Xavier University of Louisiana Gold Rush Cheerleaders Capture Second NAIA National Championship
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Posted By: Will Moss on March 29, 2026 The Xavier University of Louisiana Gold Rush cheerleading squad has once again proven why they're considered one of the premier programs in NAIA competitive cheer, capturing the 2026 Nfinity NAIA Competitive Cheer National Championship in Topeka, Kansas. This marks the program's second national title in four years and their first Red Banner since 2022. Key Takeaway: Xavier University of Louisiana's Gold Rush cheerleaders delivered a near-flawless championship routine to jump three spots in the standings and claim their second national title this decade, posting a commanding final score of 96.13. After heartbreaking national runner-up finishes in both 2024 and 2025, the Gold Rush squad left no doubt about their championship pedigree this year. Competing at the Stormont Vail Events Center during the 10th Annual Nfinity NAIA Competitive Cheer National Championship, XULA delivered when it mattered most, posting a championship-winning score of 96.13—nearly four full points ahead of second-place Indiana Wesleyan's 92.72. Championship Format Favored Strong FinishersThe scoring structure at this year's championship created opportunities for dramatic movement in the standings. All 15 competing teams participated in preliminary rounds on Friday, with those scores counting for just 25 percent of the total. Saturday's finals performance comprised the remaining 75 percent, giving teams like Xavier the chance to make significant jumps in the final rankings. Xavier capitalized on that opportunity with a near-flawless routine that propelled them three spots up the leaderboard and secured the championship trophy. Final StandingsThe top five finishers at the 2026 NAIA Competitive Cheer National Championship were:
St. Ambrose had led the field after Friday's preliminary round with a score of 92.98 but dropped to third in the final standings. Indiana Wesleyan matched its best finish in program history by placing second. HBCU Pride: Xavier's championship adds another shining moment to HBCU athletics. Fellow HBCU program Florida Memorial also represented in the competition, finishing eighth with a score of 86.61. This national championship reinforces Xavier University of Louisiana's place as a powerhouse in NAIA competitive cheer and represents one of the most consistent programs in the ranks. For the Gold Rush squad, Saturday's performance was the culmination of years of dedication, erasing the pain of consecutive runner-up finishes and restoring the program to the pinnacle of NAIA cheerleading. The victory gives the HBCU community another championship to celebrate and demonstrates the continued excellence of Xavier athletics on the national stage. Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
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