Iowa Athletics Initiates Independent Review of Women’s Gymnastics Program

The Iowa Athletics department has announced that an independent review of the women’s gymnastics program will be conducted following concerns raised about head coach Larissa Libby and the program’s environment. In a statement released on Thursday, the department expressed its commitment to the well-being of student-athletes and ensuring a respectful and safe training environment.

After 20 seasons as head coach and 24 years with the program, Larissa Libby has been placed on paid administrative leave while the review is conducted by Phil Catanzano, co-founder of the Education and Sports Law Group. The department clarified that this action is not a disciplinary measure but rather to protect the integrity of the review process.

In previous interviews, Coach Libby has emphasized the importance of creating a positive and empowering culture within the gymnastics program. She has spoken about encouraging athletes to find value outside of gymnastics and giving them a voice and opinion so they do not feel pressured to achieve perfection.

As a former gymnast herself, Libby understands the history of toxicity in the sport and the impact it can have on athletes. She has expressed a desire to help undo any trauma that the athletes may have experienced growing up and believes that coaches play a significant role in developing a sense of self in young athletes.

Despite the ongoing review, the Iowa Hawkeyes recently placed 10th at the Big Ten Championships, and four GymHawks have been selected to compete at NCAA Regionals on April 4. Among the selected gymnasts is Larissa Libby’s daughter, Bailey Libby, a second-year floor specialist on the team. The outcome of the independent review will be eagerly awaited by fans and supporters of the Iowa women’s gymnastics program.