Justin Howell and Elisabeth Crandall-Howell Appointed Co-Head Coaches of Clemson Gymnastics Program
In a significant development for collegiate gymnastics, Clemson University has announced the appointment of Justin Howell and Elisabeth Crandall-Howell as co-head coaches of its women’s gymnastics program. This dynamic duo brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, poised to elevate Clemson’s gymnastics team to new heights.
Justin Howell’s coaching career is marked by transformative leadership and consistent excellence. As the head coach of the University of California, Berkeley’s women’s gymnastics team since 2012, Howell orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. Under his guidance, the Golden Bears evolved from a program ranked 49th nationally to a formidable contender, achieving a national runner-up finish in 2024. His tenure at Cal is distinguished by multiple accolades, including being named the 2016 National Coach of the Year and earning six Regional Coach of the Year honors. Howell’s commitment to fostering a culture of discipline and innovation has been instrumental in the team’s ascent.
Elisabeth Crandall-Howell, an accomplished gymnast and coach, complements this leadership with her extensive experience and strategic acumen. A seven-time U.S. National Team member and former collegiate All-American at Brigham Young University, Crandall-Howell transitioned into coaching with a passion for athlete development. Joining Cal’s coaching staff in 2012, she was elevated to co-head coach in 2018. Her tenure is highlighted by her role in guiding the team to its first NCAA Championship appearance in over two decades and achieving a program-record score of 198.550 in 2024. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes holistic athlete growth, integrating technical excellence with personal development.
The Howells’ collaborative coaching approach has been a cornerstone of their success. Their synergy was evident as they led Cal to consecutive NCAA Championship appearances and secured the program’s first outright conference championship in 2024. Their ability to cultivate talent and foster a competitive yet supportive environment has been widely recognized, earning them multiple Coach of the Year honors.
Clemson University’s decision to appoint the Howells as co-head coaches signals a strategic investment in the future of its gymnastics program. Their proven track record of program building and athlete development aligns with Clemson’s vision of establishing a nationally competitive team. The Howells’ leadership is expected to attract top-tier talent and instill a culture of excellence within the program.
The Howells’ coaching philosophy is deeply rooted in their personal experiences as athletes and mentors. Crandall-Howell’s journey, marked by resilience and a profound understanding of the athlete’s perspective, informs her empathetic and individualized coaching style. Her emphasis on embracing challenges and learning from setbacks resonates with athletes striving for excellence.
Justin Howell’s approach is characterized by strategic planning and fostering a growth mindset. His ability to analyze performance metrics and implement targeted training regimens has consistently yielded improvements in team performance. His leadership style encourages athletes to push their boundaries while maintaining a focus on long-term development.
Together, the Howells have demonstrated an exceptional ability to balance technical rigor with emotional intelligence, creating an environment where athletes thrive both on and off the mat. Their commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and personal growth complements their athletic objectives, aligning with Clemson University’s holistic approach to student development.
As the Howells embark on this new chapter at Clemson, the gymnastics community anticipates a period of growth and achievement for the program. Their appointment is not only a testament to their individual accomplishments but also an acknowledgment of their collaborative success. Clemson’s gymnastics team stands poised to benefit from their visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence.
In conclusion, the appointment of Justin Howell and Elisabeth Crandall-Howell as co-head coaches marks a transformative moment for Clemson University’s gymnastics program. Their combined expertise, innovative coaching methods, and commitment to athlete development position the team for sustained success. As they bring their proven strategies and dynamic leadership to Clemson, the future of the program looks exceptionally promising.
