ORLANDO, Fla. - The Long Island University cheer, dance, and Finley teams claimed their fourth consecutive national championship, combining to claim first place in Open Spirit Program Game Day Division at the 2026 Universal Cheer Association (UCA)/Universal Dance Association (UDA) College Cheerleading & Dance Team National Championship on Friday at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort.

Led by first year head coaches Elizabeth Kicklighter (cheer) and Cassandra McMillan (dance), the Sharks posted a total score of 86.3500, topping the University of South Dakota who finished second with a score of 85.600. LIU posted the highest raw score and received zero deductions.

"We're bringing the gold home to Long Island!," said McMillan, who was an assistant dance coach for last year's championship. "This team and season have been more than I could've ever wished for. My gratitude extends beyond what words can describe, and I am so honored to be their coach.

"My 27 young women take on each day with the same positive champion mindset and watching them showcase what this program is all about it mesmerizing! Sharks only swim forward and can't stop swimming - and it's safe to say these sharks hold that to be true! I am endlessly proud of these girls and the team we have built from the ground up."

"Championships are special, but what makes this one meaningful is how these athletes represented our program - with consistency, enthusiasm, and pride," said Kicklighter. "That's the legacy we aim to uphold."