Cassandra Ringer Announces New Assistant Coach for Illinois State Gymnastics
Illinois State University’s gymnastics program has named Makayla Curtis as its new assistant coach, according to a press release issued on Monday. The hiring, confirmed by head coach Cassandra Ringer, marks a strategic addition to the staff as the team prepares for the 2023-2024 season.
Background on Makayla Curtis
Curtis brings experience in collegiate gymnastics, having previously served as a graduate assistant at the University of Missouri. Her role at Illinois State will focus on skill development and athlete mentorship, according to the university’s athletics department. Ringer highlighted Curtis’s “deep understanding of gymnastics fundamentals” during a statement.
Context of the Hire
Ringer, in her fifth season as Illinois State’s head coach, has emphasized building a competitive roster amid conference realignments. The addition of Curtis follows the departure of two assistant coaches in 2022, as reported by *The Daily Illini*. The university’s athletics website notes that Curtis will also collaborate with the program’s recruiting efforts.
Why This Matters
The hiring comes as Illinois State seeks to strengthen its presence in the Missouri Valley Conference. Last season, the team finished with a 9-14 record, according to NCAA statistics. Curtis’s background in both coaching and competitive gymnastics—she competed at the Division I level—positions her to contribute to the program’s long-term goals, as outlined in the university’s 2022 strategic plan.
Next Steps for the Program
With the 2023-2024 season approaching, Ringer has indicated that the coaching staff will focus on “refining technical skills and fostering a culture of resilience,” per a statement shared with *Illinois State Athletics*. The team’s first competition is scheduled for October 7 against Eastern Illinois.