HCU Spirit Coordinator and Cheer Coach

Reports to: Associate Director of Student Life
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

About Houston Christian University (HCU)

Houston Christian University is committed to providing a learning environment rooted in biblical truth and academic excellence. Our mission is to prepare students to lead, serve, and impact the world for Christ. We value spiritual formation, academic excellence, personal responsibility, stewardship, and community engagement. The Cheer Coach will be expected to embody these core values while mentoring and developing student-athletes.

Position Summary

The full-time Spirit Coordinator and Cheer Coach at HCU serves as the leader of the University’s spirit teams (including cheer, live and human mascots) and is responsible for overall development, daily operations, student mentorship, and spiritual guidance.

This individual will work closely with the Department of Student Life and HCU Athletics to promote school spirit, support athletic programs, and represent HCU in community and campus events. The Spirit Coordinator and Cheer Coach reports directly to the Associate Director of Student Life, collaborating with other staff and initiatives of the Student Life Department.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee all aspects of the HCU Cheer Program
• Recruit, disciple, and mentor spirit team members with a focus on character and spiritual growth
• Oversee spirit teams including the cheer team, live mascot (“Kiza”), and the student mascot (“Mingo”)
• Supervise the care, handling, and performance schedule of Kiza in coordination with the SLED Team, a group of student handlers responsible for Kiza’s daily care, training, and event support
• Manage the scheduling, training, and event appearances for Mingo, the student mascot performer, and the Mingo support team
• Ensure all spirit team appearances align with university safety and conduct standards
• Plan and conduct cheer practices (cheers, chants, tumbling, stunting, conditioning, etc.)
• Lead and supervise cheer squad performances at games, university events, and off-campus engagements
• Organize and execute cheer tryouts and team selection
• Foster a team culture of high standards, personal growth, and mutual respect
• Partner with Athletics and Student Life for appearances at games, orientations, welcome events, and marketing activities
• Coordinate fundraising activities in collaboration with department leadership to support team needs
• Ensure compliance with HCU, NCAA, and national cheer safety protocols and guidelines
• Model Christian faith and values while nurturing the spiritual development of team members
• Manage scheduling, uniforms, transportation, and game/event logistics
• Be available for evening and weekend events as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• First-Aid training and certification
• Minimum of two years of cheer coaching and game-day experience (collegiate level preferred)
• Cheer instructor certification (UCA, NCA, or equivalent) preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated Christian faith and commitment to HCU’s mission and Ten Core Convictions

To Apply

Submit your application through HCU’s online job portal. Please include a cover letter that addresses your Christian faith journey, your approach to coaching and mentoring, and your alignment with HCU’s mission.

Additional Information

Houston Baptist University is committed to maintaining a teaching faculty and staff who share an active Christian faith. The Preamble to the By-Laws of the University sets forth a statement of belief which each University employee is expected to support and personify. Your submittal of an application for employment indicates your acceptance and affirmation of these statements.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements of personnel.

**Disclaimer**

Background checks are performed on every new hire. If your application is selected to continue with the interviewing process you will be required to submit a Background Check form. If you decline, your application may be denied. By proceeding with the online application, you understand and accept this process.