The Melissa High School Varsity Cheerleading squad delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 UCA Regional event on Sunday, November 9, at Sherman High School. Their incredible routines earned them a third-place finish in the Super Varsity Non-Tumbling Game Day Division and a coveted bid to the prestigious UCA National Championship!
This competition will take place February 3-6, 2026, at "The Most Magical Place on Earth," Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL, where the squad will compete over three days, showcasing their talent on a national stage.
For over 40 years, the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship has been the nation’s premier event, where the best of high school cheerleading come together to compete and celebrate their achievements. To qualify, teams must complete Varsity Spirit camp over the summer, participate in the Squad Credentialing program, and earn a bid at a regional event, all of which the MHS Cheerleading squad has now achieved. As they compete in divisions focused on game-day performance, the squad will be judged on their technique, execution, and use of props like poms, signs, and flags.
“This year has undoubtedly held its challenges. Any time you start the year with so many changes, you will face trials to push through. I am most proud of the way this team has never wavered in the face of adversity. Sickness, injuries, constant changes, they've never hesitated to come in and give it their all,” shared Head Cheerleading Coach Alex Whorton. “Since competing at Regionals, they have taken an entirely new section of their routine with such excitement and energy. I feel so honored to coach this group of girls, and I could not ask for more. We have a long way to go until February, but the momentum is high and we are ready for the challenge!”
In her senior year and last time heading to nationals, Madison Walls shared her experience this year and on the team overall, "Earning a bid to Nationals isn't a simple task. No one knew what to expect from a brand-new team during the summer. Between early morning practices and getting to know one another, we put in the work, pushed through every challenge, and learned to trust each other completely. Cheer gave me more than memories; it has given me a family. A team that lifted me higher than I ever thought possible and a bond I'll carry with me forever."
Melissa ISD is incredibly proud of the MHS Varsity Cheerleading squad for their hard work, dedication, and commitment that led them to this outstanding achievement. We are excited to see you compete on the national stage!