Excitement is at a fever pitch in Metro Manila as fans, alumni, and students eagerly anticipate the long-awaited spectacle of the UAAP Season 86 Cheerdance Competition, taking place on December 2, 2023, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Metro Manila. This article will provide the initial details you must know if you plan to join the scheduled activities.
Showcasing athleticism, vibrant spirit, and passion
The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Cheerdance Competition is a much-awaited event showcasing the participating universities’ exceptional athleticism, vibrant spirit, and unwavering passion.
Bringing together the finest cheerleading squads in collegiate athletics with their unique style and traditions, the competition fosters camaraderie while celebrating school spirit.
Creativity and Innovation
A hallmark of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition is the creativity and innovation displayed in the choreography of each routine. The participants blend athleticism and art to convey messages, tell stories, and evoke emotions, resulting in a fusion of dance, gymnastics, and theatrical performances.
Even if a person is not interested in traditional sports, they can still appreciate the artistry of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition.
The Member Universities
Although people certainly have their favorites, every team in the competition delivers a stellar performance, ensuring they continually raise the bar and surprise the audience with novel elements in their performances yearly.
Here are the eight members of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition, listed are the cheering squad in the order of their performance for this season:
Magic 8 of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition
University of the East Pep Squad (UE Pep Squad)
NU Pep Squad (National University)
Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion (Ateneo De Manila University)
Adamson University Pep Squad (Adamson Pep Squad)
UP Pep Squad (University of the Philippines Diliman)
DLSU Animo Squad (De La Salle University)
FEU Cheering Squad (Far Eastern University)
UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe (University of Santo Tomas)
Crowd favorite and reigning champion, the NU Pep Squad is determined to log its eighth title and crown under the new head coach, Gab Bajacan. The NU pep takes the spotlight during the competition.
Last year’s runner up, the Adamson University Pep Squad, and third placer, University of the Philippines, are expected to do everything they can to steal the magic from NU. Pressure is building not just on the teams, but more so, their respective coaches.
On the other hand, here are the collegiate divisions for the current member universities:
Adamson University Soaring Falcons
Ateneo Blue Eagles
De La Salle University Green Archers
Far Eastern University Tamaraws
National University Bulldogs
University of the East Red Warriors
University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons
University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers
UAAP Season 86 is hosted by the University of the East (UE) under the theme “Fueling the Future.”
The opening ceremony kicked off on September 30, 2023, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with the men’s basketball championships serving as the grand opening event for the entire season, followed by the women’s tournament at the same venue the following day.
The season commenced after the Philippines co-hosted the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
The UAAP Cheerdance Competition Effect
Influence beyond cheer dancing
The influence of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition extends beyond the routines and moves performed by the teams. Its impact is felt in fashion, music, and pop culture that transcend our respective communities. Taking into account the performances’ iconic routines, memorable stunts, and catchy cheers, these become ingrained in the collective memory of the participating universities.
The competition’s mark is also highly evident in how cheerleading has evolved in the Philippines, with high schools and other sports leagues incorporating elements inspired by the UAAP Cheerdance Competition into their cheerdances.
The “sixth man” of the competition
Apart from the performances, the enthusiasm of the fans, often referred to as the “sixth man,” is a significant contributor to the event’s energy and vibrance. Fans are more than mere cheerleaders for their universities; they actively participate in the competition’s narrative through fan events and spirited displays of support.
The atmosphere inside the arena during the UAAP Cheerdance Competition is electric, and the cheers and chants are fiery as they are infectious.
Online fan engagement has reached new heights in recent years, with universities leveraging social media platforms to connect with their supporters. Hashtags such as #UAAPSeason86 and #FuelingTheFuture, online challenges, and virtual events foster a sense of unity among fans.
The audience’s collective roar, whether in the arena or through digital channels, adds an emotional and communal dimension to the UAAP Cheerdance Competition.
Anticipation Builds for the Biggest Event in Collegiate Athletics
As the competition approaches, speculation runs rife about the themes and concepts each university team will showcase.
Will there be a nod to Philippine culture or a display of pure athleticism? The anticipation surrounding the highly creative and direction of each team adds an exciting element to the competition, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Giving rise to rivalry and friendship
Apart from being a platform for showcasing talent, the UAAP Cheerdance Competition has also become a hub for university rivalry and friendship. Fans root for their desired university teams and interact with people from different universities, forming new friendships when circumstances permit.
Leading up to the competition, social media buzzes with fanfare, support, and countdowns to the grand event.
The participating universities will put the finishing touches on their routines, balancing precision and flair to create complete performances that will undoubtedly linger in the memories of those who will witness them.
As December 2023 approaches, the UAAP Cheerdance Competition continues to be a cultural phenomenon that captivates and inspires. It promises to elevate the collective pride of the league, participating universities and their passionate fans, adding another chapter to the event’s iconic history.
The cheerdance squad from every UAAP team is expected to show up and support their fellow athletes; however, this time, they will have a chance to take center stage and showcase their skills.
The participating universities, fans, and organizers are coming together to create a must-attend spectacle that transcends the boundaries of sports, leaving a legacy that resonates far beyond the mat.
Remember to mark your calendars and be a part of the most spirited and vibrant UAAP event of the season. It is an opportunity that you would not want to miss!
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