Shelton State Community College Cheer Overcomes Adversity to Win Twelfth Consecutive National Title

January 23, 2019 – The Shelton State Community College Cheerleaders were named the 2019 Open Coed National Champions at the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship on Saturday, January 19 in Orlando, Florida. This is the team’s twelfth consecutive national title.

A former Shelton State national champion cheerleader and now in her second year as coach, Brittany Crook found the experience of this title to be the most memorable. “There is something about this team that is truly unique,” stated Crook. “Week in and week out, they found themselves backed into corners and they would always overcome.”

Following this year’s semifinal round, a member of the squad was dealing with an injury forcing Crook and the team to consider using their alternate. “Even then, the unshakable, steady demeanor of these athletes showed,” Crook recalled. “They took the stage stronger than ever. Each athlete stepped up when they had to and delivered a championship winning performance. I could not be more proud of them.”

Cara Crosslin, Shelton State Athletic Director, echoes Crook. “I have seen this team grow and mature in ways I can’t explain. They have been through so many ups and downs, and last weekend was no different. It was exciting to see them handle the pressure, perform, and win!”

With a twelfth consecutive title and a tradition of winning on the line, this squad was no stranger to pressure. “This team peaked at exactly the right time,” continued Crosslin. “This is because of the leadership of Brittany [Crook]. It is obvious that she knows how to mentally and physically prepare our athletes for excellence.”

This year’s squad included members from all across the nation. The following students are members of the 2018-19 Shelton State Cheerleaders: James Brown, Carolyn Carlo, Peyton Cordell, Shane Dailey, Mackenzie Doner, Nicole Funk, Chase Ganus, Colton Harrah, Terrence Hughes, Jeffery Hunnicutt, Jr., Shay Kinsey, Quintaria Long, Dominic Lopez, Zach Martin, Daisy Martinez, Nate Mayorga, Andrew Miller, Victoria Peterson, Natalie Rahaim, Summer Truong, and Savannah Whitley.

For updates and more information, contact mediacom@sheltonstate.edu or visit sheltonstate.edu/athletics.