SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Converse University Athletic Department has announced the hiring of Rockii Nelson as the new Head Spirit Squad Coach.

"I'm happy so happy to welcome Rockii to our staff and back to the Converse Community," Director of Compliance and Student-Athlete Success Madeleine Collier said. "Rockii brings a level of experience and professionalism that will really elevate the team. I'm looking forward to seeing the Spirit Squad grow into their full potential!"

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to Converse University as Spirit Squad Director," Nelson said. "As a former student-athlete who completed here, it's meaningful to come back and serve in a role that directly supports and develops student-athletes. I want to thank Dr. Hopkins, Jenn Bell, Randy Loggins, and Madeleine Collier for their trust and support throughout this process. I'm excited to invest in the growth, leadership, and overall experience of our student-athletes within the Converse community."

Nelson is also the Spirit Squad Director at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C. Nelson has been the Director since January of 2022 and has helped organize community events to promote university spirit. Besides being a coach, Nelson is a professional cheerleader for the Carolina Panthers TopCats, where she just completed her third NFL season.

Prior to her time at Winthrop and the Carolina Panthers, Nelson was a dance instructor for both iAM Dance Center of the Arts and Elite Diamonds Cheer & Dance.  

Converse is home to the only NCAA Division II athletic teams in Spartanburg and is a member of Conference Carolinas, whose membership is made up of private colleges and universities across the southeastern United States. For all the latest news, scores and updates log onto govalkyries.com today.

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