Head Cheer Coach

Position Summary
McMurry University seeks an energetic, mission-driven Head Cheer Coach to lead the strategic growth, recruitment, and competitive development of its intercollegiate Cheer program. This position is responsible for expanding the program’s enrollment impact, transitioning the program from a traditional spirit-focused squad to a competitive collegiate cheer program, and establishing a sustainable culture of excellence aligned with NCAA Division III philosophy and the University’s Christian mission.

Key Responsibilities
•    Provide leadership and oversight for all aspects of the Cheer program, including practices,                    performances, competitions, and team operations
•    Develop and implement a multi-year strategic plan to grow the program and transition it to                      competitive collegiate cheer participation
•    Plan, organize, and supervise all practices, games, performances, and competitions
•    Design and implement gameday, event, and competition routines
•    Ensure strength, conditioning, stunt progression, and safety standards are met at all times
•    Recruit, evaluate, and retain academically qualified student-athletes capable of supporting both            spirit and competitive cheer objectives
•    Build and maintain recruiting pipelines with high school programs, all-star gyms, club teams, and          cheer organizations
•    Actively contribute to institutional enrollment goals through strategic recruiting in partnership with        Admissions
•    Conduct tryouts and manage roster size in alignment with Title IX planning and institutional                    priorities
•    Increase program visibility through camps, clinics, community engagement, and collaboration with        Marketing & Communications
•    Ensure compliance with NCAA Division III, conference, and institutional policies
•    Manage the program budget, travel planning, and logistical coordination
•    Promote academic accountability, leadership development, and student-athlete well-being
•    Support and model McMurry University’s mission and Christian values
•    Enforce safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management standards
•    Complete required institutional, departmental, and conference reporting
•    Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Athletics

Minimum Qualifications
•    Bachelor’s degree required
•    Collegiate cheer coaching or participation experience
•    Demonstrated ability to recruit student-athletes and grow program participation
•    Knowledge of NCAA Division III regulations and philosophy
•    Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills
•    Ability to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required
•    Current or ability to obtain CPR/AED certification

Preferred Qualifications
•    Experience coaching or competing in collegiate competitive cheer
•    Experience building, expanding, or transitioning a cheer program to competitive participation
•    Established recruiting relationships with high school or all-star cheer programs
•    Experience supporting institutional enrollment or roster growth goals
•    Previous budget management or program administration experience

Performance Expectations
Success in this role will be evaluated based on program growth, roster stability, competitive participation, student-athlete retention, academic performance, and alignment with institutional enrollment objectives.