Strickland Named Head Cheerleading Coach at Snead State

Snead State Community College recently announced Adam Strickland as the new head cheerleading coach, bringing the former Parsons cheerleader and national champion back to his alma mater.

Strickland steps into the role after the resignation of former Cheer Coach Adam Rhoden, who served at the College for 21 years. Strickland, a nurse practitioner who has coached high school squads and taught tumbling for more than 25 years, said returning to Snead State is the fulfillment of a longtime dream.

"I was part of the last national championship team here at Snead in 2001 and have always dreamed of coaching this team," Strickland said. "Snead feels like home, and it has since my first day as a student. I'm excited to give back to a program that gave me so much."

Strickland takes over a program he hopes to grow into a competition-level squad while maintaining the Parsons' tradition of supporting student-athletes during games. His immediate goal is to reintroduce a co-ed squad and add male cheerleaders to the team by the 2026-2027 season.

"As a coach, I expect my athletes to be model college cheerleaders," he said. "Their work in the gym is secondary to their work in the classroom. They are student-athletes, and 'student' is first. Scholarship, work ethic and integrity are of the utmost importance. The student-athletes are part of a rich heritage of Snead State cheerleaders, and they will be expected to stand up and represent the program, the College, and the community to the best of their ability."

Strickland also said he looks forward to mentoring his athletes through the College's Fellowship of Christian Athletes. "I am proud that while Snead State is now a public college, the school started as a seminary. I feel like that helps open the door to deeper conversations that are much more important than athletics or academics. I hope to be a spiritual resource for student athletes."

Athletic Director Casey Underwood said Strickland's history with the program makes him a great choice to move it forward.

"Coach Strickland understands what it means to be a Parson, both on the court and off," Underwood said. "His experience as a former national champion and his commitment to our student-athletes' success in the classroom and community make him a strong addition to our coaching staff."

Snead State President Dr. Joe Whitmore said Strickland's return highlights the connection alumni have with the College.

"Adam's journey from a Snead State cheerleader to a leader in his profession and now back as head coach reflects the lifelong impact this institution has on its students," Whitmore said. "We are proud to welcome him home and look forward to seeing the cheer program continue to thrive under his leadership."

Strickland and his wife, Christy, have four children, William, Charlotte, Logan and Bennett, all of whom he said will be a familiar sight on the sidelines at Parsons games.

"The time I spent at Snead was the best college experience of my life, and it shaped who I am today," Strickland said. "God led me to Snead after high school, and now He has led me back as the cheerleading coach. I can't wait to see what He has in store."