DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - SNHU Cheer recorded a new high score in program history and sits in third-place at the NCA Nationals in Daytona Beach heading into today's finale. The Penmen will perform at the Ocean Center Arena in Daytona Beach, Fla. at 12:04 p.m. Friday.
(Team report filed late Thursday night)
SNHU Cheer sits in third after strong preliminary performance at NCA Nationals
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The SNHU Cheer team turned in its strongest performance ever in the preliminary round of the NCA National Championships at the Ocean Center, putting itself in third place heading into finals.
After arriving in Daytona Beach on Tuesday and navigating travel delays, weather issues and limited practice time, the Penmen used Wednesday to sharpen their routine with a series of focused, productive practices. That preparation showed on Thursday.
Following a strong warmup, SNHU delivered a clean, mistake-free routine on the national stage, hitting zero and performing with confidence and energy throughout prelims.
"We are beyond proud of this team and everything they've put into this moment," the team said in its Thursday night update. "We sit in third place after today. Now it's time to get ready for finals."
Coach Destyne Greenwood praised the group for rising to the occasion. "I am so proud of what the team did on the floor today," Greenwood said. "They came together as a team and delivered the strongest performance of the season, putting it together when it mattered most. Best feeling ever watching them find their greatness."
Two athletes were highlighted for their efforts in the routine. Freshman Adrianna Caba (Waterford, Conn.) stepped into the routine on Monday and delivered under pressure in her first national championship experience. "A freshman who stepped into the routine on Monday and rose to the moment," the team said. "Her composure, confidence and drive are just a glimpse of what's ahead. The future is bright."
Sophomore Hailey Sibley (Londonderry, N.H.), in her first season with the program, was also recognized for her versatility across the routine. "From tumbling, to stunts, to pyramid, she is doing it all and proving to be a true all-around athlete," the team said.
The Penmen also had support from alumni in Daytona Beach, including Megan Perrault. "Watching today's performance really made me nostalgic for my time at SNHU," Perrault said. "The passion and dedication they showed reminded me exactly what it's like to be a part of something so special. I'm so glad I flew down to cheer them on."
SNHU is scheduled to compete in the finals at 12:04 p.m. at the Ocean Center Arena in Daytona Beach, with a national title still within reach.
Let's go, Penmen.
Live streaming of the event (for a fee) is available through Varsity TV.
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Scoreboard - Advanced All Girl Division II Prelims