Breaking Down the NCA 2025 Incident: What Happened?

In this episode of The Cheer Biz Podcast, host Dan Cotton provides an in-depth reaction to the incident at NCA Nationals 2025 in Dallas. With a background in military service, law enforcement, and active threat response training, Dan analyzes the confusion surrounding the event, why there were conflicting reports, and whether the available evidence supports claims of gunfire.

 Disclaimer: This episode is based on secondhand accounts, professional training, and logical analysis, not firsthand experience. It is not intended to invalidate anyone’s lived experience or emotions but rather to provide context, clarity, and perspective on why reports varied and how similar events unfold in high-stress environments.

Dan also addresses conspiracy theories, the law enforcement response, and safety takeaways for gym owners, athletes, and event organizers. Stay tuned for Part 2, where he will break down what the industry can learn from this and how we can improve safety at major cheer events.