University of Regina Cougars Cheerleading team to compete at world championship

News Release Release Date: December 17, 2012 10:00 a.m.

Upon winning a third national title, the University of Regina Cougars Cheerleading Team has been invited to compete in the International Cheer Union (ICU) World University Cheerleading Championship in Orlando, Florida from January 18-20.

The 27-member team won first place in the Small Co-ed Division at the Canadian National University Cheerleading Championships in Brampton, Ontario on December 1. The Cougars are the only Canadian team invited to compete at the world championship event.

“To be invited to this prestigious event is a great accomplishment and a reflection of the talent and hard work of our athletes and coaches,” said University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vianne Timmons. “The team will be wonderful representatives the University, the province and the country, and I know they will continue to make us all proud.”

In operation since 2005, the ICU World University Cheerleading Championship attracts almost 4,000 university athletes from around the globe. It is broadcast live on ESPN.

Cougars Head Coach Thomas Rath attributes the invitation to compete at this level to the dedication of the team members. The University of Regina Cougars Cheerleading Team has placed first in 2008, 2010 and 2012 at the Canadian National Championships. They came in second in 2009 and 2011, and third in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

“The sport of cheerleading is exploding,” said Rath. “For the University of Regina Cougars to be representing Canada at this event is a huge honour, and I’m extremely proud of the team. We are looking forward to showing the world what we can do.”

The team will travel to Orlando on January 17 to compete in the Small Co-ed Division.