University Cheer (S1.17)
- janie724
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
Episode of May 7, 2024
Update: As of Fall 2025, universities have completely removed All-Girl teams from schools.
In episode 17 of the Kick's Cheer podcast, we dive into a sincere, passionate and hopeful discussion about the reality of university cheerleading in Quebec , particularly on the All-Girl (100% female) teams.
🎙️ A two-tier system: University cheer!
What was clear from the conversation was that there is a recognition gap between CoEd teams and All-Girl teams in the college system. Coaches like Karolanne and Janie have been fighting for over seven years to get all-girl teams their own official circuit.
Currently, to create an All-Girl circuit recognized by the RSEQ (Quebec Student Sports Network), at least 4 university teams are required. But the problem is that many universities are hesitant to create a second team, because there is no official circuit… A real vicious circle!
🏆 Small victories… unofficial ones.
Despite the lack of formal recognition, initiatives like Cheer Québec or some universities (like the Montreal Carabins) have still set up awards and certificate ceremonies for All-Girl athletes. These gestures may seem small, but for the athletes, it is huge. It represents recognition of their work, their involvement and their passion.
💬 Why is it blocking?
The RSEQ claims the problem is financial, but university cheer teams are self-funded. Athletes pay, coaches organize, and universities follow... or not. That's where it gets tricky: universities say they're waiting for a circuit, but the circuit can't exist without universities.
It is a real administrative and political battle that leaves the athletes in the shadows, despite their dedication and talent.
📣 The proposed solutions
The coaches have concrete ideas:
Group existing All-Girl teams into a common circuit.
Collaborate between universities to form more teams.
Apply pressure through sports management , the RSEQ and cheerleading authorities in Quebec.
🤝 A call for solidarity
What this podcast episode shows us is that there's a real passion behind college cheer. Coaches, athletes, parents—everyone believes in it. But for it to move forward, institutions need to listen and act.
Karolane, Janie, and other coaches aren't giving up. They're campaigning for girls to have the same opportunities as mixed teams, for university cheer in Quebec to be fairer, more accessible, and more recognized.
💡 What you can do
If you're a parent, athlete, or cheerleading enthusiast , here's how you can help:
Share this podcast to give voice to the community.
Encourage your university to create or maintain an All-Girl team.
Attend college competitions to show there is an audience for these incredible athletes.
Talk about it around you, especially to people in positions of influence in sport.
College cheer needs more than an official network . It needs recognition, openness, and collective will . Together, we can make things happen. 💪🎀
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