HONOLULU, Hawai'i - The Hawai'i Pacific Acrobatics and Tumbling team is poised for an exhilarating 2024 season, marked by a potent mix of seasoned veterans, promising freshmen, and an accomplished coaching staff. Head Coach Peyton Smith, entering her second season at the helm, is ready to guide the Sharks through a grueling schedule, armed with the experience gained from a strong 2023 campaign.

Key Storylines:

1. Climbing the Ranks: The Sharks are coming off a season that saw them climb as high as 8th in the NCATA National Championship Rankings, showcasing their potential and ability to compete at an elite level. With wins over East Stroudsburg University and University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Hawai'i Pacific is eager to build on last season's successes and make a more significant impact on the national stage.
2. Coach Peyton Smith's Second Act: Head Coach Peyton Smith returns for her second season, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a strategic vision to lead the Sharks through what is touted as one of the toughest schedules in the country. The continuity in coaching will undoubtedly provide stability, fostering player development and team cohesion as they navigate the challenges ahead.
3. Early Challenges on the Road: The season kicks off with a formidable challenge as the Sharks head to Eugene to face the NCATA Championship runner-up, Oregon. This road test will be a litmus test for the team's preparedness and set the tone for the competitive battles that lie ahead. The Sharks will then return home to the Shark Tank to square off against rival Azusa Pacific in a matchup that promises a showcase of two Division II powerhouses.
4. East Coast Odyssey: March brings a pivotal three-meet East Coast tour, with stops at West Liberty University, Fairmont State, and Frostburg State — two teams that finished in the top ten of the final NCATA National Championship Rankings. This mid-season journey provides the Sharks with an opportunity to measure themselves against some of the nation's best, setting the stage for a potential postseason run
5. Home Sweet Home: he final two home meets feature matchups against Mary Hardin-Baylor and Oregon, two opponents that promise intense and high-stakes competition. Mary Hardin-Baylor, a known force in Division III, will provide a stern test for the Sharks. Meanwhile a rematch against the Ducks will have significant implications for the Sharks as they position themselves for postseason play.
6. Returning Veterans: Coach Peyton Smith is bringing back a seasoned roster, with 19 athletes returning from the 2023 campaign. Led by the 2023 NCATA All-America Team member, Ravenna Bala, these athletes bring a wealth of experience, leadership, and a hunger for success. The presence of seniors Lily Baer, Kylee Van Antwerp, Devyn Golden, Alyra Andes, Jaylyn Oka, Emily Colmenares, Olivia Cartwright, Hannah Marson, Marina Gilmartin, Christine Wong, and Bala is sure to be a driving force, both in competition and serve as a strong foundation for the team.
7. Fresh Faces: The Sharks have injected new energy into their lineup with the addition of six talented freshmen. As these newcomers step onto the collegiate stage, their potential to make an immediate impact will be closely watched. The blend of seasoned veterans and enthusiastic rookies creates a dynamic mix, setting the stage for a harmonious team dynamic and the discovery of newfound strengths.
8. New Hire: The coaching staff has been fortified this past offseason with the addition of Jacie Van de Zilver. Van de Zilver's distinction as only the second APU Cougar ever to achieve All-American honors three times along with being awarded the Division II Most Outstanding Athlete in 2022 and 2023, adds an extra layer of prestige to HPU's stellar program.