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UAB Softball Coach Investigated for Assault, Racism, Misconduct

5/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

UAB’s athletic department in Birmingham, Alabama has opened an investigation into head softball coach Taylor Smartt for alleged abuse.
Smartt stepped away on April 25 before a Florida series, then on March 27 punched a player twice, made racial comments about hair, and forced the team to push a Toyota 4Runner in neutral.
Further complaints cite an inappropriate relationship with a student-athlete, withheld travel-meal money, and possible NCAA or Title IX violations.

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Story summary

UAB’s athletic department in Birmingham, Alabama has opened an investigation into head softball coach Taylor Smartt for alleged abuse.
Smartt stepped away on April 25 before a Florida series, then on March 27 punched a player twice, made racial comments about hair, and forced the team to push a Toyota 4Runner in neutral.
Further complaints cite an inappropriate relationship with a student-athlete, withheld travel-meal money, and possible NCAA or Title IX violations.