NEW ORLEANS, LA – July 26, 2025 – The energy of Mardi Gras, the soul of jazz, and the fierce spirit of the Who Dat Nation have converged on a global stage, as the New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders have officially been crowned the No. 1 Cheer Team in the World by ESPN! This groundbreaking announcement, made during a special broadcast recognizing excellence in professional sports entertainment, has ignited jubilation across the Crescent City and firmly placed the Dazzling Daughters of New Orleans at the zenith of international cheerleading.
The victory follows a rigorous, multi-stage evaluation process spearheaded by ESPN, which aimed to identify the premier professional cheer squad globally. Unlike traditional collegiate cheer competitions, this inaugural professional ranking considered not only technical skill and performance but also the squad’s integral role in their team’s brand, fan engagement, community involvement, and overall impact on the gameday experience. The Saints Cheerleaders, known for their captivating performances and unwavering dedication, excelled in every category, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a professional cheer team.
“This is truly an unbelievable moment for us, for our city, and for the entire Saints organization,” exclaimed Head Coach Ashley Denault, her voice thick with emotion during a celebratory press conference at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center. “Our cheerleaders pour their hearts and souls into every performance, every appearance, and every interaction with our incredible fans. This recognition by ESPN is a testament to their relentless hard work, their extraordinary talent, and the unique spirit of New Orleans that they carry with them everywhere. They are, without a doubt, the heartbeat of the Saints pride.”
The evaluation process reportedly involved comprehensive assessments of team choreography, precision, athleticism, and showmanship. Crucially, a significant weight was placed on their ability to command a crowd, enhance the fan experience at live events, and serve as dynamic ambassadors for their respective franchises. The Saints Cheerleaders’ routines, infused with the vibrant energy and cultural flair of New Orleans, were lauded for their originality and dynamic execution. Their signature blend of high-flying stunts, intricate dance formations, and powerful vocal chants perfectly encapsulated the excitement of a Saints gameday.
“When you watch the Saints Cheerleaders, you’re not just watching a performance; you’re experiencing a piece of New Orleans,” remarked a representative from the ESPN panel during the broadcast. “Their routines are a seamless fusion of world-class athleticism and undeniable cultural identity. They engage with the crowd, they exude confidence, and they are truly the rhythm of the sidelines. They epitomize what a professional cheer team should be.”
The news has sent waves of excitement throughout New Orleans. Fans took to social media, flooding feeds with congratulatory messages and expressing immense pride in their cheer squad. Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued a statement, applauding the team: “The New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders represent the very best of our city – talent, resilience, and unparalleled spirit. Their achievement as the No. 1 Cheer Team in the World is a magnificent honor, and we celebrate their dedication in bringing so much joy and energy to our community and to the global stage. They truly are the Dazzling Daughters of New Orleans, shining bright for all to see.”
For the Saints organization, this accolade further elevates their globally recognized brand. The cheerleaders are integral to the gameday spectacle at the Caesars Superdome, electrifying the atmosphere and connecting with fans in a way that transcends mere entertainment. Their consistent presence at community events, charitable initiatives, and goodwill tours further solidifies their role as vital ambassadors for the team and the city.
Captain Marie Dubois, a veteran of the squad for five seasons, spoke about the journey to this unprecedented recognition. “We push each other every day to be better, to be stronger, to be more unified. We train like athletes, perform like artists, and represent our city with every fiber of our being. To see that hard work culminate in this global recognition, especially from a platform like ESPN, is incredibly validating. We hope this inspires young aspiring cheerleaders everywhere to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication.”
This groundbreaking “No. 1 in the World” title not only highlights the exceptional talent within the New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders but also underscores the growing prominence and athleticism within the entire professional cheerleading landscape. It shatters old stereotypes, showcasing these athletes as highly skilled, dedicated professionals who contribute significantly to the entertainment value and community engagement of major sports franchises.
As the Saints prepare for the upcoming NFL season, the spotlight on their world-champion cheerleading squad will undoubtedly intensify. They are not just the spirit of the Saints; they are now recognized as the global standard-bearers for their craft. So, let the good times roll, New Orleans! Shine on, Sweet Saints! CONGRATULATIONS, Saints Squad Cheerleaders—YOU ARE THE WAVE, and the world is watching, ready to catch your next magnificent crest.
