By Jennifer Uselton

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Nationals was an exciting event packed with talented teams, celebrity performances and a record breaking number of participants. They say that everything is bigger in Texas and with the event being held at Jerry Jones’ AT&T Stadium, the Texas stereotype was definitely on point. There were a record setting 18 special needs teams that performed at the event.  Spirit Celebration events all start with the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, and a prayer led by SC owner, and former Texas Tech cheerleader, Billy Smith. As an emphasis on patriotism, all athletes are gifted a set of dog tags with the number 6 to remind every athlete to pray for the military.  In military terms, “I’ve got your 6” translates to I’ve got your back.  From the performances, the attendance and the awards, this event really left a BIG impact on many teams. 

Photo: Liberty Cheer

The Division 1 Large Gym Overall Combined Scores Winner was Liberty Cheer from Midlothian, Texas. Their performances were sharp, clean and amazing to watch.  Their combined scores won them a cash prize of $5,000.  Liberty is a strong, faith based cheer program with a big presence.  They also competed successfully at the Christmas Classic and Dallas Mavericks competitions held by Spirit Celebration.  As a matter of fact, Liberty swept the Christmas Classic just 1 day after a tornado ripped through their town and destroyed many houses, cars and caused injuries within the Liberty program.  They still managed to rally together and make a great showing at the competition. 

The Division 2 Small Gym Overall Combined Scores Winner was the Oklahoma Twisters from Oklahoma City. They are known for their creative choreography and fast paced routines. The Tiny Twisters placed 3rd, the Funnel Clouds placed 10th, the Tornadoes placed 2nd, the Hurricanes were National Champs, the Cyclones placed 2nd, the Supercells ranked 2nd, and Vortex was awarded the National Champ title. With a highly experienced, award winning coaching staff, the Oklahoma Twisters are always set up for success.

The High Point Dance routine that took home the $1,000 prize was Barnard Company Dance from Mount Pleasant, Texas. The Barnard Dance Company has a reputation for success in the dance community. They are known for their soul touching performances. When you watch them perform it is easy to see that music touches them in a way that radiates out through their bodies during performances. It’s safe to say that the dancers feel music in a way that leaves most of us jealous and in awe at the same time. 

Photo: Jen Uselton

The High Point All Star Prep program that was lucky enough to take home the $1,000 Combined Score award was Sideline Sports from Rowlett, TX. Sideline Sports is affectionately known as the “Best Little Gym In Texas”. Their routines are usually action packed, and always sharp and clean. This small gym opened in 2010 and has grown exponentially since then. Sideline Sports is definitely one to watch at upcoming Spirit Celebration competitions.  

All of the All Star Level Champions also received a $1,000 cash award. The Levels, 1, 2 and 5 All Star Champions all belonged to Liberty Cheer from Midlothian, TX. The Level 3 All Star Champions receiving the $1000 award was Gymcat Cheer from Denton, TX, and the level 4 Level Champions were Powerhouse Cheer from Temple, TX. Navarro College took home the $1000 prize as the Champions in the College Division. Each level Champion also received PAID bids to The ONE Finals, while all 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams qualified for a bid to The ONE.

Overall it was a great day at the DCC National Championships!