TWU Athletics opens search for two new coaching positions

December 19, 2019 — Denton — Texas Woman’s University has doubled down on the expansion of its competitive sports model and has begun the search process for the university’s first stunt and synchronized swimming coaches.

The move to incorporate competitive sports is part of the university’s strategic plan and based on research from consulting firm, Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. Teams will function as part of the university’s Athletics department and are expected to field teams of approximately 20-25 students each.

“The addition of stunt and synchronized swimming will allow the university to achieve broader university goals to enhance the campus experience and augment the overall academic experience,” said Monica Mendez-Grant, Ed.D., vice president for student life. “We are excited to add these two programs and recognize that as an institution primarily for women, TWU will provide a unique experience for our new coaches and student athletes.”

Stunt focuses on the technical and athletic components of cheer and is one of the fastest growing female sports in the country. Teams compete head-to-head at the same time, performing partner stunts, pyramids and tosses, jumps and tumbling and a team routine. Judges award points based on the best execution of the skills. Other university stunt teams in Texas include: Dallas Baptist University, the University of Texas, Texas Tech and UT Tyler.

Sometimes referred to as artistic swimming, synchronized swimming is one of two exclusively female Olympic sports. While the sport has gained popularity recently, it also connects to TWU’s past. The university offered synchronized swimming through its Aquatics Club, sponsored by the Women’s Recreation Association in the 1950s. The new team will take advantage of the university’s existing indoor pool for training and competitions. Only one other university in Texas, University of the Incarnate Word, offers synchronized swimming.

The announcement to add the two competitive sports came during the August 2019 Board of Regents meeting. Teams are expected to start exhibition seasons beginning in fall 2020.

The Pioneer Pride dance team, the university’s first competitive sports team, debuted in fall 2017. The team includes approximately 20 student athletes and in 2019 was first runner up in Division II Open as well as third runner up overall in the Division II category at the ADTS Nationals.

Applicants interested in the new coaching positions should review the job descriptions on the university’s Human Resources pages.

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Page last updated 9:31 AM, July 18, 2024