Since the age of 13, Tiarra Faul could be seen on the sidelines, pom-poms in hand chanting loudly and passionately for her team. However, beginning this year, Faul retired her cheer bow in exchange for a clipboard, transitioning from her former SSU cheerleader role to the student assistant coach and team manager for the current SSU cheer squad. Because of Faul’s deep-rooted love for the sport, she knew she had to continue her passion in a new role.
Her journey from athlete to assistant coach wasn’t something she planned overnight, but for Faul, it was a natural progression. “I have competed in county fair competitions and spent my high school years cheering for Waverly in both football and basketball seasons,” Faul recalled. 
Because of her initial love for the sport, Faul was eager to continue at the collegiate level. “I became a cheerleader for SSU in 2021, and at the time, it was solely a club, so we were responsible for our own shoes, bows and game-day equipment,” she said. “We cheered at every home game for basketball and participated in a few stunts.”
While Faul was eager to see the team evolve, she acknowledges the transition was difficult, especially as the squad moved into athletics, something she had longed for during her college years. “Being completely honest, the transition was hard at first,” Faul admitted. “A part of me was jealous that the team was moving into athletics, learning to stunt properly and having competitions lined up for the future. However, I no longer feel that way.”
Despite the bittersweet feelings, Faul’s transition into her new role has been rewarding and fulfilling. “During my senior night, I shed a few tears, knowing that it was the end of my cheer road, but being part of the team in a different way has been so much fun, and I am beyond proud of the girls and how much each one has improved.”
As the official student assistant coach and team manager, Faul takes on various tasks for the improvement of the squad. She offers insights to make key decisions alongside head coach Michelle Boldman.
“I assist coach Boldman with decisions regarding formations, music ideas, social media posts and practice clips,” Faul explained. “I see my role as the bridge that closes the gap between the cheerleaders and the head coach, and I want to be a support system for the entire team, athletes and coach included.”
Faul emphasized the importance of coach Boldman’s guidance and the close-knit relationship they’ve developed. “If we did not have Michelle, we would not have the things we do for our team,” Faul said. “She makes things happen, and I help her the best I can when she comes to me for decisions.”
Faul also stressed that trust is at the heart of their partnership, creating an open space where ideas can flow freely. “There’s a lot of trust between the two of us. When we share ideas, it makes the process so much easier,” she said. “We’ve had many late-night conversations, discussing anything cheer-related.”
Faul plans to continue her role as assistant coach after graduation. “I would like to remain the assistant as long as I can,” Faul said. “The thought of leaving SSU cheer breaks my heart.”
Although Faul no longer stands on the sidelines as a cheerleader, she remains grateful for the opportunities and encouragement she’s received from both her teammates and coach.
“I’m so happy I’ve been able to stay a part of this team,” she said. “Watching these girls grow, not only as athletes but as strong, confident women, has been such a rewarding experience. This team has worked so hard, and I’m excited to see where they go from here. I love this team more than they know.”
Be on the lookout for assistant coach Faul, head coach Boldman and the SSU cheer team in action at the upcoming SSU women’s and men’s basketball games. Whether it’s energizing the crowd or performing impressive stunts, the squad and coaches are more than ready to deliver unforgettable performances throughout the season.
