Dodge City Community College spirit squad got the 2026-27 school year underway with their annual qualifier camp competition, featuring both the Conquistador cheer and dance teams. The National Cheer Association and National Dance Alliance Collegiate Qualifier Camp was once again in Columbia, Missouri, for the Conqs competing at the camp hosted by the University of Missouri. 

Over the three days of camp, the Conqs competed in several contests while learning and mingling with other schools, including several NCAA Division I programs. 

Cheer had a strong camp, registering top marks in several categories and performances. After earning the spirit stick on day one, the Conqs earned a superior ribbon for their 45-second crowd segment, notching a 9.9 out of 10, earning fourth overall at the camp. Conqs posted a 10 score and picked up a superior ribbon in the Game Day competition, while scoring a 49 out of 50 in the rally routine, securing a superior ribbon and earning first place. Conqs secured a silver bid for nationals with their performance at the camp. 

Dance like cheer earned the spirit stick during camp and posted a second-place team finish in junior college competition. 

A trio of Conqs picked up NCA and NDA All-American honors. On the cheer side, veterans Alexis Mhando and Ava Pillay were recognized with NCA All-American honors, while Brianna Ochoa of the dance squad picked up NDA All-American honors. 

Conqs will now look to bring the energy throughout the school year, cheering and performing on game days, while continuing to train and work for spring competition and the NCA and NDA National Championships in April 2027.