The Ladue Horton Watkins High School Cheer team had an unbelievable week at the National Cheerleading Association (NCA) Camp at Missouri State University, bringing home top awards, national recognition, and unforgettable memories.

More than 100 athletes from schools across Missouri and Tennessee gathered to learn, compete, and grow together. While Ladue Cheer impressed with incredible technical skills, what stood out most were the countless compliments for the team’s sportsmanship, leadership, and positive spirit throughout camp.

“We are so proud of all of their accomplishments, but the biggest wins for us were all of the comments, compliments, and praise for how our Ladue Cheer family interacted with EVERY team, athlete, and staff member,” said Coach Merri Cross. “As coaches, we always want our athletes to grow in skill, but more importantly, we want them to be supportive, caring, and enthusiastic members of the cheer community.” 

Major Awards and Highlights.

The NCA All-American program is one of the most respected individual recognitions in cheerleading. It honors athletes who demonstrate exceptional technical skill, leadership, and strong personal values.

• 23 All-American nominations were earned by Ladue athletes, with 13 athletes trying out—including the entire varsity team, the only full team at camp to do so!
• Three athletes were named to the All-American Team:
  • Ally Karasick (Sophomore) – First-time honoree
  • Alyssa Eye (Senior) – Second-time honoree
  • Cam Cross (Senior) – Fourth-time honoree and named Top All-American for earning the highest overall score at camp.

Senior Cam Cross and Coach Caleb Flinn both received staff recommendations, which is a significant honor for those interested in joining the NCA staff in the future.

Sophomore and JV Captain Suhani Agnihotri was one of only 10 cheerleaders at camp chosen by NCA staff to receive this prestigious award for leadership and commitment to the sport.

For the fourth year in a row, Ladue Cheer was voted by all teams at camp as the recipient of the NCA Spirit Award for embodying enthusiasm, positivity, and leadership throughout the week.

Team Achievements

• 5 Top Team Trophies (JV and Varsity)
• 7 Spirit Sticks
• 6 Blue Superior Ribbons
• NCA Technical Award for Tumbling – Varsity
• Stunt Safe Awards
• National Bid – Ladue Cheer earned a bid to NCA High School Nationals in Dallas, Texas!

Ladue Cheer is back—and better than ever! The energy and team spirit from NCA Camp have set the stage for an incredible cheer season ahead. Congratulations to all athletes and coaches!