UCO's cheerleading squads are looking forward to establishing themselves as a cheer power after the large coed squad became national champions at this year's National Cheerleading Association Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship, which took place April 10-11 in Daytona Beach, Fla.
The large coed squad competed against Division I schools, such as the University of Maryland and the United States Air Force Academy.
"The large squad had a tough time getting to first place, but in the end they had a perfect routine and won it," said David Owens, coach of the squad.
UCO's small coed squad fell behind primary rival Hawaii Pacific University to take second place in the Division II competition.
"Our small coed squad did the best they've ever done, even though they had slight problems," Owens said.
Cheer co-captain Jessica Stiles said this was the "closest point-wise we've ever been to Hawaii."
Stiles said she is "excited for next year" because the small coed squad came so close to winning.
"This was the best we've ever performed, especially with this being the toughest routine we've ever done and the time we had," she said.
The UCO Dance squad took ninth place in their competition.
"For the dance squad to place in the top 10 with a total of 26 teams is amazing. I think they did really, really well," Owens said.
After this year's results, Stiles is excited for the coming year.
"I think we did a really good job this year, and I can only imagine what's going to happen next year," she said.
Stiles said the application process is underway for those interested in joining the squad next year.
"The applications are available in the Student Life office or on their Web site and are due on May 2. The actual tryouts will be from May 9 to May 11," she said.
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