ORLANDO, FL / MORGANTOWN, WV – In an unprecedented display of athleticism, precision, and sheer artistry, the West Virginia University Cheerleading Squad has been crowned the world’s best by ESPN, following a performance at the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship that has been described as nothing short of revolutionary. Their routine not only shattered previous scoring records but also…
an unprecedented display of athleticism, precision, and sheer artistry, the West Virginia University Cheerleading Squad has been crowned the world’s best by ESPN, following a performance at the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship that has been described as nothing short of revolutionary. Their routine not only shattered previous scoring records but also redefined the very standards of competitive cheerleading.
Held in Orlando, Florida, the competition brought together elite collegiate cheerleading and dance teams from across the nation and beyond. Yet, it was WVU’s powerhouse squad that stole the spotlight. From their electrifying tumbling passes to their flawlessly synchronized stunts, the Mountaineers delivered a routine that seamlessly fused athletic difficulty with artistic expression—earning a near-perfect score from the judges and thunderous applause from the packed arena.
What set WVU apart wasn’t just the complexity of their routine, but the innovative choreography and storytelling woven into every second of their performance. Their routine paid homage to Appalachian heritage and pride, merging traditional cheer elements with bold, theatrical movements that captivated audiences and judges alike. According to ESPN analysts, their execution was “flawless and emotionally resonant,” bringing a fresh, dynamic energy that set a new benchmark for the sport.
Head coach Alyssa Martin, who has led the team for the past five years, credited the historic win to relentless dedication and an unbreakable team bond. “These athletes have poured every ounce of themselves into this,” she said. “They didn’t just perform—they told a story, represented our state, and made history.”
Social media exploded with praise following the win, with the hashtag #WVUcheer trending nationally. Alumni, fans, and even rival teams applauded the Mountaineers for pushing the boundaries of cheerleading.
As the team returns to Morgantown, celebrations are already underway, with a university-wide rally planned to honor their achievement. For now, the WVU Cheerleading Squad stands atop the cheerleading world—not only as champions, but as pioneers redefining the sport.
With their eyes already on next year’s championship, the message is clear: the Mountaineers have arrived, and they’re here to stay.
