BROOKVILLE, N.Y. - Tiara Stokes has been named Long Island University's Head Acrobatics & Tumbling Coach, Director of Athletics Elliott Charles announced on Tuesday. Stokes, a former standout student-athlete at West Virginia Wesleyan College, becomes the second head coach in the program's history.

As a collegiate student-athlete, Stokes was a member of West Viriginia Wesleyan's inaugural team in 2017. She competed as a backspot, base, mid, and tumbler, winning the Mountain East Conference (MEC) Championship in the 450 salto toss in 2022. She was named MEC Athlete of the Week one time that season and a first-team all-conference selection.

Stokes also was a member of the synchronized pyramid MEC Champion team in 2022 and competed at the National Collegiate Acrobatics & Tumbling Association (NCATA) national championships hosted by the University of Oregon.

A Charleston, West Virginia native and first-generation college student, Stokes holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and musical theatre from West Virginia Wesleyan and a master's in counselor education from Clemson University. Since graduation she has worked as an instructor for Universal Cheerleaders Association.

"I'm ecstatic to join the Sharks!" said Stokes. "The LIU acrobatics & tumbling program, though only two seasons in, has already shown incredible skill and success. I'm honored to be part of their journey as they continue building a nationally competitive program. Thank you for trusting me to lead this team — Fins Up, Sharks! Let's get to work!"

In 2026, the LIU acrobatics and tumbling team enters its third season of competition. This past season, the Sharks rattled off wins in each of their final four meets to finish over .500 for the second consecutive year. Highlights from the program's brief history include competing at top-ranked Baylor University and reaching the No. 14 national ranking by the NCATA during last season.


What they're saying about Coach Stokes...

"Tiara was an outstanding athlete and I am pleased to see her transition into this role. Her leadership qualities and enthusiastic attitude will be tremendous assets to her team and the growth of her program! I look forward to witnessing what's to come for her!" 

-Taylor Broadwater, Head Acrobatics & Tumbling Coach, Glenville State University