For the University of East Anglia’s Cheer Dance team, the sporting spirit is more than just pom-poms and high-fives, as President, Milly Napper described as we sat down for a coffee and chat in UNIO last week.  

It’s evident this year’s committee wants to continue fostering a supportive community that encourages everyone to give their all – on and off stage. Whether you’re a seasoned cheerleader, a casual dancer, or simply an admirer of precision and athletic prowess, Napper emphasises how that Cheer Dance squad promises “something for everyone”.  

“Enthusiastic beginners often practice alongside more experienced members”, she says, learning the fundamentals of tricks, leaps, jumps and lifts. Frequent training sessions, combined with a variety of socials, allow participants to hone these technical skills and focus on fitness while also fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendship. 

The club’s committee appears to be particularly committed to promoting greater inclusivity this year – recognising how some past experiences of ‘cliquey-ness’ have led to a somewhat exclusive perception of the sport by some, both at UEA and beyond. Also aware of the blockade of high kit costs, the 2024/25 committee have set up a ‘re-wear’ scheme where new and existing members can take on refreshed kits from former athletes. In this vein, Napper makes a point of praising the current Activities & Opportunities Officer, Olivia Hunt, in her ‘The Real Cost of Sport’ initiative, which seeks to promote more transparency and precise breakdowns of club-associated costs to students.  

On March 6th, they’ll showcase their infectious energy at their much-anticipated event, ‘So You Think You Can Cheer Dance?’ 

The event invites various sports teams across UEA to enter a team, receive coaching from members, and then compete on the LCR stage for the coveted SYTYCCD trophy. 

From what Napper describes, spectators will witness a high-spirited and varied showcase, capturing “the squad’s authentic energy while welcoming newcomers”. Whether you hope to perform or simply cheer from the sidelines, the event is sure to offer a firsthand look at how Cheer Dance builds confidence, skill, discipline, and team spirit. Audience members can expect lively music, breathtaking routines, and plenty of smiles – all while supporting a dedicated group of student-athletes. 

With competition season just around the corner, the team’s semester calendar is becoming increasingly busy. The Angels will travel up to Manchester for a regional competition, ‘Future Cheer’, on Sunday, 16th of February, before heading across to Birmingham for the highly anticipated international trials, ‘Legacy’, on Saturday, 15th of March, to name but a few.  

If you’re curious about the energy and art of Cheer Dance, this semester is the perfect opportunity to experience it up close. Mark your calendars for March 6th to support the Angels at ‘So You Think You Can Cheer Dance?’. 

You can follow and keep up to date with Cheer Dance events on Instagram @ueacheerdance  

Photo: UEA Cheer Dance President, Milly Napper. Credit: Milly Napper/UEA Cheer Dance