First Ever International Cheerleading Competition Brings World's best to Disney

More than 100 national teams from more than 50 countries will be on hand for the historic event.
www.Cheerunion.org

ORLANDO, Fla., April 22 -- For the first time ever, a world-wide cheerleading and dance team championship will take place, with national cheerleading and dance teams from approximately 50 countries descending on the Walt Disney World(R) Resort on April 23 and 24. The International Cheer Union anticipates 100 team performances over the two-day event.

The International Cheer Union (ICU) was developed in conjunction with more than 60 member countries. It is a non-profit governing entity for international cheerleading, with the goal of receiving membership applications from National Cheer Federations all around the world.

One of the key goals of the ICU is to promote and improve cheer programs worldwide, and this event will bring together the largest collection of international cheerleading groups ever assembled for one competition. The event is open to National or Provisional Cheer Federations.

"The United States is the birthplace of cheerleading but we have seen the sport blossom worldwide," said Karl Olson, secretary general of the International Cheer Union. "The ICU competition gives the world's best cheerleading and dance teams an incredible opportunity to serve as ambassadors for their countries in a sport that is grounded in pride, confidence and self esteem."

The United States has organized two National Cheerleading Teams, one coed and one all girl, as well as one National Dance Team, each featuring some of the best cheer and dance athletes in the country. The 60 American athletes that make up the USA Cheer Team were chosen at a tryout in December and announced in January. The USA Dance Team has 17 members

In addition to the teams from the United States, teams from as far away as Australia, Guatemala, Russia and China will be represented at the event, which will take place at the Wide World of Sports Complex.

"This is an amazing event for the global cheerleading and dance team community, and I am confident that this championship will enrich the sport's experience for the young athletes in each participating country," says Jeff Webb, president of the ICU. Jeff Webb is also the founder and CEO of Varsity, a global leader in cheerleading and dance team events, camps and apparel.

About the ICU

The International Cheer Union (ICU) was formed in 2007 as the non-profit international governing entity whose mission is to advance the sport of cheerleading on a global scale. With 60 member nations, the ICU represents the various geographical areas where cheerleading exists. Working with the International All Star Federation (IASF), the governing body of international all star teams, the ICU promotes healthy competition and rule development so that the sport can progress in a safe and organized way. More information can be found on www.cheerunion.org.