The Brenau competitive cheerleading team reaffirmed its claim as one of the nation’s elite cheerleading squads by securing its third consecutive national championship at the 2026 National Cheerleading Association NAIA All-Girl Championship on Friday.
The Golden Tigers amassed a total of 90.2750 points to edge past runners-up Hope International University in California by a scant 0.3167 to earn the third national championship.
Head coach Bralee Housworth noted that this season’s journey was very challenging and that the quest to three-peat was significant.
“The pressure was higher than ever, and this season tested us in every way possible. Through every obstacle, this team showed unmatched resilience and heart,” Housworth said.
In the preliminary round of competition, Brenau posted a score 89.30 to take a small lead over the Hope International squad by 0.22 points. Going into the finals, the Golden Tigers’ championship pedigree propelled the team to a finals-best 90.60 to outpace the Hope team and secure the team’s third consecutive title.
Team members shared their elation for winning their third consecutive championship by commenting that hard work, team camaraderie, and winning habits all contributed to the end result. For senior cheer team member Karrington Cook, the team’s winning ways become a habit.
“I have been at Brenau for three years and never not won a national title. It’s a tradition and an expectation now,” Cook said.
Fellow senior Breanna Walls described winning a third title with her teammates as “the best feeling and done with the best people”, while senior Makayla Smelcer simply described her elation by saying, “We brought the gold (medal) back to the ‘Ville (Gainesville) three times!”
Housworth reiterated her squad’s overall focus and toughness throughout the season. “I am beyond proud of what they’ve overcome and accomplished,” Housworth said. “This team is strong and they deserve this amazing accomplishment!”
University of Cumberlands in Kentucky earned third place with 86.4958 points, while Grand View University in Iowa (80.7000) and Avila University in Montana (78.7792) rounded out the top-five team finishers.
