USF cheer program captures national and world titles

For the members of the USF cheer teams, winning has become both a privilege and a habit. 

"Pressure is a privilege. We preach that constantly in our team," said the Bulls' all-girls assistant cheer coach Kelly Budnick. 

However, the Bulls have turned that pressure into trophies, winning nine titles over the last five years alone. 

READ: USF pole-vaulting coach continues to stand the test of time

"USF is definitely on the rise in the cheerleading world and people are starting to realize how great we are as a whole program," said senior cheerleader Ally Stoyan.

This season, however, the Bulls took their winning ways to a whole new level. 

"It truly is just such a special moment, no matter what placement you get. But it is super exciting getting that first place feeling," said Madelyn Hollins, a junior.

The coed team finished the season as national champions in the Game Day category, while the all-girls team were named USA Grand Champions and world champions.

 MORE: USF women's lacrosse team set for inaugural season

"It's a moment like you can't describe in a sport like this if you've never experienced it before," Budnick said. 

Now, after five years of cheerleading dominance, the Bulls cheer program is starting to gain a reputation and the respect that comes along with it. 

"We feel like when we do walk in the room now people do recognize us," said coed head coach Ronnie Patrick. "They think 'That's USF.' and now they know we're from Tampa Bay."

As the championship rings and trophies continue to stack up, the culture surrounding USF cheerleading continues to change, as well. 

"It's just pride. Pure joy and pride," said Budnick.

All the while the Bulls continue to build a lasting legacy on the mat and in the air. 

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA:

University of South FloridaNCAA SportsSports