Orlando, Florida – The National Dance Alliance (NDA) Nationals are underway in Orlando, Florida, with competitions continuing through . Among the teams vying for national titles is New Berlin West High School’s Small Varsity Pom team, which performed in the prelims of the 2026 competition.
The NDA Nationals, as described by organizers, showcase “the best talent in the cheerleading world,” attracting teams from across the United States. The event encompasses a variety of categories, including stunting, tumbling, and dance, with teams competing in disciplines such as jazz, hip hop, pom, and kick. The 2026 schedule, while not fully detailed publicly, promises an “electrifying showcase” of high school and college dance teams.
New Berlin West High School has a demonstrated history of success in competitive dance. The team’s website details a string of recent achievements, including being named 2X National Champions in Extra Small Pom and Hip Hop at the 2024 Contest of Champions. They also secured the title of 2024 WACPC (Wisconsin Association of Cheer/Pom Coaches) State Champions in D2 Hip Hop, and were Regional Champions in D2 Hip Hop the same year. Prior successes extend back several years, including a 3rd place finish at the 2022 WACPC State competition in D4 Pom, and a Virtual National Championship in Medium All Female Hip Hop in 2021.
The team’s participation in the 2026 NDA Nationals builds on this established record. While specific results from the Small Varsity Pom prelims were not immediately available, the competition represents a significant opportunity for the New Berlin West Poms to further solidify their national standing. A video of their performance was initially available online, but is currently listed as unavailable in certain locations.
Beyond competitive success, the New Berlin West Poms actively engage in community service. The team’s website highlights volunteer work with organizations such as Walk for Wishes and #teambryce, as well as a long-standing commitment to leading the SNAP Poms team. This community involvement underscores the team’s role as more than just a competitive dance squad, but as active participants in the local area.
The financial sustainability of the team relies on sponsorships and donations, which help cover costs associated with choreography, music, costumes, and travel. Head Coach Hannah Chin is the primary contact for potential sponsors, according to the team’s website. This reliance on external funding is a common characteristic of high school extracurricular activities, requiring ongoing efforts to secure resources.
The broader context of competitive dance in the United States reveals a highly structured and increasingly professionalized landscape. Events like the NDA Nationals and the Contest of Champions serve as key benchmarks for teams across the country, driving innovation in choreography and technique. The competition also provides a platform for dancers to showcase their skills and potentially pursue opportunities in higher education or professional dance careers.
Recent results from other teams competing at the NDA Nationals, as reported on social media, indicate a high level of competition. Millard West’s Small Varsity Hip Hop team, for example, placed 4th in their category. The event is attracting attention on platforms like TikTok, where videos of performances are being shared and discussed.
The NDA Nationals also serve as an economic driver for Orlando, Florida, attracting athletes, families, and spectators to the region. The event’s organizers anticipate a significant economic impact, contributing to the local tourism industry. The competition’s popularity reflects the growing interest in dance as a competitive sport and a form of artistic expression.
New Berlin West High School’s participation in the 2026 NDA Nationals represents a culmination of months of training and preparation. The team’s history of success, combined with their commitment to community service, positions them as a strong contender in the Small Varsity Pom division. While the final results remain to be seen, the team’s presence at the event underscores the growing prominence of competitive dance within the American high school sports landscape.
The event’s organizers have indicated that the full schedule will be released in the coming months, allowing participants and spectators to plan their attendance accordingly. The 2026 NDA Nationals promise to be a showcase of talent, athleticism, and artistry, attracting attention from across the country and beyond.
