NW Valley Times

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has secured its third consecutive national title in the Spirit Program – Game Day LIVE division at the UCA/UDA College Cheerleading and Dance National Championships held in Orlando, Florida. The event showcased performances by various spirit teams, including cheerleaders, dancers, the Thundering Heard Pep Band, and the mascot Thunder.

Jesi Weeks, Senior Manager of Spirit Programs at GCU, expressed enthusiasm over the victory. "It's the overall culture at GCU that goes back to collaboration," she said. Weeks highlighted that their consistent teamwork contributed significantly to their success.

The performance routines are developed early in the year and refined during August camps. Jacque Genung-Koch, coach of GCU's Dance team, noted the team's camaraderie and leadership as key elements in their achievements. "When you get all three of our programs together... it’s really fun to watch our kids support one another," she remarked.

The Dance team achieved notable placements, securing fifth place in Division I Hip Hop and sixth in Division I Jazz with a standout performance of Dolly Parton's "Jolene." Genung-Koch described this as causing a stir on social media and at the competition itself.

Thunder claimed fourth place in the Open Mascot division while contributing significantly to the Game Day win alongside other spirit units. Despite not advancing to finals in Small Co-ed competition, the Cheer team emphasized growth over victory: “It’s not always about the win; it’s about growth."

Jeremiah Park, a third-year cheerleader from GCU, attributed their success to unity and faith. "Our program just gives everything to God," he shared with Varsity TV.

For further details or inquiries regarding this achievement, Grand Canyon University's senior writer Mike Kilen can be contacted via email.