A sign at LSU’s athletic dining facility has sparked outrage across the cheer and dance community. The sign states that breakfast sandwiches are available only for student-athletes, explicitly noting that “cheer/dance not included.” The blatant exclusion has fueled frustration among LSU Spirit Squad members and their supporters, calling attention to a longstanding debate about the recognition of cheer and dance as true collegiate athletics.
LSU’s cheerleaders and Tiger Girls are required to meet rigorous academic and athletic standards, including mandatory workouts, GPA requirements, and extensive practice schedules. They dedicate countless hours to supporting other LSU athletic programs—cheering at football, basketball, gymnastics, and more—yet are still denied the same resources as other athletes. The exclusion from something as basic as a post-workout breakfast feels like more than just an oversight; it’s a loud and clear statement that their efforts aren’t valued at the same level.
Adding fuel to the fire, LSU is set to host three Varsity-run cheer camps this year, charging $475–$495 per athlete. The university stands to profit heavily from these camps, yet none of that money goes to the LSU cheerleaders.
“If the cheerleaders could run their own camps,” one industry insider noted, “they wouldn’t need the rest of the athletes’ breakfast—they’d all be on full scholarships and could buy their own meals. They’d be one of the richest sports on campus.”
The story first gained traction after LSU cheerleader Ryan Folse posted about the sign on TikTok. Within 24 hours, the post had over 111,000 views, 17,000 likes, and 470 reposts, drawing support from current athletes, alumni, and cheerleaders nationwide. Parents of LSU cheerleaders have also spoken out, noting how the university benefits from the Spirit Program’s contributions while failing to reciprocate even basic support.
@rfolse10 @LSU if we doing everything else like an athlete, watching them eat breakfast when we are both required to get hours in there is crazy #fypシ #lsu #lsudining #lsufootball #collegecheer #cheer #athlete #d1 #athlete #louisiana #lsubasketball #lsusports #lsuathlete #sad ♬ sdp interlude Slowed – VTX
One parent summed it up:
“I have never understood how cheerleading always gets put on the back burner. These athletes show up for more LSU events than any other athletes. They work non-stop, give up holidays, promote the school at countless events, and yet, they’re treated like an afterthought.”
While this controversy started with a meal, the conversation has quickly shifted to a larger issue—respect and recognition for cheer and dance as legitimate collegiate sports. The exclusion of these athletes from student-athlete benefits is part of an ongoing battle for equality in collegiate athletics.
With full International Olympic Committee recognition and the explosive growth of STUNT and competitive cheer, cheerleading is no longer just about sideline spirit—it’s an athletic powerhouse. Schools across the country need to step up and start treating these athletes as the elite competitors they are.
An LSU meeting has been scheduled with administrators, cheerleaders, and coaches to discuss the issue. While the outcome remains to be seen, the LSU Spirit Program and its supporters are demanding real change—not just excuses.
To show support for LSU Cheer & Dance, consider reaching out to LSU Athletics and making your voice heard. It’s time for universities to recognize the dedication, athleticism, and value these programs bring to their schools.
