Support the Squad
As UCLA ambassadors, our Squad represents the spirit and tradition of the #1 public university in the country – performing at key community outreach, campus, alumni, media, and athletic events. The UCLA Spirit Squad is composed of 50 student-athletes who dedicate 20+ hours every week to practice, workouts, and game day performances – all without compensation. Due to their impacted schedules, students are often unable to secure paid work and internships to help cover tuition costs and living expenses. Scholarship donations directly impact each Squad member by providing additional financial support, so they may focus on their academic and extracurricular commitments.
At such a prestigious university, such as UCLA, while we are athletes, we are students first. The support from donors allows me to cultivate diverse academic and professional experiences, such as doing cancer research with the Department of Bioengineering or interning for a Multiple Sclerosis program with the Department of Neurology. With less financial burden, I am further able to take advantage of all of the opportunities this institution has to offer while giving back to it by doing what I love, cheerleading.
— Katie, Class of 2025
As a first-generation college student, I am incredibly grateful to UCLA donors whose support allows me to continue my education and pursue my passion for dance on the squad. Their generosity enables me to focus on my studies and my love for dance, enriching my college experience!
— Jen, Class of 2026
The cost of tuition, books, and school supplies weighs heavily on students, especially those out of state like me! Since joining the squad I have found a support system among my team but also from our donors. The scholarship we receive has helped me buy school books and materials for the last two years and has given me financial and academic relief that I am so grateful for!
— Lina, Class of 2025
I could not be more grateful for the support from UCLA donors, as it alleviates the financial stress of pursuing my education and allows me to explore new opportunities. With this freedom, I can fully immerse myself in my academic and extracurricular endeavors, engage with the UCLA community, and develop skills that will serve me beyond the classroom. These scholarships not only support my career goals but also empower me to give back to the university and grow as an individual.
— Matt, Class of 2025
I am incredibly thankful for the support of our donors, as they have provided me the ability to pursue my passions alongside my studies. They have given me the opportunity to focus all of my effort into these paths through helping alleviate the stress of financial hardships. I love that I get to invest myself into my school and community development through their help.
— Alayna, Class of 2025
The generosity of our donors supports my ability to excel academically while pursuing interests outside of the classroom, like working in student government. Their support not only relieves financial stress, but reminds us that they believe in our potential and support our journey allowing us to give our all for every UCLA game day!
— Ryan, Class of 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Where on campus is the Spirit Squad located?
The Spirit Squad is part of our Campus Life program (a division of Student Affairs). We rely on funding from Campus Life, as well as private support in order to provide scholarships for our student-athletes. The Spirit Squad is not housed in the Athletic department.
Does the Spirit Squad recruit members to attend UCLA?
Spirit Squad members are accepted into UCLA on their own academic merit and are not recruited. The Spirit Squad has no connection to the Admissions process. Our team encompasses a variety of majors including psychobiology, political science, nursing, biochemistry, business economics, public affairs and more. Our Squad includes students from all walks of life, including those who are the first in their family to attend college, transfer students, international students, and military-connected students.
Are members of the Spirit Squad paid?
Members of the Squad are not paid; they volunteer upwards of 20 hours per week to fulfill their commitment. They also perform at games and events all throughout the year, not just during one particular sport’s season. The Spirit Squad’s season is year round!
Scholarship Endowments
Charles and Toni Horn
John and Mary Manuck
William Rehrig ’93
Bob ’57, M.S. ’63 and Dorothy Webb
You can also donate to the Fund below to help pay for new uniforms, Mascot suit repairs, summer housing, and other Squad supplies.
To learn more about how you can support the Spirit Squad, please contact Dervla McDonnell, Director of Development, Student Affairs.
(310) 882-3627