Q&A with Charlotte Labot: Balancing Cheerleading and Life

Charlotte Labot, a dedicated cheerleader at Penn State University, recently took the time to reflect on her journey and experiences. From her early beginnings in cheerleading to navigating the challenges of being a student-athlete, Charlotte shared insights into her passion for the sport and the balance she has found between academics and athletics. In this article, we delve into Charlotte’s perspective on managing overwhelming moments, building strong support systems, and embracing a mindset focused on fun and self-advocacy. This conversation offers a glimpse into how Charlotte's journey shapes her approach to success both on and off the mat.

Q: Thank you for joining us today, Charlotte. You’re currently a cheerleader for Penn State. Can you tell us a bit about your background in cheerleading? What led you to this sport?

Charlotte: Thank you for having me! I’ve always been an outgoing person, and cheerleading has really been my passion since I started in third grade. My parents introduced me to several sports, but cheerleading is the only one that really stuck. I love the opportunity to perform and be part of a team, and it allowed me to enjoy other sports, like football and basketball, as well.

Q: Since cheerleading has consumed a big part of your life, do you find it overwhelming at times?

Charlotte: Absolutely, it can get overwhelming. Throughout high school, I missed a lot of school because of cheer competitions, and there were times when I felt I was missing out on social events. For example, I missed attending our candy cane event one year, which felt like the end of the world. But at the end of the day, it’s what I love, and I remind myself of that to get through the tough times.

Q: How do you cope with that overwhelm? Do you have strategies that help you maintain balance?

Charlotte: A big part of it is remembering why I love cheerleading. It has taught me a lot about time management, which is essential for any athlete. I prioritize taking care of myself while keeping up with schoolwork. I’m a big planner—I keep everything organized in my calendar, including practices, assignments, and meetings. Taking control of my schedule really helps.

Q: It sounds like organization is crucial for you. Has this strategy contributed to your success as a cheerleader?

Charlotte: Definitely! It helps me stay up to date, especially since cheerleading is a year-round commitment. I attend games for all sorts of sports—football, basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics. My mantra is to take it day by day and enjoy the experience while pushing through challenges.

Q: Academic pressures are usually significant for student-athletes. How do you manage that alongside your cheer commitments?

Charlotte: Penn State has great resources, like the Morgan Center, where student-athletes can get academic support and tutoring. I also prioritize communication with my professors. Building relationships with them helps me stay on track. Plus, I have a solid support system, like my athletic trainer, Megan, who I can talk to whenever I feel overwhelmed. Being able to lean on friends and teammates is essential.

Q: It seems your athletic trainer plays a vital role in your support system. How did you establish that relationship?

Charlotte: Initially, I wasn’t happy with my coaching staff or team dynamics, so I turned to my athletic trainer for support. When she joined the team, I made it a point to connect with her. I expressed my concerns about mental health and the pressures faced by cheerleaders. This openness fostered trust, and it’s been wonderful to have someone who understands and looks out for not just my physical well-being but also my mental health.

Q: You mentioned you've always been part of a cheerleading program. How did your earlier experiences shape your leadership style?

Charlotte: During middle school and high school, I was often one of the youngest and didn’t start off as a leader. I learned the importance of building relationships over time. Being part of a successful team taught me that fostering connections is crucial for group success. Now, I’m comfortable speaking my mind, even when it’s difficult. I even have a tattoo that says, “Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes,” which reflects this belief.

Q: That’s an inspiring mantra. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self or others starting their journey in sports, what would it be?

Charlotte: My biggest advice is to just have fun! At the end of the day, we’re lucky to be part of these experiences. Things can get tough, but if you remember to enjoy the moment and not take things too seriously, it makes everything more manageable. Enjoy the ride!

Q: Thank you for sharing your insights, Charlotte. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Charlotte: Just that I appreciate the opportunity to share my story. It's been a wild journey, but I’ve learned so much about myself along the way.

Charlotte Labot's dedication to cheerleading and her thoughtful approach to balancing her academic life and personal well-being serve as an inspiring example for young athletes everywhere. Thank you for reading about Charlotte's journey.