The Shenandoah University Spirit Squad is searching for a Head Cheer Team Coach. This is a one-year contract stipend position that reports to the Director of Spirit Squad located on our main campus in Winchester, VA.

The Head Cheer Team Coach will be responsible for coaching the Cheer Team of the Shenandoah University Spirit Squad. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, coaching, recruitment, player development, and fundraising efforts for the program.

Responsibilities

• Work with the Director of Spirit Squad, instructional staff, and student leadership to ensure that each student achieves success in a positive and constructive manner.
• Attendance at Cheer Camp, practices, team dinners, and performances.
• Lead retention efforts for Cheer Team members.
• Instruction of fundamental techniques and choreography for development of cheer skills.
• Coordinate team building/bonding activities.
• Promote a respectful and inclusive environment within the program.
• Coordinate and lead Cheer Team Tryouts in fall and spring
• Develop student leadership skills within the Cheer Team.
• Maintain a physically safe practice environment and plan effective practices.
• Maintain Cheer Team budget and SU Cheer email communications.
• Manage fundraising efforts for the Cheer Team.
• Manage equipment and communicate any needs for student success.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Athletic Bands.

Required Skills

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree is preferred.
• Previous experience instructing Cheer at high school or college level is preferred.
• Knowledge of social media platforms and the ability to maintain team pages.
• Management, leadership, and communication skills are required.

Camp Dates and Practice Times

• Cheer Camp July 19-20
• Veteran Cheer Team Members Move in on August 25th, 2025
• Practices Tuesday and Thursday mornings 5:30-8am
• Friday evening team dinners/team bonding events as scheduled prior to games
• Saturday football games, Basketball games as scheduled
• One or two weekend Cheer Competition/s between months of February-April

Required Experience

How to Apply:

The complete application will include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until a qualified candidate is selected.

**Note: A pre-employment background check will be required, and a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Shenandoah University values individuals and communities' unique and diverse perspectives locally and globally. It seeks to foster mutual understanding in an inviting community where individuals are welcome and respected. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or on any other basis protected under applicable law.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree is preferred.
• Previous experience instructing Cheer at high school or college level is preferred.
• Knowledge of social media platforms and the ability to maintain team pages.
• Management, leadership, and communication skills are required.

Camp Dates and Practice Times

• Cheer Camp July 19-20
• Veteran Cheer Team Members Move in on August 25th, 2025
• Practices Tuesday and Thursday mornings 5:30-8am
• Friday evening team dinners/team bonding events as scheduled prior to games
• Saturday football games, Basketball games as scheduled
• One or two weekend Cheer Competition/s between months of February-April