DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Kennesaw State University Cheer delivered a historic and high-energy performance on the national stage this weekend, earning second-place finishes in both Advanced Division IA Coed and Advanced Division IA All-Girl at the 2026 NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship.
Competing against the nation's elite programs, the Owls showcased precision, athleticism, and elite-level execution across both divisions, further solidifying Kennesaw State's reputation as one of the premier cheer programs in the country.
In the Division IA All Girl competition, KSU posted a final score of 95.8417, demonstrating exceptional difficulty and synchronization throughout its routine. The Owls followed with another standout performance in the Division IA Coed division, earning a score of 91.9875 to secure a second runner-up finish and cap an impressive season.
"These student-athletes continue to raise the bar for what Kennesaw State Cheer represents," said Head Coach Charlie Asciutto. "Their commitment, discipline, and passion were on full display in Daytona. We are incredibly proud of how they represented our university on a national stage."
The success in Daytona is a testament to the leadership and preparation of the program's coaching staff, including Assistant Coaches Blake Bierman and Rebecca Lindsey and Choreographer Blake Johnson, whose creativity and attention to detail helped bring both routines to life.
Throughout the season, the Owls have emphasized a culture of accountability, resilience, and competitive excellence; qualities that were evident in every performance at nationals. From elite tumbling passes to dynamic stunts and seamless transitions, KSU's clean routines earned praise from judges and spectators alike.
"This team has put in countless hours to get to this point," said Assistant Athletic Director Jacob Dye. "To compete at this level in two divisions and come away with top-two finishes speaks volumes about their work ethic and belief in one another."
Kennesaw State Cheer's continued rise on the national stage reflects the program's long-term vision and commitment to excellence, both athletically and academically under head coach Charlie Asciutto.
The university also extends its appreciation to the athletes, support staff, families, and fans who have played an integral role in the program's success throughout the season.
Looking ahead, as the program builds on this momentum and will enter an exciting new chapter, as the Owls are set to transition to the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) circuit beginning in the 2026–27 season, positioning the program for continued national prominence and new competitive opportunities.
