DECATUR, Ala. – The UT Southern cheer team earned a podium finish Saturday at the 2026 Southern States Athletic Conference Competitive Cheer Championship, placing third with a score of 89.99 at the Morgan County Celebration Arena.
The Firehawks were tightly grouped near the top throughout the competition, posting an 88.83 during the preliminary round to sit among the leaders heading into the final performances. UT Southern improved its overall score in the final round to 89.99, securing the program's third-place finish in a competitive nine-team field.
UT Southern was also recognized with multiple individual honors following the championship. Madison Busey was named the SSAC Athlete of the Year, while Aeriella Pappas earned Base of the Year recognition.
Xavier University of Louisiana claimed the 2026 SSAC Championship with a score of 97.95, setting the highest championship score in conference history. Florida Memorial finished second with a score of 90.03.
Final Team Scores
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Xavier – 97.95
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Florida Memorial – 90.03
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UT Southern – 89.99
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Mobile – 89.62
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Brewton-Parker Christian – 86.42
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Life – 85.85
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Loyola – 82.84
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William Carey – 77.38
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Milligan – 73.42
SSAC individual honors included Glenn Caston of Xavier being named Coach of the Year, Caleb Merckson of Xavier earning Tumbler of the Year, Luci Fortenberry of William Carey receiving Flyer of the Year, Nicholas Taylor of Xavier being named Rookie of the Year, and Brewton-Parker Christian earning the Sportsmanship Award.
The Firehawks will now await the NAIA selection announcement for the 2026 NAIA Competitive Cheer Championship, scheduled for March 27–28 in Topeka, Kansas.
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