NCA All-Star National Championship to Transition to Houston in 2026

DALLAS – The National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) has announced that its All-Star National Championship will be relocating to Houston after over 30 years in Dallas. This change is scheduled to take effect for the competitions held in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

Details of the Relocation

The championship events will be hosted at two key venues: the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Toyota Center in Houston. The decision to move was influenced by upcoming renovations and expansions planned for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas.

Insights from Organizers

John Newby, the executive vice president and general manager of camp and event operations for Varsity Spirit, expressed enthusiasm about the changes in Dallas. He stated, “We are excited about the revitalization project in Dallas and the benefits it will bring to sports like cheer in the Metroplex. Varsity Brands and Varsity Spirit are committed to maintaining a strong presence in Dallas, and we’re pleased to keep these impactful events in Texas.”

What Happened During the 2025 Championship?

At the 2025 NCA All-Star National Championship, an unfortunate incident occurred on March 1, resulting in mass panic and the evacuation of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. A fight between two individuals triggered a loud commotion, leading attendees to believe there was an active shooter situation.

In the ensuing chaos, people rushed to leave the venue, causing a stampede. Although ten individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries—including bumps, bruises, and broken bones—the severity of injuries was not critical. The NCA officials responded promptly by canceling the remaining events for the day, although competitions were able to resume the next day.

Aftermath and Community Reaction

Videos depicting the chaotic scene rapidly circulated on social media, heightening concerns among families who traveled to Dallas for the event. Law enforcement later clarified that there was no active shooter, but the moments of confusion were distressing for many present.

Final Thoughts

The relocation of the NCA All-Star National Championship marks a new chapter for this long-standing event as it continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges. While the championship will move to Houston, Dallas is poised for exciting developments that will reflect positively on the future of sports within the region.