UAB softball coach coach Taylor Smartt has stepped away the American Conference program, after multiple allegations of player abuse and misconduct surfaced this week.
According to a recent Softball On SI report, sources connected to the Blazers raised concerns about the manager involving player treatment and inappropriate conduct. Potential NCAA and Title IX-related violations accompany those initial complaints.
UAB confirmed that Smartt had “taken a step back” from the program beginning April 25th. She did not coach the final five games of the season, with assistant coach Anna Shelnutt subsequently taking over the team.
Softball On SI spoke with 10 individuals connected to UAB athletics, including four current players, four parents, a former student-athlete, and a booster.
Concerns About UAB Coach Taylor Smartt Go Unanswered
According to the report, one softball parent emailed UAB administrators to explicitly share concerns about Smartt's allegedly racist behavior.
"My daughter was repeatedly subjected to what I can only describe as mental and verbal abuse," wrote Lindsey Dupree.
"There were deeply concerning remarks made by Coach Smartt regarding my daughter’s appearance, including racially insensitive comments about her braided hairstyle, which was referred to as 'jailhouse braids.' Such comments are unacceptable in any professional or educational setting."
Another complaint referenced a physical altercation in the dugout.
"I am writing to report an incident I witnessed during the ECU vs. UAB softball game," reads the March 2026 email.
"While observing from the first base dugout area, I saw the UAB head coach punch a player in the dugout. Following the incident, I noticed the player began to tear up, appearing to be in physical pain or distress... I wanted to bring this matter to your attention for further review."
The email was sent to East Carolina athletic director Jon Gilbert, among other front office figures.
SI noted Gilbert responded to the email, saying "Thank you for sharing. Will forward to the appropriate people."
On May 1st, the school released a general statement addressing the allegations.
"We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and positive experience for our student athletes," reads the statement. "When concerns are brought to our attention, we take appropriate steps to investigate them. Employment matters are handled between the institution and employees."
Smartt is in her second season leading the Blazers. She previously served on coaching staff at Florida Atlantic University.
According to the report, Softball On SI reached out to both Smartt and director of operations Julie Money for comment. Neither responded to the request.
