Lily Kate Wilkinson Signs to Cheer at UNC Wilmington

NRCA’s Lily Kate Wilkinson signed on May 12, 2025, to cheer at UNC Wilmington. She will join the Seahawks cheerleading program for the 2025-26 season.  

Wilkinson, who began cheering at age 6, chose UNCW for a variety of reasons. “The people and the town. The campus is gorgeous, and it’s a great academic fit,” she said. She plans to major in communication studies.  

The cheer program at NRCA helped Wilkinson learn the skills she needed to continue cheering at the next level. She explained, “Cheering for football and basketball helped prepare me for sideline cheer, which I love!” 

Before joining NRCA’s program, Wilkinson learned the basics by participating in an all-star program. “I did all-star cheerleading for nine years before cheering at NRCA, and it was super competitive. I’m excited to help UNCW win a championship in Daytona,” Wilkinson said. The National Cheerleading Association (NCA) and National Dance Alliance (NDA) hold collegiate championships in Daytona Beach, Florida, each spring. Over 10,000 athletes participate in the championships.  

Wilkinson’s favorite memories at NRCA happened under Friday night lights. She said, “I loved cheering for football games! The crowd, the students, and the band made it so much fun each and every Friday night.” Wilkinson added, “I also loved competing with my best friends.” 

Under the topic of collegiate cheerleading goals, Wilkinson said she hopes “to make mat for the competition team every year.” 

Wilkinson had a few people she wanted to acknowledge for their roles in helping her reach this milestone. “My mom and dad have always supported me and been my biggest fans. My coaches have pushed me and encouraged me throughout my life to always be better and do better,” she said.