Miles College’s cheer team etched its name in history books, becoming the first HBCU to claim both Overall Grand Champion and College Coed Game Time Championship titles at the CCA Christian Cheer Nationals on March 7 in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

The Golden Bears’ double victory marked just the second time an HBCU squad competed at the event, and their first national appearance in over 20 years.

Head coach Le’Andrea Anderson-Tolbert covered registration fees out of pocket when funding fell short, sparking a community drive that raised over $10,000 through donations and grassroots support, according to AL.com.

Practicing in makeshift spaces without full stunts, the team overcame limited facilities to deliver a high-energy routine blending HBCU flair with precision that captivated judges.

 

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“This whole competition season… was about what we’re doing for our community and showcasing what smaller HBCUs can bring,” Anderson-Tolbert said to AL.com.

The triumph elevates Miles College athletics while inspiring smaller HBCU programs nationwide to chase national stages.