Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach High School’s varsity cheerleaders finished as national runner-up at a major competition in Orlando over the weekend, with a score of 92.1. They were competing in the 2026 Cheer Super Varsity Non-Tumbling Division II Game Day Semis. The result came against top programs from across the country and marked another milestone for the growing Makos cheer program. School and city officials praised the team for bringing small-town pride onto a national stage. Families and supporters followed from home as scores were announced and results posted online. Homewood was the only other Alabama school in its division and ranked 8th with a score of 88.6.

The national event took place in late January and concluded on Sunday, February 1, in Orlando, Florida, at a venue known for hosting top-tier cheerleading championships. Orange Beach competed over the weekend in a crowded field, progressing through preliminary rounds to secure a position near the top of its division. Officials said the team’s performance was the latest highlight in a season that already included a state championship back home.

Orange Beach City Schools shared the news with a message that captured the excitement around campus. “NATIONAL RUNNER‑UP! Our Varsity Cheerleading team brought the energy, the heart, and the hustle to the national stage and finished 2nd in the nation,” the district announced in an online post. The update quickly drew congratulations from parents, students, and community members. Many shared photos and comments celebrating the Makos’ latest achievement.

The City of Orange Beach expressed pride with its own public message recognizing the varsity cheerleaders for their national achievement. “Congratulations to the Orange Beach High School Varsity Cheerleaders – 2nd in the Nation. Go Makos,” the city shared, linking the result to the community’s strong support for local schools. City posts about the squad’s success highlighted how often the team represents Orange Beach at games, pep rallies, and regional events.

This national runner‑up finish builds on a series of achievements for the program. Recently, Orange Beach cheerleaders have won multiple Alabama state titles and gained recognition for sharp routines and energetic crowd leadership. Coaches have emphasized game‑day energy and flawless execution, a combination that carried over to the national stage in Orlando.

For the athletes, the weekend was about more than trophies and rankings. Traveling to Orlando gave the team a chance to compete under bright lights, challenge themselves against larger schools, and gain lessons for future seasons. School leaders say the Makos’ run to a national runner-up finish shows what can happen when talent, hard work, and community support come together.