NICOLE ESTRADA – SPORTS EDITOR – ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED JAN. 31, 2024
In the realm of collegiate athletics, where the noise of the audience and the excitement of competition mix, a relatively new activity is gaining traction: Stunt. Stunt, which originated in cheering, has carved out its place in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA), enthralling fans with its combination of athleticism, strategy and collaboration. As it grows, a look at Stunt’s past and its path to collegiate recognition shows that a bright future awaits. Stunt finds its roots in cheering, a sport known for its high-flying acrobatics and enthusiastic displays. However, as cheering expanded, so did the demand for a more structured, competitive framework based on ability and athleticism. Thus, Stunt was born.
Stunt was first launched as a competitive activity by the National Collegiate Acrobatics and Tumbling Association (NCATA) in 2010. Stunt drew inspiration from classic cheering aspects such as stunts, tumbling, and pyramids and developed them into a competitive style. Teams compete in four quarters, each with a unique skill set such as partner stunts, tumbling, jumps and a
routine that combines all components. Stunt was officially recognized as an NCAA sport, which was an important milestone for both players and fans. In 2011, the NCAA Committee on Women’s
Sports approved Stunt as a developing sport, opening the route for its participation in collegiate sports. Since then, Stunt has seen a steady increase in participation and popularity throughout campuses worldwide. The main factor fueling Stunt’s rise is its attractiveness to a wide spectrum of
athletes. While cheering has traditionally favored female athletes, Stunt’s open character includes male competitors as well, resulting in a more equal and diversified competition field. Tis openness not only
broadens the talent pool but also breaks down preconceptions and promotes gender equality in sports.
Furthermore, Stunt’s regulated style is well-suited to collegiate competition. To surpass their opponents, teams must perfect their talents and strategies while playing under-regulated rules, scoring criteria, and
strategic games. Tis level of competition enhances the sport and draws in fans who like the intensity and thrill of high-stakes contests. Stunt continues to gain traction in the NCAA, and the future appears quite
promising for this exciting sport. With each passing season, more schools and institutions add stunt programs to their athletic offerings, broadening the sport’s reach and significance. Tis multiplication of clubs strengthens the competitive environment and generates a sense of community among
both athletes and supporters. The Lone Star Conference’s decision to make Stunt a sanctioned sport in 2024 is a big step forward for collegiate athletics. Among the institutions preparing for this
new addition is St. Mary’s University, where a dedicated stunt team has been working hard to compete at the collegiate level. With access to high-quality facilities and resources, the squad exemplifies the sport’s
athleticism, strategy, and collaboration. Sophomore Riley Smith is excited about the growth to the sport stating “Adding more stunt teams to the Lonestar conference is motivating. It’s something I think will push our team even more as we will have more competition.” The addition of Stunt to the conference not only raises its reputation but, also, demonstrates a dedication to diversity and inclusivity in sports, paving the way for a bright future of growth and competitiveness. Stunt has evolved as a dynamic and engaging sport in the NCAA, enthralling fans with its combination of athleticism, strategy, and collaboration. From its humble origins in cheering to its rise to collegiate prominence, Stunt has shown incredible development and promise. The future of Stunt is bright, fueled by enthusiasm, creativity and a dedication to greatness. Whether the individual is an experienced athlete or a casual fan, Stunt has something for everyone to shout about. The rising awareness of stunts opens new opportunities for athletes beyond the collegiate level. With the emergence of professional leagues and international competitions, players may continue their daredevil careers after college, demonstrating their skills on a global stage.