By NIKOLE JAVIER
National University (NU) Pep Squad reclaimed the UAAP cheerdance title on Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
After falling short in its three-peat campaign earlier this year, a “cheer-obics” inspired theme brought NU back to the top of the pyramid.
In front of the 18,029 cheering crowd, the cheerers of the collegiate league danced and soared to the old pre-pandemic routine of six minutes.
The bright and colorful routine of the now seven-time champion amassed 723 points to dethrone the defending champion Far Eastern University (FEU) Cheering Squad.
“Siguro wala nang mas ibang emosyon na mailalabas ako ngayon kundi happiness kasi since ito ‘yong last season ko. I’ve been working for the NU Pep Squad for 12 years. And in the 12 years, out of nine seasons nakakuha tayo ng seven championships, may two podium finish tayo. Siguro ‘yong happiness ko ngayon mas malaki pa sa arena. Hindi ko nabigo ang bawat supporter and ‘yong lahat ng umaasa. na kayang kaya ibalik ang trophy na ito sa NU Pep Squad,” NU head coach
FEU, which paid homage to the late Francis Magalona in its full routine, couldn’t retain the title and was four points close to NU, sending them back to a first runner-up finish with 719 points.
University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe went with pop icon Lady Gaga for its theme, bringing them to a second runner-up finish with 640 points after missing out on the podium for five years.
University of the East Pep Squad, who supported the local OPM scene, danced its way to SB19’s popular songs and climbed one place up for fourth with 606.5 points.
Host-school Adamson Pep Squad’s theme revolved around ‘Reinvention’ and shrugged off first-performer jitters with a fifth-place finish with 595 points.
University of the Philippines Pep Squad, who performed last, went for a combination of pop and hip hop with its Black Eyes Peas-inspired routine and came in sixth with 575.5 points.
The Animo Pep Squad, who placed seventh earlier this year, moved up one place after amassing 528.5 points for its Janet Jackson-themed routine.
Ateneo Blue Eagles were called in last in the competition for the second straight year with 502.5 points.