Victory Beyond the Sidelines: BYU Cheerleaders Successfully Lobby for Pay Raise
In a groundbreaking moment for student-athletes and spirit teams alike, the Brigham Young University (BYU) cheerleading squad has successfully lobbied for a long-overdue pay raise, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing conversation surrounding compensation, recognition, and respect for collegiate spirit programs.
The decision follows months of discussions between BYU cheerleaders, athletic department officials, and university leadership. Sparked by rising travel demands, increasing performance expectations, and the vital role cheerleaders play in university branding and gameday atmosphere, the initiative gained momentum as the cheerleaders organized, presented detailed proposals, and ultimately convinced administrators of the need for equitable compensation.
“This is about more than just a paycheck,” said senior captain Emma Larsen. “It’s about acknowledging the time, energy, and passion we give to this university. From early morning practices to traveling nationwide to represent BYU, we’re proud to finally have that commitment recognized.”
Previously, BYU cheerleaders operated under a scholarship stipend model that covered some tuition costs but offered little in the way of consistent financial support. Unlike athletes on revenue-generating teams, spirit squad members often juggled multiple jobs or relied on family assistance to cover living expenses—all while practicing up to 20 hours per week and attending numerous athletic, promotional, and community events.
Under the new agreement, BYU cheerleaders will receive structured monthly stipends during the academic year, more robust travel allowances, and enhanced support for academic and wellness resources. While the financial specifics were not fully disclosed, officials confirmed that the increase is “substantial and competitive” with leading Power Five programs.
“We are proud of our cheerleaders for their professionalism and their ability to respectfully advocate for their needs,” said BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe. “They represent the university with pride and integrity, and they deserve to be supported in a way that reflects that.”
The move has sparked conversation across college athletics, as spirit squads from other universities begin exploring similar negotiations. Advocates say this could mark the beginning of a broader shift in how schools treat cheerleaders—not simply as volunteers or gameday entertainers, but as essential contributors to athletic culture and university visibility.
For the cheerleaders themselves, the victory is about more than money. It’s about progress.
“This is a moment we’ll never forget,” said junior flyer Chloe Jensen. “We stood together, we used our voices, and we made change happen.”
With this successful push for pay equity, BYU cheerleaders have not only secured better conditions for themselves—they’ve paved the way for other spirit squads across the country to follow suit. It’s a win for BYU, for fairness, and for the future of student-athletes whose contributions can no longer be overlooked.
