The Kentucky STUNT program proudly announced the recent appointment of Vanessa Copeland as their assistant coach. The announcement came from the program’s head coach, Blair Bergmann, who expressed delight at the acquisition of the decorated STUNT athlete and former student of California Baptist.
Copeland, a Hesperia, California native, brings to Kentucky a legacy of championships and accolades. From 2020 to 2023, she was a prominent member of the STUNT team at California Baptist. During her impressive tenure, she and her team clinched three consecutive national championships, firmly establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate STUNT.
In addition to her winning streak, Copeland boasts an enviable list of personal honors. She was a three-time All-American as per the College STUNT Coaches Association (CSCA), was bestowed with the title of 2023 CSCA Woman of the Year, and was further recognized as the 2023 CSCA Athlete of the Year. Her academic accomplishments are equally commendable, having earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and a master’s degree in sports administration, both from California Baptist.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Vanessa to our team,” said Bergmann. “Her extraordinary accomplishments in STUNT, combined with her deep knowledge of the sport, bring a tremendous amount of potential to our program. Vanessa’s expertise is sure to drive our program’s success and enable our team to reach new heights.”
As assistant coach, Copeland will play a pivotal role in Kentucky’s ongoing mission to establish their STUNT team as a national powerhouse.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to join the UK STUNT team,” Copeland said. “I look forward to bringing my passion for STUNT to our talented group of young, female athletes and sharing it with the wider UK community. With my experience as a former student-athlete, I am eager to work alongside Coach Blair and Coach Cat (Catherine Ruslavage) in our collective effort to build a robust STUNT program.”
The Kentucky STUNT program eagerly awaits the impact of Copeland’s passion and expertise. Undoubtedly, her appointment signals a significant stride in the program’s pursuit of national recognition and prominence.
