The cheerleading and Marietta communities are mourning the sudden passing of Shane Montgomery, a beloved coach at The Stingray Allstars, who passed away on May 4, 2026.
A Pillar of the Cheer Community
Shane was a highly respected figure in the world of competitive cheerleading. Known for his technical expertise and his ability to inspire young athletes, he played a vital role at The Stingray Allstars in Marietta, Georgia—one of the most prestigious cheer programs in the country.
Mentorship: Beyond coaching stunts and tumbling, Shane was celebrated for his mentorship. Former athletes and colleagues have shared countless tributes describing him as a “second father figure” and a coach who pushed his teams to excellence with both discipline and humor.
Legacy at Stingrays: He was a mainstay at the gym, often coaching some of the program’s most successful teams and helping them secure numerous national titles and “Worlds” appearances.
The Loss and Reaction
The news of his death was shared by the gym and his family earlier this week, sending shockwaves through the global cheerleading community.
The Announcement: The Stingray Allstars released a statement expressing their profound heartbreak: “Shane was more than a coach; he was part of the fabric of our family. His passion for this sport and his love for his athletes were unmatched.”
Community Outpouring: In Marietta and beyond, gyms have held moments of silence, and many athletes have donned the program’s signature colors to honor his memory. A makeshift memorial of flowers and “Ray” gear has grown outside the Marietta facility.
Memorial Services
Visitation: Family and friends will gather for a visitation this weekend in the Marietta area.
Celebration of Life: A formal celebration of life is being planned, with many in the community expecting a massive turnout from the thousands of athletes Shane impacted over his career.
Support for Family: A memorial fund has been established to support his loved ones with funeral expenses and to potentially create a scholarship in his name to help underprivileged athletes pursue competitive cheerleading.
Shane Montgomery leaves behind a legacy of strength, leadership, and a “Stingray Blue” spirit that will continue to influence the sport for years to come
