Maryland Wins North American Collegiate Championship
Feb. 13, 2005
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The University of Maryland competitive cheer won first place at the North American Collegiate Championship in New Orleans this weekend beating out Northern Illinois University, University of Alabama, and Middle Tennessee State University by more than 30 points. Their performance not only earned them the competition's title, but also top tumbling and choreography honors.
The other universities participating brought a level of competition the Maryland squad had not yet seen this season. The Terps prepared for the increased level of skill and difficulty by adding a twist up to both the beginning stunt and final pyramid as well as perfecting the partner stunts, tumbling, and dance sections.
Lauren Spates and Rebecca Lester, who had been out last weekend due to concussions, returned this weekend as integral members of the team. The squad looked to their key flyers and bases for the win. " Valerie Town, Olivia Odom, Mimi Cuff, and Toccara Hilliard have a lot of responsibility on them and really stepped up to the plate," said coach Lura Fleece .
Each competition unveils a stronger, more precise team and this weekend was no exception. The team is looking forward to using the momentum from this competition as they prepare for upcoming events. Catch the action next weekend at the Cheersport Nationals in Atlanta.
