Honolulu— Hawaiʻi Pacific University and Shark Athletics are proud to announce the addition of STUNT to their varsity sports portfolio, beginning in the 2025-26 academic year.

STUNT will become HPU's 16th varsity sport starting in the fall of 2025. Four other PacWest Conference institutions already feature STUNT, one of the nation's fastest-emerging sports.

"We are thrilled to announce the addition of STUNT for Hawaiʻi Pacific University and Shark Athletics," Executive Director of Athletics Dr. Debbie Snell said. "Not only is it one of the fastest-growing female sports in the United States, but it will also help continue to provide more opportunities for female student-athletes while enhancing school spirit and campus life."

STUNT focuses on the technical and athletic components of cheer and features several elements, such as partner stunts, pyramids, basket tosses, group jumps, and tumbling. Each meet is comprised of two teams facing off on the floor at the same time. As each element is finished, the winning side takes the round and point and has the chance to select which routine will be performed next.

"On behalf of USA Cheer and STUNT, we are thrilled at the addition of Hawaiʻi Pacific University," said Amy Haney, STUNT Director of Expansion and Media for USA Cheer. "As the 5th Varsity program to add STUNT in the PacWest Conference, we are excited for the opportunity they are providing female athletes to continue their STUNT careers at the collegiate level while earning a top-notch education as well."

The new program will call Shark Tank home starting in Fall 2025.

As STUNT recruiting heats up over the next few months, HPU will announce its first- ever STUNT coach in the coming days.

Additionally, interested students or prospective students who are interested in STUNT may contact Executive Director of Athletics Dr. Debbie Snell by email at desnell@hpu.edu or by phone at 808 544-0209