For me, one of the most powerful cheer moments of 2009 was watching the International Cheer Union (ICU) World Championships in April. Sitting in the stands of Disney’s Wide World of Sports (soon to be the ESPN Wide World of Sports) in Orlando, I had chills watching national teams from countries around the world compete. The Olympics–style opening and closing ceremonies were also a spectacle to behold. But perhaps the most moving part was after the winners were announced, and teams stood on the podium, medals around their necks, as their country’s national anthem was played.

Team USA in their gold-medal performance at the 2009 ICU World Championships

I was so proud to watch these medalists represent their countries, especially the world champion squads (two cheer, one dance, plus stunt partners) from Team USA. Team USA comprised the absolute best of the best cheerleaders and dancers from all parts of the country. (Click here to see who competed with the 2009 teams.) and they were coached by an absolute dream team: Jomo Thompson from the University of Kentucky, Tony Nash from Morehead State University, and James Speed from the University of Louisville and GymTyme All-Stars.

Team USA huddles up before taking the mat

The tryouts for the 2010 Team USA squads are today, but those invited to attend first had to be accepted via video tryout and online application. The 2010 Team USA coaches have their work cut out for them today! To learn more about Coed Head Cheer Coach David McDowell, All-Girl Head Cheer Coach Sherry Cooney and Coed/All-Girl Coach Roger Schonder, click here.

Team USA will be competing at the ICU World Championships April 22–26 at Walt Disney World in Orlando. Be sure to check back next week for the tryout results. We’ll be posting the full 2010 Team USA roster, right here at americancheerleader.com!

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