Michigan State Extends Gymnastics Coach Mike Rowe

Three-year contract extension for Spartans' gymnastics coach following sustained success and national prominence

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:33am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a gymnast in motion, with overlapping planes and sharp angles representing the dynamic energy and skill of the sport.Michigan State's gymnastics program continues its ascent under the extended leadership of Coach Mike Rowe, with the team's dynamic performances captured in a cubist artistic interpretation.East Lansing Today

Michigan State University Athletics announced on April 10, 2026, that head gymnastics coach Mike Rowe has signed a three-year contract extension, ensuring he will remain in charge of the women's gymnastics program through 2029. The extension follows a period of sustained growth and national prominence for the program, including five NCAA Regional Finals appearances, two Big Ten regular-season titles, and a Big Ten Championships crown over the last five seasons.

Why it matters

The extension of Coach Rowe's contract solidifies the continued success and upward trajectory of the Michigan State gymnastics program, which has become one of the best in the Big Ten Conference and on the national stage under his leadership. The program's consistent performance and postseason achievements have raised the profile of Michigan State athletics.

The details

The agreement ensures that Rowe will remain head coach of the women's gymnastics program through 2029. During his nine seasons at Michigan State, Rowe has compiled a career record of 159-101-1 with the Spartans. The current season has seen the team post a 24-8 record, following back-to-back program-record 29-win seasons in 2024 and 2025.

  • Michigan State announced the contract extension on April 10, 2026.
  • Rowe is completing his ninth season as head coach in 2026.

The players

Mike Rowe

The head gymnastics coach at Michigan State University, who has led the program to sustained success and national prominence over the last five seasons.

J Batt

The Vice President and Director of Athletics at Michigan State University, who praised Rowe's leadership and the program's achievements.

Kevin Guskiewicz

The President of Michigan State University, who supported the contract extension for Coach Rowe.

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What they’re saying

“We are proud to continue to support Mike and the program as they strive for excellence.”

— J Batt, Michigan State Vice President and Director of Athletics

“I would like to sincerely thank MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz and Director of Athletics J Batt for the opportunity, honor and privilege of extending my tenure with Michigan State gymnastics. I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support from our administration, athletic department staff and all of Spartan Nation.”

— Mike Rowe, MSU Head Gymnastics Coach

What’s next

The Spartans will look to continue their success and pursue greater prominence on the national stage under Coach Rowe's extended leadership.

The takeaway

The contract extension for Coach Rowe solidifies Michigan State's commitment to maintaining the gymnastics program's upward trajectory and status as one of the top programs in the Big Ten and nationally. The sustained success under Rowe's guidance has raised the profile of Michigan State athletics and positioned the gymnastics team for continued growth and achievement.