Eastern Michigan Athletics

Cheer

Samantha Kavulich
Samantha Kavulich

Samantha Kavulich is in her first year as the Head Cheerleading Coach at Eastern Michigan University, bringing with her a dynamic blend of collegiate cheer experience, entrepreneurial leadership, and a strong background in marketing and public relations.

A former collegiate cheerleader at Michigan State University, Kavulich spent four years with MSU’s co-ed program and served as captain of the white squad during the 2009-10 season. Her cheer background also includes national-level competitive success in high school, earning titles such as World Cheerleading Association (WCA) and Cheerleaders of America (COA) national champion.

Kavulich, a native of Plymouth, Michigan, joined EMU in June 2025 after nearly a decade of coaching at the high school level. Most recently, she served as assistant coach for Milford High School’s varsity cheerleading team from 2021-24, helping the team qualify for the MHSAA State Finals in 2023 and securing Regional appearances in 2022, 2023, and 2024. She also served as co-head coach at Haslett High School during the 2011-12 season.

Kavulich and her husband, BK Kavulich, are the owners of Detroit Tumble and D Elite, a nationally recognized Michigan-based cheer, tumble, and stunt training company. The business offers team instruction, private lessons, camps, and clinics across the United States. Her continued involvement with the company enhances EMU’s recruiting potential and demonstrates her deep commitment to athlete development within the cheerleading community.

In addition to her coaching credentials, Kavulich has built a successful career in marketing and public relations, holding senior leadership positions at major global agencies where she led digital strategy, content creation, and social media campaigns for national and international brands. Her expertise in branding and community outreach aligns with EMU’s vision for program growth and elevated visibility within the Ypsilanti region and beyond.

Kavulich earned both her bachelor’s degree in advertising with a specialization in public relations and her master’s degree in advertising from Michigan State University.

She and her family reside in Plymouth, with their daughter, Gigi.