Ava Hunt, youngest daughter of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt, has returned to Southern Methodist University (SMU) and rejoined the cheerleading squad after a year-long gap devoted to faith-based humanitarian work. Hunt, who had initially committed to the SMU cheer team for her freshman year in 2024, took a 12-month hiatus before returning for the 2026-27 academic year.
She recently posted photos on Instagram with her teammates, expressing enthusiasm for her return to the university in University Park, Texas, and the Mustangs cheer roster. The posts coincided with SMU's cheer media day as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
During her gap year, Hunt participated in a Discipleship Training School in Kona, Hawaii. She shared reflections on her experience, noting the beauty of the location and expressing gratitude for the opportunity. Previously, she had shared updates from her freshman year at SMU, where she is studying business management at the Cox School of Business.
Hunt, now 21, is reportedly interested in learning about corporate branding, a skill that aligns with the sports and entertainment legacy of her family. The Hunt family has owned the Kansas City Chiefs since 1959, founded by Clark Hunt's father, Lamar Hunt, who was a principal founder of the American Football League. Forbes estimates the Clark family's net worth at $24.8 billion.
Clark Hunt took over leadership of the Chiefs after his father's death in 2006. Under his ownership, the team has achieved three Super Bowl titles and made 12 playoff appearances. Ava is one of three siblings who stand to inherit the family's extensive fortune. Her sister, Gracie, works in public relations and brand development for the Chiefs, while her brother, Knobel, is an investment banking analyst at JP Morgan in New York City.
