WINSTON-SALEM, NC -- Kirby Talley has had an immediate impact on the Carolina University Cheer Program since being named Head Coach on April 1st. Coach Talley is highly decorated as a Cheerleader and Coach, which brings tremendous experience to the young Bruin Program. She began cheering at 6 years old and continued to cheer through high school and college. During her college career, Coach Talley began coaching local rec and All-Star Teams. Her first big coaching opportunity came at Life University in 2018. Coach Talley transformed the Running Eagles from a first year sideline squad to a top 10 NAIA Program in just 3 seasons at the helm. In just 2 competitive seasons at Life University, Coach Talley led the Program to an 8th place finish at the NAIA Nationals, Mascot Champion at CCA College Nationals, 2nd place in Gameday at CCA College Nationals, and 2nd place in Competitive Small Co-Ed at CCA College Nationals. Additionally, she recruited and coached 1 All-American athlete, 2 First Team All-Conference athletes, 2 Second Team All-Conference athletes, 13 Academic All-Conference athletes, and 2 Champion of Character athletes. 

In addition to her program building experience, Coach Talley is also returning home. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem and aligns with the mission and vision of Carolina University Athletics. Coach Talley values academics and feels uniquely called to serve in college athletics. The connection between Talley and the Bruins is mutual according to Associate Athletic Director, Chelsea Jones.

"I'm very excited to have Kirby take over our Cheer Program. After meeting with her, it became apparent that she is a perfect fit for our institution. She understands the importance of academic success and aligns with the priorities of the Athletic Department. She brings a wealth of experience from Life University, which paired with her local roots will aid in the growth of this program and recruiting almost immediately. I look forward to witnessing what the Bruins Cheer Program becomes under Coach Talley's leadership."

It didn't take long for Coach Talley to live up to the hype, as she has several talented cheerleaders committed to Carolina University for the 2021-2022 school-year. According to her, this is only the beginning:

"Becoming the Cheer Coach at Carolina University was truly God's timing and I couldn't be happier! I am so excited to grow this program. I feel confident that we'll be both a strong sideline and competitive program in the near future."

You will see Coach Talley and her squad at Bruins games this school year and can follow the growth of the Program on social media: Facebook    Twitter @carolinaucheer    Instagram @carolinaucheer