The Savannah State University cheerleading team proudly holds their championship trophy, marking a historic achievement.
Savannah State University (SSU) has made history by becoming the first historically black college to win the National Cheerleading Award at the CheerSport Nationals in Atlanta. This historic achievement highlights the talents and dedication of a newly expanded cheer squad, sparking joy and pride at SSU. With rigorous training and remarkable leadership from alum coaches, the team faced challenges yet emerged victorious. Their success not only puts SSU on the national stage but also inspires future generations of cheerleaders, showcasing a remarkable blend of athletic and academic excellence.
In a stunning achievement that has everyone buzzing with excitement, Savannah State University (SSU) has made history by becoming the first historically black college and university (HBCU) to win the prestigious National Cheerleading Award. This momentous win took place at the CheerSport Nationals held in Atlanta, putting SSU on the national stage in a way that’s never been seen before!
The remarkable cheerleading squad at SSU, which boasts a dynamic group of 12 talented women and 1 energetic man, has shown the world what they’re made of. Now, with a newly expanded roster of 23 members (22 females and 1 male), their triumph at the CheerSport Nationals marks a historic achievement that will surely inspire future generations of cheerleaders at HBCUs.
This thrilling triumph not only celebrates the athletes’ skills but also shines a light on their spirit and dedication. As the first HBCU to win at the CheerSport Nationals in the 24 years of the competition, SSU’s cheerleaders have set a milestone that will resonate throughout history. Team captain Morgan Moore expressed that this victory is an incredibly emotional moment, bringing joy and pride as they received their championship jackets, signifying their hard work and commitment.
Just before the competition, the squad faced a myriad of challenges, including an exhibition performance that rattled their nerves and an injury to one of their key members. However, with the support of Coach Timothy Grant, who delivered a stirring motivational speech, the team pulled together, igniting their passion to perform at their best. Their relentless effort paid off, as they clinched victory over Australia’s ZSA with a nail-biting score of 87.62 to 86.13.
The success of this team can be greatly attributed to the leadership of their new coaches, head coach Megan McCray and assistant coach Nyssa Broadnex Mackey, both of whom are proud alumni of SSU. McCray, who graduated in 2002 with a degree in history, and Mackey, who earned her biology degree in 2003, are committed to cultivating not just a winning team, but one that embodies discipline, teamwork, and academic excellence.
After their groundbreaking win, the SSU cheerleaders received recognition beyond their campus. Actress Gabrielle Union acknowledged their remarkable achievement on social media, and the team was even honored during a halftime ceremony at a basketball game against Coppin State. To top it all off, they were featured on ESPN’s SportsCenter, further elevating their status as pioneers in collegiate cheerleading.
With this victory, the SSU cheerleading team isn’t resting on their laurels. They are already setting their sights on future national events, looking to build on their hard-earned success. Their practice schedule is rigorous, comprising early morning workouts and evening rehearsals that prepare them for the next challenge. The commitment from all team members demonstrates their determination and passion for cheerleading.
In addition to their achievements on the cheer floor, SSU is also celebrating the success of students who have recently been selected for advanced training in the U.S. Navy’s nuclear propulsion program. The synergy of athletic distinction and academic excellence exemplifies the spirit of Savannah State University.
With history made and spirits high, the future looks brighter than ever for SSU. The cheerleaders of Savannah State are not just champions; they are champions with a story that will inspire generations to come!
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