Stephine Leiba joined the Saint Martin's University Athletic Department in May of 2026 as the Head Cheerleading Coach.
Leiba comes to Saint Martin’s with an extensive resume of success at the high school level in Lacey, Washington, along with a recreational cheerleading background. She is a two-time state cheer champion with over six years of combined cheer coaching experience.
“We are thrilled to welcome Stephine to lead our cheer program,” Saint Martin’s Director of Athletics Theresa Hanson said. “She brings a genuine passion for coaching and a clear commitment to building a positive, team-first culture. Her ability to connect with student-athletes and create an environment rooted in accountability, energy, and support will be instrumental in moving our program forward.”
Leiba joins Saint Martin’s after most recently serving as an assistant coach for North Thurston High School in Lacey, starting her role in 2023. As assistant coach, she supported practice planning and skill development in basic stunts, motions, and routine execution. Leiba taught choreography with a focus on synchronization and being performance-ready. As a leader, she emphasises team bonding, sportsmanship, and a positive team culture, while fostering productive communication with coaches, athletes, and parents.
Leiba has also served as head coach for TCYFL North Thurston Rams, starting in 2023. In her role, Leiba executes practice planning, warm-ups and works to develop skill development across various aspects of cheerleading. In her role, she emphasizes athlete safety and proper technique during practices, to ensure performance-ready execution on gamedays.
“I am very thrilled to serve Saint Martin's University in this special role as cheer coach,” Leiba said. “The potential in this program is something amazing, and I am excited to contribute to this! I look forward to making a positive impact on student-athletes and within our community. Go Saints!”
