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The Worldwide Rise of Cheer: Spotlight on Japan, Australia, and Norway at 2024 ICU Championships

Global cheerleading expansion top cheerleading nations 2024

By Steve Pawlyk

Published August 19, 2024

Cheerleading has long been associated with American sports culture, but the sport has been experiencing a significant global expansion in recent years. This trend was particularly evident at the 2024 ICU World Cheerleading Championships, where several countries showcased their prowess, signaling a shift in the competitive cheerleading landscape. Among the standout nations were Japan, Australia, and Norway, each making significant strides and proving that cheerleading is truly becoming a global sport.

Team Japan: Rising to the Top in International Cheerleading

Japan’s ascent in competitive cheer has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the past decade, Japan has evolved from a country primarily known for its success in dance categories to a formidable contender in cheerleading, particularly in the Coed Elite division. This transformation is a testament to the country’s dedication to excellence and the strategic efforts made by Cheer Japan, the organization responsible for nurturing and developing the nation’s cheerleading talent.

Japan icu cheerleading All Girl Elite cheerleading

Evolution

Cheerleading in Japan has a rich history, supported by several key organizations, including Cheer Japan, which was founded in 2010. Initially, Japan made a strong impact in dance categories, such as Freestyle Pom and Hip Hop, where they consistently placed in the top ranks at international competitions. However, the nation’s ambitions extended beyond dance, leading to the formation of All-Girl and Coed Elite teams that would eventually compete at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships.

Japan’s Coed Elite team made its debut in 2014, but it wasn’t until 2023 that they secured their first gold medal, a historic moment that marked Japan’s emergence as a top contender in cheerleading. This victory was the result of meticulous preparation, including nationwide tryouts and rigorous training sessions held weekly. These efforts paid off, with the team making it to the finals for the first time and ultimately taking home the gold

Standout Athletes and Coaches

The success of Japan’s cheerleading teams can be attributed to both the athletes’ dedication and the expertise of their coaches. For example, Sonoka Kasahara, the head coach of the Coed Elite team, played a crucial role in leading the team to their historic victory in 2023. Under Kasahara’s guidance, the athletes engaged in a disciplined training regime that included stunt and tumbling homework, as well as intensive practice sessions in Florida just before the championship. This level of preparation was unprecedented for the team and demonstrated a new level of commitment that propelled them to the top

Additionally, the athletes themselves have shown remarkable resilience and skill. Many of the team members had never competed at such a high level before, making their achievement even more impressive. The win in 2023 is likely just the beginning. They clearly have momentum 🙂

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Team Australia: A Consistent Cheer Powerhouse

Australia has cemented its place as a formidable force in the cheerleading world, particularly in the Coed and All-Girl divisions. The country’s consistent performances at international competitions, especially at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, highlight the depth of talent and the strong cheerleading culture that has been cultivated over the years.

A Legacy of Success

Australia’s cheerleading history is marked by steady growth and increasing success on the global stage. The Australian Cheer Union (ACU) has played a pivotal role in this development, bringing together the nation’s top talent to compete at the highest levels. The ACU’s strategic approach includes rigorous selection processes, where athletes from across the country are chosen to represent Australia in various international events. This method has proven effective, as seen in their impressive performances at the 2023 and 2024 ICU World Cheerleading Championships.

In 2023, Australia had one of its most successful showings, with all teams placing in the top five in their respective divisions. The All Girl Elite team secured a historic gold medal, marking Australia’s first World Championship title in this category. Meanwhile, the Coed Elite team earned a silver medal, showcasing the country’s competitive edge across multiple divisions. These achievements were not just a testament to the athletes’ skills but also to the exceptional coaching and preparation that went into these performances.

Australia All Girl Elite cheerleading Australia All Girl Elite cheerleading

Standout Athletes and Coaches

Key to Australia’s success has been the dedication and expertise of its coaches, such as Derrick Turner, the head coach of the All Girl Elite team, and Eddie Davey, who leads the Coed Elite team. These coaches have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what Australian cheerleading can achieve, focusing on refining techniques, building team cohesion, and fostering a competitive spirit that has propelled the teams to international success.

Athletes from Team Australia have consistently demonstrated their prowess, with many standout performances that have caught the attention of the global cheerleading community. The training regimen for these athletes is intense, with preparation involving multiple training camps across Australia and final practice sessions held just before major competitions in the USA. This level of commitment from both coaches and athletes has been a significant factor in Australia’s rise as a cheerleading powerhouse

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Team Norway Cheer: Emerging Contenders

Norway has been making significant strides in the international cheerleading scene, particularly in the All-Girl and Coed Premier divisions. While the country may not have traditionally been seen as a cheerleading powerhouse, recent performances at global events like the ICU World Cheerleading Championships have shown that Norway is quickly becoming a formidable contender.

