SPOKANE, Wash. — Whitworth University will add STUNT as its newest varsity sport expanding opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the highest level while enhancing the university's commitment to athletic excellence and student engagement.
The Pirate STUNT program will begin recruiting immediately and competing in the spring of 2027.
STUNT, one of the fastest-growing female sports in the country, is derived from traditional cheerleading and focuses on the technical and athletic aspects of the discipline, including partner stunts, pyramids, basket tosses, jumps, and tumbling. Recognized for its highly competitive, team-oriented format, STUNT provides an inclusive environment for athletes with diverse cheer, gymnastics, and acrobatics backgrounds.
"We are thrilled to welcome STUNT to the Whitworth athletics family," said Tim Demant, Whitworth Director of Athletics. "This exciting, fast-paced sport will not only provide more opportunities for women to compete at the varsity level, but it also reflects Whitworth's commitment to supporting emerging sports that align with our mission to challenge students to strive for excellence in every area of life."
The addition of STUNT strengthens Whitworth's tradition of offering a broad range of intercollegiate athletics for student-athletes to grow in character, leadership, and teamwork. Whitworth joins a growing number of NCAA institutions across the country that have embraced STUNT as an official varsity sport.
A search for Whitworth's first STUNT coach will begin immediately. Interested student-athletes are encouraged to contact the athletics department at tdemant@whitworth.edu for more information.
About Whitworth University
Whitworth University, located in Spokane, Wash., is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Known for its rigorous academics, vibrant community, and commitment to faith and learning, Whitworth serves more than 2000 students and currently sponsors 21 varsity athletic teams competing in the Northwest Conference and NCAA Division III.
