Rowan Cheerleading takes third at UCA College Nationals

Competing alongside some of the premier teams in the nation, Rowan University Cheerleading took third place in its division in the UCA College Nationals last month in Florida.

It was the first time the squad brought home a medal in the competition, held at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex in the Walt Disney World Resort.

A Rowan sport club, the squad placed third behind Pearl River Community College and The College of New Jersey in the Open All-Girl Division of the nationals. The UCA College Nationals feature the top cheerleading squads in the nation in multiple categories.

The team’s routine was judged on stunts, tumbling, pyramids and baskets, and cheering. The squad practices throughout the year, including every day, twice a day, during winter break, according to Gianna Moyer, president of Rowan Cheerleaders. Altogether, 20 Rowan athletes competed on the mat at the nationals with six additional team members traveling as alternates.

“It was our best finish ever and the first medal we’ve ever won. I’ve never felt so confident and so hopeful going onto the mat as I was this year. We’re a very bonded team,” says Moyer, a senior health and physical education major and a Rowan cheerleader since her freshman year.

“Our program has been growing continually. That’s been really great to see. Cheerleading at this level takes a tremendous amount of drive and perseverance.”

Coached by Laureen Carney and Qaira Stead-Cora, the Rowan Cheerleaders cheer for all home football and basketball games.