SPOKANE, Wash. – Whitworth University has selected Katherine Melka, a Pirate cheer alum, as the head coach of its new STUNT program, according to Director of Athletics Tim Demant.
"We are excited to begin Whitworth's STUNT program under Katherine's leadership," Demant said. "Throughout the search process she demonstrated a strong vision and plan for building a championship level team that is grounded in our mission to coach the whole person. Her commitment to excellence in competition, helping students succeed in the classroom, and develop in their character, made her a great fit for our department and the university".
Melka begins her duties immediately, coordinating Whitworth's newest varsity program. Recruiting is already underway to fill a roster for the first season of competition in the spring of 2027.
"I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the STUNT coach at Whitworth University," Melka said. "This program will be built around a competitive, student-centered culture where athletes are challenged to grow not only in their skills, but also in character and purpose. As the first STUNT team in Washington, and part of one of the fastest-growing female sports in the country, our athletes will have the unique opportunity to make history while helping establish a program that reflects Whitworth's commitment to excellence, teamwork, and leadership. I am so excited to come back to my alma mater to build this program from the ground up and begin an exciting new season with our student-athletes."
Melka has been the head cheer coach at nearby Mead High School since March of 2016. Her teams have won a pair of state titles and made multiple national appearances. She was the Washington State Cheer Coaches Association (WSCCA) Coach of the Year in 2023. She has also served as an assistant cheer coach at Whitworth during the 2015-16 season and again during the 2025-26 campaign. She is a leadership and health/fitness teacher at Mead as well.
Melka earned her bachelor's degree from Whitworth in 2015 and completed a Master's in Teaching at Whitworth in June of 2017. She has gained certifications from USA Cheer in safety and risk management, along with STUNT training.
"Katherine's extensive experience and connections in the Pacific Northwest's cheer community should transfer well to developing the new sport of STUNT, not just at Whitworth, but in the region," Demant said.
