Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The UIS Athletic Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Shaina Ford as the new Head Cheer Coach. Ford brings her expertise and vision to the UIS athletic department, where she will lead the cheer program in supporting college athletics and fostering campus pride.

Ford joins UIS after serving as the head coach at Rochester High School, where she gained valuable experience in developing cheer programs and cultivating team spirit. Her background in guiding young athletes and building cohesive teams positions her well for her new role at the university.

The cheerleading program at UIS plays a vital role in enhancing the spirit and tradition of college athletics, contributing significantly to the overall campus experience. As part of the athletic department’s recent initiatives, the program has been integrated into the broader athletic community, further emphasizing its importance.

Director of Athletics Mike Hermann expressed his enthusiasm about Ford’s appointment, stating, “I’m excited to see where Shaina can take our cheer program. We welcomed the program into athletics a year ago because it plays such an important role with the celebration of the tradition and passion of college athletics. We were fortunate to find a quality, experienced coach in our community that can guide the program forward. It’s going to be fun!”

Shaina Ford shared her excitement about the new position, saying, “I am beyond excited to step into the role of Head Cheer Coach at UIS! This is an incredible opportunity to build a strong, spirited program that not only supports our teams but also uplifts our entire campus community. I can’t wait to share my passion for cheer, develop our athletes, and create traditions that make UIS proud.”

Athletics looks forward to the positive impact Ford will have in her new role and the growth of the cheerleading program under her leadership.