SE Grand Rapids News

In the 2021-22 athletic season, several Davenport University teams achieved significant success by securing national championships in their respective sports.

The women's rugby team excelled during the spring 7s season, entering as strong contenders and ultimately claiming victory. They participated in the USA Rugby 7s Collegiate Championships held in May, competing fiercely in the Red Division. The Panthers overcame all obstacles, defeating Princeton with a score of 17-5 and Navy with a score of 24-17 to win the championship. Their triumph was sealed with a penalty try converted in the final moments.

The cheer and dance teams maintained their tradition of excellence at Daytona Beach, where they competed for national titles. The cheer team won the NCA All-Girl Division II national championship, marking their first Division II title and sixth overall national championship. Meanwhile, the dance team secured its fourth title by successfully defending their 2021 championship in the team division. Leadership was provided by fifth-year captains Gabrielle Kolm and Madison Letwinski along with fourth-year captains Morgan Bernstein and Jenna Belian.

Davenport's Esports team also made notable strides during this period. The Counter Strike Division II squad captured their second national championship after facing formidable opponents such as Stony Brook University and the University of Toronto. In May, they advanced to the Grand Finals against Kansas State, whom they had previously lost to during both regular season play and upper bracket playoffs. However, they emerged victorious in the finals with a decisive 2-0 win in the NACE CSGO Challenger League.