DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Wichita State cheer and dance teams traveled to Daytona Beach, Fla., April 6-9, to participate in the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) and National Dance Alliance (NDA) National Championships.
 
The cheer team finished sixth overall in Intermediate Large Coed Division IA. In the preliminary round, the Shockers had an event score of 94.34 and had just 0.25 in deductions. In the final round, the Shockers scored 92.94 for a total event score of 93.2940. WSU finished just .68 out of fifth place.
 
"In the sport of cheerleading, we do not always get a since of gratification from our hard work, because we do not have wins and losses on a regular basis, however attending a national competition is how we see ourselves in comparison to other collegiate teams," said Head Cheer Coach Shalayne Richmond. "I am so proud of the hard work each and every cheerleader has done to make traveling to Daytona possible. The cheerleaders put time and effort in the classroom, in the gym, at practice and games, and on fund raising efforts to accomplish our long-standing goal to go to Nationals. The cheerleaders who received the honor to be on national's mat proved how adaptable, patient and dedicated they truly are to WSU and cheerleading. The athletes LOCKED IN! We are excited to put in the work and begin preparations for next year."
 
The dance team finished seventh overall in Pom Division I. In the preliminary round, the Shockers had an event score of 88.142 to earn a trip to the finals. In the final round, the Shockers scored 89.0286 and were just .34 out of fifth place.
 
"After being unable to attend NDA Nationals since 2019, Shocker Dance was finally able to represent Wichita State University once again," said Head Dance Coach Kate Stybr. "Our team goal at the start of our season was to fundraise enough to be able to attend NDA Nationals. We not only did that, but this team made Division I Pom Finals for the first time in program history, with a finish of seventh place in the nation, an improved score from semi-finals to finals and just .34 points from being top-five! As a first-year head coach, I could not have asked for a better group of amazing young women to lead this season. These women are smart, resilient, respectful, passionate and so much more. This team has continuously impressed me this season from their drive at practice, their academic achievement, the relationships they have built with each other and their representation of Shocker Nation. They have exceeded all expectations I could have as a coach and I am so proud of the work they have all put in to get to where we are now! Thank you to my assistant coaches, Mara McElgunn and Emily Burrus, for your unwavering support, I could not have done it without you both!"