At the 2026 NCAA Convention on Friday (Jan. 16), proposal No. 2026-3 passed – and STUNT became an NCAA championship sport in all three divisions.
The first NCAA Division II STUNT national championship is projected for the spring of 2027.
"The addition of stunt as an NCAA championship sport reflects our ongoing effort to grow and elevate women's athletics," NCAA President Charlie Baker said. "This milestone is built on the collaboration and vision from those who believed in expanding opportunities for women in college sports. We are excited to provide a platform for these talented athletes to compete at the highest level."
Ashland STUNT will begin its sixth season of competition in 2026 with four games at the University of Kentucky on Feb. 1-2. The Eagles have competed in the College STUNT Association Division II national championship each of the last three seasons, winning a game in both 2024 and 2025.
USA Cheer will continue to host STUNT national championships in the transition.
"STUNT becoming a full NCAA championship sport is the result of years of hard work from so many in our industry," said
Denise Farnsworth, Ashland head STUNT/cheerleading/dance team coach. "I am so proud of the work that everyone poured into this process. What makes it so meaningful is knowing how impactful this will be for young women, giving them opportunity, respect and a future in the sport that they love."
Said Ashland associate head STUNT/cheerleading/dance team coach
Brandy Marquette, "I'm incredibly grateful to those who worked so hard to make this moment possible and to everyone who paved the way. This milestone for our sport represents a new era and opportunity for female athletes."
