Full Breakdown
UAB Investigates Softball Coach Taylor Smartt Over Abuse Allegations
5/8/2026, 11:50:34 PM
Core Allegations and Investigation
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) athletic department has opened a formal investigation into head softball coach Taylor Smartt after multiple players and parents reported mental and physical abuse. Smartt stepped away from the team on April 25, prior to a three-game series against the University of South Florida, while the inquiry proceeds.
Coaching Background and Key Figures
Smartt entered her second season with the Blazers in 2022-23, hoping to build a competitive program. The investigation involves UAB Athletic Director Mark Ingram and spokesperson BJ Millican, while Sports Illustrated reporter Maren Angus first publicized the allegations.
Timeline of Reported Incidents
- March 27, 2024: Alleged punching of a player twice in the dugout during a game vs. East Carolina.
- Early April 2024: Parents met with Ingram and officials to present complaints.
- April 25, 2024: Smartt stepped away from coaching duties.
- Late April 2024: Additional reports of forced vehicle-push workouts and withheld travel-meal funds.
Alleged Abusive Conduct
Accusers allege physical aggression in the dugout, a racial comment describing a player’s hair as “jailhouse braids,” a remark to “stop hanging out with your ‘charred’ friends,” and a claim the coach told a player to “go to the bathroom and loosen my a**hole for me.” They also allege forced pushes of a Toyota 4Runner in neutral with athletes running ahead, withheld meal money for away games, and an inappropriate relationship involving the coach sleeping at a player’s residence.
UAB Official Response
UAB confirmed Smartt’s temporary leave and reiterated its commitment to a safe, respectful environment for student-athletes. The department said it will investigate any concerns raised and that employment matters remain internal. No findings have been released.
Parents' and Players' Concerns
Parents assert that multiple athletes suffered mental and physical mistreatment, prompting the meeting with Ingram, and claim the coach’s behavior extended beyond the field, citing the alleged inappropriate relationship and coercive training.
Unresolved Issues
UAB has not answered questions about Smartt’s pay during her leave, and no NCAA or Title IX office has confirmed involvement. The accuracy of several alleged statements remains unverified pending the investigation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Taylor Smartt has taken a step back from the program. We will make further comment when it’s appropriate., UAB's BJ Millican told OutKick.” — BJ Millican, UAB spokesperson
- “COACHES PUSH FOR 24-TEAM CFP, AS COLLEGE FOOTBALL HEADS TOWARDS PARTICIPATION TROPHY TERRITORY In addition to the coach allegedly putting her hands on a player, she is also accused of making racial comments toward a player regarding her hair, which was referenced as "jailhouse braids.” — alleged comment by Taylor Smartt (as reported)
Next Steps
The inquiry proceeds as the season ends. Observers anticipate possible NCAA or Title IX involvement, and UAB says it will release further findings when appropriate.
