Black Hired as New Cheer and Dance Coach

Oskaloosa–William Penn University Athletics Director Grant Farris is proud to announce the hiring of Trisha Black as the new Head Cheer and Dance Coach.

Black comes to WPU with a lifetime of experience, headlined by operating Southeast Iowa Elite, a cheer and dance studio in Sigourney, Iowa, for the past decade.

“I am incredibly excited to join this program and build something special,” Black said. “My goal is to create a culture of discipline, confidence, and excellence–both on the floor and off. I am looking forward to developing athletes who are not only strong performers, but strong leaders.”

Black also served as the basketball cheer coach at Sigourney High School from 2021-2024, and has been a cheer choreographer for the Iowa Shrine Bowl since 2022. She has also provided choreography for numerous other teams and all-star athletes in the past.

“We are thrilled to welcome Trisha Black as the leader of our cheer and dance programs,” Farris said. “She brings a proven track record of excellence, a deep understanding of the industry, and a passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the floor. Her leadership style is rooted in accountability, energy, and a commitment to building a strong, unified culture.”

“We are confident that under Trisha’s direction, our program will continue to grow, compete at a high level, and represent our institution with pride,” Farris added.

Black, who is a USTA and AAU tumbling and trampoline certified coach, is also a USASF Cheerleading Level 6 stunt and tumbling coach. She is a certified AAU judge, and is a member of USA Cheer.