KANSAS — The McPherson College competitive cheer team has been named the 2025-26 KCAC Women's Team of Character, the conference office announced Friday. All KCAC Champions of Character Awards are presented by IMA Financial Group.
"Being recognized as a KCAC Team of Character means a lot to our program," Antonio Snyder, Director of Spirit Programs at McPherson, remarked. "As a team, we have decided that our culture and character are our building blocks, and the rest will follow. This team is truly special because on top of all of their required events, their studies, their families, and life - they find the time on their own to give back to the community around us. We plan to continue to grow our community focus and set the standard for what the "Team of Character" stands for!"
McPherson Cheer took part in a variety of service projects throughout the 2025-26 academic year, including, but not limited to:
- Giving youth cheer lessons in the community.
- Organizing youth cheer clinics.
- Volunteering at the local retirement home.
- "High Five Fridays" to welcome students at local elementary schools.
- Taking part in a community property cleanup.
- Partnering with their rivals, Central Christian College, as part of a Numana food packing event, where they packed thousands of meals.
The Bulldogs were named the Team of Character for their sport in March at the KCAC Competitive Cheer Championship. The team enjoyed success this season, with:
- A second place finish at the Coyote Classic, hosted by Kansas Wesleyan University
- A second place finish at the Cougar Classic, hosted by Columbia College
- Earning first place at the Dog House Classic, their home competition.
- Finishing fourth out of eight teams at the 2026 KCAC Competitive Cheer Championships.
Photo Credit: Taylor Starr.
"I couldn’t be prouder of the work that our cheer team has put in, not only in their sport, but in the community," Josh Daume, Director of Athletics at McPherson College, said. "Coach Snyder has done a terrific job in his first year integrating his team into both the campus community and the McPherson community in general. They are very deserving of this recognition. They are outstanding representatives of our college and truly epitomize the service aspect of our mission."
About IMA Financial Group
IMA Financial Group is the 10th largest independently owned retail insurance broker in the U.S., offering risk management and insurance services. Founded in 1974, IMA has nearly 650 employees in offices throughout the central U.S.
—KCAC—