Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn Named Head Coach of Michigan Women’s Gymnastics
The University of Michigan’s women’s gymnastics program is stepping into a new chapter with Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn as its new head coach. After years of success as an assistant, Kanewa-Hermelyn now takes the reins following the retirement of long-time head coach Bev Plocki.
Her journey from standout collegiate gymnast to championship-winning coach is a full-circle moment. Kanewa-Hermelyn’s passion, discipline, and creativity have already shaped Michigan gymnastics in big ways.
This transition feels like more than just a changing of the guard. It’s a promise of renewed ambition for excellence in Ann Arbor. Read more about the official announcement on mgoblue.com.
The Transition from Legacy to Leadership
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For nearly forty years, Bev Plocki built Michigan gymnastics into a national powerhouse. Now, Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn—after seven seasons on the Wolverines’ coaching staff—steps in as only the seventh head coach in program history.
She’s carrying on a tradition that started in 1976. Kanewa-Hermelyn’s promotion keeps the culture of excellence, teamwork, and integrity alive, while also bringing her own spark.
As assistant coach from 2020 to 2025, after volunteering in 2019, Kanewa-Hermelyn helped Michigan break records and earn national recognition. She played a huge part in Michigan’s first NCAA Championship in 2021, guiding the team to new heights.
She wasn’t just a technical expert. Kanewa-Hermelyn also became a mentor and motivator, shaping the team’s artistry and consistency on the national stage.
Building on a Championship Pedigree
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s background screams championship pedigree. She was a standout gymnast for the University of Oklahoma from 2012 to 2016, winning two national titles and racking up All-America honors.
That competitive drive and deep understanding of what it takes to win have shaped her coaching approach at Michigan. She knows what champions need—because she’s been there herself.
Her leadership made Michigan’s beam and floor events the team’s calling cards. Under her guidance, Michigan set beam records with a 49.625 against Nebraska and Minnesota, and her choreography pushed the floor squad to a No. 1 national ranking for six weeks.
She’s managed to blend technical precision with creative flair—something not every coach can pull off. That balance defines elite gymnastics, and it’s a big part of why Michigan stands out.
Elevating Michigan’s Competitive Edge
During Kanewa-Hermelyn’s time as assistant coach, Michigan gymnastics soared to new heights. The Wolverines captured the 2021 national title and stayed in the mix with the nation’s top programs.
Her efforts helped Michigan win three Big Ten Championships and four Big Ten regular-season titles. That’s a testament to her strategic mindset and dedication to athlete growth.
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s coaching style focuses on both performance and personal growth. She often talks about building a culture where athletes thrive inside and outside the gym.
That holistic approach ensures Michigan gymnasts leave the program as leaders—ready for whatever comes next. It’s a core value that fits right in with the university’s mission.
Record-Breaking Performances and Milestones
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s impact isn’t just about titles. The records her teams set say a lot, too. The Wolverines posted a program-record 198.525 at Rutgers, one of the top six scores in NCAA history at that point.
That same meet, Michigan’s vault squad scored a 49.875—then the second-highest in NCAA history—with three perfect 10.0s in a row. Not something you see every day.
Her attention to detail and willingness to innovate in choreography and technique kept Michigan pushing boundaries. In 2024, her beam team ranked as high as sixth nationally, the floor team hit No. 4, and vault stayed at No. 23.
Those rankings show not just talent but the careful prep and coaching insight Kanewa-Hermelyn brings to every practice and meet.
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Mentorship and Athlete Development
Beyond scores and trophies, Kanewa-Hermelyn stands out for her ability to connect with athletes. Her mentorship has helped gymnasts excel under pressure and embrace teamwork and perseverance.
Sophomore Kayli Boozer is a perfect example—she was named the 2025 College Gym News Breakthrough Athlete of the Year after breaking into three lineups under Kanewa-Hermelyn’s guidance.
Her coaching philosophy puts empowerment and confidence first, helping athletes find their voice and identity. That’s led to a team culture built on unity, resilience, and genuine joy.
Those qualities have become a hallmark of Michigan gymnastics during her time here.
The Road Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As Kanewa-Hermelyn steps up, her vision is to keep building on Michigan’s legacy and raise the bar even higher. She’s committed to a culture rooted in integrity, grit, and joy, making sure every athlete leaves stronger, both physically and mentally.
Her leadership style mixes innovation with tradition, honoring Michigan’s past while looking ahead to a future full of potential.
With her proven success, deep knowledge of the sport, and real passion for developing athletes, Kanewa-Hermelyn looks ready to lead Michigan into a new era. She brings championship experience, technical know-how, and emotional intelligence—making her one of the most promising young head coaches in college gymnastics right now.
From Oklahoma Star to Michigan Leader
Kanewa-Hermelyn’s journey from gymnast to head coach is all about perseverance and purpose. At Oklahoma, she earned All-America honors on vault and floor, won two Big 12 vault titles, and served as team captain.
Academically, she impressed as well—earning NACGC/W Scholastic All-America honors every year and finishing both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human relations at Oklahoma.
After graduation, she worked as a student assistant coach for the Sooners and helped them win another national title. That early coaching experience at the elite level laid the groundwork for her success at Michigan.
Her time in athletic development during grad school sharpened her leadership, communication, and community engagement skills. Those qualities now serve her well as she leads one of the country’s top gymnastics programs.
A New Era for Michigan Gymnastics
The Wolverines are buzzing with excitement over Kanewa-Hermelyn’s promotion. Her new role feels like the perfect mix of tradition and fresh energy.
She brings both respect for Michigan’s legacy and a spark of innovation. With Kanewa-Hermelyn leading, Michigan’s got a real shot to keep their powerhouse status—maybe even raise the bar higher.
Fans will probably notice the same passion and sharp focus that defined the Plocki era. But now, there’s Kanewa-Hermelyn’s creative twist and a more modern vibe.
If you want more on Maile’ana Kanewa-Hermelyn’s appointment and career, check out the official University of Michigan Athletics announcement.