The University of Mississippi Athletics
Ole Miss Cheer & Rebelettes Finish Strong at National Championships
1/19/2016 | Athletics
ORLANDO, Fla. - The Ole Miss Spirit Groups took to the floor at the Universal Cheerleaders/Dance Association College National Championship last weekend and came home with record finishes.
Both cheer and dance compete in the most competitive IA Division with the top programs in the country, mostly dominated by teams from the SEC, Big Ten and American Conferences.
The Rebel Cheerleaders finished fourth in the UCA College National Competition against 23 other Division I collegiate cheer program. The fourth-place result was five spots better from last year's ninth-place finish.
The same group also placed third in the World University Competition, competing against not only teams from the states, but international teams in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica.
Individually, sophomore Brandi Berry and junior Brandon Casey competed in the partner stunt competition, bringing home eighth place in the Rebels' first known appearance in the partner stunt portion of the event.
"We are extremely proud this year of the team's accomplishments," cheer coach Arikka Harakal said. "By far this has been the best group of individuals in regards on how they have approached this national season. We look forward to see what next year has in store for us as a program."
The Rebelettes competed in IA Pom for the first time, finishing 12th in their debut against very tough competition. The pom routine was themed "It's Time" around Ole Miss Legend Chucky Mullins' famous quote.
The squad also brought home a seventh place finish in hip hop, the highest finish for the Rebels in any category at UDA Nationals. The program also advanced to the finals for just the second time ever. Last year's group missed finals by fractions of a point, but difficulty and execution proved to be the difference in earning a spot in this year's finals.
"This year's group has absolutely earned these great achievements," Rebelettes head coach Carley Cryer said. "We proudly perform and support our teams throughout the fall creating a very busy schedule centered on creating a strong game day atmosphere, but this group put in extra time outside those commitments over Christmas and other breaks to prepare for Nationals. They are the definition of a team. They pick each other up, put others before themselves, and work hard for their team. They take incredible pride in representing their school on this National stage."
For all Ole Miss Cheerleading and Rebelettes news, visit Spirit.OleMissRebels.com. Follow Ole Miss Cheer on Twitter (@OleMissCheer) and on Facebook at Ole Miss Cheer. Follow the Rebelettes on Twitter (@Rebelettes), on Instagram (@OleMissRebelettes) and on Facebook at Ole Miss Reblettes.