Taylor Ward, Head Coach
Bringing a passion for developing athletes both on and off the mats, Taylor Ward is in her second year as head coach of the UWA Cheerleading program. She is dedicated to teamwork and building a positive yet challenging environment within the program. During her first year as coach, the program was awarded 5th place at NCA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL. Prior to taking over this role, Coach Taylor served as the program’s athletic trainer and earned her Master of Science in Physical Education from UWA. She currently resides in Livingston with her husband, Brock, and their two dogs, Draco and Dak. Taylor is excited to grow this program and support the wonderful Livingston community!
Leighanna May, Assistant Coach
Leighanna May joined the UWA Cheerleading staff in the Fall of 2024. After earning her ASN degree from UWA in 2019, Coach Leighanna continued to increase her knowledge with BSN and MSN degrees at the University of Alabama (2020, 2024). She serves as an assistant professor in the UWA Nursing program and lives in Butler, AL with her son, Owen. Leighanna brings a contagious energy to our program and is excited to build this family-like atmosphere.
Kymaya Walker, Graduate Assistant Coach
Tuscaloosa native and proud UWA alumni, Kymaya Walker now serves as the UWA Cheer Graduate Assistant. With a passion for spirit and student involvement, she helps lead and support the next generation of Tigers, both on and off the sidelines. Kymaya is currently working towards a Master of Arts degree in Integrated Marketing Communications. Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!
Laraleigh Roberts, Athletic Trainer
From in Lauderdale, Mississippi, Laraleigh Roberts serves as the UWA Cheerleading Athletic Trainer. After completing her undergraduate degree from UWA in 2024, this proud alumni accepted an intern position with the sports medicine team and is currently completing her Master of Science in Sports Management at West. Laraleigh’s extensive background with cheerleading through Varsity Spirit, UCA, and NCA, gives her the necessary experience to provide our program with tailored care.
Courtney Goetz, Strength and Conditioning Coach
All the way from Fort Collins, Colorado, Coach Courtney brings her background as a dancer and experience as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist to the UWA Cheerleading program. From program development and education to proper warm up and recovery, Courtney helps to make our team stronger, faster, and safer as athletes. After earning her Bachelors of Science in Exercise Science from Colorado State University, Courtney made the move to Livingston to increase her experience and upgrade to a Master of Science degree.
