LEXINGTON – New Kentucky cheerleading coach Ryan Martin O’Connor knows the spotlight is brighter than ever on the 24-time national champion program.
O’Connor was hired to replace long-time coach Jomo Thompson, who was fired along with his staff after a university investigation into allegations of hazing, partially nude gymnastics stunts and alcohol drinking on university-sponsored trips. The wake of that investigation, which also saw faculty adviser T. Lynn Williamson retire, has sent waves through the cheerleading world and led many current and former UK cheerleaders to speak out against the firings.
Now O’Connor, who cheered for UK for one season in college before transferring to Alabama, is tasked with leading the program under its new oversight from the UK athletics department.