SIOUX CITY, Iowa – The Northwestern competitive cheer team has been picked to the top spot of the GPAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll for the 2026 season.
The 2025 season was one of the most successful in program history, as the Raiders closed the year with an 87.57 average, which was 10th in the NAIA. They posted a sixth-place finish at the NAIA Championships, recording an 89.70 overall score.
Northwestern was picked as the top team in the GPAC poll for the second consecutive season after winning back-to-back conference titles. The Red Raiders tallied 49 points and seven (7) first place votes. Midland was picked second with 43 points and one first place vote. Concordia was picked third in the poll with 29 points.
Eight GPAC teams will compete this season in Cheer.
The 2026 GPAC Cheer Championships are in Orange City, Iowa, at Northwestern on March 6.
Here are the full results of the GPAC Preseason Coaches’ Poll:
1. Northwestern – 49 pts. (7 first-place votes)
2. Midland – 43 pts. (1 first-place vote)
3. Concordia – 29 pts.
T4. Doane – 28 pts.
T4. Dordt – 28 pts.
6. Mount Marty – 19 pts.
7. Hastings – 18 pts.
8. Waldorf – 1 pt.
