CLEVELAND -  A new era in cheerleading officially began Friday at Delta State University, as Angela Dent was named the new head coach of the Statesmen and Lady Statesmen Cheerleading program.  The Vicksburg native comes to DSU after serving as head cheer coach at Warren Central High School in Vicksburg.

"We're pleased to announce the hiring of Angela Dent today," said Jeremy McClain, Director of Athletics.  "She brings a wealth of experience to the position, and the desire to see our cheer program return to its national championship roots."

Dent, a 1999 graduate of Jackson State University with a degree in elementary education, has spent her entire adult life cheering and coaching on the sidelines on the high school and collegiate levels. 

Prior to coming to the Delta, Dent served as cheer coach at Warren Central High.  She has also served as cheer coach at Vicksburg's Warren School District on two occasions, directing a wide-ranging program for its athletic teams. 

Not only is a Dent an accomplished coach, the Warren-Central High graduate cheered at Hinds Community College, leading HCC to an 11th place finish at the Universal Cheer Association Nationals.  While in high school, Dent helped WCHS claim the 1995 Mississippi High School Activities Association Cheer championship.        

Since 1999, Dent has served as a cheer instructor for UCA, conducting camps across the southeast and Memphis, Tenn.  This summer, she served as judge at Jam Fest Cheer Competition. 

Dent is currently AACCA certified, CPR certified, and sits on the MHSAA Spirit Board.