ULM cheerleaders are once again national champions; the team placed first at the Universal Cheerleading Association National Championship today in Orlando, Fla., competing in the small co-ed division I.

This is the third national championship title in five years; the team also won in 2004 and 2005.

Amy Weems, assistant dean of Student Life and Leadership at ULM, expressed her pride in the ULM students.

"We are so proud of our students for their excellent performance and support of each other throughout this competition. UCA is one of the largest and most competitive divisions in the country and our top rankings reflect the leadership of our coaches and spirit group staff."

Captain Tiffany Coker will always remember today's win. This is her fourth year to compete and her second national championship win.

"This has been an amazing year for the cheerleaders. We have had so many great opportunities to show our pride and spirit for ULM. From getting to cheer on our football team and watch them beat Alabama to bringing home our own big win ... It has been a year we will always remember."

Participants include:

• Jennifer Sword, ULM Cheer Coach, Monroe
  
• Joanie Williams, ULM Coordinator of Spirit Groups, Monroe
  
• Chase Brett, ULM Choreographer, Laurel, Miss.
  
• Kaci Brodnax, Bastrop
  
• Tiffany Coker, Monroe
  
• Jessica Huskey, Junction City, Ark.
  
• Kristen Hirchak, Alexandria
  
• Peaire Allison, Star, Miss.
  
• Petey Thigpen, Laurel, Miss.
  
• Cameron Gilmore, Mandeville
  
• Stephen Martinez, Midland, Texas
  
• Chris Archie, Star, Miss.
  
• Desmond Ross, West Monroe
  
• Jesse Wells, Downsville
  
• Kristen Gordey, Shreveport
  
• Natalie Connella, Shreveport
  
• Amy Spainhower, Monroe
• Katie Miller, Monroe
• Kristen Gix, Monroe
  
• Casey Madison, Monroe
  
• Kristin Ringle, Monroe
  
• Erin Wooten, Bastrop
  
• Rebecca Reiser, Shreveport

For more information about the ULM Cheerleaders, contact Joanie Williams at (318) 342-5293 or jlwilliams@ulm.edu.