#United States #Daytona Beach #Varsity Spirit #Collegiate Cheer

2026 NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance National Championships

The excitement during the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships reached new heights this year as nearly 480 teams from colleges nationwide gathered at the iconic Daytona Beach Bandshell for the 30th anniversary of this prestigious event. From April 8th to 12th, the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm, with over 21,000 participants aiming to secure the coveted national title.

Every year, the NCA (National Cheerleaders Association) and NDA (National Dance Alliance) host a competition that showcases the remarkable skills, creativity, and dedication of college cheer and dance teams. This year featured more than 11,000 competitors who represented their colleges with pride, performing breathtaking routines that captivated audiences and judges alike. Cheerleading teams showcased their stunting, tumbling, and crowd-engaging skills, while dance teams dazzled with their choreography, execution, and overall impact.

One of the notable trends in the championship is the growth of the College Game Day divisions, allowing cheer and dance teams to perform alongside their school bands. Since its introduction in 2017, this division has become immensely popular, celebrating both talent and school spirit. The chance for teams to perform under the sun, by the ocean, at the historic beachfront venue, adds another layer of excitement to the competition.

Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit, expressed pride in the event's legacy, stating, "For the last 30 years, the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship has been a defining moment in the careers of countless college athletes. Each year, these teams come together in Daytona to showcase their talent, determination, and university pride. We are honored to recognize the hard work and community spirit that make cheer and dance exceptional sports."

The list of champions this year is as varied as the teams themselves. Some select winners include:

• - Advanced Large Coed DI: Texas Tech University
• - Advanced Small Coed DI: Texas Tech University
• - Game Day DI: Brigham Young University
• - Jazz DIA: Houston State University
• - Pom DIA: West Virginia University
• - Hip Hop DI: Brigham Young University
• - Large Coed Grand Champion: Weber State University
• - All Girl Grand Champion: Oklahoma Baptist University

The full list of results is available on Varsity TV, which provided live coverage during the event.

In addition to the competitive performances, the championships also highlight the spirit of camaraderie among athletes. The competition serves as a platform not only for showcasing talent but also for fostering connections among peers from different institutions. Participating in this event represents more than just a title; it’s a chance for teams to share their passion for cheer and dance, promote school spirit, and embrace the larger collegiate community.

As the sun sets on yet another exciting chapter of the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships, the anticipation now builds for next year's event where new talents will emerge, and traditions will continue. For more information regarding the championships, visit Varsity.com to get the latest news and updates about cheerleading and dance excellence.

In essence, the 2026 Championships showcased not only the athleticism and artistry of the participants but also the enduring legacy of collegiate spirit, a hallmark of the American sports culture.