Daytona Beach, Florida -- The Southeastern Oklahoma State University cheerleading team took its first-ever trip to compete at National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Nationals last week, placing eighth in Spirit Rally Division II, which is made up of schools similar to Southeastern in athletic competition, akin to NCAA Division II size.

The Southeastern cheerleaders are under the direction of head coach Kailea Marshall, who expressed her pride in the group’s performance at the premier event.

“Our cheerleaders have worked so hard over the last few years to raise our profile to the standard of a group who would be invited to Daytona,” Marshall said. “To see that work converted into a good performance in our first trip is exceptionally rewarding as a coach. We had so much support from our university and the community, and we look forward to continuing a legacy of excellence and go back to Daytona every year.”

The Savage Storm Cheerleaders who represented Southeastern at Daytona are:

• Seniors Alli Keel of Durant, Madi Keel of Durant, and Ryan Murrell of Bonham, Texas

• Juniors Connor Hostetler of Burleson, Texas, Kevin McMurtrey of Fort Worth, Texas, Caleb Sanchez of Idabel, and Sydney Southward of Ringling

• Sophomores Leah Frith of Whitesboro, Hailie Pittman of Atoka, and Hailey Weaver of Silo

• and Freshmen Kyah Blundell of Marlow, Skylin Gray of Madill, Lily Helgren of Bells, Texas, Kaycee Keith of Washington, Kate LaFevers of Tishomingo, Kellanie Lowe of Madill, Brianna McCain of Piedmont, Noah Sherrill of Atoka, Braidey Treas of Tishomingo, and Sydney Reardon of Argyle, Texas

Other universities competing in Spirit Rally Division II were Tarleton State University, Texas A&M-Kingsville, UT Tyler, Lindenwood (Mo.) University, the University of West Alabama, Saginaw Valley State University (Mich.), Angelo State University, Newberry (S.C.) College, and the Florida Institute of Technology.

About Southeastern

Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides an environment of academic excellence that enables students to reach their highest potential. By having personal access to excellent teaching, challenging academic programs, and extracurricular experiences, students will develop skills and habits that promote values for career preparation, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our over 5,500 students include 50% first-generation students and 28% students of Native American descent, with 82% receiving financial aid. Southeastern ranks amongst the most affordable schools in the region thanks to out-of-state tuition waivers and is proud of its exceptional affordable accredited MBA program, stellar aerospace and teacher education programs, and outstanding national ranking in graduating Native American students.