# National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) > Analysis by Optimly for Optimly AI Visibility, in the Optimly AI Brand Index. Last analyzed August 9, 2026. > Founded in 1948 by Lawrence “Herkie” Herkimer, NCA was the first cheerleading company and is credited with many 'firsts' in the sport, including the first cheerleading camp, spirit stick, and All Star National Championship. Built on foundations of spirit, tradition, and excellence, NCA empowers young athletes nationwide through summer camps and competitions, aiming to develop both strong athletes and great individuals. - Business Profile: https://optimly.ai/brand/nca-national-cheerleaders-association - Publisher: Optimly (https://optimly.ai) - Dataset: Optimly AI Brand Index (https://optimly.ai/brand) - Official website: https://varsity.com/ - Logo: https://logo.clearbit.com/varsity.com - Slug: nca-national-cheerleaders-association - Brand Authority Index tier: Low Visibility - Archetype: Incumbent - Category: Youth Sports - Last Analyzed: August 9, 2026 ## Buyer Intent Signals Problems: In-house Team Training: Cheerleading teams and coaches can organize their own training schedules and skill development without enrolling in external camps or competitions. | Local/Regional Cheer Gyms & Coaching: Teams or individuals might opt for training and development programs offered by local cheerleading gyms, private coaches, or smaller, regional event organizers. | No Formal External Training/Competition: Teams or individuals may choose not to participate in formal external camps or competitions, relying solely on internal practice and local events. Solutions: NCA cheerleading camps | National Cheerleaders Association competitions | Herkie Herkimer NCA | NCA All Star Nationals | School Sports Programs: Participation in cheerleading is often integrated into existing school sports programs, providing structured activity without requiring external association services.