The Linfield University cheer team brought home a pair of fifth-place trophies from the 2026 USA Collegiate Championships, held Feb. 21-22 in Anaheim, California.
The Wildcats earned a fifth place finish in the Game Day Situational Sideline/Cheer College and Game Day Band Chant categories.
“Having the opportunity to come to Anaheim for USA Nationals, was one of a kind and something we will all cherish forever,” first-year student Taylor Mason said.
Started in 1997, the USA Collegiate Championships bring together teams from four-year and community colleges, with teams competing against schools from all athletic divisions. Nearly 1,000 collegiate student-athletes compete in nearly 15 divisions.
Twenty-two members of cheer team — representing three states and more than 11 academic majors — traveled to Anaheim for the competition. The trip was made possible through the support of the Linfield community, including students, staff, faculty and administration.
The team’s results continue a pattern of strong performances on a national stage for the cheer and dance programs. The cheer team previously competed at the UCA College Cheerleading Nationals in 2022 and 2024. In their most recent appearance, the team earned a top 20 finish in the Open All Girl Game Day category. Last year, Linfield’s dance team earned fifth place at the 2025 College Classic National Tournament.
“It’s always so rewarding to represent Linfield in a positive light, but there was something special about doing it at USA Nationals 2026,” senior captain Miki Dunham said. “Being a part of this team the last four years has helped me grow as a person and as an athlete, I am so lucky to have been surrounded by such amazing teammates pushing me to my best every single day.”
Learn more about the Linfield cheer programs at https://golinfieldwildcats.com/sports/cheerleading.
