Bailie Key is retiring from the sport of gymnastics she announced this week. A member of the Crimson Tide gymnastics team as a freshman and sophomore, Key did not compete this past season following back surgery in December.
“After much reflection, I knew in my heart that it was time to bring my gymnastics career to a close,” Key said. “When I think of my current and future self, I have no doubt this is the right decision for me. I am so grateful to my Bama coaches, especially (head coach Dana Duckworth) for their love, patience and understanding throughout my collegiate career. I am blessed to have the opportunity to finish my nursing degree at this University that I love and will be forever thankful for the amazing support of my teammates and I can’t wait to be their biggest cheerleader.”
A Scholastic All-American, the Montgomery, Texas, native is working toward a nursing degree at the Capstone.
“Our sole focus throughout this entire process has been Bailie’s short- and long-term health,” Duckworth said. “She is an amazing young woman and we will continue to support her as she finishes her degree here at Alabama. She will always be a part of the Alabama gymnastics family and I can’t wait to see what is next for her.”
