HONOLULU, Hawai'i – Hawai'i Pacific Acrobatics & Tumbling opened its 2026 season Saturday inside the Shark Tank, falling in a narrow 263.500–261.265 decision to Azusa Pacific in the Sharks' first meet of the year.

Despite the result, HPU delivered a competitive and composed performance from start to finish, keeping the meet within striking distance until the final rotation.

The Sharks came out strong in Compulsory, winning three of the four heats and taking an early 37.750–37.300 advantage. HPU outscored APU in Acro (9.500), Toss (9.800), and Tumbling (8.700), setting the tone in their season debut.

The meet remained tight through Acro and Pyramid, with both teams trading small edges and separated by less than half a point at multiple points in the afternoon. HPU posted a 29.000 in Pyramid, highlighted by a 9.800 in Heat 2 and a 9.700 in Heat 3, keeping the pressure on the Cougars.

Toss and Tumbling continued the back-and-forth battle. The Sharks delivered strong individual tumbling passes, including a 9.825 in Heat 5, one of the top scores of the meet.

Heading into the Team Event, the outcome remained undecided. HPU performed with confidence in its first full Team routine of the season, earning an 85.840 to close out the meet.

While Azusa Pacific ultimately secured the victory, Hawai'i Pacific's season opener showcased depth, execution, and the ability to compete at a high level from the first whistle. With the first meet now under their belt, the Sharks look to build on the performance as the 2026 campaign continues.