Record-Setting Performance Highlights Cheer Season Opener
SPRING ARBOR, Mich. - The Huntington cheer team opened its 2025-26 competition season in impressive fashion Saturday at Spring Arbor's Cougar Classic, earning a third-place finish with a score of 69.55 against a strong field that included Indiana Wesleyan and host Spring Arbor.
The Foresters turned in a historic performance, posting the highest score in program history and marking a significant milestone in just the third year of competitive cheer at HU.
Facing quality competition, Huntington showcased exceptional athleticism, precision and team unity throughout its routine. The performance reflected months of preparation and dedication, as the Foresters executed with confidence and composure on the mat while continuing to build momentum early in the season.
Head Coach Shawnna Esque praised her team's effort and growth following the event.
"I am incredibly proud of this team," Esque said. "Their dedication, hard work and commitment to excellence truly showed on the mat. This record-breaking score is a testament to the effort they have put in and the growth of this program."
The season-opening result sets a strong tone for Huntington as the Foresters look ahead to upcoming competitions and continue raising the standard for the program. HU Cheer will be back on the sidelines Saturday, January 31, to support the Foresters during the men's and women's basketball games, including the annual Pink Out. The team's next competition is scheduled for February 6–7 at Indiana Wesleyan University.
The Huntington University Foresters compete in 18 intercollegiate sports for men and women. In the past decade, Huntington has produced 181 NAIA All-America honors and 631 All-America Scholar Athlete honors. Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian college of the liberal arts offering graduate and undergraduate programs in more than 70 academic concentrations. Huntington has a top quartile ranking in the 2026 U.S. News Best Regional Universities Midwest Rankings.