Want to Cheer in College? A Guide to College Cheer Recruiting

1. Create a College Cheer Recruiting Social Media Account

Social media is a great way to showcase your cheer skills - tumbling and/or stunting - and get noticed by college programs. Think of it as your digital resume or "portfolio" and a chance to share your skills.

• Username: Choose a username that includes your name, "cheer", and possibly your graduation year (e.g., @SarahSmith_Cheer2025).
• Bio: List your current cheer team, stunt position, tumbling level, and any special skills. (ex: Sarah Smith, BlackWatch All-Star Geminis, Baker High School Varsity Cheer, Tumbling Level 6, Class of 2026)
• Content: Post videos of your competition performances, sideline cheer, new skills you’re learning, and other highlights. You can include videos of you working with coaches on new skills. The skills don't have to be perfect yet, but share your progress and growth! IMPORTANT - Keep your content professional and focused on cheerleading. Remember - this very possibly could be your first impression with college programs. Put your best foot forward!

2. When to Reach Out to College Cheer Coaches

Starting communication with college cheer programs early can give you an edge.

• Timing: Reach out in your junior year of high school to express interest and ask about recruitment requirements. If you are younger than this, it is a great idea to start following college cheer programs on social media to stay up to date with any clinics they are hosting, program requirements, etc. This will also help you to learn more about the programs you are interested in, so that you can make a more informed decision when it is time to choose a school.
• How: Send personalized emails with your cheer resume, highlight reels, and reasons you’re interested in their program. Follow up with updates as you gain new skills or achieve milestones.

3. Consider Professional Headshots

While not a requirement, professional photos can make your recruitment profile look polished and professional. A clear headshot helps coaches put a face to your name when they’re reviewing applications or footage. Parents - you can find a local photographer who does full headshot sessions. Many photographers also offer "mini" photoshoots in the spring or fall. These shoots are normally shorter (15-20 minutes) and cost significantly less than a full photoshoot. Book one for your athlete and have him or her take a few photos in their cheer uniform and a few in another outfit they are comfortable in (if time allows).

4. Attend College Cheer Clinics

College cheer clinics are a great way to improve your skills and get to know specific programs.

• Skill Practice: Work with college-level coaches to develop your technique.
• Networking: Meet current team members and show coaches your commitment to improving and learning.

The best way to stay up to date with upcoming college clinics is through social media. Follow all programs you are interested in and turn on notifications for their posts.

Also make sure to check their school athletics sites for more information.

5. Understand Academic Requirements

Cheerleading programs often have academic standards you’ll need to meet to be eligible.

• Research the GPA, test scores, and other requirements for your goal schools.
• Stay on top of your grades, and consider taking the SAT/ACT early to leave room for improvement if needed.

An Opportunity You Don’t Want to Miss: The Birmingham College Cheer Combine

If you’re serious about cheering in college—or just curious about what it takes—the Birmingham College Cheer Combine is the event for you. Happening next month right here in Birmingham, this combine is a chance to perform in front of college recruiters, receive feedback from top coaches, and learn about what it’s like to cheer at the collegiate level. You can read all about it by clicking here.

Whether you’re already sure about cheering in college or still deciding, this event can provide clarity, connections, and confidence to help you take the next step.

Ready to Cheer in College?

Start preparing now by building your cheer profile, attending clinics, and learning about your dream programs. And don’t forget to sign up for the Birmingham College Cheer Combine to get one step closer to achieving your goals!