Courtney Michalka was named Head Coach of the Western Michigan University Cheerleading Program in July 2021 after serving as Assistant Coach since 2017. During her time as assistant coach, Michalka played a key role in the continued growth and development of the program. Since taking over as head coach, she has expanded the roster size, enhanced recruiting efforts, and built strong relationships with cheerleading programs throughout Michigan and across the country. Her leadership has focused on creating a positive, competitive environment that promotes both athletic and personal growth for student-athletes.
Under Michalka’s leadership, the program reached several historic milestones. In 2024, WMU Cheerleading made its first-ever appearance in the All-Girl Game Day Division at the UCA National Cheerleading Championship, marking a significant achievement for the program. In 2025, the Broncos competed two routines at the UCA National Cheerleading Championship for the first time in program history, participating in both the Division IA Traditional and Game Day divisions. That same weekend, the program also competed in their Game Day routine at the University World Cup against international competition.
Michalka’s athletic background began in competitive gymnastics before transitioning to cheerleading, where she competed nationally as a Level 6 All-Girl cheerleader from 2007 to 2009. During that time, she earned a national championship title and received a bid to the prestigious Cheerleading Worlds Championship. As a student-athlete at Western Michigan University from 2009 to 2012, Michalka was a member of the Co-ed Cheer Team and served as team captain during her senior season.
In addition to her collegiate coaching experience, Michalka has more than 15 years of coaching experience in gymnastics and high school cheerleading. She is certified through USA Cheer, formerly AACCA, reflecting her continued commitment to athlete safety, education, and the advancement of the sport.
Outside of athletics, Michalka serves full-time as the Administrator for the Van Buren County Specialty Courts. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Western Michigan University.
Courtney and her husband, Robbie Michalka, were married in 2015 and are the proud parents of their daughter, Eva, and son, Kolson.