A History of Growth and Success

Norway’s cheerleading journey began with a slow and steady rise, primarily driven by the efforts of teams like the Viqueens Cheerleaders. The Viqueens, one of Norway’s most prominent cheerleading clubs, have played a pivotal role in elevating the country’s status on the world stage. Their team, Viqueens Spirit, has been competing internationally since 2011, steadily improving their performances over the years. In 2024, they achieved a monumental victory by winning their first-ever gold medal at The Cheerleading Worlds in the L7 International Open division. This win was the culmination of over a decade of hard work, dedication, and a strong culture of excellence within the team

Norway icu 2024 norwegian cheerleading All Girl Elite cheerleading

Standout Teams and Athletes

The Viqueens Spirit team is known for its rigorous training and the exceptional talent of its athletes. Notably, many members of this team also represent Norway at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships, demonstrating their versatility and high skill level across different competitions. In 2024, the Norwegian All-Girl Elite team, which included several athletes from the Viqueens, secured a spot on the podium, finishing just behind the United States and Finland. This achievement highlighted the depth of talent in Norway and underscored the country’s growing competitiveness on the international stage

Coaching and Development

The success of Norwegian cheerleading can be largely attributed to the quality of its coaching. Coaches like Nathalie Brøndrup, who have a deep connection to the sport both as former athletes and now as coaches, have been instrumental in building a culture of hard work and resilience. Brøndrup, for example, emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong, fighting spirit within the team, which has been a cornerstone of their success

In addition to coaching, Norway’s national cheerleading programs have benefited from structured development strategies, including regular training camps, participation in European and global championships, and a focus on technical skill development. Events like the ICU European Cheerleading Championships, hosted in Norway in 2024, have further provided a platform for Norwegian teams to compete at a high level and gain invaluable experience

As cheer continues to evolve, these countries are likely to remain at the forefront, inspiring others to elevate their programs. The future of cheerleading is undeniably global, and the sport is better for it.

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2024 UCA All Star National Championship Recap and Results

2024 UCA Nationals Championships Results Recap cheerleading

By Steve Pawlyk

Published March 12, 2024

SCROLL TO RESULTS

This past weekend, the cheerleading world turned its gaze towards Orlando, Florida, as the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex played host to the highly anticipated 2024 UCA All Star National Championship. A spectacle of athleticism, teamwork, and spirit, this year’s championship was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing the best of the best in the cheer community.

uca allstars cheer extreme recap Results scores

A Venue of Victory

At the heart of the excitement was the prestigious ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. Over the course of March 9-10, 2024, teams from across the nation gathered to compete for top honors, with the event offering a total of 4 paid bids and 12 at-large bids to the most elite teams.

Triumphs and Trophies

The competition was fierce, with squads giving their all to impress the judges and captivate the audience. In the end, several teams rose to the occasion, securing their place at the top with performances that will be remembered for years to come.

Paid Bid Winners

At-Large Bid Winners

  • UKNight Training Center – Majesty made a significant impact in the L6 U18 NT division, proving that talent and dedication can indeed make dreams come true.
  • Top Gun All Stars – Lady Eve brought elegance and power to the L7 International Open division, earning their spot with a performance that spoke volumes of their commitment.
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Champions Crowned

The final bid order and scores revealed the depth of talent present at this year’s championship. Brandon All-Stars – Senior Black, under the guidance of coaches Kyle, Erica, Joslynne, and Jarrod, showcased a blend of precision and astute athleticism and rocked the room. Their coaching staff’s ability to foster a winning focus and technical excellence was evident as they led their team to a spectacular victory with an impressive score of 98.933 in the L6 Small Senior Coed category, closely followed by Cheer Extreme – Senior Elite and Top Gun All Stars – TGLC.

Divisional Standouts

From the electrifying energy of the L6 Limited XSmall Senior division, where Cheer Express Allstars – Miss Silver emerged victorious, to the intense competition in the L6 Large Senior Coed category, topped by Top Gun All Stars – TGLCthe UCA All Star National Championship proved yet again why it’s a pinnacle of cheer excellence, with teams pushing the boundaries of athleticism and perfection

uca allstar 2024 reults

This year’s UCA All Star National Championship did not disappoint. As teams return to their home gyms, they bring back trophies, bids, and the satisfaction of executing excellence.

