Former Red Rocks Star Makenna Smith Returns to Program as Student Coach
9/18/2026 4:00 PM | Gymnastics
Utah Gymnastics welcomes back the 12-time All-American fan favorite for 2027
SALT LAKE CITY— Former Red Rocks star Makenna Smith will make a return to the program for the 2027 season as a student coach after completing her final season of eligibility in 2026.
The Utah Gymnastics alum is a 12-time All-American (5 regular season; 7 NCAA) who quickly established herself as a fan favorite due to her fun personality and spunky gymnastics. Smith ended her career with 46 event victories, 216-220 hit routines, and career highs of 9.95 or better (9.975 on vault, bars, and floor; 9.95 on beam) in all four events.
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"We are thrilled to welcome Makenna into a new role with the Red Rocks this season," head coach Carly Dockendorf said. "Her experience, perspective, and passion will bring tremendous value to our team. In her new position, Makenna will primarily focus on the operational side of the program, helping strengthen and elevate it in a variety of areas. We are incredibly fortunate to have her continue to be part of our team and look forward to all she will contribute in this new capacity."
Since graduating this past spring, Smith was accepted into the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah to pursue a master's degree in legal studies while also serving as the Big 12 representative for the Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
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