Spring Arbor University

Hannah Philson begins her sixth season as head coach of the Spring Arbor University competitive cheer program in 2026-27.

A Spring Arbor alumna, Philson has guided the Cougars to an NCA national championship, record performances and their highest finish at the Crossroads League Championship. She earned Crossroads League Coach of the Year honors in both 2025 and 2026.

In 2025-26, Spring Arbor placed third at the Crossroads League Championship, marking the program’s best conference finish. The Cougars finished among the top three at every competition throughout the season and recorded seven of the program’s top 10 scores, highlighted by a program-record 90.20 at Cougar Classic #2. Five SAU athletes earned All-Crossroads League recognition, including Brooklyn Kelly’s first-team selection.

Philson led Spring Arbor to its first national championship during her inaugural season in 2021-22. Competing at the NCA Collegiate Cheer and Dance National Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida, the Cougars won the Intermediate All-Girl Open division in their first appearance at the event. SAU returned in 2023 and finished third in the Intermediate All-Girl NAIA division.

Philson competed on Spring Arbor’s sideline cheer team from 2009-13. She served as team captain during her senior year and earned the team’s Most Valuable Player award.

After graduating from Spring Arbor, Philson joined the coaching staff for Homer Community Schools’ varsity sideline and competitive cheer programs. During her time at Homer, the team earned three consecutive top-three conference finishes.

Philson is committed to helping student-athletes develop their skills, grow as leaders and deepen their faith. Her approach emphasizes reaching their potential both on the mat and in their lives beyond competition.