Rider University Athletics

Rider University Cheerleading

Team Information

The Rider University Cheerleaders are active members of the Rider University community. The cheerleaders support the Men's and Women's Division I basketball teams at every home game and travels to the conference tournament in March. In addition to promoting school spirit, the team competes at a national competition and engages in charity events throughout the community.

2024-25 Roster

Social Media
Instagram: rideruniversitycheer

Tryout Information

The team accepts All-Girl and Co-Ed positions. Tryouts will be held in April for current and admitted students, and then again in early September, for students that had not committed to the University, yet. Perspective athletes are required to attend the clinic and the tryout. Follow our instagram for more details! 

To be considered for the team athletes must be able to perform the required skills listed below: 

Required Skills:  Shoulder Sit Straight up prep Straight-up extension Straight up Lib Straight up Aerobesque  Quick down 2 feet

Preferred Skills:    Shoulder Stand Switch up  Full around / full up Roundoff backhandspring / multiples / tuck / layout / full  Standing BHS / multiple / tuck  Cartwheel BHS / Tuck  Jump BHS / Tuck

A cheer / chant, and dance will also be taught at the tryout, and will be performed in front of the panel on day 2. 
 
 

Coach's Information

Vicki Trucksess
Phone: 609-896-5054
Fax: 609-896-0341
Email: trucksessv@rider.edu 

High School Seniors:

Any high school senior or junior interested in cheering at Rider University is invited to meet the team at a practice or game. Please email Coach Vicki Trucksess to set up a date and time.

FAQ

Does the squad compete?

YES - Rider Cheer has most recently competed at The College Classic in Orlando, Florida. We have also competed at NCA, and Reach the Beach. 

What sports teams do the cheerleaders cheer for?

The cheerleaders cheer at all home Division I Men's & Women's basketball games. The team travels with the basketball program to the MAAC Tournament in early March. The cheer team also supports other sports during home openers and high competition games. 

Do I have to have extensive prior cheer experience to tryout?

While it is not REQUIRED, it is highly preferred to have cheer experience. Some of the team members have experience strictly in gymnastics or dance prior to college cheerleading.

Is the squad all-female or co-ed?

This can change from season-to-season depending on the interest and talent level at tryouts.

How often are practices?

The team practices every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday starting after tryouts in September and continues until Nationals in April. Academic holiday breaks are slightly shortened due to basketball games and practices. Team members have the opportunity to practice tumbling at a local cheer gym in addition to on campus strength training. We will also have summer workouts and practices. 

Will I be able to handle cheer and school?

Academic success is most important. Rider cheerleaders are able to handle the academic workload and cheerleading commitments simultaneously and successfully. As with any collegiate sport, athletes learn the importance of good time management that allows for success in career and family life after Rider. In addition to cheerleading, many team members participate in campus clubs and maintain jobs/internships.

Does the cheerleading program offer scholarships?

Not currently, but many scholarships are available through application at Rider.

Are there out-of-pocket costs?

Competition costs are out of pocket or through fundraising. There are many fundraising opportunities throughout the season. Also, personal items such as shoes, warm-up, and undergarments are the responsibility of the athlete. A uniform is provided.

Other questions?

Email Coach Vicki Truckess at trucksessv@rider.edu