2025 UCA College Nationals Recap: Champions and Standout Moments
2025 UCA College Nationals Recap: Champions and Standout Moments
The 2025 UCA College Nationals, held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida, showcased the nation's premier collegiate cheerleading talent. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions in the cheerleading industry, it attracts the best teams from across the country. Over three days of intense competition, teams delivered remarkable performances, with several programs making history and others reaffirming their dominance.
University of Alabama
The University of Alabama clinched the Division IA Coed title , demonstrating exceptional skill and synchronization. This victory marked their first championship in 10 years, highlighting their return to dominance in a division where they have consistently been strong competitors. Known for their precise execution and engaging routines, Alabama’s program has long been a formidable presence at UCA Nationals.
University of West Georgia
University of West Georgia dominated Division I, securing three national titles in Coed, All-Girl, and Small Coed categories. Known for their innovative choreography and flawless execution, the team demonstrated a high level of athleticism and teamwork across all performances. Their ability to adapt and deliver under pressure solidified their reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate cheerleading.
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) made history by winning their first All-Girl Division IA title. This victory marks a significant milestone for the program, which has been steadily building momentum over the years. Known for their sharp motions and intricate stunts, Ole Miss delivered a performance that captured the essence of teamwork and determination, bringing a national championship trophy to their program.
Bowling Green University
The Small Coed Division IA title went to Bowling Green University. Their high-energy performance featured impressive tumbling passes and innovative pyramids that left the audience in awe. Bowling Green’s program has been steadily building its reputation, combining a focus on technical precision with a commitment to creative choreography that continues to captivate audiences.
Partner Stunt
Weber State University's duo, Vada Parker and Leo Borjas Jr., won the Coed Partner Stunt category. This division includes some of the most elite stunting in the cheerleading industry, where athletes push the boundaries of difficulty and precision to showcase innovative skills and seamless execution. The University of West Georgia's team, comprising Piper Horne, Abby Wang, Kalli Grace Turman, and Abby Faith, excelled in the Girls '4' Group Stunt. Like the Coed Partner Stunt category, this event demands incredible strength, coordination, and timing, as athletes perform high-difficulty skills that highlight their technical expertise and creativity.
Game Day Division Highlights
In the Game Day divisions, the University of South Florida triumphed in Division IA. Their routine was praised for its energy and connection with the crowd, embodying the spirit of collegiate cheerleading.
Southeastern Louisiana University led Division I, showcasing a perfect blend of traditional cheerleading elements and creative choreography that wowed both judges and spectators.
The University of Minnesota secured the Small Coed Division IA Game Day title. Their performance was a masterclass in precision and crowd engagement, earning them a well-deserved win. Additionally, UNLV topped the All-Girl Division IA Game Day, while Sacred Heart University shined in the All-Girl Division I Game Day category, delivering a dynamic and crowd-pleasing performance that highlighted their program's energy and spirit.
Butler University captured the Small Coed Division I Game Day title, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and innovative skills. In the Open divisions, Hinds Community College claimed the Open Small Coed Game Day championship, impressing the audience with their sharp execution and creativity. Meanwhile, Pearl River Community College earned the Open All-Girl Game Day title, standing out for their dynamic performance and strong crowd engagement.
Memorable Highlights
A standout moment of the competition was Ole Miss's historic win in the All-Girl Division IA, marking their first national title in this category. The University of Alabama’s triumphant return to the top of Division IA Coed after a 10-year gap also stood out, showcasing their program’s resilience and enduring strength. Additionally, the University of West Georgia's sweep of three divisions underscored their comprehensive excellence across different team configurations.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 UCA College Nationals highlighted the dedication and talent of collegiate cheerleaders nationwide. As teams return to their campuses, the achievements and experiences from Orlando will inspire preparations for the next season. This year's competition set a high standard, and anticipation is already building for the performances and rivalries that will unfold in 2026.