The Lubbock Christian University (LCU) competitive cheer squad recently made history at the NCA SMU Collegiate Cheer Camp in Dallas when Rachel La Cour became the first NCA All-America selection in the program’s history.
“Once our stunt group caught Rachel for her final skill, it felt as if the entire camp understood the magnitude of what had just happened for our program,” said LCU competitive cheer head coach Whitney Sales. “It was incredible to watch large Division I cheer teams run across the stadium to scoop her up and celebrate with us. The cheer community is like nothing else.”
La Cour, a native of Liberty, Texas, who completed her freshman season this spring, received the All-American honor, which recognizes those who demonstrate exceptional technical skills, leadership, and strong personal values.
All-American nominees must try out individually, performing a standing toe-touch back-tuck and a running round-off back-handspring full twisting back-tuck. After successfully completing these tumbling skills, nominees move on to the stunting portion.
La Cour’s stunt group included her teammates Reagan Hale, Blair Bowen, and Dylan Gossett, with La Cour serving as the flyer. The camp was attended by various universities, from NAIA to NCAA Division I, including Texas Tech, among the 25 participating programs.
Along with La Cour’s historic All-America selection, the LCU cheer team earned several accolades at the camp:
- 1st in D2 Small Coed Game Day Routine
- 1st in D2 Small Coed Rally Routine
- 2nd Overall in Game Day (including all teams, D1 and D2, large, small, etc.)
- Gold bid to 2025 Nationals in Daytona
- All-American for the mascot Happy Chap
La Cour is a dedicated and driven athlete who has been involved in dance since age 3, tumbling and gymnastics since age 7, and competitive cheer since age 8. She cheered on the varsity squad for Liberty High School her senior year. Despite breaking her hand less than six months ago, she competed with her team at the NCA Collegiate Nationals in Daytona this past April. Currently, La Cour is starting her second year at Lubbock Christian University, where she is studying Civil Engineering.
Coaches and the cheer program describe her as a true All-American on and off the mat and a strong leader.
Reflecting on her achievement, La Cour expressed her gratitude on Facebook: “So grateful to be part of this amazing team!”
Who are her parents? They should have been acknowledged.