Newton, Kan.—Spire Cheer opened up their competition season strong at the Bethel Invitational hosted by the Bethel College Threshers on campus in North Newton this afternoon.

The USM squad earned high praises in what is still a very young season, earning top scores of 90.38 and 91.28 across two full performances and proudly taking home a second place finish. Head coach Andrea Hinson and assistant coaches Kadilynn Kelley and Harrison Whitney had high praises for their squad and a lot to look forward to as the comp season progresses. Each of these high marks truly emphasizes the significant progress and tremendous efforts the group has made in the off-season and has set the bar high for the rest of their competitions.

USM cheer is proud to start the year on such a high note and is eager to get back to work and continue building on an already promising start. They won't have to wait long to prove themselves yet again as they prepare for the Benedictine Classic hosted by the Benedictine Ravens on campus in Atchison, Kansas on Sunday February 15^th in Ralph Nolan Gymnasium.