This past month, January 2024, the University of South Florida All Girl Cheer team made history for being the first Division I team to win national titles for both their traditional and game day divisions!
As a retired cheerleader myself, I know that this is pretty much unheard of. Even winning one national title is a huge accomplishment, but winning two is bragging rights for life.
The Universal Cheerleading Association (UCA) College Nationals took place Jan. 12 through Jan. 14. They are hosted at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, where only the best of the best can take the mat. These teams must make it through multiple rounds of competing just to make it to finals, where they take the mat one final time to compete for the crown.
The All Girl Division I Traditional division requires a cheerleading routine with a cheer, tumbling, and stunting. The Game Day division, however, requires a routine that strictly adheres to traditional football gameday cheer. They must cheer, chant, wave flags, signs, and more.
Many hours go into preparing for these competitions, all while cheering at games and various community activities. Congratulations to these wonderful ladies and all of their accomplishments!