CARROLLTON, Ga. - As the University of West Georgia Department of Athletics continues its elevation to Division I, Head Cheerleading Coach Nicole Nichols has been elevated to a full-time coaching position.
In anticipation of STUNT being added as an official sport in the Division I landscape, Director of Athletics Jason Carmichael announced today Nichols' full-time appointment where she will continue to oversee the cheer program as well as steer the upstart of the stunt program.
"The opportunity to bring in or maintain high-level talent in any line of work is one that cannot be overlooked if you are truly going to be a high-performing organization," said Carmichael. "This move to bring Coach Nichols more fully into the family and at the same time give her a new platform to magnify her leadership excellence is the epitome of a home run in terms of talent retention. Nicole is an industry leader in her space, and we are so thrilled to take this next step with her."
Already in her time at UWG, Nichols garnered unbelievable success, taking the Wolves cheerleading program to heights unseen, winning 15 team titles at Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Nationals and multiple Partner Stunt Championships at both the UCA and National Cheer Association (NCA) levels.
"I am deeply honored and excited to accept this new position. This opportunity represents a thrilling new chapter in my coaching career and for the cheer program," said Nichols. "I am eager to continue to collaborate with our dedicated athletes and staff to cultivate a culture of excellence both on and off the mat, aiming for achievements that make our university, community and alumni proud."
Aside from the success at the National level, Nichols also put UWG on the world stage as UWG student-athletes have represented the program and competed for Team USA in the International Cheer Union (ICU) World Championships each of the past four years.
STUNT will officially become a sport at the University of West Georgia in 2025-26.
"This opportunity will allow me the time needed to truly be all in for our program, staff and community," added Nichols. "I am also excited to dive into a new part of the cheer world and bring STUNT here to UWG."
