ATLANTA, Ga. — The Cheer Awards has officially surpassed 400,000 combined nominations, boosts, and votes, marking another milestone for the community-driven awards program as the industry heads toward the final stretch of voting.

Since nominations opened, athletes, coaches, gym owners, event producers, choreographers, brands, media personalities, and fans from across the cheerleading world have rallied behind their favorites. What began as a new platform to recognize excellence across every corner of the sport has quickly become one of the most engaged initiatives in cheerleading.

Unlike traditional awards decided behind closed doors, The Cheer Awards puts the community at the center of the process. Every nomination, every boost, and every vote represents someone taking the time to recognize the people, programs, and companies making an impact on the sport.

"This has exceeded every expectation we had," said Shane James, founder of The Cheer Awards. "The response from the cheer community has been incredible. More than anything, it shows that people want a platform where every part of this industry has the opportunity to be celebrated."

The 2026 awards cycle has already generated:

  • 5,400+ nominations

  • 400,000+ combined nominations, boosts, and votes

  • Hundreds of thousands of visitors engaging with finalists and categories

The excitement has extended well beyond the ballot. More than 35 companies across the cheer industry have already partnered with The Cheer Awards, supporting the event through sponsorships, experiences, media, production, livestreaming, gifts, and event activations. The growing list of partners reflects an industry coming together for one night to celebrate the people behind the sport.

Winners will be announced during The Cheer Awards on Wednesday, July 15, in Orlando, Florida, where athletes, coaches, business leaders, and fans will gather for an evening dedicated entirely to celebrating excellence in cheerleading.

With general admission already sold out and VIP seating expected to reach capacity, organizers encourage those planning to attend to secure their tickets while availability remains.

Voting remains open, and every vote continues to shape who will take home one of cheerleading's newest honors.

For voting, tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and event information, visit CheerAwards.org.