Orlando, FL – UPIKE Cheerleading were crowned 2021 UCA National Champions Wednesday afternoon. The Bears claimed the program's first ever title in the All Girl Open event, defeating three other schools after a near perfectly executed routine.

This is the third season the Bears have competed in the UCA College Nationals hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World. The Bears have improved in each consecutive appearance, placing fifth in 2019, third in 2020, before claiming the 2021 championship.

UPIKE notched a performance score of 87.3 and a final event score of 81.925, edging out runner-up Avila University by less than a point to claim the title. Webber International scored an 80 to finish third while Pearl River Community College finished fourth with a score of 76.7.

"This team is something very special," said veteran head coach Jeannie Stone, "I am extremely proud of the way they overcame all of the obstacles of a very challenging and unusual year. The team regrouped after falling short on day one, pulling together on Wednesday for a near perfect routine. We are so excited to bring a national championship back to Pikeville!"

The Bears will return from Florida in the coming days, joined by their newest piece of hardware – a UCA National Championship trophy.