University of Minnesota Athletics
Spirit Squads Post Strong Showings at Nationals
1/23/2009 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
The University of Minnesota spirit squads took a timeout from cheering on the Golden Gophers from the sidelines and took center stage at the 2009 UCA/UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship Jan. 16-18 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.
Traditionally one of the nation’s strongest programs, the Gophers were once again on top of their game and finished the competition as the only Division IA squad to post top-10 finishes in all divisions.
“I could not be more proud of how our squad competed,” said head coach Sam Owens. “We have had strong performances in the past but this was the best by far from top to bottom,”
Minnesota’s dance team registered the highest team placing of the competition for the Gophers, taking third for its jazz routine.
“The dance team gave a stellar performance,” Owens said. “Their routine was very impressive and left the crowd moved.”
The dance squad also received a top-10 score for its hip-hop routine, taking seventh in the 27-team field.
The Gophers faired very well in both the co-ed and all-girl divisions as well. Minnesota’s co-ed team finished in seventh place, while the all-girl squad took ninth in their first-ever appearance at nationals.
In addition to the team competitions, Goldy Gopher also got a chance to show off his Maroon and Gold spirit and took home the bronze medal in the mascot division.
Teams from 43 states and 152 universities and colleges competed in the 2009 College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship, which celebrated its 25th anniversary this year.
