JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. --- The Tusculum University cheerleading squad placed first in three categories, alongside three blue ribbons, at a recent Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) camp held at East Tennessee State University. These laurels are a program record under head coach Trea King.

TU was placed in a division alongside teams from Milligan, Pikeville, and Itawamba Community College (a feeder school to Alabama).

The Pioneers were evaluated on crowd effectiveness, stunt, execution, and motions.

Tusculum won first place across its division in fight song, sideline, and overall game day (fight song, situational sideline, and timeout). The latter is also a precursor to nationals. The Pioneers finished second in the timeout category as well. TU claimed blue ribbons in fight song, sideline, and timeout. The blue ribbon indicates, after an evaluation by a judge, that the routine is considered superior.

Additionally, the all-girls stunt team brought home several new skills, and the co-ed competed and hit a toss lib full down (guy tosses girl and catches one foot with a full twisting dismount).

King commented that the event was a good bonding experience for the team, and that she is so proud of them. It raised excitement for nationals and added new material for the upcoming football season.