ERIE, PA - It's finally Daytona time! Following a strong regular season, Competitive Cheer & Dance is off to Daytona Beach, Fla to compete in the NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer & Dance Championship April 10th-13th. The Golden Knights had a strong showing at last years championships, placing third in hip-hop, fourth in Team Performance dance, and fifth in Game Day.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Game Day: This division, for a second straight year, will be tightly contested. Gannon joins Wingate, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Dallas Baptist as the four teams competing in this division. GU has had numerous first place finishes in this event during the regular season, including the Spirit Against Cancer competition, NECA Collegiate championship, and most recently the Road to Daytona Showcase.

Team Performance: Eight teams will vye for the DII title in this event, with Gannon scheduled to perform last at prelims. The Golden Knights earned fourth in this event a year ago. In their most recent event at home, GU placed first in team performance. They also earned first place finishes at the Spirit Against Cancer competition, NECA Collegiate championship, and Mid-Atlantic College Nationals Showcase.

Hip Hop: Like the other two events, Gannon has earned multiple first place finishes in the hip-hop category this season. Last year, the Golden Knights had their best showing of any event in hip-hop, earning a third place finish at the 2024 NCA & NDA Collegiate Cheer & Dance Championship. Ten teams will compete in this division. 

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING
"Nationals is like no other experience," said head coach Kelli Makowski. "There are hundreds upon hundreds of student-athletes who are all there for the same purpose. The entire competition keeps you on your toes, but is also very exciting for our entire team!"

"The energy at Daytona is truly unmatched," said Jillian Sullivan (Pittsburgh, Pa./Shaler Area), (senior, dance). "We are so fortunate and excited to have the opportunity to perform at NCA & NDA championships. All the work we put in during the season is worth it, and we can't wait to experience the feeling of showcasing our work on the biggest stage!"

GANNON PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Game Day: Bandshell - Thursday, 2:48 pm (prelims); Friday, 2:16 pm (finals)

Team Performance: Ocean City Hall - Thursday, 7:36 pm (prelims); Friday, 5:06-5:24 pm (finals)

Hip Hop: Ocean City Hall - Friday, 11:06 am (prelims); Saturday 9:51-10:15 am (finals)