The University of Louisiana at Monroe cheerleading squad placed fourth in the 2009 College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship in Orlando, Fla., Saturday night.

The ULM team competed in the semifinals with other Small Coed Division I teams from around the nation, from as far away as Villanova University in Pennsylvania.

“The cheerleaders have worked so hard over the past several months and nationals was their time to show everyone what they are capable of. They had a great performance and I could not be more proud,” said Joanie Williams, coordinator of ULM spirit groups, on Saturday night.

Just being invited to compete is an honor, since each team had to submit a taped performance of their squad’s routine and rank high enough to compete in the semifinals. ULM cheerleaders secured a spot in the competition and even earned a portion of the funding necessary to travel to Orlando.

The prestigious competition, which showcases the country’s best college cheerleaders, dance team performers and mascots, is marking its 25th year.