Midnight Memories Cheer Banquet
On Saturday April 4th, 2026, the Lancer Cheerleading team swapped their uniforms for sparkly, elegant dresses for their Midnight Memories Cheer Banquet. Glamorously dressed in blue and gold to celebrate a year full of memories and success—a night truly worth remembering.
This celebration took place in the CAW Alumni Auditorium planned entirely by second-year cheerleader, Ava Warren.
Walking through this golden night were blue balloons dusted in gold sparkles, fresh cut floral centerpieces, star lit candles, and countless smiles. The night commenced with a pasta dinner, followed by cupcakes with icing so blue it stained teeth!
A highlight of the night was a seven-minute end-of-the-year video curated by Ava Warren. It perfectly captured what it feels like to be a Lancer Cheerleader. Featuring audio reflections from every team member layered over the footage, the video brought out waves of emotion—leaving many dabbing their eyes with gold napkins.
Speeches from the executive team followed.
Starting with the President Angelia Lapico with a powerful reflection: “This team and each girl in this room will go down in history as the team that brought Lancer Cheer back to the competitive stage and changed what UWindsor Cheer looks like forever.”
She was referring to the team competing for the first time in 11 years and taking home silver from Nationals! Next year, they have their sights set on gold—after all, Lancers bleed blue and gold.
Canada’s Premier University Cheerleading Competition on February 7th, 2026, in Guelph, Ontario.
Vice-president Grace Clarkson, continued on the microphone adding: “Not only did we compete at two competitions, but we accomplished something most of us never thought possible: placing second place at a national level. And honestly, it was never about the competition itself. It was everything that came with it—the carpools, making pins, prank calls in our hotel rooms, and ordering way too many ice creams at Marble Slab. Even our Lancer Season—the games, the energy we brought forth, and those once-in-a-lifetime experiences like hosting volleyball nationals meant so much to finally see our team get recognized for the effort we put in as athletes.”
Closing out the speeches was Jennika Mitchell, Senior Vice-President, sharing a deeply personal story: “There was a time where I was thinking about dropping out of school but as I was walking out of the CAW, I saw a bake sale going on. And I saw pom poms. I ran over as fast as I could, and out of breath, was asking when tryouts were. Here I am, still just as excited, only three years later.”
The Executive Team
From left: Jennika Mitchell, Grace Clarkson, Angelia Lapico, Mia Milosevski
The night transitioned into awards, highlighting the athletes who made the season extra special.
Beaming Backspot was earned by Dacey Richmond. New to the team this season, she always was willing to try new things attached with an eagerness. She wasn’t scared to ask questions, and she was an exceptional learner.
Fearless Flyer was awarded to another rookie Ciara Remigio. She demonstrated crazy resilience even after dangerous falls and purple bruises, she still got back up. She committed extra time outside of practice with her stunt group to learn new skills and make improvements, flying courageously.
Blue and Gold, a new award to the season, was to someone who really demonstrated what Lancer Cheer is all about. Effortlessly radiating positivity and cheerfulness, with her dimply smile, Ashley Tam took this one home. She never stopped cheering loud and proud even when Lancer teams didn’t win.
Brilliant Base was awarded to Danielle Stultz. She kept her flyer up in the air with a strong sense—a hard worker with the funniest spirit.
Most Improved Stunt Group went to Satara Mak, Bryce Emery, Aliya Jasey, and Kara Westlake. They meshed and thrived excellently together. They could always be counted on to make the team laugh.
Fierce Facials was given to Ava Warren spirit and playful looks carried the highest cheerleader energy.
PCA Pizzazz had to go to Sarah Pettitt. Known for her loud ruthless call to the crowd in the words of “I can’t hear you!” during the band chant, she amped up the performance single every time. Her voice is booming and clear gaining great feedback from the crowd.
Rookie of the Year was Jordan Nasir who made cheerleading look effortless and beautiful, wearing a new lip combo to every game! She’s a true team player and one they’re all lucky to have on the team.
Shining Seniors were Britney Dupuis and Ashley Tongo showed leadership in every situation. Always positive and star-shining, they will never be forgotten.
MVP went to Marie Piechutta who always gave a hand to anybody who needed it, adjusted to changes with excitement and kept a tight grip (literally) on what it means to be a cheerleader.
The celebration didn’t end there. The team carried the energy into the night at Disco Inferno, creating even more “midnight memories” to add to an already unforgettable season.
It’s hard to believe an incredible monumental season comes to a close for the Lancer Cheerleaders. They have been fighting to be recognized and will continue to do so for the years to come, earning respect as real athletes. They truly are the ones bringing the energy to games and enhancing the competitive atmosphere.
And if this season proved anything, it’s that they’re just getting started.
With love,
your 2025/2026 Lancer Cheerleading team