Far Eastern University Cheering Squad (FEUCS) Super Mario-themed performance took FEU to its fourth championship in the highly-anticipated University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 Cheerdance Competition (CDC) held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City yesterday, December 2.

The green-and-gold reps won their previous titles in UAAP seasons 61, 72 and 84. 

With their win, FEU also listed 21 podium finishes which is the highest record in the collegiate league.

Having won two gold medals in three seasons, FEU head coach Randell San Gregorio testified to FEU's cheerdance program for their achievements.

“Mabigat din ‘yung most podium [finishes] eh (Having the most podium finishes is already a big thing) in UAAP cheerdance history. I guess it’s a testimony to the program of FEU as far as cheerdance is concerned… Siguro nakuha na namin ‘yung tamang formula (Maybe we already found the right formula),” he said.

The Morayta-based squad took the mats with a new look as they showcased childlike dance numbers and stunts, highlighting their theme #SuperTAMario. 

FEUCS tallied a total of 702.5 points this season which included a five-point deduction from penalties. 

They only led by 5.5 points with last season’s champions National University (NU) Pep Squad who had 697 points, while the University of Santo Tomas Salinggawi Dance Troupe sustained their bronze placement with 684 markers.

Despite taking a risk with their video game-inspired theme, FEU topped the tumbling, tosses, pyramids and dance category, but fell behind NU in the stunts category with a four-point difference. 

San Gregorio remarked that the championship this season felt different compared to the championship they had last season 84.

“Parang mas may katarungan ngayon ‘yung championship namin… At least ngayon, ma-eenjoy namin ‘yung isang buong taon na champion kami (It seems like our championship has more justice now... At least now, we can enjoy a whole year that we are champions),” the winning head coach stated.

FEUCS also bagged all special awards, including Skechers Most Stylish Performance, Yamaha Most Unique Dance Move, BYS Best Toss, Juicy Cologne Juicy-fied Pyramid, and Silka Best Awra Dance Move.

(Photo by Raph Bautista/FEU Advocate)