Cal Poly has announced a significant shift in its varsity athletics program, adding stunt as a new sport while previously eliminating the swim and dive team. This decision marks a new chapter for the university's athletic offerings, particularly for female athletes. The addition of stunt promises to create numerous varsity positions, providing exciting opportunities for talented women to compete at a high level.

The decision to introduce stunt, a dynamic and increasingly popular sport, comes amidst ongoing discussions about resource allocation within university athletic departments. Stunt is a sport derived from cheerleading, emphasizing synchronized routines, partner stunts, and tumbling passes. It focuses on technical skill and teamwork rather than traditional cheerleading elements like crowd leading.

University President Koester and Athletic Director Don Oberhelman highlighted the sport's potential for cost-effectiveness in their official announcement. One of the key factors influencing the decision was the relatively limited travel and equipment expenses associated with stunt compared to other varsity sports. This makes it an attractive option for Cal Poly as it seeks to optimize its athletic budget.

What is Stunt?

For those unfamiliar with the sport, stunt involves two teams competing against each other to execute routines featuring partner stunts, pyramids, and tumbling passes. Points are awarded based on the difficulty and execution of these skills. The emphasis is on precision, synchronization, and safety. It's a demanding sport that requires athleticism, coordination, and a strong commitment to teamwork.

The Swim and Dive Team's Departure

The addition of stunt is occurring concurrently with the elimination of the swim and dive team, a decision that has been met with disappointment from some members of the Cal Poly community. The university cited financial constraints as the primary reason for cutting the program, emphasizing the need to make difficult choices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the athletic department.

Looking Ahead

The introduction of stunt represents a strategic move by Cal Poly to diversify its athletic offerings and provide new opportunities for female athletes. The university is expected to begin the process of recruiting stunt athletes and establishing a competitive program. The success of the stunt team will undoubtedly depend on strong leadership, dedicated coaching, and the commitment of student-athletes to excel in this exciting new sport. The university aims to build a program that not only competes at a high level but also promotes sportsmanship and academic achievement.

This change reflects a broader trend in college athletics, as universities grapple with budgetary pressures and seek innovative ways to engage students and enhance their athletic programs. Cal Poly's decision to embrace stunt demonstrates a willingness to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing landscape.