GLOBAL NEWS: Georgia Bulldogs Cheerleading Squad Makes History at 2025 ESPN Global Cheerleading Invitational — “With Every Leap, You Reached for the Stars; With Every Cheer, You Lifted Our Hearts”
LONDON, ENGLAND — July 20, 2025
In a performance that dazzled judges, silenced doubters, and ignited a wave of national pride, the Georgia Bulldogs Cheerleading Squad made history this weekend by capturing first place at the 2025 ESPN Global Cheerleading Invitational, held at the iconic O2 Arena in London.
Facing elite competition from powerhouse programs in Japan, Brazil, Canada, and host nation England, the Bulldogs delivered a near-perfect routine filled with gravity-defying stunts, razor-sharp synchronization, and show-stopping athleticism. But more than just technical execution, it was the squad’s undeniable energy, charisma, and school spirit that electrified the crowd and won the hearts of judges.
✨ A Performance for the Ages
The Bulldogs’ two-minute routine, choreographed by longtime head coach Savannah Reed, was set to a blend of iconic Southern rock and cinematic orchestral scores. The performance included a midair “quad pyramid” — a stunt never before completed at the global level — and a tumbling sequence that drew audible gasps from the audience.
The final moment saw co-captains Lexi Monroe and Aaliyah Banks soar simultaneously into full-layout basket tosses, landing cleanly as the Bulldog fight song blared across the arena. The crowd erupted before the last beat hit.
“From the first eight-count to the final bow, we knew we were witnessing something historic,” said ESPN analyst and former cheerleading world champion Tara Jennings. “The Georgia Bulldogs didn’t just perform — they transcended.”
🏆 A Win Years in the Making
The Bulldogs Cheer Team has long been respected on the national circuit, consistently placing in the top five at NCAA competitions. But 2025 marked their first-ever invitation to the ESPN Global, a competition widely considered the Olympics of cheerleading.
Coach Reed, in her post-competition remarks, held back tears as she addressed reporters:
> “This is more than a trophy. This is proof that hard work, resilience, and unity can move the world. These athletes are scholars, leaders, and now — global champions.”
🌍 Representing the Red and Black on a World Stage
Outfitted in red, black, and metallic gold uniforms embroidered with “GEORGIA” across the chest, the Bulldogs became fan favorites among the 20,000 spectators. Many in the crowd wore Bulldog pins or painted their faces in Georgia colors by the end of the final round.
“Every leap reached for the stars,” said global cheer judge Mina Takahashi of Japan. “They redefined the blend of power and grace — it was pure, contagious joy.”
❤️ A Message of Inspiration
The Bulldogs’ official statement after their win captured the spirit of the moment:
> “To the Georgia Bulldogs Cheerleaders: With every leap, you reached for the stars; with every cheer, you lifted our hearts. Your grace, strength, and passion have redefined excellence — not just for cheerleading, but for what it means to represent something greater than yourself.”
🔺 Looking Ahead
With the win, the Georgia Bulldogs now hold an automatic invitation to the 2026 Global Invitational in Tokyo, and rumors are already swirling about a feature documentary and appearance on ESPN’s “Champions of the Year.”
But for now, they return to Athens as international trailblazers, their voices echoing far beyond the sidelines.
They came. They soared. They conquered. The world just met Georgia’s finest — and they’ll never forget them. 🐾🇺🇸🌍
