Daytona Beach, Fla. – The Mt. SAC Cheer Team brought the energy, the skill, and the fight to the national stage last week—earning an impressive second-place finish at the NCA Collegiate Cheer Nationals in Daytona.
Competing in the Advanced Small Coed Junior College Division, the Mounties went head-to-head with some of the top programs in the country and delivered a powerful performance that turned heads and showcased just how far the program has come.
Mt. SAC finished just behind Trinity Valley Community College (TX), who claimed first place, while Connors State College (OK) took third and Pierce College (CA) placed fourth. Trinity Valley also competed a second team that did not advance to finals, making the Mounties' runner-up finish even more impressive in a competitive field.
The routine, choreographed by Mandy Morgan and DJ Fleming, featured a high-energy mix of music and showcased the team's growth in both difficulty and execution. With a roster of 15 female athletes and four male athletes, the Mounties were able to elevate their stunts and incorporate more advanced tumbling passes—key factors in their standout performance.
This marks Mt. SAC's second consecutive trip to Daytona, and the difference in performance has been clear. With increased depth, more coed athletes, and a higher level of technical skill, the program continues to trend upward on the national stage.
But beyond the scores, it was the team's intensity and spirit that stood out most.
"I am extremely proud of how the team performed this weekend," said Head Coach RG Ignacio. "The amount of fight and energy they exuded in their performance was something we haven't seen in a long time. It is great to see the athletes grow and be better, and we can't wait to see what the future holds."
The Mt. SAC Cheer Team is already looking ahead; tryouts for the upcoming season are set for May 1–2, as the program looks to build on this success and continue climbing.
After a performance like this, one thing is clear—the Mounties aren't just competing on the national stage… they're making their presence known.