By: Lakyra Banks
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) – One small town cheerleading squad won big this weekend at the NCA National Championship.
All-star cheerleading teams from across the nation traveled to Dallas for the championship. The competition included the top teams across the U.S.. Infiniti Athletics in Springdale now holds that title after taking home first place in the Small Senior Level 4 Coed division and second place in the Senior Level 4 Open division.
“It’s a very tough competition. So we’re just happy to be in the same arena with them and just really showcasing what we’ve been working on,” said Tyler, the director and cheer coach.
While the squads celebrated a huge victory, the team’s hard-work doesn’t stop there. Coach Tyler said now it’s back to the drawing board to prepare for the biggest competition of the season, the Summit world championships.
“We’re back in the gym and we’re pressing hard. It’s another huge event for us,” Tyler said.
Summit takes place annually at Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Qualifying teams from all over the globe compete for the title of world champion. The time spanning between NCA Nationals and Summit is known as “hell month” according to cheerleader and coach, Gracie Bailey. She also said the process can be exhausting.
“It’s hard. Every day you’re in the gym, plus school. So to coach two teams and have my own practices, it’s just a lot,” Bailey said.
Despite the long hours and nights, coaches and athletes agree the hard work is worth it, just to have the feeling of competing with your team.
“I think I just love how our whole team comes together and you just do these things that people shouldn’t be able to do and you just work really hard together,” said Bailey.
The Summit World Championship will conclude the gym’s competitive season. No matter how their season ends, the cheerleaders said they’re just thankful to have each other.
“It’s like your family by the end of the year, you know every single person, it’s like your best friends,” members of the team said.
Since opening in May of 2008, Infiniti Athletics has won hundreds of national championships, but only 2 world championships. The gym director said she hopes to bring home a few more in April.
Summit begins April 27th and winners will be announced at awards on April 30th.