Full-time

Southern Virginia University is seeking a passionate and experienced Head Cheer Coach to lead and develop its cheer program. Reporting to the Director of Athletics, the Head Coach is responsible for all aspects of the program, including recruitment, maintaining roster size, practice planning, game scheduling, competitions and fostering a culture of excellence on and off the sidelines. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to build a competitive, cohesive, and mission-aligned program.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision for the cheer program in alignment with the university’s mission and values.
• Recruit academically and athletically qualified, full-time student-athletes to maintain and grow the program roster.
• Organize and oversee team competitions, practices, training sessions, and game-day performances.
• Promote the academic progress and graduation of student-athletes.
• Foster a positive team culture that emphasizes sportsmanship, integrity, and personal growth.
• Manage the program’s budget, equipment, and assist in the negotiation of facility rentals.
• Ensure strict compliance with all university, conference, and national governing body rules and regulations.
• Assist the athletic department in broader athletic issues and ongoing development of sports programming as needed.
• Coordinate with departmental staff to support student-athlete health, performance, and spirit initiatives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Athletic Director.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• 1–3 years of advanced coaching experience; collegiate coaching experience is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cheer strategy, stunting safety, and skill development.
• Demonstrated ability to recruit and develop student-athletes.
• Excellent service-oriented skills and an exceptional customer service attitude.
• Strong communication and organizational skills with the ability to work independently.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Southern Virginia University.

Physical Requirements & Availability

• Must be able to lead and actively participate in physically demanding practices and events.
• Must be able to carry, pull, push, and lift equipment necessary for training and competition.
• This is a full-time position that requires consistent day, evening, and weekend availability for practices, games, and travel.

Applications

To apply, interested candidates should submit a CV (résumé) and three professional references as a single PDF to hr@svu.edu.

About Southern Virginia University

Southern Virginia University is a private, faith-based institution of higher education aligned with the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a university, we gather faithful Latter-day Saints and those who share our values, lift intellectually, socially, and spiritually, and launch into successful lives and careers. Applicants are invited to learn more at svu.edu/mission.