OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City launches its ultra-successful competitive cheer season this weekend, looking to continue its tradition of national prominence.
 
The Stars were first at NCA, conference champions, winners of the OCU Classic and the MNU Duals and, for the 12^th year in a row, qualified for the NAIA Nationals.
 
Individually, Scotlyn Banfield was Conference Performer of the Year and Champion of Character and Matthew Carmen carried off Conference Newcomer of the Year. Banfield is not only a back-to-back Conference Performer of the Year, but a back-to-back All-American as well.
 
Returning Athletes
 
A solid foundation returns, giving Head Coach Alicia Bailey reason to be optimistic.
 
"We are returning a lot of last year's competition roster," said Bailey. "Thirteen out of our 17 athletes on the mat have experience competing together. Our stunt section and pyramid section are always our strengths. With so many returning athletes, we are able to use last year's skills as a progression for what we are putting on the mat this year. Our goal is to place in the top three at NAIA Nationals."
 
Along with Banfield and Carmen, the 2026 Stars will rely heavily on returners Kaileigh Knight and Karamya Whitten.
 
"Matthew is a consistent presence across every category on the scoresheet. He is one of our most reliable and steady contributors," said Bailey. "Kaileigh has made tremendous growth since her arrival. She continues to push herself each year and has developed into one of our top female athletes. Despite battling another injury this season, Scotty remains a key contributor. She is the team's leader and brings consistency and stability to our overall performance. One of the most versatile athletes I've coached, Karamya will contribute both as a flyer and a base. Her mid-layer expertise is an invaluable asset to the team."
 
Newcomers
 
Four newcomers are expected to make an immediate impact: Cali-Kae Peters, Teagen Lindgren, Lexi Morgan and Tanner Wood.
 
"The only freshman currently performing on the mat, Cali-Kae is set to make a major impact this season," said Bailey. "Her tumbling is exceptional, and she will open our routine with a high-level elite basket skill. Transitioning from our STUNT team, Teagen has been outstanding. She has elevated her skills across the board, and her work ethic truly sets her apart. A former all-star athlete with multiple Worlds appearances, Lexi contributes strong leadership, an excellent attitude, and is a key asset in our tumbling sections. A transfer from Colorado Boulder, Tanner brings strength, experience, and a team-first personality that fits seamlessly into our program."
 
New Conference
 
The Stars are now in the American Midwest Conference for both cheer and dance. The AMC now includes Oklahoma City, Langston, Saint Xavier, Columbia College, Cottey College, St. Ambrose, Dickinson State and the University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy.
 
St. Ambrose won the NAIA championship last season for the third year in a row and Dickinson State placed third nationally.
 
Schedule
 
The Stars have seven events on the schedule, beginning with the Coyote Classic in Salina, Kan., on Friday. OCU also competes Feb. 7 and Feb. 21 in Kansas before hosting the OCU Classic on March 1.
 
The American Midwest Conference Championship is in Columbia, Mo., on March 7 and the NAIA Championships are in Topeka on March 25.
 
OCU ends its season on April 8 at the NCA Nationals in Daytona Beach, Fla.