IUSD had a strong showing at the 2026 USA Spirit Nationals, one of the most competitive platforms for high school cheer and dance squads across the country. University High School and Woodbridge High School took home medals in various categories at the national competition, which was held at the Anaheim Convention Center.
Varsity Song/Pom – University High School
In the Varsity Song/Pom Intermediate Small Finals, University High School delivered an engaging routine that earned a score of 90.5 out of 100 points, securing first place out of 17 teams.
Song/Pom routines emphasize sharpness in execution, synchronization, formation variety and pom creativity. Judges evaluate:
- Use and creativity of the pom
- Technical skills, such as turns and kicks
- Technique and execution
- Formations and transitions
- Showmanship
With zero deductions, University’s winning performance stood out for its creativity, technique and showmanship.
Varsity Show Cheer – Woodbridge High School
In the Varsity Show Cheer Advanced Non-Tumbling Small Finals, Woodbridge High School secured second place with a score of 94.2778.
The Advanced Non-Tumbling division challenges teams to demonstrate elite-level stunting, pyramids, choreography and crowd-leading ability without the use of flips or tumbling passes. Scoring is based on:
- Difficulty and execution of stunts and pyramids
- Synchronization and transitions
- Overall routine composition
- Energy, projection, and spirit
Woodbridge’s routine featured clean stunt sequences, creative pyramid builds, and powerful visual impact. Woodbridge was only less than 0.5 points behind the first-place winner, Saugus High School, highlighting the fierceness of competition in this division.
These two strong and incredible performances highlight the depth of talent within the IUSD cheer programs and the dedication of the incredible coaches.
Join us in congratulating these teams on their incredible accomplishments!