The University of Minnesota Spirit Squad, encompassing cheer, dance, and mascot teams, has solidified its legendary status in collegiate athletics, particularly the dance team. Heading into the national championships, this powerhouse program already boasted an impressive 26 national titles. A significant 22 of these victories were claimed by the phenomenal U Of Minnesota Dance Team in both Jazz and Pom categories, with the spirited mascot Goldy Gopher contributing the remaining four.
This legacy of excellence has only deepened as the U of Minnesota Dance Team once again demonstrated their dominance at the 2025 UCA & UDA College Cheerleading & Dance Team National Championships in Orlando. Adding two more national championship trophies to their collection, the Gophers secured victories in both Cheer (Small Coed Game Day) and Dance (Pom) divisions. This momentous win marks the cheer program’s first-ever national title, while the U of Minnesota Dance Team extended their reign with their 23rd national dance championship, bringing the Spirit Squad’s total to an astounding 28 UCA/UDA national championships combined.
The competition commenced on Friday with the Gophers cheer team seizing the top spot in the Small Coed Game Day division, triumphing over formidable opponents such as San Diego State and Penn State. They further showcased their prowess by securing the runner-up position in the Small Coed Cheer category. This cheer title was particularly significant, representing years of dedication and near-misses, finally achieving the ultimate recognition for the nation’s oldest cheerleading program.
Sunday evening witnessed the U of Minnesota Dance Team reaffirming their dynasty in the Pom division. Their captivating performance earned them their third consecutive Pom championship, leaving Ohio State and Tennessee to claim second and third place, respectively. The team also achieved a commendable second place in the Jazz division, narrowly missing the top spot to Ohio State for the second consecutive year. Meanwhile, Goldy Gopher delivered a strong performance, finishing fourth in the Mascot division, with Cincinnati (Bearcat), Tennessee (Smokey), and Auburn (Aubie) rounding out the top three.
The U of Minnesota Dance Team‘s exceptional talent is no secret to devoted Gopher sports enthusiasts. Their electrifying performances at football and basketball games consistently draw enthusiastic crowds and thunderous applause. The previous year’s Jazz routine, set to Aerosmith’s “Dream On,” became a viral sensation, further amplifying the anticipation surrounding their performances in Orlando. With over two decades of consistent top-three finishes in Jazz and an incredible 11 Pom championships in 15 years, the pressure was palpable.
“There is a lot of pressure that comes with that, but they handled it really well,” acknowledged dance coach Amanda Gaines, speaking from Orlando as the team prepared to return home. She emphasized their role as “really good ambassadors for the sport and for the University, as well.” Gaines also noted the overdue recognition for the Spirit Squad, highlighting that they are “true athletes, not just sideline supporters.” The increasing media attention is a testament to their athleticism and dedication.
Coach Gaines, in her 13th season leading the U of Minnesota Dance Team, further explained the program’s evolution. Initially composed primarily of dancers from Minnesota, the team’s sustained success has broadened its appeal nationwide. “We’re starting to see more and more dancers from all across the country,” she stated. “It’s really cool to see the desire and excitement for dancers to want to come to Minnesota to dance here and represent the school. I think it’s a reflection of the legacy we’ve built here over the last 23 years.” This national draw underscores the U of Minnesota Dance Team‘s prestigious reputation and their enduring legacy as a true dance dynasty.
