Director of Athletics Josh Daume announced today that McPherson College will expand to 21 varsity sports with the addition of STUNT, a head-to-head competitive sport derived from traditional cheerleading. The program will begin competition in the spring of 2027, making McPherson College the only active collegiate STUNT program in the state of Kansas. The STUNT program will be led by Director of Spirit Programs Toni Snyder, who will oversee the development and launch of the Bulldogs' newest varsity team.

"The addition of a varsity STUNT program represents yet another step forward in the growth of our athletics program," stated Daume. "It provides further opportunities for young women to participate at the varsity level while earning an outstanding degree from McPherson College. We're particularly excited to be the first school in the state of Kansas to add this fast-paced and growing sport to our department. Coach Snyder has done an outstanding job in growing our cheer and dance programs, and the addition of STUNT under his leadership will further enhance our overall spirit program"

One of the fastest-growing collegiate sports in the country, STUNT showcases athleticism, technical precision, synchronization, and teamwork through a structured, head-to-head competition format. The sport transforms traditional cheerleading skills into a four-quarter contest featuring partner stunts, pyramids, jumps, tumbling, and team routines, creating an exciting competitive experience for both student-athletes and fans.

"I am extremely excited to expand our spirit programs with the addition of STUNT," Snyder said. "Our administration has been very invested in the growth of our programs through increased opportunities, resources, and support, and adding STUNT is a natural next step for our growing program. This addition creates another competitive avenue for our female student-athletes while positioning McPherson College to compete for another championship on the national stage."

This announcement comes at a monumental time. Earlier this year, STUNT achieved NCAA Championship Sport status, marking another milestone in its continued national growth and increasing opportunities for collegiate competition.

As the state's only collegiate STUNT program, McPherson College hopes to play a leading role in expanding the sport throughout Kansas and the surrounding region.

"We hope our addition inspires other institutions in Kansas to launch STUNT programs and encourages continued growth throughout the Midwest and Mountain West," Snyder said. "There are still many neighboring states without collegiate STUNT opportunities, and we're excited to help build the future of the sport in our region."