National cheer, dance championships coming to Topeka

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has selected the City of Topeka Cheer and Dance National Championships.

The NAIA announced on Nov. 7 that Topeka will host the 2026 and 2027 Cheer and Dance National Championships at the Stormont Vail Events Center. The NAIA also selected Visit Topeka and Baker University as hosts for the competitions.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome the NAIA Cheer and Dance National Championships to Topeka,” said Topeka Area Sports Commission Executive Director Mike Bell. “Hosting this event is a testament to our city’s vibrant sports culture and our commitment to providing top-notch facilities and hospitality.”

The NAIA championship will be conducted over the course of two days and feature 15 cheer and 12 dance teams. St. Ambrose University of Iowa earned both the cheer and dance national titles in when the championship was held in 2024 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

“Baker University is honored and excited to be the NAIA supporting host for the 2026 and 2027 Cheer and Dance National Championships,” said Baker University Athletic Director Susan Baker. “As we work with Visit Topeka, we will strive to make this the best student-athlete experience possible.”

The Stormont Vail Events Center can be found at 1 Expocentre Drive in Topeka. Learn more about the event space by clicking here.

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