Tennessee Vols Dance & Cheer Teams Compete at UDA Nationals

ORLANDO, Fla. - The University of Tennessee's renowned dance and cheer teams are currently captivating audiences at the Universal Dance Association (UDA) Dance and Cheer Nationals in Orlando, Florida. The prestigious competition, running from January 16th to 19th, 2026, showcases the nation's top collegiate dance and cheer squads at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
The atmosphere is electric as the Vols represent the University of Tennessee with their precision, athleticism, and unwavering spirit. For fans unable to attend in person, live streaming of the competition is available via Varsity.TV, allowing supporters across the country to witness the teams' performances.
A Detailed Look at the Vols' Competition Schedule
The Tennessee teams have a demanding schedule across the four-day event. Here's a breakdown of their key performances:
- Varsity Dance - Jazz: The Varsity Dance team kicked off their competition on Friday, January 17th, 2026, at 1:03 p.m. Their jazz routine, known for its intricate choreography and expressive artistry, was a highlight for many viewers tuning in online. The team's dedication to blending technical skill with captivating performance was on full display.
- Varsity Cheer - Preliminary Round: Saturday, January 18th, saw the Varsity Cheer team take to the mat for the preliminary round, commencing at 9:53 a.m. The preliminary round is crucial, as it sets the stage for the finals and determines which teams advance. The Vols' cheerleaders demonstrated exceptional strength, synchronization, and crowd engagement, creating a thrilling performance.
- Varsity Cheer - Finals: The culmination of the cheerleading competition arrives on Sunday, January 19th, at 2:21 p.m., as the Varsity Cheer team competes in the finals. This high-stakes performance will showcase the team's best routine, aiming to secure a top-tier finish. The atmosphere is expected to be intense as teams battle for national supremacy.
Beyond the Vols: A National Showcase of Talent
The UDA Nationals are not solely about the University of Tennessee; they represent a broader celebration of collegiate dance and cheerleading excellence. Teams from across the country are vying for the coveted national titles. The competition levels are extremely high, demanding exceptional athleticism, choreography, and teamwork from every participating squad. The event underscores the hard work, dedication, and passion of student-athletes involved in these demanding programs.
Staying Updated: Full Schedule and More Information
For those seeking a complete and up-to-the-minute schedule of all events, including the performances of other teams, the official UDA Nationals website, [ https://www.udancn.com/ ], is the definitive resource. The site provides detailed information on routines, team bios, and live scoring updates.
The Significance of UDA Nationals
Winning or placing highly at UDA Nationals holds immense prestige for collegiate dance and cheer programs. It reflects not only the team's current skill but also the quality of their coaching staff, training facilities, and overall program commitment. It's a significant achievement that contributes to the university's athletic reputation and fosters pride amongst students and alumni alike. The Vols' performance this year is a testament to their ongoing dedication to the sport and the University of Tennessee's legacy of excellence.
As the competition continues, fans eagerly await the outcome and celebrate the remarkable talent and sportsmanship displayed by all participating teams. The Tennessee Vols' journey at UDA Nationals 2026 is a source of inspiration and embodies the spirit of collegiate athletics.
Read the Full Knoxville News Sentinel Article at:
[ https://www.knoxnews.com/story/entertainment/2026/01/16/uda-dance-and-cheer-nationals-2026-schedule-when-do-the-vols-perform/88214131007/ ]