Michigan State University’s cheerleading program continues to soar to new heights, officially retaining its World No. 1 ranking for the second consecutive year. The Spartans, already a powerhouse in collegiate cheer, now enter a new chapter of national visibility and influence as they partner with ESPN in what’s being hailed as the “ESPN Cheer Era.” It’s a defining moment for a program that embodies athleticism, artistry, and school pride on a global stage.
For years, Michigan State’s cheerleading team has been the heartbeat of Spartan Nation—blending precision stunts, breathtaking pyramids, and boundless enthusiasm that electrify the Breslin Center and Spartan Stadium alike. This year, however, their dominance has transcended campus spirit. The Spartans’ gold-medal performance at the International Cheer Union (ICU) Championships cemented their place atop the world rankings, edging out perennial rivals from Kentucky, Florida, and Japan. Judges praised the team for their synchronization, innovation in choreography, and “unmatched energy and athletic cohesion.”
Head coach Rachel Montgomery, a former Spartan cheerleader herself, described the achievement as “a testament to years of commitment, discipline, and family culture.” Under her leadership, Michigan State has evolved from a strong collegiate program into a world-class cheer dynasty. “We don’t just represent a school,” Montgomery said. “We represent a tradition of excellence that stretches across generations of Spartans.”
The partnership with ESPN marks another milestone. Beginning this season, Michigan State cheerleading will feature prominently in the network’s new College Cheer Spotlight Series, a platform designed to celebrate the athleticism, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes dedication of collegiate cheer programs. For the Spartans, it’s not only recognition but also opportunity—visibility that could inspire a new generation of student-athletes to dream big in green and white.
ESPN’s involvement comes at a time when cheerleading is gaining unprecedented mainstream respect. With the rise of competitive cheer documentaries, the sport’s inclusion in international competitions, and growing NCAA acknowledgment, programs like Michigan State’s are redefining what it means to be a cheerleader. No longer confined to the sidelines, these athletes are stars in their own right—balancing academics, training, and community engagement while representing one of the nation’s most storied universities.
Beyond the medals and media deals, Michigan State’s success has become a point of pride across campus. Students rally behind their cheer team just as passionately as they do the football or basketball squads. Alumni around the world celebrate their accomplishments, recognizing that the team’s relentless pursuit of perfection mirrors the Spartan spirit itself—resilient, unified, and unstoppable.
As Michigan State cheerleading embarks on this ESPN era, one thing is certain: the program’s influence will only grow. The world’s top-ranked team is not just performing routines—it’s crafting a legacy, one high-flying basket toss at a time. With a foundation built on dedication and a future backed by global exposure, the Spartans are poised to lead the next generation of cheer, both on the mat and on the airwaves.
From East Lansing to the world stage, the chant rings louder than ever: Go Green! Go White! Go No. 1!
