A search for a new head coach is on the horizon as Illinois athletics announced Tuesday that it will not renew the contract of head coach Nadalie Walsh, set to expire in August. Walsh’s eight-year tenure comes to an end with much to look back on and be proud of.
“We appreciate Coach Walsh’s contributions to our program and wish Nadalie and her family all the best,” said Director of Athletics Josh Whitman.
This season, Walsh led the Illini to a third-place finish at the second round of NCAA Regionals and sixth place at the Big Ten championships. She also coached freshman Chloe Cho to Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. Since 2017, Illinois has crowned three All-Americans, four Big Ten individual event champions and 23 All-Big Ten selections, all under Walsh.
During the last two seasons, Walsh has encouraged the Illini to define themselves as more than gymnasts through a team mental wellness initiative. Walsh used words of encouragement and positive affirmations to instill confidence in her gymnasts.
Because of her impact, Gameday Spirit honored Walsh with the 2025 Game Changer Award for women in sports leadership. Through her mentorship, many Illini began to appreciate the extra time spent on the mental side of athletics that is often overlooked.
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Illinois athletics reported that the search to hire the next head coach will begin immediately.
