The Brenau University competitive cheerleading team has once again proven it belongs among the nation’s elite.
The Golden Tigers captured their third consecutive national championship Friday at the National Cheerleaders Association NAIA All-Girl Championship in Daytona Beach, edging out a tightly contested field to continue their dominant run.
Brenau posted a final score of 90.2750, narrowly defeating Hope International University by just 0.3167 points to secure the title.
A Season Defined by Pressure and Resilience
Head coach Bralee Housworth said the road to a third straight championship was anything but easy.
“The pressure was higher than ever, and this season tested us in every way possible,” Housworth said. “Through every obstacle, this team showed unmatched resilience and heart.”
Brenau held a slim lead after the preliminary round with a score of 89.30, just 0.22 points ahead of Hope International. In the finals, the Golden Tigers delivered their best performance of the competition, posting a 90.60 to seal the championship.
A Dynasty in the Making
For Brenau’s seniors, winning has become the standard.
“I have been at Brenau for three years and never not won a national title,” senior Karrington Cook said. “It’s a tradition and an expectation now.”
Teammate Breanna Walls called the experience “the best feeling and done with the best people,” while senior Makayla Smelcer added, “We brought the gold back to the ‘Ville three times!”
The win solidifies Brenau’s place as one of the premier programs in NAIA competitive cheer, building what is quickly becoming a dynasty.
Strong Habersham Ties to the Championship
The victory carries a meaningful connection back to Habersham County.
One of Brenau’s coaches also serves on the coaching staff at Habersham Central High School and is an alum of the school herself—bringing championship-level experience directly back to local athletes.
Even more notably, four Habersham Central alumni were part of the championship run:
- Mackenzie Stuart – first-year assistant coach
- Ady Sedwick – senior
- Heather Wade – senior
- Makayla Smelcer – senior
The group celebrated the national title together in Daytona Beach, highlighting the strong pipeline between Habersham Central and Brenau’s nationally recognized program.
Final Standings
Behind Brenau and Hope International, the top five teams included:
- University of the Cumberlands – 86.4958
- Grand View University – 80.7000
- Avila University – 78.7792
Bringing It Home
Housworth praised her team’s determination and ability to overcome adversity throughout the season.
“I am beyond proud of what they’ve overcome and accomplished,” she said. “This team is strong and they deserve this amazing accomplishment.”
For Brenau, the three-peat is more than just a milestone—it’s a statement.
And for Habersham County, it’s a championship story with strong roots close to home.
