Excitement at the National Championship
The 2026 UCA & UDA National Championship recently brought together college cheerleading and dance teams in a thrilling display of talent and teamwork. Hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, this annual event showcased some of the brightest young athletes from various universities.
Participation and Reach
The championship attracted over one thousand performances from nearly 250 teams, representing 44 states and five countries. This diverse range highlighted the event's importance and the commitment of students to their craft. Spectators both live and online enjoyed the vibrant performances, with audience numbers increasing significantly from previous years.
A Celebration of Talent
Judging criteria for the cheerleading teams included stunting, tumbling, and overall crowd engagement. The dance teams showcased their skills through choreography and execution. The College Game Day Live segment provided opportunities for programs to highlight their unique traditions and performances. This engaging format drew enormous attention and increased viewership, combining both live attendance and digital audiences.
Highlights from Varsity Spirit
Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit, expressed pride in the athletes, acknowledging the dedication and passion displayed throughout the event. He noted that the enthusiastic crowd added to the overall atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved. The celebrations recognized not just the championship teams but also the spirit of teamwork and hard work evident in every performance.
Division Champions
The competition concluded with several standout teams taking the championship titles:
Small Coed Division IA: University of Memphis
Division IA All Girl: University of Alabama
Division IA Coed Cheer: University of South Florida
Division I Coed Cheer: University of West Georgia
Small Coed Division I: Grand Canyon University
Open Coed Cheer: Jones College
Open All Girl: Northwest Community College
Open Small Coed Cheer: Grand Canyon University
Diverse Dance Categories
The dance competitions showcased various styles across age groups: Division IA – Hip Hop: University of Nevada – Las Vegas; Division IA – Jazz: Ohio State University; and Division I – Pom: Cal State University Fullerton. Each category highlighted the hard work and artistry of the dancers involved.
Media Coverage and Future Airings
The championships were live-streamed on Varsity TV, allowing fans to catch the excitement even if they couldn't attend in person. With viewer engagement soaring, the anticipation builds for the upcoming airings on ESPN2 and ESPNU. Local listings will provide detailed schedules for these broadcasts.
Contact and Company Information
For inquiries, Kelly Greene is available for media connections. Varsity Spirit, a leader in cheerleading and dance team experiences, continues to influence the landscape with innovative practices. Committed to athlete safety and performance quality, they serve over a million participants yearly.
Varsity Brands supports athletic programs with a wide range of services and products, constantly striving to empower young athletes and foster community through sports. To learn more about their initiatives, visit their websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UCA & UDA National Championship?
The UCA & UDA National Championship is a prestigious event showcasing college cheerleading and dance teams from around the world.
Where was the championship held?
The championship event took place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
How many teams participated in the event?
Approximately 250 teams from 44 states and five countries participated in the championship.
Who were some of the key winners?
Notable winners included the University of Memphis and the University of Alabama in various cheerleading and dance divisions.
How can I watch the championship on television?
The championship will air on ESPN2 and ESPNU, with specific dates available through local listings.
