On Feb. 8, the Northwestern competitive cheer team set a record for the all-time high score at the Concordia Day of Duals. The Raiders had two performances on Saturday, during which they went up against MidAmerica Nazarene and Missouri Valley. After winning both duels, they earned themselves the top overall score of the day with a cumulative of 183.95 points after zero deductions.
“I was very proud of our performances at the Concordia duals,” Adriana Sandbulte, cheer captain, said. “Our first performance went well. We had stuff to clean up for the second performance but were able to execute better on that performance and even had zero deductions. Along with that, we also had a record high score on our second performance.”
The start to the competitive season was rocky for the team.
“We had to make some tough choices after our first routine at Dickinson,” Head Coach Taylor Decker said. “I think everyone locked in and focused on the new routine we have.” Earning a top score while simultaneously having no deductions is quite a feat. It is especially impressive because the Day of Duals was only the second time the Raiders had performed their revised routine. The team’s determination and dedication showed through at Concordia, and they will continue to polish and perfect their current routine, as they are just beginning what is shaping up to be a very successful season.
“I am looking forward to making continual progress and seeing how far this team can go,” Sandbulte said. “We have a lot of potential right now, and a lot of talent. I am proud of how far we have come, but I want to keep progressing and hopefully make another appearance this year at nationals.” Last season, the Raiders were Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC) champions and placed sixth in the national championship. Currently, the team is ranked ninth in the National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and are once again shooting for a spot at nationals.
A good routine is not the only thing that brings success – positive attitudes and growth mindsets are crucial to a healthy team atmosphere, especially in cheerleading. “Our team is very encouraging to one another on and off the mat,” Decker said. “When the team hits a new skill and is proud of themselves, it is so rewarding.” The Raiders have accomplished great things and will continue to give their all in preparation for the GPAC championships in March.
NW cheer had a historic performance at Concordia.
