Life University Athletics

MARIETTA, Ga. ---- Life University Director of Athletics Jayme Pendergast announced the hiring of Sara Killough Monday afternoon as the new competitive cheer head coach.

Killough will take over the reigns of a program that is coming off a program-best finish. Last season, the cheer program qualified for the NAIA National Championships for the first time with the second-year program finishing eighth in the country. The Running Eagles also finished third at the Mid-South Conference Championships.

"I'm thrilled to have Sara take over our competitive cheer program," Pendergast stated. "Throughout all of my conversations with her it became apparent that we are very much aligned on our vision for the program and our values. She understands the importance of the student-athlete experience and was able to articulate how she can take this winning program and keep academic, personal, and competitive growth a priority. Her local connections will also benefit Life U in recruiting strong local athletes who want to compete in college. I can't wait to see how Sara's leadership elevates not just her team, but the entire department."

Killough has spent the last two years working with Varsity Spirit Fashion, which is one of the largest distributors of cheerleading athletic gear across the country. She was previously the Sun Country Sports Center Program Director before working a variety of marketing positions around the country. Locally, she has been the head cheer coach and choreographer at The Walker School in Marietta, and worked with the cheer team at Marist High School. Killough graduated from Missouri Baptist University, where she cheered for the fellow NAIA program.

"It's a dream come true to be back to my NAIA roots," Killough explained. "I am honored to get to lead this incredible cheerleading program. I look forward to building on such a great foundation!"