Florida Panther Girls Make Global History: Crowned No. 1 Worldwide Cheer Squad
In a groundbreaking announcement that has electrified the world of sports entertainment, the Florida Panther Girls—the official cheer and performance squad of the NHL’s Florida Panthers—have achieved a historic milestone by being named the No. 1 cheer squad in the world. For the first time ever, an NHL-affiliated cheer team has claimed the top spot in international rankings, a feat never before accomplished in the league’s long and storied history.
This recognition comes from a comprehensive global poll and performance-based evaluation conducted by International Sports Performance Alliance (ISPA) in partnership with several entertainment and fan-vote organizations. The results were clear: the Panther Girls’ unmatched combination of energy, precision, creativity, and connection with fans set them apart from every other team around the world.
The announcement was made during a live global broadcast from Sunrise, Florida, home of the Amerant Bank Arena, where the Panthers play. Fans erupted in celebration, with team owner Vincent Viola, head coach Paul Maurice, and several Panther players applauding the team on social media and in person. The Panther Girls themselves were overwhelmed with gratitude and pride, visibly emotional as they accepted the honor in front of their home crowd.
“This is more than just a ranking,” said Savannah Cruz, lead captain of the Panther Girls. “It’s a recognition of the passion and hard work we put in every single day—not just for our routines, but for the fans, the community, and the love of the sport.”
Their routines, often blending cutting-edge choreography with heartfelt tributes to Florida’s vibrant culture and Panther legacy, have consistently wowed NHL fans and international audiences alike. During the 2024–2025 season, the group elevated their game with themed performances during heritage nights, holiday games, and community outreach programs that went viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
The Panther Girls’ impact extends beyond the rink. They’ve served as ambassadors for the team’s community outreach initiatives, raising money for children’s hospitals, promoting youth sports, and working closely with the Panthers Foundation on charitable projects across South Florida.
Their journey to No. 1 hasn’t been easy. Competing with powerhouse squads from the NFL, NBA, and European leagues, the Panther Girls have carved out a unique identity rooted in inclusivity, athleticism, and professionalism. Judges and analysts praised their ability to seamlessly blend performance art with sports culture, something that is rarely executed at such a high level.
“Today, Florida Panther Girls have become more than a cheer squad—they are global icons of excellence and representation in the world of sports,” said an ISPA spokesperson.
As the 2025–26 season approaches, excitement is already building around what the Panther Girls will do next. Whether it’s choreographing more viral routines, making a documentary appearance, or even inspiring a new generation of performers, one thing is certain: the Florida Panther Girls have changed the game forever.
From Sunrise to the world stage, they’ve not only lifted spirits—th
ey’ve made history.
