Daytona Beach, FL – The University of the Cumberlands cheer team closed out its 2026 season with a third-place finish at the NCA College Nationals in the Advanced All-Girl NAIA division. 

The Patriots posted a score of 86.4958 in the finals to earn a spot on the podium in a competitive field. Brenau University claimed the national title with a 90.275, while Hope International finished second with an 89.9583. Grand View University and Avila University rounded out the top five. 

Cumberlands' performance marked the final competition of the season for a team that saw significant growth throughout the year, highlighted by a Mid-South Conference Championship and a top-four finish at the NAIA National Championship. 

"Really proud of the team and how they attacked this season," said Head Coach RJ Conroy. "We had 13 first-time freshmen take the floor and wear the Patriot head with pride. We are sad to lose our seniors, but excited to see them grow into adults and see what they do in the world." 

The Patriots conclude the season with one of the most successful campaigns in program history, continuing to build momentum on both the conference and national stages. 

For the latest and most up-to-date information on University of the Cumberlands Athletics, please visit www.cumberlandspatriots.com. Follow us on Twitter @UC_Patriots and @UCPatsGameday, Instagram @UCPatriots, TikTok @ucpatriots, YouTube Cumberlands Patriots, and Facebook by searching University of the Cumberlands Athletics.