From Dallas to Nashville: Ferris State STUNT Coaches Preparing for Historic 2027 Season

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. — As the Ferris State University Cheer & STUNT program continues to build momentum on the national stage, members of the Bulldog coaching staff spent the summer participating in premier coaching education opportunities designed to strengthen the program and prepare for the 2027 season.

Last month, FSU head coach Perrmella Harris traveled to Dallas, Texas, to attend the College STUNT Coaches Association (CSCA) Coaches Conference held at Dallas Baptist University. The annual event brought together collegiate STUNT coaches from across the nation to discuss the growth of the sport, competitive trends, recruiting strategies, and program development.

The conference provided Harris with an opportunity to collaborate with fellow coaches, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights as Ferris State prepares for another historic season. Following a successful inaugural campaign, the Bulldogs will enter the 2027 season with a program-record 60 student-athletes, making it the largest roster in team history.

"Professional development is essential to building a sustainable and successful program," Harris said. "The opportunity to learn from some of the best coaches in the country and share ideas helps us continue to grow while providing the best possible experience for our student-athletes."

Continuing their commitment to excellence, the entire Ferris State Cheer & STUNT coaching staff, including Assistant Coaches Elly Trefry and Amber West, traveled to Nashville, Tenn., to participate in the USA National Conference and the USA Cheer & STUNT Combine.

The conference featured educational sessions focused on athlete safety, skill progression, program management, leadership development, and emerging trends within cheer and STUNT. The event also provided opportunities for coaches to network with industry leaders and strengthen relationships across the collegiate cheer and STUNT communities.

The summer conference schedule comes on the heels of a landmark year for the Ferris State Cheer & STUNT program. During its inaugural season, the Bulldogs earned national recognition both on and off the mat, including a Top-15 national ranking, NCAA Award of Excellence National Finalist honors for community service, 24 GLVC All-Academic selections, and the Brother James Gaffney Distinguished Scholar Award from the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

As preparations continue for the upcoming season, the coaching staff remains focused on building upon that success and creating new opportunities for student-athletes to excel athletically, academically, and within the community.

With a growing roster, a dedicated coaching staff, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the future remains bright for Ferris State Cheer & STUNT.

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