Athletics hires coach for newly formed STUNT team

Heidelberg Athletics Director Greg Cooper has announced the hiring of Courtney Neering as the head coach for the newly formed STUNT team.  Neering arrives at the 'Berg following a four-year stint as assistant STUNT coach at her alma mater, Olivet College.

"We are excited to welcome Courtney to Heidelberg to lead this very new and emerging program," said Cooper.  "She has extensive experience as a STUNT coach, collegiate recruiter and STUNT student athlete. She is exactly who we were looking for to build this program from the ground up."  

For the unfamiliar, STUNT combines the concepts of competitive cheer and tumbling with a traditional school-against-school competition format.  Officially designated as an emerging sport by the NCAA, STUNT is a women's sport and competes in the spring.  

"As a former athlete who was on Olivet College's first STUNT team in 2016, I know the hard work and dedication a start-up program takes," said Neering, who also served Olivet as an admissions representative.  "I am excited to take my knowledge as a former athlete and assistant coach and implement it into Heidelberg's program."

 The 'Berg STUNT team will begin competition in the 2023-24 school year, allowing Neering an opportunity to recruit a full roster.  

"The decision to bring STUNT to campus will have a meaningful and lasting impact on female student-athletes who are looking to continue their education and compete in the sport they love," said Neering, who starts at Heidelberg on Oct. 3.  "STUNT is truly an amazing emerging NCAA sport that has taken cheer to the next level."

The addition of STUNT, along with men's swimming, women's swimming, and Esports, brings Heidelberg's slate of varsity sports up to 24.