With great sadness, we share the passing of three-time Olympian and USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame member Muriel Davis Grossfeld. Following a competitive gymnastics career that saw her represent the U.S. at the 1956, ’60, and ’64 Olympic Games, Muriel transitioned to coaching and subsequently led two U.S. Olympic teams (’68 and ’72) and two World Championships teams (’70 and ’74). She served as the personal coach for numerous national champions and World Championship and Olympic team members, and was a part of the National Team training staff for many years.
An accomplished judge, Muriel was tapped to serve in this capacity for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and multiple World Championships. She also applied her expertise to commentating and worked across four networks to help fans at home engage with the sport of gymnastics. In addition to her Olympic appearances, Muriel finished her career with 18 national titles and earned team gold at the 1963 Pan American Games.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of Muriel’s passing,” said USA Gymnastics CEO Li Li Leung. “Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Muriel was a beloved member of our community, mentoring countless gymnasts, coaches, and judges over the course of her lifetime and serving on numerous International Gymnastics Federation and USA Gymnastics committees. Her passion for our sport was undeniable, and her efforts were instrumental to the growth of women’s gymnastics in the United States. She will be dearly missed.”
Details of Muriel’s memorial service have not yet been made available.