Chris Muras Named Redbird Gymnastics Assistant Coach

NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State gymnastics head coach Bob Conkling has announced the hiring of former Minnesota assistant Christopher Muras as the Redbirds' new assistant coach.

"I'm very excited that Chris has decided to join our staff and become a Redbird," Conkling stated. "Chris brings 10 years of gymnastics coaching experience from the developmental to the college level to our program. I like that Chris has worked at a wide variety of gymnastics levels, including the Junior Olympic, club, high school and college level. That variety, along with his passion for the sport, is what I feel our team needs right now. It was very clear to me, from the first time I talked to Chris, that he loves gymnastics and loves to coach. I'm looking forward to watching Chris bring this passion to our team and to help Redbird gymnastics move forward to higher success."

Muras comes to ISU after serving as a volunteer assistant coach for the past two seasons at the Minnesota. Muras helped with practice plans and competition lineups, while also coaching and spotting for gymnasts in multiple events. At the same time, Muras coached for Flips Gymnastics' optional and elite teams, primarily serving as the uneven parallel bars coach.

"I am beyond honored for this amazing opportunity to join Illinois State's coaching staff and Redbird family," Muras said. "I am most excited to continue my passion of coaching gymnastics and hopefully help coach our student-athletes to new heights this season. I can't wait to help pursue each athlete's individual goals, while conquering all of our team goals for the upcoming season."

A graduate of Winona State, Muras received a dual degree in Spanish and criminal justice. He went on to coach multiple club teams and was the head coach at East Ridge High School. At the high school level, Muras helped multiple athletes compete at the state level and worked with administration to prepare lesson plans and helped fundraise for the high school program.  

Muras earned his undergraduate degree from Winona State in 2013 and received a master's degree in sports management from Minnesota in May of 2019. 

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