Corrinne Wright Tarver
The first Black NCAA all-around champion as a member of the University of Georgia and the first head coach of an HBCU women’s gymnastics team (Fisk University, 2022-present).
She is an American Black gymnastics coach and former artistic gymnast hailing from the United States, she made history in 1989 as a member of the Georgia Bulldogs by clinching victory in the NCAA All-Around Gymnastics Championships. This landmark achievement marked her as the first African-American woman to secure this prestigious title. In 2022, she embarked on a new chapter in her career by becoming the founding coach of the gymnastics team at Fisk University, further contributing to the diversification and expansion of gymnastics programs within academic institutions
Corrinne Wright, a native of Mount Vernon, New York, was introduced to gymnastics through her older sister. Initially training at a local YWCA, she later commuted to Stamford, Connecticut, for more intensive practice sessions at a dedicated gymnastics facility. Her commitment and talent propelled her onto the U.S. national artistic gymnastics team in 1985 and 1986.
Recruited by Suzanne Yoculan, the coach of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, Corrinne made a significant impact on collegiate gymnastics. She became the first African-American member of the Georgia Bulldogs gymnastics team, contributing to their victories in the NCAA Team Championships of 1987 and 1989. Her exceptional performance earned her recognition as a nine-time All-American during her four-year tenure with the GymDogs. Despite occasional reluctance to practice, Corrinne’s competitive spirit and charisma made her a standout athlete and a beloved figure within the team.
In 1989, Corrinne achieved a historic milestone by winning the NCAA All-Around title, becoming the first African-American woman to do so. Her electrifying floor routine, set to the music of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, captivated audiences and secured her a place in gymnastics history. Following her graduation from Georgia with a Bachelor of Social Work degree in 1991, Corrinne pursued a career in law, earning her Juris Doctor degree from New York Law School in 1996.
Despite her legal education, Corrinne’s passion for gymnastics never waned. She embarked on a coaching career in the 1990s, working at various gymnastics academies and serving as an assistant coach for Pennsylvania beginning in 2009. In March 2022, she accepted the position of head coach for the inaugural gymnastics program at Fisk University in Nashville. This historic appointment made her the first head coach of a gymnastics team at a historically black college in the United States. Under her leadership, the Fisk Lady Gymdogs made their competitive debut in January 2023, marking a significant milestone in the university’s athletic history.
Beyond her coaching endeavors, Corrinne also assumed the role of athletic director at Fisk University in July 2022, further solidifying her commitment to the development of collegiate athletics. Her dedication to gymnastics and her pioneering spirit continue to inspire athletes and coaches alike, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s landscape.
Corrinne earned her undergraduate degree in social work from the University of Georgia (UGA). She also earned a Juris Doctorate from New York Law School.
Corrinne Wright’s impact and legacy in gymnastics are profound and far-reaching, spanning both her achievements as an athlete and her contributions as a coach and leader within the sport.
Pioneering Achievements:
As the first African-American member of the University of Georgia Bulldogs gymnastics team, Corrinne shattered racial barriers and paved the way for greater diversity and inclusion in collegiate gymnastics. Her historic victory as the NCAA All-Around Champion in 1989 marked a significant milestone, not only for herself but also for African-American athletes in gymnastics and beyond. By achieving success at the highest levels of collegiate competition, Corrinne inspired generations of athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of race or background.
Role Model and Mentor: Throughout her career as an athlete and coach, Corrinne served as a role model and mentor to countless aspiring gymnasts. Her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence inspired others to push beyond their limits and strive for greatness. As a coach, she imparted invaluable lessons in discipline, perseverance, and teamwork, shaping the lives of her students both on and off the gymnastics mat.
Trailblazer in Coaching: Corrinne’s impact extended beyond her achievements as an athlete, as she blazed trails in coaching and leadership roles within the gymnastics community. Her appointment as the inaugural head coach of the gymnastics program at Fisk University represented a groundbreaking moment in collegiate athletics, highlighting her dedication to expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in the sport. By fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity, Corrinne continues to inspire future generations of gymnasts to pursue their passion and strive for greatness.
Community Building and Empowerment: Through her coaching and leadership roles, Corrinne fostered a sense of community and empowerment within the gymnastics world. She created a supportive and nurturing environment where athletes could thrive and grow, instilling confidence and self-belief in each individual. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in gymnastics has left a lasting legacy, empowering athletes from all backgrounds to pursue their dreams and excel in the sport.
Corrinne Wright’s illustrious gymnastics career was adorned with numerous awards and accolades, highlighting her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. While specific details about her individual awards and medals may vary, her remarkable achievements on the gymnastics stage have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
NCAA All-Around Gymnastics Championship: In 1989, representing the University of Georgia Bulldogs, Corrinne Wright secured victory in the NCAA All-Around Gymnastics Championships. This historic triumph made her the first African-American woman to achieve such a feat, cementing her place in gymnastics history.
Nine-Time All-American: Throughout her collegiate gymnastics career, Corrinne earned the distinction of being a nine-time All-American. Her consistent excellence and standout performances contributed significantly to the success of the Georgia Bulldogs gymnastics team, further solidifying her legacy as one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes.
NCAA Team Championships: Corrinne played an integral role in leading the Georgia Bulldogs to NCAA Team Championships in 1987 and 1989. Her contributions to these team victories exemplified her leadership, skill, and determination on the gymnastics stage.
Induction into the Georgia Bulldogs’ Circle of Honor: In recognition of her outstanding achievements and contributions to the University of Georgia’s gymnastics program, Corrinne Wright was inducted into the Georgia Bulldogs’ Circle of Honor in 2005. This prestigious accolade immortalized her legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats.
In summary, Corrinne Wright’s impact and legacy in gymnastics are defined by her trailblazing achievements as an athlete, her dedication to coaching and mentorship, her commitment to diversity and inclusion, and her profound influence on the lives of countless individuals within the gymnastics community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations of gymnasts, coaches, and leaders, ensuring that her pioneering spirit and contributions to the sport are never forgotten.