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The Morgan State University competitive cheerleading team is ready to showcase their skills on the grand stage of the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) Collegiate Nationals. Set to take place from April 10–13 in Daytona Beach, Florida, this renowned event marks the pinnacle of college cheer and dance competitions worldwide.
Celebrating its 28th year at the Daytona Beach Bandshell and the Ocean Center, this year’s event promises a record-breaking turnout, with over 470 teams and nearly 10,000 athletes from colleges across the country competing for the prestigious golden trophy. The event draws an enthusiastic crowd of more than 25,000 supporters, making it a true celebration of athleticism and teamwork.
The competition is divided into various divisions, including All-Girl, Coed, Small Coed, skill levels (Intermediate and Advanced), university enrollment categories (Division I, 1A, II, Junior College, and NAIA), and specialized events like Game Day Routine, Rally, Partner Stunts, and Mascot performances. Stunt Fest Mania will cap off the excitement on Saturday.
The Cheer Bears are set to compete in the All-Girl Intermediate Division, with their performance scheduled for 2:34 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, at the Ocean Center Arena. Their Friday performance will be determined by their Thursday placement, with an awards ceremony planned for Friday evening.
Saturday night will feature a special celebration hosted by the City of Daytona Beach at the Ocean Center, complete with a DJ, laser light shows, and games for participants.
Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry expressed his pride in hosting the event, stating, “This competition not only highlights the incredible talent and dedication of these athletes but also energizes our community. We welcome everyone to Daytona Beach and look forward to continuing this cherished tradition.”
Morgan State’s Cheer Bears will face tough competition from schools like DePaul, Saint Joseph’s, Hampton University, Florida A&M, and more. The team, which made history as the first All-Girl squad from an HBCU to place in the top three at NCA Nationals, is determined to shine once again. Past achievements include finishing 3rd in the Intermediate Division in 2008 and 2nd in 2022, along with top-three finishes in the Advanced Division in 2014 and 2015.
After overcoming last year’s challenges, including a significant injury during warm-ups, the Cheer Bears are eager to redeem themselves. This year’s team features eight rookies, seven returning members, and three rookie alternates.
“This is the smallest team we’ve ever put on the mat,” said head coach Theresa Gibson. “But we believe they have what it takes. The key is staying focused, composed, and delivering their routine with energy and confidence.”
The NCA & NDA Collegiate National Championship is open to the public and will be streamed live on Varsity TV. Tickets and more information are available at Varsity’s Official Website.
The Morgan State Cheer Bears are ready to leave their mark on Daytona Beach, embodying resilience, dedication, and the spirit of competition.
