All set for cheerleading national competition on March 16-18

MANILA, Philippines – All is set for the 2012 Cheerleading Nationals, where the country’s best teams vie for the top honors in one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.

Expected to show off their improved skills are teams from Mindanao and Visayas, most notably, GenSan’s Notre Dame University and Bacolod’s University of Saint Lasalle. Not to be outdone are vastly improved squads from Tarlac State University, Holy Angel University, Palawan State University, Angeles University Foundation, and South Luzon State University.

The qualifiers from around the country will be competing against the best of the Manila, whose Finals cast was determined February 4 and 5.

In 2011 the National Finals weekend saw over 100 teams compete in 9 divisions.  This season, the NCC has 15 different divisions in Cheer and Dance, which is expected to draw even more teams.

“Last season, we saw an emergence of new and exciting teams from all around the country”, said NCC National Director and head judge Paula Nunag. “These teams didn’t just show up, but were actually legitimate contenders! We expect the same level of competition this year.”

The additional divisions include the growing Juniors and Peewee categories, which are expected to draw a big crowd of parents, relatives, and supporters.

The NCC will also unveil a new competition floor, which will be used by teams for the first time in the Philippines. “The new carpet bonded foam floor is the first in the country”, said NCC Head Nino Caruncho. “We wanted to give the squads the same equipment used in international events, as well as ensure their safety during competition. This shows our commitment to the sport.”

The National Dance Championships (NDC) drew 23 teams in the High School and College levels. More teams are also expected to join, as a junior division for Jazz has been offered this year.

The  National Finals will take place March 16-18 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.