After nine successful seasons as the head coach of the Lindenwood gymnastics program, Jen Llewellyn announced on Monday morning that she would be stepping down from her position to accept the head coaching responsibilities at the University of Washington.

"While this is a difficult day for the Lindenwood gymnastics program, we could not be happier for Jen Llewellyn and her family," said Brad Wachler, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. "Her vision and leadership helped to elevated Lindenwood gymnastics to unimaginable heights over the past nine years and our University will be forever grateful to Jen for her tireless efforts and commitment. A huge thank you and best wishes are rightfully being extended to Jen and her family as they embark on their next journey."

Under the direction of Llewellyn from its inaugural season in 2013, Lindenwood gymnastics rose from a relatively unknown startup program to a nationally recognized and respected power. Llewellyn, a native of Kenmore, Wash., guided the Lions to seven MIC titles (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021), three USA Gymnastics Women's Collegiate National Championships (2015, 2016, 2019), and in 2019 became just the third-ever NCAA Division II program to compete in an NCAA Regional.

"This moment is bittersweet," said Llewellyn. "I am beyond thankful for the nine years of opportunity, support, and success Lindenwood has provided. I owe a debt of gratitude to Brad Wachler, Tom Wagganer, John Creer, and Chanda Jackson for taking a chance on a 22-year-old graduate assistant and believing in the big dreams and goals we set forth for the program. I am eternally grateful to every student-athlete that I had the privilege to coach, every assistant coach and support staff that helped build this program, and to every family member and our fans that made Lindenwood gymnastics what it is today. It takes a village and Lindenwood wouldn't have found the tremendous success it has without the help of every single person that played a role into creating a gymnastics powerhouse in St. Charles, Mo. Lindenwood is a very special place and Team 10 is bound to accomplish more amazing program firsts!"

Llewellyn's tutelage produced 90 all-MIC performers and 86 USAG All-Americans for the Lions. Following the 2021 season, Llewellyn was selected as the WCGA Division II Regional Coach of the Year. Llewellyn is a three-time MIC Coach of the Year (2015, 2016, and 2018) and was selected as the NCAA DII Head Coach of the Year in 2018.

A national search for the next Lindenwood University head gymnastics coach will commence immediately.