Sarah Brown, the head coach of Penn State women’s gymnastics, has quietly built one of the most exciting programs in collegiate gymnastics. Since taking over in 2017, Brown has combined her elite athletic background with a focused coaching philosophy that emphasizes mental strength, team unity, and consistent performance. Her work has not just elevated the Nittany Lions in the rankings; it has also raised the standard for what strong, female-led programs can look like.
Her Experience
A four-time All-American and two-time Big 12 Gymnast of the Year during her time as a student-athlete at the University of Missouri, Brown brings credibility and firsthand experience to her coaching. She understands what it takes to compete at the highest level, translating that knowledge into action. Before arriving at Penn State, she led Eastern Michigan to a MAC Championship and a national ranking, showcasing her ability to produce results quickly and effectively.
Her Coaching Impact
Her impact at Penn State has been especially profound. In 2024, Brown led the Nittany Lions to a program-best 197.050 at NCAA Regionals and helped the team qualify for the regional final for the first time in program history. Under her leadership, the team also recorded a school-record National Qualifying Score of 196.825. For these accomplishments, Brown was named the WCGA North East Region Head Coach of the Year, one of the most prestigious honors in the sport.
But beyond the scores and accolades, Brown is leading a cultural shift. She is mentoring a generation of athletes not only to be better gymnasts but also more confident women. Her style is disciplined yet empathetic, competitive yet grounded in wellness. Brown has become a role model for young coaches and student-athletes alike, demonstrating that success does not have to come at the expense of support and self-respect.
As women continue to advocate for equal representation in coaching and leadership roles within sports, Sarah Brown stands out as a compelling example of what is possible.
