CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson Gymnastics announced its six-member 2026 signing class — the first full class to officially join the program under the direction of co-head coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell. Georgia “Yuri” Dunlap, Helen Geiger, Ella Oprea, Morgan Reihl, Sydney Snyder, and Makayla Torres-Melton each officially signed full scholarship agreements in the November signing period and will enroll at Clemson University in Fall 2026 to compete in Spring 2027.
Clemson Gymnastics is entering its third competitive season in 2026 and has made an immediate impact upon its debut, reaching the NCAA Championships twice and ranking in the top ten nationally in attendance at Littlejohn Coliseum.
“This class represents everything we want Clemson Gymnastics to stand for,” said Co-Head Coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell. “Each of these young women brings elite skill, contagious energy, and a commitment to being exceptional in every facet of their Clemson Experience. The class combines elite international experience, championship-level performance, and a shared passion for our culture of excellence and growth. As our first full signing class, they’ll help set the tone for the program’s future — both in competition and in character.”
2026 Signing Class
Yuri Dunlap || Houston, Texas || Stars Gymnastics
Top Accomplishments:
Why Clemson:
“I chose Clemson because from the moment I stepped on campus, I felt an overwhelming sense of acceptance. The coaches and team made me feel like family, and the support system they’ve built is truly special. That kind of warmth and genuine care wasn’t something I experienced anywhere else. Beyond that, Clemson’s campus is stunning, and the academic programs are top-tier. It was the perfect blend of athletic excellence, personal connection, and academic opportunity.”
Helen Geiger || Callahan, Fla. || World Class Gymnastics
“I chose Clemson because It felt like home. The moment I stepped on campus I knew this was where I was meant to be.”
Ella Oprea || Bucharest, Romania || Dinamo Bucharest Sports Club
“I chose Clemson because it offers a great balance of academics and athletics, and I love the family-like atmosphere where I can grow, excel, and challenge myself.”
Morgan Reihl || Linden, Calif. || Royal Gymnastics & Sports Academy
“I chose Clemson because of the amazing coaching and work ethic of the team, the opportunity to be a part of a team that is building a new program, and the support from the community that made it feel like home – it made Clemson the perfect fit.”
Sydney Snyder || Annapolis, Md. || Thrive Gymnastics
“The amazing facilities for the gymnastics program and the resources for the student-athletes are the best. All of the current gymnasts at Clemson welcomed me with open arms and kindness. Overall, it really felt like home, and I knew that if I went there, I would feel comfortable and have the tools to be successful.”
Makayla Torres-Melton || Tracy, Calif. || Royal Gymnastics & Sports Academy
“I chose Clemson because there was an unbelievable amount of academic and athletic resources that are provided for their athletes. I also love the amount of support they get from their community and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Their coaching staff made me feel like this is a great place to grow as both a person and an athlete. Everything about Clemson felt like home.”
