Competitive Cheer (Game Day) | 4/8/2026 2:00:00 PM

Daytona, Fla. — It's officially Daytona time. Following a strong season, the Gannon University competitive cheer and dance teams are set to travel to Daytona Beach, Fla., to compete in the NCA & NDA College Nationals from April 8–11.

In her second season at the helm, head coach Kelli Makowski leads the Golden Knights into national competition with a clear message.

"Simple,  focus on us," Makowski said. "We can't control what any other team is doing, but we can control what we do, how we act, and what we put out on the floor. If we take care of that, we'll be exactly where we need to be."

That mindset is paired with valuable experience on the national stage. With the unique energy and atmosphere of NCA & NDA Nationals, veteran leadership will play a key role in helping guide younger athletes through the moment. The size and intensity of the event can be overwhelming, making experience a critical factor as the Golden Knights look to stay composed and confident when they take the floor.

The Golden Knights will take the floor in three divisions, Game Day, Team Performance, and Hip Hop, and carry strong momentum into the weekend after all three teams recorded third-place finishes in their respective categories at last year's national championships. Competition begins Thursday, April 9, with Game Day prelims at 12:58 p.m. and Team Performance prelims at 7:30 p.m.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR
Performing at Gannon athletic events throughout the season helped strengthen the routines, allowing the team to build confidence, sharpen execution, and elevate their overall performance.

That growth has been paired with a mindset that separates this group. The Golden Knights have approached each rep with purpose throughout the season, building a level of focus and intention that has elevated their routines heading into nationals.

In recent weeks, the emphasis has shifted toward performance. While the skills are in place, the difference on the national stage will come from how the team sells its routines, connects with the crowd, and brings energy to every second on the floor.

Preparation has also been a key factor. The Golden Knights have worked to simulate a variety of scenarios in practice, building confidence so that when the team takes the floor, there is nothing left to think about; only to perform.

Experience will play an important role as well. With the unique energy and atmosphere of NCA & NDA Nationals, veteran leadership will be critical in helping guide younger athletes through the moment.

Game Day: One of the most energy-driven divisions of the weekend, Game Day will once again be highly competitive. Gannon has shown consistency in this event throughout the season, emphasizing crowd engagement, execution, and sideline presence. The Golden Knights will look to bring a complete routine that combines precision with energy when they take the floor.

Team Performance: This division will feature a deep and talented field, with Gannon set to perform in the evening session during prelims. The Golden Knights have focused heavily on performance quality in recent weeks, looking to separate themselves through execution, confidence, and overall presentation on the national stage.

Hip Hop: Hip Hop continues to be one of Gannon's most dynamic events, combining power, synchronization, and stage presence. With strong showings throughout the season, the Golden Knights will aim to deliver a high-energy routine that stands out in a competitive field.

GANNON PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Game Day: Friday, April 10 at 12:58 p.m. (prelims)
Team Performance: Thursday, April 9 at 7:30 p.m. (prelims)
Hip Hop: Friday, April 10 at 9:27 a.m. (prelims)
Team Performance Finals: Friday, April 10 at 8:00 p.m.
Hip Hop Finals: Saturday, April 11 at 9:28 a.m.
Game Day Finals: Saturday, April 11 at 10:34 a.m.

Please note that due to potential weather conditions, the Game Day schedule may be adjusted. Any updates will be communicated as they become available.

"I'm really looking forward to seeing them come together and show all the hard work they've put in this year," Makowski said. "More than anything, I want them to walk off the floor proud of themselves and each other, and celebrate everything they've accomplished together."

Fans can watch all of the action live on Varsity TV throughout the weekend.