Image courtesy of William Carey Athletics
College Cheer
administrator
Corinne Ellington
William Carey Cheer Squad Secures Silver at Nationals
William Carey Cheer landed a historic performance at the 2026 UCA College Nationals, earning a silver medal in the Open Small Coed Game Day Division. Their win marks their highest national finish in program history.
The Lady Crusaders propelled through a competitive field of 13 teams to reach Saturday’s finals at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. William Carey placed fourth in the opening round with a score of 83.67, securing one of seven championship spots.
Incorporating feedback from the semifinals, the Crusaders executed a clean, confident routine in finals, posting an 86.07 to finish second overall. William Carey ended the competition only three points shy of national champion Georgetown College (NAIA).
Head coach Laura Lightsey praised her team’s focus and execution under pressure.
“I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication of this team,” Lightsey said. “This performance was their best, and it was a great feeling knowing that the judges agreed and awarded them the silver medal. It is a great day to be a Crusader.”
