Victory Beyond the Sidelines: Virginia Tech Cheerleaders Successfully Lobby for Pay Raise
In a landmark move that signals a growing shift in the recognition of collegiate athletes and performers, Virginia Tech’s cheerleading squad has successfully lobbied for a long-overdue pay raise. The decision, approved by the university’s athletics department earlier this month, will increase financial support for the cheer team—a victory years in the making.
For decades, cheerleaders have been pivotal members of collegiate sports culture. They energize the crowd, represent the university at national competitions, and serve as ambassadors at public and private events. Yet, despite their critical role, many cheer squads across the nation have operated under limited financial backing, often covering travel, uniforms, and practice expenses out of pocket. At Virginia Tech, the cheerleaders decided it was time for change.
“It wasn’t just about the money,” said team captain Alexis Monroe, a senior who helped lead the effort. “It was about being valued. We work countless hours each week, supporting football, basketball, volleyball—you name it. We put in the effort, and we believed it was time that was recognized fairly.”
The lobbying effort began quietly over a year ago, with a group of cheerleaders organizing meetings with athletic department officials, submitting proposals, and gathering support from alumni and fans. Their push gained momentum when several former cheerleaders began sharing their stories on social media, drawing attention to the team’s financial burdens.
“This movement was built on unity,” said coach Danielle Thompson. “Our athletes took the initiative, did the research, made their case, and never stopped advocating for themselves and the next generation of Hokie cheerleaders.”
The final agreement, announced last week, includes a stipend increase for all cheer squad members, full coverage of uniforms and travel expenses, and additional access to medical, nutritional, and academic support resources provided to other athletes. Virginia Tech’s athletic director Whit Babcock praised the team’s professionalism throughout the process.
“This is a win for fairness,” Babcock stated. “Our cheerleaders represent Virginia Tech with the same pride and commitment as any other athletic team. It was time to acknowledge that and support them accordingly.”
The news has been met with celebration across campus. Students, athletes, and alumni alike have applauded the university’s decision to elevate the standing of cheerleaders within the Hokie athletic family.
“This is about equity,” said junior cheerleader Kayla James. “We may not score touchdowns or hit buzzer-beaters, but we’re athletes too. We train, we sacrifice, and now, we finally feel seen.”
The successful campaign by Virginia Tech cheerleaders has sparked interest at other ACC schools, where similar conversations about compensation and recognition are now being revisited. For many, this is just the beginning of a broader movement to support student-athletes beyond the traditional revenue-generating sports.
In Blacksburg, though, it’s a moment of triumph. One not earned on the field or mat, but through persistence, professionalism, and unity. Victory, after all, comes in many forms—and for Virginia Tech cheerleaders, this one is historic.
