Carly Patterson to name a few.

At the end of June and a long search, Bobcat nation found their match to build a historic gymnastics program in college sports: Sarah Brown, former head coach at Penn State.

“As we searched for the right person to build our gymnastics program from the ground up, Sarah’s vision, leadership, and commitment to developing student athletes stood out immediately. “ said TXST Director of Athletics Don Coryell.

Brown who coached at Penn State University has had a long gymnastics journey prior to TXST, the Columbia Missouri native was a strong force on the mats. Winning 2014 MIC assistant coach of the year and 2024 WCGA North East region head coach of the year. Along with taking the Nittany Lions to an NCAA Regionals berth in 2026.

Coach Brown speaking to Penn State Media after a match.

“I have no doubt she will build something truly special at Texas State and I'm excited to watch her thrive in this well- earned opportunity.” Says University of Florida Gymnastics head coach Jenny Rowland.

In San Marcos, Texas coach Brown was welcomed with open arms into the Bobcat community. She addressed the media shortly thereafter, and expressed her gratitude.

“I am incredibly honored to be trusted with building the first ever division 1 gymnastics program in the state of Texas.” said Coach Brown “This is truly a historic moment and I want to extend my sincerest thanks to president Kelly Damphousse and athletics director Don Coryell for their unwavering support and commitment to expanding opportunities for women in sports, through gymnastics.”

The culture at Texas State was an important standout for Brown from the beginning. “The energy was palpable,” she said. “From my very first visit, I could feel the campus wide culture of support that assures me this program will reach the highest of highs.” Said Brown

Coach Brown taking in the scenery between competitors

Athletics Director, Don Coryell emphasized on vision when meeting with Brown and is eager to see her lead the program.

“As we searched for the right person to build our gymnastics program from the ground up, Sarah’s vision, leadership, and commitment to developing student athletes stood out immediately. “ said Coryell.

Brown’s presence is being felt all over division 1 gymnastics. University of Michigan Gymnastics coach Beverly Plocki speaks in support of Brown's appointment at TXST and continues to give her gratifying feedback. “Sarah is an outstanding leader with a genuine passion for student athlete development and a deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful, championship caliber program from the ground up.” Said Plocki.

Coach Brown is currently undergoing the search for the program's inaugural members. Pac-12 competition won’t begin for the Bobcats until the spring of 2028.