Cheerleading at Shenandoah
Get in the Hornet Cheerleading Spirit!
The cheerleaders represent the spirit of Shenandoah University! Our cheerleaders come from a diverse array of different majors and backgrounds, but they all share one thing – their love for the university and the sport of cheerleading.
Cheerleading at Shenandoah is both challenging and rewarding. Each cheerleader works hard to acquire and perfect individual skills in an inclusive and supportive environment.
Cheering in London
Shenandoah University Cheer performed in London’s New Year’s Day Parade along with the Marching Band on January 1, 2025!
Perform
The cheerleaders perform at all home football and basketball games, where they lead the crowd in cheers and dazzle with stunts and tumbling.
In addition to sideline cheerleading and performing, the cheerleaders also participate in competitive cheerleading. The cheerleaders promote school spirit and serve as positive representatives for Shenandoah University both on and off the mat.
Be Part Of An Emerging Winning Tradition
The cheerleaders won first place in the college division at the Spirit Brands East Coast Nationals in 2024. In 2023, they earned second place at the Christian Cheerleaders of America’s nationals.
The cheerleaders attend stunt clinics, tumbling classes at a local all-star competitive gym, and choreography camp to prepare for their competition routine, which includes elite stunts, tumbling, and pyramids. Preparation for games and competition requires a commitment to practice 2-3 times per week.
Outside of games and competitions, the cheerleaders participate in several school and community events, including the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival and fundraisers.
Meet Coaches Tarren Thornton & Rachel Sours
Head Coach Tarren Thornton
With over 25 years of coaching experience, Coach Tarren brings a deep passion and extensive knowledge to the sport. Hailing from Northern Virginia, she began her cheer journey at a young age and went on to cheer at George Mason University, where she honed her skills at the collegiate level. Throughout her career, she has worked with athletes across a wide range of experience levels, from high school teams to college programs, dedicating herself to developing strong, confident athletes both on and off the mat. Coach Tarren is excited to elevate the game day experience for the athletes and fans.
Assistant Coach Rachel Sours
Coach Rachel is a graduate of Shepherd University, where she not only cheered but was captain her senior year of college. Rachel is now a human resources supervisor for a distribution center. Coach Rachel has over 20 years of cheerleading experience, ranging from All-Star and grade school to college. She is driven to teach collegiate stunts and skills that no one has seen before.
Requirements & Application
Shenandoah University Students of all gender identities are encouraged to consider trying out to become one of our Hornet Cheerleaders!
Each year, tryout requirements are elevated to ensure that the Hornet Cheerleaders consist of the best and most dedicated cheerleaders. Individuals trying out will be selected for the sideline and competitive team. Attendance at tryouts, preseason camp, and choreography camp is mandatory.
Tryouts consist of stretching and conditioning, skill assessment, and an interview.
Stretching/Conditioning
- Remain in good physical fitness, on and off season
- Demonstrate flexibility for performing single, double, and triple jump combinations
Skill Assessment
- Have basic knowledge of cheer and stunting techniques
- Flyers should be able to hit flexible body positions – twisting dismounts encouraged
- Bases should demonstrate proper stunting execution and controlled dismounts
- Tumbling skills are assessed independently for individuals; skills at this time are not required but encouraged.
Interview
- Have experience in sideline or competitive cheerleading
- Review of completed cheerleading application
- Have a positive attitude and pride in Shenandoah University
- Remain in good academic standing with the university
- Have good conduct in and out of the classroom
Applying to be a Cheerleader
For information on joining the team please contact coaches
Tarren Thornton & Rachel Sours at cheer@su.edu with any questions.
