LORMAN, Miss. – Alcorn Cheerleading held its annual tryouts during the weekend of April 17–18, drawing a highly competitive pool of talented athletes eager to represent the university.
Over the course of an intensive three-round evaluation process, participants were assessed on a variety of skills including stunting ability, tumbling, crowd engagement, physical conditioning, teamwork, and overall performance presence.
Following careful deliberation, the coaching staff under the direction of Head Coach
Dr. Timothy Queen, selected 30 student-athletes to comprise the 2026–2027 Alcorn Braves Cheerleading Team. Each individual demonstrated exceptional dedication, athleticism, and school spirit throughout the tryout process, earning their place on the squad.
The 2026–2027 Cheerleading Team members consist of the following student-athletes:
Dylan Roberson,
Joi Williams,
James Goodwin, Kei'mya Walton, Kadajai Allen,
Jaden Pierre,
Avyonna Buck, Albert Alston, Amyiah Montgomery,
Morgan Burks, Angel Bagget, Alyssa Gill, Callie Newsome, Amber Butler, Kelie Brown, ZaMya Rankin, Lauryn Knox, Kortneigh Dixon,
Tynia Killingsworth,
Mackenzie Shumaker,
Diara Rusk,
Haley Butler, Corbin LeBlanc, Precious Drayton,
Aunjeri Jones, Halle Brown,
George Crockett, Logan Banks, Javeon Bohanon, and Jamisen Cage.
Afterwards, Queen praised the group's performance and potential.
"This year's team represents one of the most well-rounded and driven groups we've seen in recent years," commented Queen. "Throughout tryouts, these athletes displayed not only strong technical skills, but also resilience, leadership, and a genuine commitment to excellence.
Additionally, the program announced its 2026–2027 Leadership Team, as Queen recognizes a talented group of student-athletes selected for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence.
"We are excited about the energy and unity they bring, and we look forward to seeing them elevate the standard of Alcorn Cheer – both on and off the field."
Leading the team as Head Captain is
Tynia Killingsworth, a junior from Stonecrest, Georgia. Killingsworth has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, strong character, and a deep commitment to the success of the program.
Serving as Co-Captains are Kadajai Allen and Kei-Mya Walton, both sophomores from Vicksburg, Mississippi, along with Mackenzkie Shumaker, a junior from Starkville, Mississippi. Each of these student-athletes has earned their role through hard work, positive influence, and the ability to inspire and uplift their teammates.
James Goodwin, a sophomore from Wesson, Mississippi, has been named Boys' Captain. Goodwin's leadership and dedication make him a strong representative for the team.
Queen went on to express his confidence in this year's leadership group, emphasizing their readiness to lead both on the sidelines and in the community.
"This group represents the heart of our program," continued Queen. "Their work ethic, discipline, and passion will help set the standard for the upcoming season."
The 2026–2027 Leadership Team will play a critical role in promoting team unity, mentoring younger members, and continuing the proud tradition of excellence within Alcorn Cheerleading.
The program anticipates an exciting season ahead as the newly selected team prepares to support Alcorn Athletics and engage with the campus community while upholding a tradition of pride, spirit, and excellence.
For additional information, please contact
Alcorn State University Cheer Program at
cheer@alcorn.edu.
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