Kennesaw, Ga. - Beginning with preseason camp in August, continuing through the year with grueling practice sessions anywhere from three to four days per week and then concluding with one final showcase on Monday evening at the Spec Landrum Centre, the Owls cheer team stands ready to claim it's first ever national title this week at the National Cheer Association Championships in Daytona, Florida.

Leaving Wednesday morning, the proud and confident Owls, who last month captured their first-ever Peach Belt Conference crown, headed south for what many people believe could be the university's fifth national championship.

After a pair of second place finishes over the past two seasons, Kennesaw State is reaching for the pinnacle of cheerleading excellence this week as they enter the nationals as the country's top Division II squad.

"We are thrilled to be No. 1 going into the competition," said head coach Felecia Ingle," but we all know that what matters most is what you do on the mat. We are just going to go down (to Daytona) and do our best."

In order to claim the national title, the Owls will have fierce competition from No. 2-ranked, and defending national champion, Central Oklahoma (9.175) who finished .50 behind Kennesaw State (9.25) for the top spot this season. Framingham State (8.65), Pittsburgh-Johnstown (8.55) and state-rival Valdosta State (8.475) round out the top five.

"We believe that in order to be a national champion you have to earn it," added Ingle, "and I know that we have worked harder than any team in the country. No matter what trophy we bring home, I know we have the best squad."

The Owls kick off their chase for the national title when they hit the mat on Thursday morning at 11:20 AM. The final day of competition is set for Friday morning.