Another First for Alcorn Cheer

SUMMIT, Miss. – Alcorn Cheerleading proudly participated in its first-ever joint summer practice session with Southwest Mississippi Community College on Wednesday, June 24, in Summit, Mississippi. The collaborative training opportunity brought together two programs committed to excellence, growth, and the advancement of cheerleading at the collegiate level.
 
The joint practice for the Braves and Bears provided an invaluable opportunity for student-athletes and coaches from both institutions to train together, exchange knowledge, and elevate their skills in a positive and competitive environment.
 
Throughout the session, athletes focused extensively on stunting technique, tumbling progression, partner stunts, basket tosses, body control, timing, synchronization, and overall execution. The practice emphasized proper fundamentals, safety, and skill development while challenging athletes to push themselves to new levels of performance.
 
For the Alcorn Cheerleading Program, the experience represented more than just a summer workout.
 
It was an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen leadership, and expose athletes to different coaching styles and techniques that will benefit them throughout the upcoming season.
 
Dr. Timothy D. Queen, head coach of Alcorn, expressed his appreciation to the Southwest Mississippi Community College Cheerleading Program for their hospitality and commitment to making the day a success.
 
"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Head Coach Katie Bell, Assistant and Skills Coach Niyi Ayedun, Assistant Coach Ervin Jackson, and the entire Southwest Cheerleading Program for welcoming us with open arms," expressed Dr. Queen. "Their hospitality, professionalism, and passion for the sport created an outstanding environment for learning and growth. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and train alongside such a talented group of coaches and athletes."
 
Dr. Queen went on to acknowledge Assistant Coach Ervin Jackson, a proud Alcorn Cheerleading alumnus, for helping strengthen the connection between the two programs.
 
"Having an Alcorn Cheer alumnus on the Southwest coaching staff made this experience even more meaningful," stated Dr. Queen. "Coach Jackson understands the tradition and excellence associated with Alcorn Cheer, and it was great to see him continuing to make an impact in the cheerleading community."
 
The practice featured multiple stunt groups working through advanced progressions, body positions, transitions, and elite-level skills. Student-athletes were able to receive feedback from multiple coaches while refining technique and building confidence. Tumblers worked on standing and running tumbling skills while focusing on proper mechanics, execution, and consistency.
 
Dr. Queen later praised the Alcorn cheerleaders for their effort, attitude, and commitment throughout the day.
 
"I couldn't be prouder of our athletes," stated Dr. Queen. "They arrived ready to work, eager to learn, and committed to representing Alcorn State University with pride and professionalism. Their willingness to be coached, challenge themselves, and support one another was impressive.
 
"Today's success was a reflection of the culture we are building within our program."
 
The joint practice aligns with Alcorn Cheer's 2026-2027 theme – "The Standard is the Standard: One Team, One Purpose, One Alcorn."
 
As the program continues to grow and pursue excellence, experiences such as this joint summer practice help prepare athletes for game day performances, competitions, leadership opportunities, and continued success both on and off the mat.
 
Alcorn Cheer looks forward to future collaborative opportunities that promote skill development, sportsmanship, and the continued advancement of collegiate cheerleading.
 
For additional information, please contact Alcorn State University Cheer Program at cheer@alcorn.edu.
 
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