Taylor Smartt has been fired as the head coach of the UAB softball team following a third-party investigation into allegations of mental and physical abuse, as well as racist remarks. The university made the decision nearly two months after the allegations first surfaced.
An investigation led by attorney Brieanna Young concluded that there was substantial evidence to support claims of "improper conduct and inappropriate behavior that violates UAB policies and certain NCAA rules and regulations," according to USA Today.
Smartt initially stepped away from the program in April. In early May, Sports Illustrated published details of the allegations, which included claims of racist remarks, an inappropriate relationship with a staff member and a player, and physical abuse toward players. The report stated that Smartt's alleged behavior began when she took over as head coach in 2024.
According to one account detailed by Sports Illustrated, an individual reportedly walked in on Smartt, a player, and another program associate in a compromising situation. The report also alleged that Smartt maintained a relationship with a player and stayed overnight at the player's apartment.
Further allegations described physical altercations, including Smartt reportedly punching a player twice during a series at East Carolina in March. An email from ECU athletic director Jon Gilbert to UAB officials stated, "While observing from the first base dugout area, I saw the UAB head coach punch a player in the dugout. Following the incident, I noticed the player began to tear up, appearing to be in physical pain or distress… I wanted to bring this matter to your attention for further review."
Smartt's offseason training methods also came under scrutiny. Players alleged that she would make them push a Toyota 4Runner and then sprint ahead to stop it.
"Taylor Smartt will not return to UAB Softball, and Anna Shelnutt will serve as head coach on an interim basis while UAB Athletics conducts a search," a UAB spokesperson told USA Today. "UAB is committed to providing a safe, respectful and positive experience for our student athletes. We have no further comment on this employment matter."
Smartt joined UAB after previously serving as the associate head coach at Florida Atlantic University.