Cheer and dance teams bring back awards from summer training camp

Carthage’s cheerleading and dance teams attended the Universal Cheer Association (UCA) and Universal Dance Association (UDA) college summer training camp on Aug. 1-4.

A total of 50 Firebirds attended, 15 of them Class of 2028 incoming freshmen. Students participated in four days of stunting, tumbling, cheering, dancing, and team building. 

“Our Firebirds showed tremendous strength and passion for their sport at camp this year,” said Amy Malczewski MSc ’24, spirit team director. “Four days full of 8-12 hours of training with back-to-back sessions. They not only leveled up their skill sets and won every award they could, but they were also the most cohesive and collaborative group I have ever taken to camp. Our coaches and team leaders did a fantastic job supporting each other through the challenges and hyping one another up during the highlights. We have created this amazing culture of grace and determination, and our rookie team members embraced it fully. We truly upheld the Carthage mission of building strength — together.”

Cheer excelled in sideline cheers with 1st place in small co-ed and 2nd place in timeout routine in small co-ed. Dance brought home superior ratings in game day competition and media routines. Both teams were awarded all blue ribbons throughout the four days and received the Most Improved Program Award.

The Wisconsin UCA/UDA college summer camp is one of the biggest in the nation, with teams from North Dakota State, South Dakota State University, University of Cincinnati, University of Nebraska Ohmaha, Kirkland Community College, Washburn University, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, Trine, University of Iowa, Kansas State University, UW Eau Claire, University of Indiana, University of Minnesota Duluth, St. Cloud, St. Thomas University, College of St. Benedicts, and more.

“Being in the dome alongside all these impressive spirit programs and having them know who we are and that we can keep up is a great testament to our Firebird pride,” said Amy. “I cannot wait to see the fire our team brings to game day this year! I invite everyone to attend a game and see us in action. I promise you will leave with even more love for our school.”

To end, cheer coach Hannah Carls said simply and perfectly, “What an experience! This is the absolute best way to kick off the 24-25 season!”

Let’s fire up!

2024-2025 Team Captains
Cheer: Abigail Lingefelter ’25 and Tessa Mitchell ’26
Dance: Kylie Watters ’25 and Kailey Davison ’25

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Carthage Spirit Team