Clemson’s Future is Bright: Elite Gymnastics Class Joins the Roar as Fans Anticipate the 2026 Clemson Football Schedule
Clemson University is a name synonymous with athletic excellence, a powerhouse where champions are forged and traditions run deep. While the anticipation for the upcoming Clemson Football Schedule often dominates headlines and fan conversations, there’s another rapidly ascending program making significant waves and securing its future: Clemson Gymnastics. The Tigers recently unveiled their groundbreaking 2026 signing class, a testament to the program’s meteoric rise and commitment to athletic and academic distinction.
Under the visionary leadership of Co-Head Coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell, Clemson Gymnastics is not just building a team; they’re crafting a legacy. This six-member class represents the first full cohort to officially join the program, and their arrival marks a pivotal moment for a team that has already made an immediate and profound impact since its debut.
A Program on the Rise: Setting New Standards
Entering only its third competitive season in 2026, Clemson Gymnastics has already achieved remarkable success, reaching the prestigious NCAA Championships twice. Beyond performance, the program has captured the hearts of the community, consistently ranking among the top ten nationally in attendance at the iconic Littlejohn Coliseum. This blend of elite competition and passionate fan support underscores the unique appeal of Clemson athletics.
“This class represents everything we want Clemson Gymnastics to stand for,” shared Co-Head Coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell. “Each of these young women brings elite skill, contagious energy, and a commitment to being exceptional in every facet of their Clemson Experience. The class combines elite international experience, championship-level performance, and a shared passion for our culture of excellence and growth. As our first full signing class, they’ll help set the tone for the program’s future — both in competition and in character.”
Meet the Stars of Tomorrow: Clemson Gymnastics Class of 2026
These six exceptional athletes have officially signed full scholarship agreements during the November signing period. They will enroll at Clemson University in Fall 2026, poised to make their competitive debut in Spring 2027, adding another layer of excitement to Clemson’s thriving athletic landscape, right alongside the buzz generated by the Clemson Football Schedule each year.
Georgia “Yuri” Dunlap | Houston, Texas | Stars Gymnastics
Hailing from Houston, Yuri brings a powerful presence. Her decision to join Clemson was deeply personal. “I chose Clemson because from the moment I stepped on campus, I felt an overwhelming sense of acceptance,” Yuri explains. “The coaches and team made me feel like family, and the support system they’ve built is truly special. That kind of warmth and genuine care wasn’t something I experienced anywhere else. Beyond that, Clemson’s campus is stunning, and the academic programs are top-tier. It was the perfect blend of athletic excellence, personal connection, and academic opportunity.”
Helen Geiger | Callahan, Fla. | World Class Gymnastics
For Helen, from Callahan, Florida, Clemson instantly felt like home. Her intuition guided her choice: “The moment I stepped on campus I knew this was where I was meant to be,” she affirms. Her natural talent and dedication promise to be a fantastic addition to the team.
Ella Oprea | Bucharest, Romania | Dinamo Bucharest Sports Club
Bringing international flair from Bucharest, Romania, Ella was drawn to Clemson’s holistic approach. “I chose Clemson because it offers a great balance of academics and athletics, and I love the family-like atmosphere where I can grow, excel, and challenge myself,” Ella states. Her global experience will undoubtedly enrich the team dynamic.
Morgan Reihl | Linden, Calif. | Royal Gymnastics & Sports Academy
From Linden, California, Morgan found her perfect fit in Clemson’s ambitious environment. “I chose Clemson because of the amazing coaching and work ethic of the team, the opportunity to be a part of a team that is building a new program, and the support from the community that made it feel like home – it made Clemson the perfect fit,” Morgan shares. Her commitment to building a program from the ground up is truly inspiring.
Sydney Snyder | Annapolis, Md. | Thrive Gymnastics
Annapolis, Maryland’s Sydney Snyder was captivated by Clemson’s unparalleled resources. “The amazing facilities for the gymnastics program and the resources for the student-athletes are the best,” Sydney noted. “All of the current gymnasts at Clemson welcomed me with open arms and kindness. Overall, it really felt like home, and I knew that if I went there, I would feel comfortable and have the tools to be successful.”
Makayla Torres-Melton | Tracy, Calif. | Royal Gymnastics & Sports Academy
Makayla, from Tracy, California, emphasizes the comprehensive support offered at Clemson. “I chose Clemson because there was an unbelievable amount of academic and athletic resources that are provided for their athletes,” she explains. “I also love the amount of support they get from their community and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Their coaching staff made me feel like this is a great place to grow as both a person and an athlete. Everything about Clemson felt like home.”
Looking Ahead: The Roar Continues
As these six dynamic young women prepare to embark on their Clemson journey, they embody the spirit of excellence that defines the university. Their talent, dedication, and shared vision will undoubtedly propel Clemson Gymnastics to even greater heights. Much like the passionate fanbase that fills stadiums for the Clemson Football Schedule, the Clemson community eagerly awaits the contributions of these future stars, knowing they are vital to the ongoing success story of Clemson Athletics.
