Hardin-Simmons University Cheerleading: The Road to Nationals by: Delani Bauer

The Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) cheerleading team will compete at the national 

level for the first time in over 20 years this April.  This milestone marks a turning point in university history, as HSU Cheerleading works to establish a new legacy within the program.

The HSU Cheer team is led by former assistant coach Tiffany McMurray.  This season is McMurray’s second year leading the cheerleading program.  The squad's co-captains are Lilly McAnally, junior exercise science major from McKinney and Emma Colna, senior biology major from Charleston, S.C.

On April 14, the HSU Cheerleaders will fly to Florida to compete at the 2026 College Classic National Championship.  The competition’s semifinal rounds will take place on April 11, and the finals will conclude on April 12, bringing college teams from across the country to showcase and compete with their routines.  This year, the competition is hosted at the Orange County Convention Center’s West Complex in Orlando, Fla.

The cheerleaders will be competing in a game day routine, consisting of a chant, cheer and band dance.  The routine is high-energy and features stunting, tumbling and jumping.

On Feb.25, HSU Cheer will be recording in the Mabee Athletic Complex for their first virtual competition.  This will provide them with an official score sheet, helping them better prepare for Florida.  Spectators are allowed to enter the gym to view the competition at 7:15 p.m..

HSU Cheerleading has fundraised for several semesters to achieve the opportunity to compete.  This semester, cheerleaders sold raffle tickets, hosted clinics and mini cheerleading camps and received sponsorships from the Abilene community.

HSU Cheer received four levels of sponsorship: platinum, gold, silver and bronze.  Platinum sponsors will receive a video board thank you graphic at football games, and all sponsors’ logos will be featured on the back of the team’s competition shirts.

There are always ways to get involved with and support HSU Cheer.  Follow them for updates and event times on Instagram @hsutxcheer.  The cheer team is always looking for new members and supporters who can help continue this HSU tradition.