BYU Performing Arts Management (PAM) would like to extend a warm welcome to the BYU Cougarettes, who have joined the student ensembles in the touring program. While the Cougarettes are still housed under BYU Athletics, the PAM team looks forward to producing and marketing festivals, competitions, and performances by the Cougarettes for audiences around the world.
Founded in 1946, the Cougarettes have since become one of the most successful dance teams in the country. They perform at BYU athletic events, including football and basketball games, as well as competitions and special events. In addition, the group has gained national recognition for their performances on television, with appearances on ESPN and in the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Coached by Stacy Bills and Morgan St. Pierre, the BYU Cougarettes pom and dance team has earned a chart-topping reputation. The two coaches took over in 2019 from longtime coach Jodi Maxfield, who played an integral role in developing the team’s standard of excellence over her 30 years of coaching. Currently, the group holds a grand total of 22 national titles. Most recently the Cougarettes competed in the jazz and hip-hop categories at the NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship, where they brought home their 21st and 22nd national titles. When asked about returning to coach the Cougarettes, Bills says, “It’s an unbelievable opportunity to help these incredible dancers perform at the highest level and represent BYU.”
For two weeks this July, the Cougarettes will visit Europe on their first solo international experience managed by PAM. In Bari, Italy, the group will have the privilege of training and competing with dancers from nearly 35 countries at World Dance Movement’s International Dance Competition. While there, the Cougarettes will also take part in lectures and workshops from world-renowned choreographers and enjoy the culture and beauty of Italy.
