Cardinals soar to second-place finish at National Cheerleaders Association College Nationals

The Lamar University Cheer Team delivered another standout performance at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) College Nationals in Daytona Beach, Florida, earning a second-place finishduring the April 9-11 competition, and continuing the program's rise on the national stage.

In just their third appearance at the NCA College Nationals, the Cardinals have firmly established themselves among the nation's top programs, earning a spot in the winner's circle for the second consecutive year and bringing home the silver medal in D1 Spirit Rally. The team has steadily climbed the rankings each season, improving from fourth place in 2024, to third in 2025, and now capturing a runner-up finish in 2026.

"Representing Lamar University on a national stage and earning our highest finish in program history means everything to us," Megan Thompson, head cheer coach, said. "In the moment, it didn't even fully hit me. Right after awards, we went to the beach like we always do to take our team pictures and celebrate together. It was in that moment - watching them laugh, hug, and take it all in - that I realized what we had accomplished. I just sat back and cried because I knew how much work went into that moment."

Thompson credits the Lamar University Cheer Team's family-like, collaborative, hardworking culture and strong leadership for the Cardinals' growth, strengthening performance and pushing the program to new heights on the national stage.

"Our leadership team and upperclassmen poured into our younger athletes and created an environment where everyone felt supported and pushed to grow," she said. "No matter what was thrown at them, they stayed focused, trusted each other, and kept moving forward. That level of consistency and trust is what allowed them to step onto the national stage and deliver when it mattered most."

Behind-the-scenes efforts also played a key role in the routine's success, including the introduction of new prop elements known as flyovers, which were designed and handmade by members of the Lamar University Cheer Team. Thompson said herself and the team spent more than 50 hours sewing and constructing the flyovers ahead of the national competition.

"It's those unseen hours, the late nights, the physical and mental effort, that truly defines this team's success," she said.

The team also made history competing for the first time on the Bandshell, an outdoor stage set along the beach. The setting created a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the student-athletes, with waves visible in the background as they performed - adding an unforgettable element to the routine.

"There's nothing like being on the Bandshell, circled up with your team waiting for the placement you worked so hard for," Thompson said. "To be in the winner's circle for a second year in a row, we are overjoyed. This finish absolutely raises the standard for our program."

Looking ahead, Thompson notes that the team aims to build on its current success by continuing to elevate skill level, strengthen team culture, and further expand the program's growing legacy.

"When we first entered the division, people didn't know who we were," she said. "This year, teams were coming up to us at nationals saying they were rooting for us to win. That shift speaks volumes. It shows that we are building something real. A legacy. It's not just about one performance; it's about consistently showing up and proving that we belong on that stage."

Thompson said her top priority moving forward is to preserve the passion and excitement that drives the program, ensuring athletes not only grow as competitors but continue to genuinely enjoy the sport.

"While we plan to continue increasing our skill level each year, my priority will always be to create a program where athletes feel seen, heard, and appreciated," she said.

With 32 student-athletes competing at this year's NCA College Nationals, the Lamar University Cheer Team continues to strengthen the legacy it has rapidly built as one of the division's rising national contenders.

"We have leveled up each and every year, bringing more athletes and more skill to the table," Thompson said. "I think you could ask any of my team members, and they would tell you that a fire has been lit - we're ready for next year."

To learn more about the team, including information about their upcoming tryouts on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17, visit the Lamar University Cheer website.