Texas Tech Cheerleading Squad Places Fifth In National Competition

Written by: Ben Samples

Texas Tech University’s cheerleading team finished fifth at the National Cheerleading Association’s (NCA) Collegiate Cheer and Dance Championship, held April 4–8 in Daytona, Fla.

The co-ed squad of 20 cheerleaders competed with guest Raider Red to earn the team’s highest finish since placing fifth in 2003.

Stephanie Rhode, assistant director of the Center for Campus Life, said reaching the NCA finals after a full season of cheering is a great reward for the team.

"The squad prepares for football, volleyball, basketball and many other spirit events held around campus," Rhode said. "In addition, they must also practice skills and routines used in competition – it’s not easy."

The competition included 15 teams from various Division I-A schools including Clemson, University of North Carolina, Oklahoma State University and University of Louisville – the eventual champion. Competition invitations were distributed based on video applications or exemplary performance at an NCA cheerleading camp; Texas Tech was accepted through video submission.
 
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CONTACT: Stephanie Rhode, assistant director of the Center for Campus Life, Texas Tech University, (806) 742-5433, stephanie.rhode@ttu.edu

Joshua Anderson, head coach, Texas Tech University Cheerleading, (806) 742-5433, joshua.e.anderson@ttu.edu