Rider University Athletics

Rider University Cheerleading

Team Information

The Rider University Cheerleading Team is an integral part of the Rider community and a proud supporter of Rider Athletics. As a Division I sideline and competitive program, the team cheers at all home Men’s and Women’s Division I basketball games, travels with the basketball program to the MAAC Tournament, and represents Rider University on the national stage at UCA College Nationals.

Beyond athletics, Rider Cheer promotes school spirit, leadership, and community involvement through charity events and campus engagement.

2025-26 Roster

Program Overview

• All-Girl Sideline & Competition Team
• Division I Athletic Environment
• Competes at UCA College Nationals
• Performs at all home Men’s & Women’s basketball games
• Support other athletic programs on campus
• Travels to postseason tournaments
• Active involvement in community service initiatives

Tryout Information
Tryouts are held:

• March - Video and perspective athlete form due by 3/31
• April – Invited for interviews, and invited in-person tryouts for current and admitted students (cheer and dance teaching videos will be shared by April 1)
• Early September – for stunt-specific positions and students not yet committed to Rider University

All interested athletes (rookies and returners) must complete the Prospective Athlete Form linked above.
Additional tryout details and registration links can be found HERE

Minimum Skill Requirements
To be considered for the Rider University Cheerleading Team, athletes must demonstrate the following:
Required Experience

• Prior cheerleading experience (high school, All-Star, or collegiate)

Stunting

• Shoulder Stand
• Switch Up
• Quick Up / Down
• Basket Toss experience
• Inversion variations
• Spinning variations

Tumbling

• Back Handspring
• Roundoff Back Handspring

A video will be shared by April 1 with the tryout dance and cheer. This is to be performed for coaches & judges at the in-person tryout in April. Athletes will also participate in a formal interview prior to the in-person tryout. 

Practice & Training Schedule

• Practices held on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday
• Season runs from post-tryouts through the MAAC Tournament in March
• Two required strength & conditioning sessions per week
• Summer workouts and practices are required
• Academic breaks may be shortened due to games and practices

Academics & Time Commitment
Academic success is the top priority. Rider cheerleaders successfully balance rigorous academic workloads with athletic commitments. Team members develop strong time-management skills and frequently participate in campus organizations, internships, and employment opportunities.

Scholarships & Costs

• Athletic scholarships are not currently offered; however, please reach out for information regarding University-provided financial promotions.  
• Numerous academic and institutional scholarships are available through Rider University
• Gear and competition costs are out of pocket. Fundraising opportunities are available to help offset costs

High School Prospects
High school juniors and seniors interested in cheering at Rider University are encouraged to attend a practice or game to experience the program firsthand.
Please contact Coach Vicki Escott to arrange a visit.

Coaching Staff

Head Coach: Vicki Escott
Email: trucksessv@rider.edu
Phone: 609-896-5054
Fax: 609-896-0341
Assistant Coach: Kristel Gallagher
Email: gallagherk@rider.edu

Social Media
📸 Instagram: @rideruniversitycheer