2026 Camp theme: UNITE!

This year’s theme, UNITE, reminds us that real unity is built through recognition, trust, and choosing to move forward together. Our founder, Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer, lived that message—overcoming personal challenges and creating NCA so others could find their own voices. His legacy shows that growth happens alone, but true leadership happens when we lift others with us.

What to Wear on FUN Day!

Show off your creativity and team spirit by dressing as your favorite dynamic duos or perfect pairs—think peanut butter & jelly, pom & megaphone, or puzzle pieces that connect to form one message. It’s a fun way to highlight how every teammate contributes to making your squad stronger together and better as one.

What to Bring

Download our packing list HERE

  • Signs, poms, megs, flags for game day training
  • Addresses for St. Jude Letters
  • 1 index card per athlete for Team Time
  • Spirit Exchange: As part of our Team Time message, there is “Spirit Exchange” at every overnight camp. Teams need to bring something that athletes can give to someone from another team during this time. It should be something representative of their program’s school colors, team motto, a quality they value, or something encouraging for another.

What to Expect? What’s NEW?

  • All-American Moves to the Final Night: Creates less of an individual focus on the final day in favor of a Team mindset.
  • Final Evaluation Moves to the Final Morning: Gives one last opportunity to give feedback just before final day competitions.
  • Increased NFHS Focus: Reinforces our commitment to safety, sportsmanship, and alignment with national standards.
  • Expanded Game Day Drive: Adds creative instruction on football and basketball referee calls, helping athletes better understand and engage with the sports they support.

Coaches’ Education

  • New Coaches’ Video Series topics designed to educate and inspire while extending the benefit of the camp experience
  • Coaches’ manual is revised annually to provide a valuable resource that can be utilized at camp and throughout the season. It provides ideas for pep rally activities, NFHS Credentialing, links to sample team management resources, and much more.
  • Bonus Material: Receive NCA Stunt Curriculum when you complete the camp survey!

VIDEO GALLERY

It All Starts at NCA Summer Camp

NCA Summer Camp has empowered coaches and athletes to be ambassadors of spirit in their schools since 1948. See how a summer with NCA can build strong and lasting foundations to take back to your school.

Jan. 8, 2020

NCA Staff is Life Changing

Hear from current instructors how NCA Staff has impacted their lives in the best way possible.

Jan. 8, 2020

Experience NCA Summer Camp

At NCA Camp, our personalized programs and instruction help build the inner strength, dedication, compassion, and drive that will inevitably shine outwardly for all to see. We build athletes from the inside out.

Apr. 8, 2018

NCA Speed Camp

Speed Camps are designed to be the premier source for skill development and training of today’s cheer athlete. It’s perfect for teams that want to focus on the techniques needed to advance their individual and team skills in stunts, pyramids, and baskets.

Mar. 29, 2018

NCA Staff – They love what they do!

The NCA Staff takes great pride in being part of an amazing family of instructors that spans the country and positively affects the lives of thousands of cheerleaders every year.

Feb. 22, 2018