The Cheer Awards 2026 Returns, Celebrating the Best in Cheerleading

Nominations are now open as The Cheer Awards returns to recognize the athletes, coaches, programs, event producers, brands, creators, and industry leaders making an impact on the sport.

Powered by T-Mobile, The Cheer Awards was created to celebrate excellence across every corner of cheerleading, giving the community an opportunity to recognize the people and organizations helping shape the future of the sport. Following more than 75,000 votes cast during the 2025 awards cycle, organizers expect another strong showing from the global cheer community in 2026.

More Than 40 Categories

The awards feature more than 40 categories spanning athletes, coaches, gyms, events, media, choreography, technology, and community leadership. Categories include:

• Cheer Program of the Year
• Cheer Coach of the Year
• Gym Owner of the Year
• Choreographer of the Year
• Best International Program
• Best Independent Event Producer
• The prestigious 40 Under 40 and Hall of Fame recognitions

"The Cheer Awards were built to recognize the people who are elevating our sport every day. From athletes and coaches to event producers, creators, and brands, this is an opportunity for the entire community to celebrate excellence together."

— Shane James, CEO of The Cheer Awards

2026 Timeline

The 2026 awards cycle includes community nominations through June 30, followed by finalist voting before winners are revealed during the July 18 celebration in Orlando. The event is expected to bring together some of the sport''s most influential figures for an evening dedicated to honoring achievement, innovation, and leadership within cheerleading.

Beyond the Competition Floor

Unlike traditional competitive awards that focus solely on performance results, The Cheer Awards recognizes contributions across all aspects of the industry — including media, technology, business leadership, event production, and community impact. The goal is to spotlight the individuals and organizations helping move cheerleading forward both on and off the competition floor.

Tickets for The Cheer Awards are available now, with additional event information, nominations, voting details, and category descriptions available at CheerAwards.org. Get tickets at CheerTix.com.

As the cheerleading industry continues to evolve, The Cheer Awards aims to provide a platform that celebrates the people, programs, and innovations shaping the next generation of the sport.