The Rogers State University Cheerleading team took home the seventh place trophy at the National Cheerleader Association’s College National Competition on April 10 and 11 in Daytona Beach, Fla., the squad’s third consecutive top 10 finish at the event.
Head Coach Matt Hinds said he is proud of his squad. “The fight was there and they pushed through,” said Hinds. “They are an amazing group to work with and I’m extremely proud to be their coach.”
This marks only the third year the Hillcats Cheerleaders have competed at the NCA’s College Nationals, with the team placing fifth last year. The team placed seventh in 2012.
The teams perform routines consisting of tumbling, stunting, dance and motions choreographed to music. The routines are two minutes and 15 seconds of fast-paced displays of skill and endurance. Teams are judged on degree of difficulty, perfection of routine and overall impression.
The competition performance is more elaborate than most of the skills that are demonstrated during RSU games, as protective mats are required for many of the high-flying routines.
“Nationals is our opportunity to prove ourselves,” said Titus Massey, a psychology major from Wichita, Kan. “Many people see us cheering at games and believe that’s the extent of our program, but there’s so much more.”
The Hillcats competed in the Coed Intermediate II division, which was won by Orange Coast College from Costa Mesa, Calif.
For more information about the RSU cheer squad contact Matt Hinds at [email protected].