Shannon Welker receives contract extension through 2029 season
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Mizzou Athletics has locked up the leader of its gymnastics program for the foreseeable future.
MU announced it has extended head coach Shannon Welker's contract through the 2029 season, following more than a decade's worth of success that has led the team to new heights. During his 11-year tenure, Welker has guided the program to multiple NCAA Championship appearances, developed All-American student-athletes, and set records in both attendance and team scores.
"Shannon Welker has been instrumental in elevating our gymnastics program to unprecedented heights," Mizzou Athletics Director Laird Veatch said in the press release. "His vision, leadership and dedication to our student-athletes' success embody Mizzou's 'Will to Win.' We are extremely pleased to continue building on the incredible momentum Shannon and his staff have built in Columbia."
Most recently, Welker's group broke 25 program records during the 2024 season. Under his leadership, Mizzou set new high scores in all four events, posted its highest-ever average attendance, and had seven gymnasts earn All-SEC honors, the most student-athletes to be recognized in a single season. During that same campaign, MU also posted team scores of 197.000 or higher in 12 of its 14 meets and reached the NCAA Regional Finals for a fourth straight season.
The 2022 SEC Coach of the Year has coached all six of the program's Women's Collegiate Gymnastics Association (WCGA) All-Americans and 12 student-athletes who have been named All-SEC selections. Welker has also led the program to its best finish at the NCAA Championships in 2022, ending the event in fifth place.
The Webster Groves native has also found success on the recruiting trail ahead of the 2025 season. Welker constructed the top-ranked transfer class in the nation and signed five highly-touted freshmen during the offseason.
"I have been honored to represent the University of Missouri Gymnastics program and the women that have helped build it into one of the best teams in the country," Welker said in Thursday's press release. "The future of our team is bright, and I appreciate Athletics Director Veatch's vote of confidence. Go Tigers!"
Welker begins his 12th season as Mizzou's head coach on Jan. 3 at the "Beauty and the Beast" event. The Tigers will face Ball State, Illinois State and SEMO to open the 2025 campaign at Mizzou Arena on Friday at 6 p.m.
