Over the past four years, cheerleading fans have come to know and love Darby Leetch on ICE Lady Lightning in the L6 Senior Small division! From her technique and showmanship as a flyer, to her commanding presence in the jumps section, to her iconic ending pose point. Darby Leetch poured out her heart and soul on the mat while taking the stage at The Cheerleading Worlds. She says cheerleading has been more than just a sport to her—it’s a way of life. 

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As a member of ICE Lady Lightning, Darby Leetch has performed on The Cheerleading Worlds stage several times, winning two gold medals and two silver medals. Additionally, she has NCA and MAJORS Champion titles on her impressive list of achievements. Her mother, Shannon Leetch, has supported Darby every step of the way with a front row seat to watching all of the hard work. 

"These titles are more than just awards—they are a testament to her unwavering dedication, hard work, and the support of her incredible teammates and coaches," said Shannon Leetch. 

While Darby has a great history of success in the cheerleading world, she has always had another passion that runs just as deep— the world of dance. She took her first dance class at the age of two years old, and says she has always felt a connection between the two sports. 

"Cheerleading and dance complement each other beautifully," described both Shannon & Darby Leetch. "The athleticism, precision, and artistry required in both are a perfect match for her skill set." 

Darby's journey into the dance world has been anything but ordinary. During a time of such uncertainty in the COVID-19 pandemic, Darby found a unique way to continue pursuing her passion for dance. She competed virtually at events, finding a silver lining in a very questionable time. Darby brought home an IASF Worlds Gold Medal in dance, a very special achievement for her during a time of such uncertainty. Eventually, Darby continued to compete with ICE Lady Lightning. 

As the 2024-2025 season rolled around, Darby decided that she was ready for a new challenge. Darby says she looks back on her time on ICE Lady Lightning with a full heart and is forever grateful for the special bond she shares with her coaches and teammates. But she felt the desire to expand her horizons by stepping into the all star dance world. This year is a new chapter in Darby's journey as she trades in her cheer shoes for dance shoes. 

For the first time, Darby will be competing with the 18x Dance World Champions, the Energizers Dance Team! Darby will compete in four total routines: two pom routines, one jazz routine and one kick routine. 

"This shift from cheer to dance at the World Championship level is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking," said Darby Leetch. 

Darby has spent years focused on giving it her all in a single cheer routine at The Cheerleading Worlds, but she is ready to embrace the opportunity to compete in multiple routines. 

"The concept of multiple routines in a single competition is a new challenge for Darby, but she is ready to embrace it wholeheartedly," said Shannon Leetch. 

Looking ahead to the 2025 USASF World Championship, Darby’s dream is clear: She wants to bring home a globe in both cheer and dance. She knows this will take everything she has, but it is a goal she believes is worth pursuing. 

"The idea of being able to stand on the stage at both the cheer and dance worlds, and hold a globe for each sport, feels like the ultimate challenge," said Darby Leetch. 

Darby says she is filled with excitement about what lies ahead as she prepares for the 2025 Dance Worlds. Not only will she get to experience Worlds from a totally new perspective, but she’ll also continue to cheer on her friends from the cheerleading community, supporting them as they compete in their own routines. 

"The energy at Worlds is unlike anything else," Darby reflects. "Even though I’ll be dancing, I’ll still be cheering on the athletes I’ve spent so much time with. It’s a unique opportunity to bring both worlds together."

Darby explained that this year is more than just a season of competition; it’s the beginning of a new chapter. It’s about chasing dreams, overcoming challenges, and continuing to push the boundaries of what’s possible. This journey is just the beginning for Darby, and she’s ready for wherever the journey takes her! 

How To Watch The Dance Worlds 2025

The Dance Worlds 2025 will stream LIVE on FloCheer.

The rebroadcast will stream on FloCheer on a delay of 24 hours.

The Dance Worlds 2025 Results 

Results for The Dance Worlds 2025 can be found here once they’re available.

The Dance Worlds 2025 Schedule 

Schedule for The Dance Worlds 2025 can be found here once it’s available.

Tune in to FloCheer from April 25-28 to watch all the action live from The Dance Worlds 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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