GREENVILLE, Pa. — In just four years, Thiel College Cheerleading has become one of the most respected and consistent collegiate cheer programs in the country. With elite execution and unmatched spirit, the Tomcats have built a legacy of excellence that continues to grow.
Since 2022, Cheer has earned four straight bids to the National Cheerleaders Assocation (NCA) College National Championship, a run few small-college programs can match. The Tomcats made a splash in their first year, finishing as national runner-up. In 2023, they reached the top, bringing home a national championship.
The success didn't stop there as Thiel finished third in the nation in both 2024 and 2025. At the 2025 competition, the team also earned one of the top five overall scores across all collegiate divisions.
"Watching Thiel Cheer grow into the program it is today has been nothing short of incredible," Randall Burnett, Head Cheerleading Coach, said. "From the talent we're bringing into the culture we're building—this team is on a whole new level. I'm beyond proud of the work our athletes are putting in, and even more excited for where we're headed. Success isn't a moment—it's a movement, and Thiel Cheer is just getting started."
Thiel was honored as a "Cheerleaders' Choice: School Spirit Favorite," a fan-nominated award that celebrates programs known for energy, leadership and influence, in 2024. Varsity/NCA also recognized the Tomcats as a Premier Program, spotlighting their growth, sportsmanship and routine execution on national platforms.
Cheer competing during the 2025 NCA College National Championship.
But Thiel Cheer's impact goes far beyond trophies and rankings.
The team plays a vital role in campus life, energizing crowds at athletic events and rallying school spirit. They're a constant presence at football games, basketball matchups, and campus pep events — helping unify the student body through pride and positivity.
Off campus, the team is deeply involved in the community. Thiel cheerleaders regularly participate in local parades, school outreach and charity events, representing the college with class and compassion.
"Being part of Thiel Cheer isn't just about what we do on the mat—it's about how we show up for our campus and our community," Sara Owens (Polk, Pa./Franklin), who will be entering her senior year and fourth season in the program in 2025, said. "Whether we're cheering on other teams, volunteering or leading events, we take pride in making a difference and representing something bigger than ourselves."
They're also invested in the future of the sport. Through year-round youth camps and clinics like the annual Tomcat Spirit Classic in November as well as Lil' Scratchers, a cheer camp for youth ages 4-12, the team introduces young athletes to cheer while serving as role models and mentors.
Members from the Lil' Scratchers Youth Cheer Camp performing during halftime of a Men's Basketball game.
Burnett credits the program's rise to the dedication and family culture of his athletes.
"The rise of our program has been driven by an unshakable commitment from our athletes and a culture rooted in family, accountability and pride," Burnett, who was recently named to the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce's Under 40 Distinguished Impact Awards list, noted. "This team shows up every day ready to outwork, outlast, and outshine—not just for trophies, but for each other. We're not just building a successful program—we're building a legacy."
That culture is on full display as just last week, Burnett announced the hiring of Kaitlyn Schmidt (Pittsburgh, Pa./Plum) '25, a four-year Cheer member and team captain, as assistant coach.
"I'm incredibly proud to continue my journey with Thiel Cheer as an assistant coach," Schmidt stated. "This program has shaped who I am as an athlete and a leader, and now I'm honored to help shape the next generation. Thiel Cheer is home, and I'm excited to keep building the legacy we've worked so hard to create."
In just a few short years, Thiel Cheer has gone from a growing program to a nationally respected force. They've raised banners, inspired future Tomcats and earned the admiration of peers across the country. Through competitive excellence, community involvement and an unwavering commitment to representing Thiel with pride, the program has set a standard that now defines what it means to cheer as a Tomcat.
As the team looks ahead, that legacy, unlike most programs, isn't something they're chasing, it's something they're continuing. Year after year, mat after mat, Thiel Cheer is proving that excellence isn't a moment. It's a mindset.
A mindset that is here to stay.
