TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Alabama gymnastics coach Sarah Patterson is stepping down after leading the Crimson Tide to six national titles in 36 seasons.

Patterson announced her decision on Tuesday, saying she double-knee replacement surgery and about a year to resume normal activities.

Patterson has been battling degenerative problems in her knees for several years. She will remain as a special assistant to the athletic director and serve on the NCAA gymnastics committee starting in September. Alabama selected assistant Dana Duckworth as Patterson’s replacement, pending formal approval by the board of trustees.

Duckworth won two individual NCAA championships at Alabama in the early 1990s.

Patterson posted 1,006 wins and 43 postseason championships during her tenure.

The Tide’s Champions Plaza outside Coleman Coliseum bears Patterson’s name.

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