Lander University

Bob Stoner

Acrobatics & Tumbling 3/27/2025 9:41:00 PM Hailey Franklin - Assistant Sports Information Director

Bearcats Deliver Strong Performance on Senior Night

GREENWOOD - In a thrilling Tri-Match on Senior Night, the No. 15-ranked Lander Bearcats performed strongly against No. 8 Limestone and Mars Hill, finishing with a final score of 250.150. While Limestone took the meet with 255.530, Lander edged Mars Hill (245.490) in a highly competitive contest.

This matchup carried extra significance as Lander celebrated its seniors while continuing their push for a top-eight finish in the NCATA National Rankings—where the final rankings will determine qualification for the 2025 NCATA National Championships.

How it Happened

Lander came out strong in the Compulsory event, leading all teams with a score of 35.90. The Bearcats demonstrated precision and control, particularly in the Pyramid (9.60) and Toss heat (9.60), showing why they are among the top teams in the nation.

The Bearcats executed difficult elements in the Acro event, earning a solid 27.15. Their 7-Element (9.65) routine was a standout.

One of Lander's strongest events, the Pyramid round, featured high scores across the board. Their Open and Synchronized heat scored an impressive 9.65, giving them a 91.80 lead over Limestone (90.20) and Mars Hill (90.25) headed into halftime.

In the Toss event, Lander secured a respectable 27.50. The 450 Salto (9.55) heat was one of the highlights of the event.

Lander's tumblers delivered in the individual events, keeping them in contention.

Tumbling event:

Duo Pass: Ryann Swope & Jaedien Irizarry – 8.95
Trio Pass: Morgan Axiotis, Phoenix Woodard, Cayden Groome – 7.00
Quad Pass: Makayla Krusen, Ashlyn Shively, Kaleigh Cato, Danielle Kuusisto – 7.10
Aerial Pass: Morgan Axiotis – 9.30
6-Element Pass: Ryann Swope – 9.375
Open Pass: Jaedien Irizarry – 8.325
Tumbling Total: 50.050

The Aerial and 6 Element passes were among the highlights, with Morgan Axiotis and Ryann Swope delivering high-difficulty skills that helped the Bearcats maintain its competitive edge.

Closing the night with a solid 80.80 in the Team Event, Lander fought hard to stay within striking distance of Limestone but ultimately finished second overall.

Looking Ahead

With the regular season wrapped up, the Bearcats now await their seeding for the Conference Carolinas Tournament Quarterfinals, set for Tuesday, April 1. The tournament will be hosted by the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds, setting up another competitive showdown as Lander looks to continue its postseason push.

Lander, which sits No. 15 in the first NCATA National Rankings, will need a strong postseason run to push for a top-eight finish and secure a spot in the 2025 NCATA National Championships.

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