AUSTIN – St. Edward's associate vice president for athletics Debbie Taylor announced the reinstatement of cheerleading as a coed varsity program with the hiring of Javaria Neumon as the head cheerleading coach and director of fan engagement. 

Cheerleading was one of six programs discontinued in the spring of 2020 due to the pandemic. In its final competition at the 2020 Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships, the Hilltoppers placed ninth in the DII small coed division.

"Reinstatement of cheerleading is the first step in a five-year expansion plan for Hilltopper Athletics.  This is such an exciting time for the University as we bring back programs in a very thoughtful and sustainable manner, which will add to the vibrancy of the campus."  Taylor says. "I am looking forward to watching the cheer program flourish under Javaria's leadership. Additionally, her experience with fan engagement will bring a richness to the fan experience."

Neumon brings experience in coaching, community relations, marketing, and sports event planning to her dual role. She has four years of coaching experience, most recently as a volunteer dance coach at W.H. Adamson High School in Dallas, Texas. She also coached at Tidewater All-Stars Youth Cheerleading, and Fame All-Stars. Before St. Edward's, Neumon worked as the marketing coordinator for the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park. 

She received her Master's in Sport Management from Baylor University in 2022, where she served as a sport management research and program support graduate assistant for two years, managing marketing and recruiting materials for multiple mediums and platforms. In addition, Neumon interned at Magnolia and the Texas Stars hockey team, assisting with planning events, fundraising, and other initiatives. 

"I am excited about joining the Hilltop family and getting the opportunity to bring new energy and school spirit back on campus," Neumon says. "I hope to provide students with the tools to become great athletes and great people in the community ." 

Cheerleading tryouts will be held Sept. 16 from 3-5 p.m. in the Alumni Gym. The UCA Nationals are held Jan. 13-15 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. Follow @SEUAthletics on Twitter for future updates.