WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — The West Liberty University acrobatics & tumbling team returns home tonight for its 2026 home opener, hosting Wheeling at 6 p.m. inside the ASRC. The meet marks West Liberty's third competition of the young season.
The Hilltoppers (1-2) opened the year at the Fairmont State tri-meet, posting a team score of 222.29 while defeating West Virginia State and finishing behind the Falcons. West Liberty showed early strength in the Pyramid event (26.90) and Tumbling (41.60), highlighted by a 9.75 in the Open Pyramid and a strong 8.45 in the Six-Element Tumbling Pass.
Last week, the Black & Gold traveled to Pittsburgh to face No. 7 Duquesne, falling 255.130–217.645. Despite the setback, West Liberty continued to show growth, particularly in the 5-Element Acro Heat (9.05) and Synchronized Pyramid Heat (9.30). The Hilltoppers also turned in a solid 8.325 in the Six-Element Tumbling Pass and closed with improved energy in the Team Event.
Through two meets, tumbling and pyramid have emerged as key strengths, with West Liberty consistently posting competitive scores in the upper-8 to low-9 range. As the season progresses, the focus remains on increasing start values, tightening execution, and improving difficulty across the acro and toss events.
Wheeling enters tonight's meet after competing at the Glenville State tri-meet earlier this season, falling to Glenville State (254.255–190.560) while defeating Bluefield State (190.560–112.125). The Cardinals bring experience and depth and will look to challenge the Hilltoppers in their home debut.
The series history favors West Liberty. The Hilltoppers swept Wheeling in both meetings last season, earning a 245.225–185.170 road win on Feb. 2 and a 245.650–204.965 victory at home on March 22.
West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.
