The Grand Finale: Celebrating All-Star Cheer and Dance at The Summit Championships

A Spectacular Conclusion to the Competitive Cheer and Dance Season

The annual Summit, Dance Summit, and D2 Summit Championships marked a thrilling showcase of athleticism and talent in Orlando, Florida. Held from May 1-4 and May 9-11, 2025, this year's events drew more than 45,000 athletes and coaches from across the globe, culminating in a powerful celebration of cheer and dance.

Participants came from 18 different countries, with over 2,300 teams and a whopping 78,000 spectators gracing the festivities at the magnificent Walt Disney World® Resort. John Newby, Executive VP and General Manager of Varsity Spirit Events, remarked on the significance of these championships, claiming it’s "the ultimate way to close out their season for all star cheer and dance athletes around the world."

As competitors showcased their hard work and dedication, the atmosphere was electric, filled with the passionate energy of supporters and enthusiastic fans. These championships are not only pivotal for the athletes in terms of recognition and competitive experience, but they also serve to honor the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership displayed throughout the season.

The Varsity Pinnacle Award: Honoring Excellence

A special highlight of the championships was the presentation of The Varsity Pinnacle Award, which recognizes exceptional athletes who embody the core values of teamwork, dedication, confidence, and leadership. This year, the award was presented to three outstanding recipients: Stan Cottom from Crush Cheer in Bletchley, UK, Charlotte Schubert from Dollhouse Dance Factory in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and Alexa Wilson from Ohio Valley All Stars in Parkersburg, West Virginia.

This year’s Pinnacle Award is particularly historic, as Stan Cottom became the first male and international recipient ever, highlighting not only his skills but also his inspiring role within his team and community. Charlotte and Alexa equally demonstrated their impact as proactive leaders and role models, setting an example for their peers in the cheer and dance communities.

A Note from Varsity Spirit

Varsity Spirit, a division of Varsity Brands, prides itself on being a leading force in cheerleading and dance, pushing the boundaries of the sport with innovative uniforms, camps, and competitions. Since its inception in 1974, Varsity Spirit has been focused on delivering high-quality experiences to millions of athletes every year, ensuring safety, entertainment, and profound school spirit.

Upcoming Broadcast and Coverage

All championships were live-streamed via Varsity TV, which provides exclusive coverage of competitions. For those who missed out on the live action, recordings of the routines will soon be featuring on ESPN, providing fans worldwide with access to these incredible performances. Full results and detailed listings can also be found on Varsity TV, ensuring that the memories of this year's championships will not fade away.

The annual celebration of competitive cheerleading and dance at The Summit Championships not only showcases remarkable skills and dedication but also fosters a sense of community among athletes and fans alike. With the memories and triumphs of this season, athletes will carry forward their experiences into the upcoming years. For more insights into the magic of these events and future opportunities, check out the Varsity Spirit website, and stay tuned for the next chapter of cheer and dance excellence!