Gimme a C!: Introducing the Carlow University Cheerleaders

The Carlow University Cheerleaders made their campus debut just a few months ago, but they're already making serious plans for their future.

By Emily Martin

The Carlow University Cheerleaders made their campus debut just a few months ago, but they're already making serious plans for their future.

The small-but-mighty group of six women — all members of the class of 2017 — hit the practice room hard in January of 2015 after a whirlwind fall semester that included pitching the group to Carlow's student government, securing funding and approval, holding tryouts, and setting the roster.

Those chosen few — eight, at first, shrinking to six following injury and attrition — started practicing the first day they returned to campus in January. "It's been crazy," said team founder Lizzie Shumaker, "but we're truly learning something new every day."

By the end of the season, the girls had amassed a repertoire of more than 40 sideline chants and a handful of dance routines that showcased a fun, hip hop style with bouncy cheerleading touches and tumbling passes.

The team gets creative direction, and a cheerleader of its own, thanks to their coach, Melanie Gaebel, who also serves as Carlow's Assistant Director of Admissions. "There's been a lot of hard work this semester," Gaebel said, "but one of the best things I've heard about the squad was from our Athletic Director George Sliman. He said, 'I don't know what my expectations were, but you surpassed them.'"

The team made their debut at Carlow's annual Pink the Pavilion event on February 3 and cheered throughout the remainder of the basketball season for both the men's and women's teams.

As for the future, the hopes are to grow both in size and in expertise. "We're looking to at least double our numbers for the upcoming school year," said Shumaker, "and we're hoping to eventually become a competitive squad."

The team — all sophomores — has youth on their side, and there will be plenty of time to grow and pick up fresh talent along the way. "Prospective students are already asking about it," reported Shumaker. "I'm excited for us to grow."