Jordyn Wieber Steps Down as Arkansas Gymnastics Head Coach, Chris Brooks Takes Over
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Olympic gold medalist Jordyn Wieber has stepped down as head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks gymnastics program, effective immediately. Her husband, Chris Brooks, a longtime assistant coach with the team, has been promoted to head coach, the University of Arkansas announced on April 28, 2026.
Wieber’s Tenure and Accomplishments
Wieber served as the head coach of the Arkansas gymnastics team for seven seasons, during which she elevated the program to national prominence. Under her leadership, the Gymbacks made two appearances in the NCAA National Championships, earning a total of 30 All-America honors and 40 All-SEC selections.
All of Arkansas’ top 10 team scores in program history were achieved during Wieber’s tenure, along with program bests on vault, beam, and floor exercise.
“Serving as Head Coach of Arkansas Gymnastics has been an honor,” Wieber said in a statement. “I’m deeply grateful to our student-athletes, staff, and Razorback fans for an unforgettable journey. With a heavy, but full heart and immense pride in what we have accomplished, I’m stepping away from athletics to focus on my family and other passions. I’m excited for what’s ahead and will forever be cheering on the Razorbacks!”
Growing Program Attendance
Wieber also oversaw a significant increase in program attendance. Arkansas consistently ranked among the top 10 nationally in average attendance, including two sellouts at Barnhill Arena. In 2025, the team moved to Bud Walton Arena full-time, setting new single-season (39,574) and average (7,915) attendance records. On March 6, 2026, the program achieved a new program and SEC gymnastics attendance record, drawing 15,512 fans to Bud Walton Arena.
Chris Brooks’s Background and Transition
Chris Brooks brings a wealth of coaching experience to his new role. He has nearly a decade of NCAA coaching experience, including stints at Nebraska’s women’s team and Oklahoma’s men’s team, his alma mater, before joining the Arkansas program in 2019. Brooks served as the team’s uneven bars coach and assisted with vault.
He also coached Joscelyn Roberson to a bronze medal on vault at the World Championships last fall. Roberson announced her intention to enter the transfer portal on Monday, April 27, 2026, after two seasons with the Gymbacks.
Athletic Director’s Statement
Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek expressed confidence in Brooks’s ability to continue the program’s success. “After learning of Coach Wieber’s desire to step away from athletics, my mind immediately focused on how to keep the program’s momentum moving forward,” Yurachek said. “Coach Brooks’ passion, energy and coaching knowledge made him an effortless choice. His work alongside Coach Wieber has helped turn the Gymbacks into what they are today. I believe Coach Brooks will continue to grow our program moving forward.”