Big shout out to all the athletes, coaches, and fans who came together to make the 2024 UCA All Star National Championship a resounding success. Can’t wait for next year!!

RESULTS

Winners

wdt_ID wdt_created_by wdt_created_at wdt_last_edited_by wdt_last_edited_at Division Winner Score
1 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Limited XSmall Senior Cheer Express Allstars – Miss Silver 96.93
2 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Limited XSmall Senior Coed Extreme All Stars – Lvl X 96.70
3 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Limited Small Senior Coed Florida Top Dog All Stars – Rain 95.30
4 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 XSmall Senior Upper Merion All Stars – Royals 95.06
5 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Small Senior Coed Brandon All-Stars – Senior Black 98.93
6 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Medium Senior Top Gun All Stars – Lady Jags 97.83
7 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Large Senior Cheer Extreme – Senior Elite 98.42
8 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 Large Senior Coed Top Gun All Stars – TGLC 98.31
9 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 International Open Coed Large Top Gun All Stars – Double O 98.21
10 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 International Global Coed Top Gun All Stars – GLOC 95.58
11 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 International Open NT Cheer Extreme – Lady Lux 97.46
12 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 International Open Coed NT Brandon All-Stars – Legacy 97.02
13 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 U18 NT FAME All Stars VA Beach – Royals 91.60
14 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L6 U18 Coed NT Cheer Extreme – COEX 96.96
15 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L7 International Open Top Gun All Stars – Lady Eve 90.03
16 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L7 International Open Coed Small Top Gun All Stars – Toxic 97.96
17 tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 12:37 PM L7 International Open Coed Large Top Gun All Stars – Guardians 97.61
Division Winner Score

Bid Information

wdt_ID wdt_created_by wdt_created_at wdt_last_edited_by wdt_last_edited_at Type Team Division
1 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM Paid Upper Merion All Stars – Crush L6 Small Senior Coed
2 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM Paid Top Gun All Stars – Toxic L7 International Open Coed Small
3 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM Paid Top Gun All Stars – Guardians L7 International Open Coed Large
4 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM At Large UKNight Training Center – Majesty L6 U18 NT
5 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:13 PM At Large Top Gun All Stars – Lady Eve L7 International Open
Type Team Division

Final Scores and Bid Order

wdt_ID wdt_created_by wdt_created_at wdt_last_edited_by wdt_last_edited_at # Program/Team Score
1 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 1 Brandon All-Stars – Senior Black 98.93
2 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 2 Cheer Extreme – Senior Elite 98.42
3 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 3 Top Gun All Stars – TGLC 98.31
4 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 4 Top Gun All Stars – Double O 98.21
5 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 5 Top Gun All Stars – Toxic 97.96
6 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 6 Top Gun All Stars – Lady Jags 97.83
7 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 7 Top Gun All Stars – Guardians 97.61
8 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 8 Cheer Extreme – Lady Lux 97.46
9 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 9 ATA – GeneSIX 97.42
10 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 10 ATA – Atomic 97.09
11 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 11 Brandon All-Stars – Legacy 97.02
12 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 12 Cheer Extreme – COEX 96.96
13 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 13 Cheer Express Allstars – Miss Silver 96.93
14 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 14 Extreme All Stars – Lvl X 96.70
15 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 15 ATA – Quantum 96.22
16 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 16 Brandon All-Stars – Smoke 96.10
17 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 17 Cheer Florida All Stars – Sea Warriors 95.80
18 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 18 Upper Merion All Stars – Crush 95.67
19 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 19 Top Gun All Stars – GLOC 95.58
20 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 20 Florida Top Dog All Stars – Rain 95.30
21 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 21 Upper Merion All Stars – Royals 95.06
22 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 22 Infinity Allstars – Royals 95.02
23 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 23 TSC All Stars – Black Diamonds 94.00
24 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 24 Legendary Athletics – Lady Teal 93.82
25 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 25 FAME All Stars VA Beach – Envy 93.44
26 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 26 FAME All Stars VA Beach – Royals 91.60
27 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 27 Top Gun All Stars – Lady Eve 90.03
28 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 28 Showtime Elite Atlanta – Atomic Kitten 88.30
29 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 29 Ohio Cheer Explosion – Fusion 87.30
30 tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM tbitties 03/12/2024 01:15 PM 30 Uknight Training Center – Majesty 87.01
# Program/Team Score

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WAKE UP THE FIRE
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