GREENEVILLE, Tenn. --- Canaan Loope has been named as the assistant coach for the Spirit Squad, announced head coach Trea King. Loope served as a volunteer assistant during the 2023-24 season.

He is also a Graduate Enrollment Representative working in the admissions department at Tusculum.

"This is an exciting time for TU cheerleading," said King. "I am thrilled to have Canaan join our team in this capacity. He is the perfect fit for taking this program to the next level and continuing to build a driven and caring atmosphere for our athletes. I believe his experience and talents will be key factors in sustaining a supportive and competitive program here at Tusculum."

Loope, an East Tennessee native, has coached in various roles over the last six years, from East Coast Cheer & Tumble Assistant Coach to Tri-Star Stunting Coach and Area Director. He has taught stunting, tumbling, sideline, and motions, with several athletes reaching the collegiate level at places such as Tennessee, Austin Peay, Chattanooga, and Tusculum.

Loope is a King University and University of Tennessee graduate, earning a bachelor's degree in business management and a master's in kinesiology: sport psychology and motor behavior. He was also a member of each school's cheer team during his time as a student, cheering for three years at King, before graduating and cheering at the University of Tennessee for two years while completing his graduate degree.

While at UT, Loope competed in UCA D1A Game Day and Traditional routines and won a Game Day National Championship (2021). He also garnered a bronze medal the following year.

"I am extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to continue working with this amazing group in an expanded capacity," said Loope. "I look forward to helping push the team, collectively and as individuals, toward their goals. They are capable of so much and I am thrilled to be able to support them in their endeavors. Go Pioneers!"