YORK, Neb. – In a return to action for the first time since the Concordia Invitational Tournament, Concordia University, Nebraska Competitive Cheer tested itself against some of the top squads from around the NAIA on Friday (Feb. 7). When the dust settled at the York University Crown Classic, the Bulldogs had placed seventh out of 16 teams. Concordia earned a score of 69.97 and defeated all GPAC rivals that were present in York, Neb.
Head Coach Emilie Ashenbach saw her squad take steps forward on Friday while executing a specific goal.
“We had a great day at the Crown Classic, hitting both our stunts,” Ashenbach said. “That was our main goal for the day. I’m so proud of our team for coming together after this week and working hard to put out an energetic routine. We’re heading into tomorrow focused on delivering a clean and confident performance. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
The competition roster on Friday included eight athletes (with three alternates) as the Bulldogs posted an official score towards the NAIA scoring system for the first time in 2025. Concordia was represented on the mat by senior Lexi Mack, junior Lauryn Stanley, sophomores Mikah Culler, Bri Hoyle and Mya Stover and freshmen Riley Bennett, Avery Holmberg and Rhiannon Van Osdel.
At the 2024 York Crown Classic, the Bulldogs placed third with a score of 75.02. The York Crown Classic combines with the Concordia Day of Duals for a major weekend of NAIA cheer and dance competition.
York Crown Classic Competition Roster
· Riley Bennett (Louisville, Neb.)
· Mikah Culler (Grand Island, Neb.)
· Avery Holmberg (Maize, Kan.)
· Bri Hoyle (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Lexi Mack (Wilber, Neb.)
· Lauryn Stanley (Big Springs, Neb.)
· Mya Stover (Lincoln, Neb.)
· Rhiannon Van Osdel (Fremont, Neb.)
· Alternates: LaCole Anno (Lincoln, Neb.); Ara Maxwell (Lincoln, Neb.); Adelyn Opp (Lincoln, Neb.)
The Bulldogs will quickly turn around to host the Concordia Day of Duals on Saturday. The action will get started at 10 a.m. CT from Friedrich Arena. The event is slated to include 12 cheer and 16 dance teams in a dual format that showcases two routines from every squad. For more details on the event, click HERE.