Illinois Hires Former Team Captain MaKayla Gayler as Head Cheerleading Coach

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois Athletics has named former Fighting Illini cheerleader MaKayla Gayler as its next head cheerleading coach.

Gayler returns to Champaign following the retirement of longtime head coach Stephanie Record. She will also hold a position within the athletics department’s marketing and fan engagement team, contributing to the game day experience and fan initiatives across Illinois sports.

“Illinois has always been home to me,” Gayler said. “Growing up just outside Champaign, I dreamed of one day wearing Orange and Blue, and my experience as a Fighting Illini cheerleader shaped me into the leader I am today.”

Gayler cheered at Illinois from 2016 to 2020 and was elected team captain twice. She represented the university at athletic events, alumni gatherings and community appearances while serving as a liaison between the coaching staff and student-athletes.

She later worked as a Universal Cheerleaders Association instructor, coaching athletes from the elementary through collegiate levels across the Midwest. Gayler has also volunteered with Oakwood School District and VC Tumbling & Cheer, where she supported competitive teams, evaluated tryouts and led athlete development.

“Returning to my alma mater to lead this program is an incredible honor,” Gayler said. “I look forward to building on the tradition established by Coach Record, developing outstanding student-athletes, and creating an environment that reflects the pride, passion, and excellence of Illinois Athletics.”

Gayler will oversee athlete development, recruitment, game day performances, community outreach and alumni engagement for Fighting Illini Cheerleading.

Her dual role will also give the cheerleading program a direct connection to Illinois Athletics’ broader marketing and fan engagement strategy.

“I’m equally excited to contribute to our Marketing and Fan Engagement team and help create unforgettable experiences for Fighting Illini fans,” Gayler said.

Gayler earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Illinois. As a Fighting Illini cheerleader, she received the program’s Loyalty Award and the Varsity “I” Association Senior Sponsor Award.