UK Gymnastics coach Tim Garrison signs extension through 2026

Kentucky gymnastics’ Tim Garrison, the program’s all-time winningest head coach, has signed a contract extension that will keep him in Lexington through 2026.

“We’re excited to extend Coach Garrison’s contract and keep him in the Blue and White,” UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart announced Thursday. “He’s done a remarkable job in coaching our team to its greatest heights and look forward to continued success in the future.”

Hired in 2012, Garrison has transformed the program in his 11 seasons with the Wildcats, taking Kentucky to the NCAA Championship regionals every year. The 2018 National Coach of the Year has helped produce 11 All-America student-athletes, with UK setting a record for the highest team score in program history with a 197.750 in 2022 under his watch. Kentucky made its first team debut at the NCAA Championships finals in 2018, with the school being represented by individual competitors in eight consecutive rounds of the Championships. Garrison saw his highest season-ending ranking of No. 9 at the conclusion of the 2018 season.

“I want to thank our athletics director, Mitch Barnhart, and my administrative sports liaison, Heather McAtee, for the trust they are again placing in me,” Garrison said. “I would also like to thank my staff for their tireless efforts, the student-athletes who have worked so hard to advance this program, and my family for their constant love and support.”

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Outside the gym, Kentucky gymnastics posted the highest grade-point average in the SEC with a 3.59 in 2022. UK also recorded the highest number of Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Association (WCGA) Scholastic All-Americans with 14. The team was named Scholastic Team on the Year at the UK CATSPY Awards this past season.

“The opportunity to continue leading this incredible group of young women and those who will follow in their footsteps is a responsibility I accept and an honor I cherish,” Garrison added.

After 11 successful years in Lexington, Barnhart is keeping Garrison right here for (at least) another four.