BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- The Bridgewater State University Cheerleading Club captured a pair of National Championships as the 2021 National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championships were held virtually and in-person at the Band Shell in Dayton Beach, Florida.
The BSU "Red" squad recorded a score of 94.97 points in the Advanced All-Girl Division III Virtual Division as the Bears captured their fourth national title (2011, 2014, 2019, 2021).
The "Grey" squad won their first National Championship with a score of 91.98 points in the Intermediate Small Coed Virtual Division. Their performance marked the highest score in this team history.
The elite competition, produced by the NCA and National Dance Alliance (NDA), took place this past weekend. The competition marked the 40th anniversary of the championship and the 25th anniversary of the event being held in Daytona Beach.
The event hosted 90 teams in the in-person cheerleading divisions and 41 teams in the virtual cheerleading divisions. As the health and safety of the athletes, coaches, employees, families, and fans remains a top priority, the event was held in a modified format following the guidelines of the CDC, state and local authorities and Varsity Spirit's Health and Safety team. Cheerleading teams are judged on their stunting and tumbling skills, crowd-leading ability, and overall performance.
"Historically, teams from across the country come together at the NCA & NDA Collegiate Championship to showcase their skills and represent their universities. Last year, we cancelled the event in Daytona Beach to protect the health and safety of the athletes, coaches, spectators and all involved," said Bill Boggs, Senior VP and Director of NCA & NDA College Programs. "Between 2020 and 2021, these athletes have spent hundreds of hours raising spirit in new and innovative ways, leading crowds creatively and safely at games, and supporting their schools' athletic teams either from the stands or from home. It's truly an honor to be back safely hosting this event, in person and virtually, where we can recognize these young people for their hard work, dedication and talent."