The past week has been nothing short of monumental for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Black women gymnasts showcased their talent on various national stages. Their wins leave many either proud to be alumni of an HBCU or aspiring to be one.
HBCU cheer squads took center stage at the 2024 National Cheerleader Association’s championship. Among the standout performances was North Carolina A&T, emerging as the winners in the Intermediate Small Co-ed Division. After winning, the team exemplified excellence, while capturing the hearts of spectators and judges.
Jackson State’s cheer squad also showcased their talent with a commendable fifth-place finish, while Tennessee State secured the 11th spot.
The Morgan State Cheer Bears secured second place in the All-Girl Intermediate Division with a score of 86.10. Since 1999, the Cheer Bears set a goal to never finish lower than their Day 1 performance. The team finished Day 1 in the number two spot, However, with that goal in mind and the gold within reach,
they made adjustments to their routine. Although they didn’t take home the gold, head coach Theresa Coleman-Gibson is proud of their performance.
“Coach [Marquis Johnson] and I are both so pleased with how the ladies performed while they were here,” Gibson said in a Morgan State press release. “The majority of the team are rookie Cheer Bears, and coupled with our returners, they gave us the best that could be given at this year’s NCA College Nationals.”
Xavier University of Louisiana made history once again, achieving the championship position in the major coed NAIA class. Led by head coach Glenn Caston, the HBCUs victory marked a momentous occasion. It reaffirmed their status as trailblazers in the realm of collegiate cheerleading.
Fisk University’s Morgan Price made history by securing the all-around title at the 2024 USAG Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics Nationals. This feat made Price the first gymnast from an HBCU to claim the championship.
With scores of 9.850 on the floor exercise, 9.850 on the vault, 9.8 on the bars and 9.750 on the balance beam, Price’s performance earned her a well-deserved victory. Her journey to success serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication of HBCU students in the face of adversity.
Guided by head coach Corrine Tarver, Price drew inspiration from a legacy of excellence. Tarver originally made history as the first African American woman to win the All-Around Gymnastics Championship. Now, as Price basks in the glory of her triumph, she continues to inspire a new generation of aspiring athletes, embodying the essence of HBCU pride and excellence.