The 2025 Kiddie Camp at the University of South Carolina has officially etched its name in history, drawing a record-breaking 108 young participants who spent a week immersed in the world of cheerleading. This annual event, long celebrated for its unique ability to inspire young athletes, reached new heights this year, creating a wave of enthusiasm that extended far beyond the campus grounds. With participants ranging from ages 4 to 13, the camp provided a platform for aspiring cheerleaders to learn the fundamentals of cheer, master dynamic dance routines, and proudly sing the Gamecocks’ iconic fight song. The camp’s grand finale — a performance that dazzled parents, alumni, and fans — was the perfect capstone to an unforgettable week filled with energy, team spirit, and lifelong memories.
This year’s camp was unlike any other, setting records not only in attendance but also in the level of engagement and creativity displayed by both the participants and the coaching staff. Under the expert leadership of the South Carolina Gamecocks cheer squad and their coaching team, the 108 campers were divided into smaller groups based on age and experience. Each group received personalized instruction, ensuring that every participant — whether a beginner just learning to clap on beat or a seasoned pre-teen perfecting advanced stunts — felt supported and challenged.
The Vision Behind the Kiddie Camp
The Kiddie Camp has always served as a cornerstone of community outreach for the Gamecocks cheer program. Established over a decade ago, its goal has been to inspire young cheerleaders while strengthening the bond between the university and the surrounding communities. What makes the 2025 edition so special is how the organizers managed to blend tradition with innovation. Not only did they maintain the core curriculum of cheers, chants, and dances, but they also incorporated new elements like interactive team-building games, motivational talks, and even behind-the-scenes glimpses into what it means to represent the Gamecocks at the collegiate level.
Cheer coach Amanda Rivers, who has led the program for the past five years, described this year’s camp as “the most rewarding and dynamic we’ve ever hosted.” In her words:
“These kids came ready to learn, ready to pour their hearts into every single routine. Watching their progress from Monday morning, when many were still shy and uncertain, to Friday’s finale, where they owned the stage with confidence and joy, was nothing short of magical. This is what the spirit of the Gamecocks is all about — lifting each other up and finding your voice through teamwork.”
Building Skills and Confidence
Over the course of the five-day camp, participants were introduced to a comprehensive set of cheerleading skills. Mornings were dedicated to warm-ups, stretching, and mastering foundational techniques such as proper arm motions, jumps, and voice projection. Afternoons, on the other hand, were filled with choreography sessions where campers learned high-energy routines set to popular music and, of course, the Gamecocks’ beloved fight song.
The coaching staff emphasized not just technical ability but also confidence-building. Daily pep talks encouraged campers to believe in their abilities, celebrate their individuality, and understand the value of teamwork. Several parents remarked on how their children came home each day brimming with excitement and newfound self-assurance.
Melissa Taylor, whose 7-year-old daughter Harper attended for the first time, shared:
“By day three, I could see such a difference in Harper. She was practicing her cheers in the living room, teaching them to her little brother, and even singing the fight song before bed. It’s more than just cheerleading — it’s about giving these kids the tools to be confident and to express themselves.”
The Record-Breaking Moment
Reaching 108 participants was a milestone that the Gamecocks cheer program didn’t anticipate. Last year, the camp welcomed 72 children, which at the time was considered an impressive turnout. This year’s surge in registrations required quick adjustments from the organizers. Additional staff members were brought in, extra uniforms were ordered, and larger practice spaces were secured to ensure that every camper had a chance to shine.
One factor behind the spike in interest was the growing popularity of collegiate cheerleading in the region. The success of the Gamecocks cheer squad in recent competitions — including their memorable appearance at the 2025 UCA College Nationals — has inspired a new generation of fans. Social media also played a role, with videos of last year’s Kiddie Camp performance going viral, prompting families from across the state to sign up months in advance.
An Unforgettable Finale
The highlight of the week was the Friday night showcase at Colonial Life Arena, where the campers performed in front of a packed crowd of parents, friends, and Gamecock supporters. The atmosphere was electric as the young cheerleaders, dressed in miniature versions of the official Gamecocks uniforms, took to the floor with confidence and enthusiasm. Their cheers echoed through the arena, their dance moves were executed with precision, and their rendition of the fight song left the audience cheering louder than ever.
For many of these children, it was their first time performing in front of such a large audience — and they delivered. Each group performed a unique routine, culminating in a grand finale where all 108 campers came together to perform a synchronized cheer and dance number alongside members of the varsity cheer squad. The sight of over a hundred young athletes moving in unison was a powerful reminder of the unifying spirit of cheerleading.
The Impact Beyond Cheerleading
What sets the Kiddie Camp apart from other youth sports camps is its emphasis on character development. While mastering cheers and dances is a major part of the experience, the organizers also prioritize teaching life skills such as leadership, perseverance, and collaboration. Throughout the week, campers participated in team-building exercises designed to foster friendship and trust. By the end of the camp, many participants had formed bonds that will likely extend well beyond the cheer mat.
