The University of Washington announced on May 4 that it has extended the contract of gymnastics head coach Jessa Hansen Parker, ensuring her leadership through the 2031 season.
The extension comes after two seasons under Hansen Parker’s direction, during which the team returned to the NCAA Tournament. Director of Athletics Pat Chun said, “Coach Hansen Parker has done exceptional work leading our gymnastics program. Over the past two seasons, we have watched her not only build a foundation but also lead us back to the NCAA Tournament. We are excited for the future of UW Gymnastics under her leadership.”
Hansen Parker joined Washington in 2024 as its ninth head coach and brings more than a decade of coaching experience from previous roles at University of Iowa, UC Davis, and University of California, Berkeley. During her tenure at Iowa as an assistant coach, she contributed to their first Big Ten Championship with a perfect conference record and helped develop several All-Americans.
Reflecting on her new contract, Hansen Parker said, “It is truly an honor and a privilege to lead these women, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue at a place as special as the University of Washington.” She added thanks to university officials for their support and expressed pride in representing both the program and community.
Since taking over at Washington, Hansen Parker led four gymnasts to individual NCAA Championships qualifications in her first season. In her second year, she guided the team back into postseason competition with notable achievements including advancing past No. 29 San José State in regionals and recording their highest grade point average since 2020.
Fan engagement has also increased under Hansen Parker’s tenure; attendance ranked second in the Big Ten behind UCLA with a new program record set for total fans attending meets.
