The UAB softball program is facing serious allegations against head coach Taylor Smartt, who has been accused of physical abuse, racist remarks, and an inappropriate relationship with a player and staff member, according to a detailed report published by Sports Illustrated on May 6.
Smartt, who has been away from the team since April 25, was described by the university at the time as "taking a step back" from the program. Now, the full scope of the allegations has come to light, painting a troubling picture of her tenure.
According to the report, which includes interviews with 10 individuals connected to the program—including four current players, four parents, a former player, and a booster—the alleged misconduct began shortly after Smartt took over as head coach in 2024. The Blazers finished the season 21-33 under her leadership, ending with a 2-1 loss to Tulsa in the American Conference Tournament on May 6.
The allegations are wide-ranging and disturbing. Multiple sources claim Smartt made racist comments and engaged in physical abuse, including punching a player twice during a series at East Carolina in March. Four current players told SI that Smartt would make vulgar threats involving inappropriate physical contact.
The report also alleges that Smartt maintained an "inappropriately close relationship" with a player, including sleeping over at the player's apartment. In one instance, a player reportedly walked in on Smartt, Director of Operations Julie Money, and a teammate in a "compromising position" on a couch.
Perhaps most alarming are the safety concerns raised by former players. Smartt allegedly required players to participate in a dangerous offseason workout where they had to push assistant coach Anna Shelnutt's Toyota 4Runner, then sprint ahead and stop it. One player told SI that a teammate was nearly run over by the SUV during this exercise.
The allegations also include NCAA and Title IX violations, though the full scope of the investigation remains unclear. Multiple members of the UAB athletic department did not respond to requests for comment from USA TODAY Sports.
As the story continues to develop, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of player safety and accountability in collegiate athletics. For fans and athletes alike, these allegations underscore the need for programs that prioritize respect, safety, and fair treatment above all else—values that should be at the heart of every team, from the diamond to the dugout.